At the level that I am in on spoken Korean… I could probably say phrases or short sentences only. It’s really difficult when you speak a second language that is not commonly used in your country. So this post helps in making that short phrases and sentences sounds more natural.
The verb ending -거든요 (-kodeunyo) is used as verb ending for follow thorugh explanation to what has just been said. This is specifically helpful when you try to give explanation or answer fast and want to make a follow through to that statement. In using this verb ending, it somehow creates an impression that you want your listener to nod, acknowledge or further undertand what you said. It’s like saying ‘you see’ at the of the second sentence or phrase.
The -거든요 is added to plain or past bases and rarely on future base. There is no explanation to this on the book but I am guessing since this is a follow through to what you are explaining its a bit awkward to use it for events that are just about to happen . Verbs that are l-extended retain the -l when this ending is added as such you would hear 살거든요 (salkeodeunyo). Here are some samples of the use of this verb ending:
- 나는 맥주를 안 마셔요. 쓴거든요 (Naneun maekjureul an mashyeoyo. Sseunkodeunyo). I don’t drink beer. It’s bitter. [can’t you see]
- 배가 아파요. 너무 많이 먹었든요 (Baega apayo. Neomu manhi meokeotteundyo) My stomach is aching. I ate a lot [can’t you see].
It Started with Hangul 