Learn Korean: 괜히 + Noun

Let’s take a look at the Korean sentence pattern 괜히 + Noun. We use this to make a point that someone or something didn’t get its name for nothing and the reason is right before eyes. For example, JB and I went to a tented food spot at Jongno to chill out on a Friday night. We ordered chicken and made somaek- a cocktail made of soju (rice wine) and beer. It is extra strong and JB underestimated it. He started getting tipsy within an hour. He said I’m drunk already. I jokingly replied It’s called somaek for a reason (That’s why it’s called somaek!) The main noun is 소맥 (somaek). 괜히 comes before it and 이다 is attached at the end. The actual sentence is (소맥은) 괜히 소맥이야? or more naturally (소맥은) 괜히 소맥이냐? The subject can be repeated twice.

괜히 장학생이야?

She’s not a scholar for nothing. (That’s why she won first place in the competition)

괜히 한류스타냐?

She’s called a Hallyu star for a reason. (That explains why we see her billboard everywhere in Asia)

내가 괜히 미스 코리아야?

Am I Miss Korea for nothing? (my friend is in awe of my endorsements)