간이 크다

gan-i keuda◆idiom
bold and daring

저 사람은 간이 크네. 위험한 일에도 아무렇지 않게 하잖아.

That person has guts. They do dangerous things without batting an eye.

◆ What It Really Means
having exceptional boldness or audacity; fearless to the point of recklessness
Literal Meaning
one's liver is large
Literal Breakdown
간liver (organ)+크다to be big
◇ Mental Image
A metaphor comparing courage to the physical size of an organ, implying someone's 'liver' (seat of courage) is so large it overpowers fear.
◈ When to Use
A person calmly confronts a dangerous situation, like a CEO taking a risky business decision or a friend daring to speak up against a bully.
◉ Cultural Note
In traditional Korean medicine, the liver is linked to emotional states like anger and courage. This phrase reflects that cultural association.
informal

having great courage or audacity; not easily intimidated

그는 간이 커서 상사한테도 대들었다.

He’s so bold he even talked back to his boss.

간이 크면 성공할 수 있어.

If you have guts, you can succeed.

Often used to describe someone who acts recklessly or defies expectations without fear.

Related Phrases

배짱이 크다idiom
have a thick stomach (similar meaning, more literal)
간이 작다idiom
be timid or cowardly

Pro Tip

Cultural Context

This phrase reflects Korean cultural emphasis on courage and resilience. In business or social settings, '간이 크다' can describe someone who takes bold risks, while in daily life it may simply mean someone is fearless.

Gold Rule

Usage Scenario

Use '간이 크다' for someone who acts boldly despite risks, not for general bravery. For example, '그는 간이 커서 야근도 마다하지 않는다' (He’s so bold he doesn’t even mind working late).

Usage Notes

Commonly used in casual speech to praise boldness or criticize recklessness. Often implies a mix of admiration and concern.

Word Breakdown

간
liver (metaphorically associated with courage or boldness in Korean)
root
+
크다
to be big/large
root
한영사전