Korean Proverbs
금강산도 식후경
geumgangsando sikugyeong
Word for word
“Even Mount Geumgang is for sightseeing after a meal.”
What it means
Eat first — nothing is enjoyable on an empty stomach.
When you'd say it
Suggesting lunch before the museum, the hike or the meeting.
Example
전망대는 이따 가자. 금강산도 식후경이잖아.Let's hit the observatory later. Even Mount Geumgang comes after lunch.
Frequently asked questions
What does the Korean proverb “금강산도 식후경” mean?
“금강산도 식후경” (geumgangsando sikugyeong) is a Korean proverb: eat first — nothing is enjoyable on an empty stomach.
What is the literal translation of “금강산도 식후경”?
Word for word, it says: “Even Mount Geumgang is for sightseeing after a meal.”
When do Koreans say “금강산도 식후경”?
Typical use: suggesting lunch before the museum, the hike or the meeting.
How do you use “금강산도 식후경” in a sentence?
“전망대는 이따 가자. 금강산도 식후경이잖아.” means “Let's hit the observatory later. Even Mount Geumgang comes after lunch.”