-는데
One of the most versatile connectives in Korean. Used to: (1) provide background context for the main clause, (2) set up a contrast, (3) introduce a request or question after context-setting.
Summary
Equivalent
As for... / The thing is... / (Setting the scene)
Also: -(으)ㄴ/는데도 (Even though — emphasis on contradiction) · -지만 (But — simple direct contrast)
Example
I'm currently eating — could you call me in 30 minutes?
지금 밥을 먹고 있는데 30분 후에 전화해 줄 수 있어요?
Grammar rules
- NOT the same as '-지만' (simple but).
- '-는데' is more about setting the scene.
- It is ubiquitous in everyday Korean and often untranslatable word-for-word — it functions as a logical connector and context-setter.
Patterns
Verbs (Background Context)
Present · Verb Stem + 는데
Adjectives (Background Context)
Present · Adj Stem + (으)ㄴ데
Past Background
Past · Stem + 았/었는데
Example sentences
I'm currently eating — could you call me in 30 minutes?
지금 밥을 먹고 있는데 30분 후에 전화해 줄 수 있어요?
The weather is nice — shall we go for a walk together?
날씨가 좋은데 같이 산책할까요?
I went to that restaurant yesterday, but the door was closed.
어제 그 식당에 갔는데 문이 닫혀 있었어요.
Conversation
A: Do you have time tomorrow?
내일 시간 있어요?
B: I have plans in the morning tomorrow, but the afternoon is fine.
내일은 오전에 약속이 있는데 오후는 괜찮아요.
Practice
Fill in the blank
Use '-는데' for natural background context.
Asking for help.
Context for question.