What is “-(으)라”?

“-(으)라” is a terminal ending used to express commands and wishes in Korean. Its form changes based on whether the preceding word has a final consonant (받침).

Without final consonant (받침 X): Use -라
Example: “조심하라!” (Be careful!)

With final consonant (받침 O): Use -으라
Example: “모두 들으라!” (Everyone listen!)

Usage

A. To Express Wishes

“-(으)라” is used to express a wish or hope for something good to happen.

“젊음이여, 영원하라!” (Oh, youth, last forever!)
“앞으로 당신에게 운이 따르라.” (May fortune be with your future.)

Rules: This form attaches to verbs and not adjectives.

B. To Give Commands

“-(으)라” is used to directly command or instruct someone to do something.

Attach to Verbs: It combines with verbs but not with adjectives.
Correct: “모두 들으라!” (Everyone listen!)
Incorrect: “상냥하라.” (Adjectives cannot take this ending.)
No Past or Hypothetical Forms: It cannot combine with the past tense ‘-었-‘ or the hypothetical ‘-겠-‘.
Incorrect: “들었으라.” (Listened), “듣겠으라.” (Would listen)

Contexts

Commonly found in:

Formal or authoritative contexts (e.g., newspapers, posters, official announcements)
Hierarchical situations such as in the military
Example: “명령이 없을 시 여기서 대기하라.” (Stay here if there are no commands.)
Special or ceremonial occasions
Literary or formal language