“Even if” in Korean

In Korean, the infinitive form of a verb can be used with -도 to convey "even if." This construction is semantically similar to 그런데 and 그래도, but differs in syntax: 그런데 and 그래도 are generally used to begin follow-up sentences, while [v.inf.]도 makes room for a subordinate clause.

Examples

택시를 타도 시간이 오래 걸려요.

It takes a long time even if I take a taxi.

집에 가도, 밥이 없어요.

Even if I go home, there is no food.

석진 씨는 제가 전화를 해도 안 받아요.

Even if I call him, Seokjin doesn't answer.

References

• [cite:@talktomeinkorean2015talka]