Learn Korean: 도대체 + WH

Let’s take a look at the Korean sentence pattern 도대체 + WH. Adding 도대체 to a question gives it a strong nuance similar to what on earth or why the hell. It is not exactly a curse but an emphasis to express surprise, shock, anger, etc.

넌 도대체 누구야?

Who the hell are you?

도대체 왜 이래?

Why the hell are you being like this?

도대체 뭐 하고 있어?

What the hell are you doing?