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HOW TO USE -(으)ㄴ/는 김에
In this lesson we teach you the grammar pattern -(으)ㄴ/는 김에 that allows you to talk about doing one action while you’re already in the middle of or have already done another.
This is especially common when talking about errands, outings, or plans.
WHILE YOU’RE AT IT
The expression -(으)ㄴ/는 김에 is used to indicate that since one action is being done (or has just been done), another related action is done together—as if making use of the situation.
It adds nuance of taking the opportunity, killing two birds with one stone, or doing something while already out/engaged in another activity.
PATTERN
Clause A + -(으)ㄴ/는 김에 + Clause B
Clause A: the main action already done or being done
Clause B: the additional action done while at it / as a result
| 커피 사는 김에 너 것도 샀어. | While buying coffee, I got one for you too. |
| 도서관에 가는 김에 책도 반납했어요. | While going to the library, I returned my books too. |
| 편의점에 간 김에 간식도 샀어요. | Since I went to the convenience store, I got snacks too. |
| 친구 만나는 김에 같이 점심도 먹었어요. | Since I met my friend, we had lunch together. |
DIALOGUE EXAMPLE
어디 가는 길이에요?
Where are you heading?은행 가는 김에 장도 좀 보려고요.
I’m going to the bank and thought I’d get some groceries while I’m at it.잘 됐다! 약국에 들르는 김에 제 감기약도 좀 사 줄 수 있어요?
Perfect! Could you grab my cold medicine at the pharmacy while you’re there?물론이죠. 외출하는 김에 다 처리하죠.
Of course. I’ll take care of everything while I’m out.
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FAQs
Can I use -(으)ㄴ/는 김에 for both past and present actions?
Yes.
Use -(으)ㄴ 김에 for past actions and -는 김에 for present actions or ongoing situations.
Is -(으)ㄴ/는 김에 used for planned or spontaneous actions?
It’s often used for spontaneous or opportunistic actions—something extra done because the first action was already happening.
Can this grammar point be used with all verbs?
It works best with action verbs.
It’s not typically used with adjectives or descriptive verbs.
What’s the difference between -(으)ㄴ/는 김에 and -(으)면서?
-(으)면서 means doing two actions simultaneously, while -(으)ㄴ/는 김에 implies one action leads to another because the opportunity arises.
Is it polite or casual? Can I use it in formal speech?
The structure itself is neutral.
You can make it polite or formal by adjusting the verb ending in the second clause (e.g., -요 / -습니다).
Can I study Korean at LTL?
Yes!
You can study with us in Seoul, in our Hongdae location, or online if you prefer learn from home.
Contact us here if you have any questions.