Learn Korean through K-Dramas: Start-Up Edition

Start-Up is a dynamic K-drama that blends business dreams with heartfelt relationships. In this lesson, we’ll learn Korean through a motivational line from the show that speaks to anyone chasing their passion, even through uncertainty.

🎬 Scene Context

📺 Scene: Seo Dal-mi (Bae Suzy) encourages her team during a difficult moment in their startup journey.
💬 Tone: Motivational, hopeful, determined.

💬 Featured Quote

“처음이라서 그래.”
(It’s because it’s the first time.)

🧠 Phrase Breakdown

Korean	English	Notes
처음이라서	because it’s the first time	처음 = first + -이라서 = because it is
그래	that’s why / it’s like that	Used to gently explain or comfort

🗣 Pronunciation Guide

[cheo-eum-i-ra-seo geu-rae]

💡 Practical Usage

• 처음이라서 그런 거야.
  It’s just because it’s your first time.
• 실수해도 돼, 처음이라서 그래.
  It’s okay to make mistakes—it’s your first time.
• 다들 처음엔 그렇게 해.
  Everyone does that in the beginning.

🚀 Why Start-Up Inspires Korean Learners

The show captures the vocabulary of entrepreneurship, motivation, and resilience.
You’ll hear lots of expressions around starting, failing, trying again, and teamwork.

It’s perfect for learning:

• Supportive Korean phrases
• How to sound encouraging and realistic
• Phrases used in professional yet emotional settings

Also, the way Suzy (Dal-mi) speaks is clear, kind, and motivating—great for listening practice.

💬 Final Words

Thanks for joining our Korean learning journey again.
Next, we’ll cover Itaewon Class, a bold story of dreams, defiance, and personal growth.
Aloha, and don’t forget—it’s okay because it’s the first time. 🌱