천 리 길도 한 걸음부터 (Even a journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.)

This proverb means that no matter how difficult or long a journey may be, it starts with a small first step. So, if you're a beginner learning Korean, there's no need to rush. Consistent effort is more important than speed.

시작이 반이다 (Starting is half the battle.)

Similar to the first proverb, it emphasizes that beginning something is often the hardest part. Once you start, you're already halfway to success. Many people don't even begin, so taking that first step is a significant achievement.

호랑이도 제 말하면 온다 (Speak of the devil.)

This is a fun expression used when someone you've just been talking about suddenly appears. For example, if you're discussing a friend named B with another friend A, and B shows up, you'd say, "Speak of the devil!"

가는 날이 장날이다 (Just my luck! or Of all days, it's market day.)

This proverb is used when you go somewhere expecting it to be quiet, but it's unexpectedly crowded or busy. In Korea, especially in rural areas, certain days are market days when many people gather. If you happen to visit on such a day by coincidence, you might use this expression to express surprise or mild frustration at the poor timing.

돌다리도 두들겨 보고 건너라 (Even a stone bridge should be tested before crossing.)

This means that even if something appears safe, you should still proceed with caution. In daily life, it's like checking both ways before crossing the street, even when the light is green, because there might be reckless drivers. It's about being cautious to avoid unexpected problems.

사공이 많으면 배가 산으로 간다 (Too many cooks spoil the broth.)

Literally translated as "When there are too many boatmen, the boat goes up the mountain," this proverb means that if too many people try to lead or give directions, the result can be confusion or failure. In any group, if everyone tries to be the leader, the group may not function effectively.