Let's learn how to use the V/A+(으)ㄹ 경우에 Korean Grammar with some simple and easy-to-understand example sentences.
V/A+(으)ㄹ 경우에 - “In case… / If… / When…”
USE:
Used to talk about a possible situation and what happens in that situation.
It’s more formal and often used in writing, rules, announcements, instructions, and official situations.
Similar to -(으)면, but more serious and formal.
CONJUGATION RULE
Attach to verbs, adjectives, and nouns:
Ends in vowel → -ㄹ 경우(에)
가다 → 갈 경우에 (in case you go)
Ends in consonant → -을 경우(에)
먹다 → 먹을 경우에 (in case you eat)
Noun + 일 경우(에)
학생일 경우에 (if you are a student)
You can add 에 or omit it:
✔ -(으)ㄹ 경우
✔ -(으)ㄹ 경우에
Both are correct.
EXAMPLE SENTENCES:
1. 비가 올 경우에 행사는 실내에서 진행됩니다.
→ In case it rains, the event will be held indoors.
2. 문제가 생길 경우에 바로 연락해 주세요.
→ If any problem occurs, please contact us immediately.
3. 학생일 경우에 할인받을 수 있어요.
→ If you are a student, you can get a discount.
4. 비밀번호를 잊어버릴 경우에 이메일로 재설정할 수 있습니다.
→ If you forget your password, you can reset it by email.
5. 시간이 없을 경우에 내일 다시 오세요.
→ If you don’t have time, please come again tomorrow.
6. 택배가 파손될 경우에 환불이 가능합니다.
→ In case the delivery item is damaged, a refund is possible.
7. 늦을 경우에 미리 알려 주세요.
→ If you will be late, please inform me beforehand.
Additional Notes
1. More formal than -(으)면.
2. Often used in written rules, instructions, policies, notices, or announcements.
3. Usually describes potential problems, preparations, or exceptions.
