How Old Are You in Korea? The Two-Age System Explained
If you’ve ever wondered, “Why is my Korean age different?” you’re not alone! Korea uses two age systems:
- Korean age (세는 나이): You’re 1 year old at birth + gain a year every January 1st
- International age (만 나이): Standard age (0 at birth, +1 on birthdays)
Try our calculator below (works for both Korean age and Chinese age calculations!):
Korean Age Calculator
Enter your birthdate to calculate both Korean age (counting age) and international age.
📊 Korean Age vs. International Age: Key Differences
| Feature | Korean Age (세는 나이) | International Age (만 나이) |
|---|---|---|
| Starts at | 1 year old | 0 years old |
| Aging Day | January 1st | Your birthday |
| Used for | Social interactions | Legal documents |
❓ FAQs About Korean & Chinese Age Calculation
Q: How is Korean age calculated?
→ Birth year – current year + 1 = Korean age. Or just use our calculate Korean age tool above!
Q: Is Chinese age the same as Korean age?
→ Similar, but not identical! Try our Chinese age calculator feature (coming soon).
Q: Why am I 2 years older in Korea if born in December?
→ Because January 1st adds +1 year before your birthday! See stats on December births in Korea.
🇰🇷 Why Age Matters in Korean Culture
In Korea, age isn’t just a number—it affects how people treat you:
✔ Speech: You must use honorifics (formal language) if someone is older.
✔ Drinking/Smoking: Legal age is based on international age (19 in Korean age = 17-18 internationally).
✔ Friendships: People born in the same year are “동갑” (same age) and can speak casually.
✔ Workplace Hierarchy: Even a 1-year difference decides who’s the “senior” (선배).
❓ FAQs About Korean Age
Q: Do Koreans still use Korean age?
→ Yes! Even though the government uses international age now, most Koreans still think in Korean age in daily life.
Q: Why does Korean age add +1 at birth?
→ Traditional belief that time in the womb counts as the first year.
Q: Which age should I use in Korea?
- With friends? Korean age (if you’re close).
- Official documents? International age.
- At work? Better ask—some companies still use Korean age for hierarchy.
📢 Why You’ll Love This Calculator
✅ No more confusion when a Korean says, “I’m 30 (but actually 28).”
✅ Avoid awkward moments (using the wrong speech level with someone older).
✅ Fun to compare—are you suddenly “older” in Korea?