🧒 “조심해!” in Korean: How to Say “Be Careful!” with Heart
Share
If you’ve ever watched a Korean mom with her child, chances are you’ve heard this word:
조심해!
It means “Be careful!”—but it’s more than just a warning.
It’s a phrase full of care, love, and real-life parenting moments.
Let’s learn how to use it naturally—whether you’re speaking to a child, a pet, or even a friend on a wobbly ladder. 😄
🗣️ What Does “조심해” Mean?
조심해! (josimhae)
→ Be careful! / Watch out!
It’s one of the first expressions Korean children hear growing up.
You might use it when:
-
A child is running too fast
-
Someone’s climbing something tall
-
Your kid’s riding a scooter down a steep hill
💡 It’s not meant to scold—it’s meant to protect.
🔤 How to Say It (Pronunciation Tips)
조심해 is made of three parts:
-
jo = like “Joe”
-
sim = like “sheem” (soft ‘sh’ + “eem”)
-
hae = like “hey”
👉 Say it smoothly: Joe-sheem-hey!
Use a gentle tone—like “Watch out, sweetie” rather than “Hey! Stop!”
📌 When to Use It
Here are 3 everyday examples where “조심해” fits perfectly:
🏃 Child running ahead
👩 “조심해! 넘어지겠다.”
👉 Be careful! You might fall.
🪜 Climbing furniture
👩 “조심해! 거기 위험해.”
👉 Be careful! That’s dangerous.
🚲 Riding a scooter
👩 “조심해서 타야지~”
👉 You have to ride carefully!
It’s often used with a slightly rising tone—kind and alert at the same time.
👩👦 Real-Life Korean Mom Moment
👦 Kid: “Mom, look! I’m standing on the chair like a robot!”
👩 Mom: “Wow, cool robot! But… 조심해! Don’t fall!”
That’s the beauty of this phrase—it’s gentle, practical, and full of love.
🔁 Related Korean Phrases
|
Korean |
English Equivalent |
|---|---|
|
조심조심~ |
Carefully, gently~ |
|
위험해! |
It’s dangerous! |
|
넘어지겠다! |
You’re gonna fall! |
You’ll often hear these used together in casual conversation—especially around kids!
❤️ Why This Phrase Matters
“조심해!” is one of those expressions that shows love through language.
Whether you’re a parent, a teacher, a babysitter, or just learning Korean, this phrase is:
-
Easy to say
-
Easy to remember
-
Very natural and culturally rich
📌 Try using “조심해!” in real life—with your child, your pet, or even a clumsy friend!
It’s simple, caring, and deeply Korean.
📩 Subscribe to our newsletter
Want more real-life Korean expressions and cultural tips?
Join our weekly email series—bite-sized Korean, one kind word at a time.