자명종이 울려도 못 듣는다
그는 자명종이 울려도 못 듣는다.
He doesn't hear the alarm at all—he's completely oblivious.
To be so deeply immersed in thought, distraction, or denial that one fails to notice obvious external signals or reality.
그녀는 연애 문제로 자명종이 울려도 못 듣는다.
She's so caught up in her love troubles that she doesn't hear the alarm at all.
그는 게임에 빠져서 엄마가 부르는 소리도 못 듣는다.
He's so engrossed in the game that he doesn't hear his mom calling at all.
Often implies emotional or psychological detachment rather than physical inability to hear.
Synonyms
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Cultural Context
This idiom reflects Korean cultural emphasis on emotional awareness and social harmony. It's often used in contexts where someone is avoiding confrontation or painful truths.
Gold Rule
When to Use
Use this idiom when someone is so focused on their own thoughts/emotions that they miss obvious external cues—especially emotional or social signals.
Word Origin
Derived from the literal phrase '자명종이 울려도 못 듣는다' (the alarm rings but one cannot hear it), where '자명종' (alarm clock) symbolizes external reality or wake-up calls. The idiom metaphorically extends to psychological states where one fails to 'hear' obvious signs or warnings.
Usage Notes
Commonly used to describe someone who is emotionally overwhelmed, in denial, or so distracted that they ignore clear signals. Often carries a sympathetic tone rather than criticism.