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Tour

Tourist wayfinding is Hangul on its best behavior: standardized signs, clean typefaces, and words that repeat at every palace, park, and museum.

The wayfinding words

A few words run the entire visit: 매표소 (ticket office), 입구 (entrance), 출구 (exit), 안내 (information), 화장실 (restroom). They appear on the standardized brown tourist signage all over Korea, usually with English beneath — which turns every signpost into a self-checking flashcard, just like the cards in this deck.

Learn these first: they're the words you read while walking, when speed actually matters. Arrows plus one decoded word will route you through a palace complex faster than any map app, because the signs are positioned exactly where the decisions are.

Reading place names

Korean place names are built from reusable final blocks. 궁 ends palace names (경복궁), 사 ends temple names, 박물관 means museum, 공원 means park, 한옥마을 is a traditional village. Read the last block first and you know what kind of place it is; the blocks before it are the proper name.

That back-to-front habit is the single best trick for long location names — a five-block name stops being intimidating when the final block already told you it's a palace.

Signs that ask something of you

The other family on this deck is rules: 촬영 금지 (no photography), 출입금지 (no entry), 만지지 마세요 (please don't touch). The block 금지 is the one to anchor — anything ending in it is a prohibition, and the blocks before it say what's prohibited.

Practice the deck aloud, then use the table below as a checklist on your next palace day: every sign you read on site is a rep this page can't give you.

All words

SignReadingMeaningWhere you'll see it
112 Il·Il·I 112 (police) Nationwide police emergency line for crime or danger — free, English help available.
119 Il·Il·Gu 119 (fire & ambulance) Nationwide emergency line for fire, rescue, and ambulance — free, English help available.
1330 Il·Sam·Sam·Gong 1330 (tourism hotline) Korea Tourism hotline for travel info, transport, lodging, dining, and complaints — help in 7 languages with interpretation (from abroad: +82-2-1330).
객실 Gaek·Sil Guest room The guest rooms — head this way to yours.
경고 Gyeong·Go Warning Warning of a serious hazard ahead.
계단 Gye·Dan Stairs Stairway between floors.
공실 Gong·Sil Vacancy Rooms available now.
공항 Gong·Hang Airport Airport — follow signs to your terminal.
교량 Gyo·Ryang Bridge Bridge — can ice over before regular roads.
교환 Gyo·Hwan Exchange Swap an item — keep the receipt.
구청 Gu·Cheong District office Government office for a city district (gu).
국밥 Guk·Bap Gukbap (rice soup) Hearty rice-in-soup — a quick, warming meal.
국보 Guk·Bo National Treasure Korea's highest heritage grade — its most prized relics.
군청 Gun·Cheong County office Government office for a rural county (gun).
궁궐 Gung·Gwol Royal palace Joseon-era royal palace, like Gyeongbokgung.
금고 Geum·Go In-room safe Safe for valuables, set your own code.
금식 Geum·Sik Fasting (before procedure) No eating before a test or operation.
금지 Geum·Ji Prohibited This action is not allowed.
급행 Geup·Haeng Express Express train — skips some stations, gets there faster.
기차 Gi·Cha Train Intercity train for longer trips between cities.
김밥 Gim·Bap Gimbap Seaweed rice roll — cheap, portable, everywhere.
개찰구 Gae·Chal·Gu Fare gate Tap your card here to enter or exit the paid area.
객실키 Gaek·Sil·Ki Room key Your room key or card — often powers the lights.
건널목 Geon·Neol·Mok Railroad crossing Stop and check for trains before crossing the tracks.
검사실 Geom·Sa·Sil Testing room Room for blood draws and medical tests.
경비실 Gyeong·Bi·Sil Security office Guard's booth — parcels and visitor help.
경찰서 Gyeong·Chal·Seo Police station Main police office for the district. Emergency: 112.
계산대 Gye·San·Dae Checkout counter Where you pay — the register.
고깃집 Go·Git·Jip BBQ house Grill-at-your-table beef or pork restaurant.
관람료 Gwan·Ram·Ryo Admission fee The price of entry to the exhibit or site.
교차로 Gyo·Cha·Ro Intersection Where two or more roads cross.
구급차 Gu·Geup·Cha Ambulance Emergency vehicle — call 119 in Korea.
국내선 Guk·Nae·Seon Domestic flights Terminal area for flights within Korea, like to Jeju.
국제선 Guk·Je·Seon International flights Terminal area for flights to and from other countries.
기념관 Gi·Nyeom·Gwan Memorial hall Hall commemorating a person or event.
기차역 Gi·Cha·Yeok Train station Where you board intercity trains like KTX.
가스주의 Ga·Seu·Ju·Ui Gas hazard Gas present — no flames, ventilate if you smell it.
감전주의 Gam·Jeon·Ju·Ui Electric shock hazard Live electricity — risk of shock.
건강검진 Geon·Gang·Geom·Jin Health checkup Routine screening to check your overall health.
건강보험 Geon·Gang·Bo·Heom National health insurance Public health insurance office.
견인지역 Gyeon·In·Ji·Yeok Tow-away zone Illegally parked cars here get towed.
결빙주의 Gyeol·Bing·Ju·Ui Icy road Road may be frozen in winter — slow down.
경로할인 Gyeong·Ro·Hal·In Senior discount Reduced price for older visitors.
고객센터 Go·Gaek·Sen·Teo Customer service Desk for help, returns and complaints.
고속버스 Go·Sok·Beo·Seu Express (intercity) bus Long-distance bus between cities on the expressway.
고압전기 Go·Ap·Jeon·Gi High voltage High-voltage equipment — extreme danger.
고온주의 Go·On·Ju·Ui Hot surface Hot to the touch — risk of burns.
공동현관 Gong·Dong·Hyeon·Gwan Building main entrance Shared front door — needs a code or card to enter.
공사 중 Gong·Sa·Jung Under construction Work in progress — expect detours and dust.
공항버스 Gong·Hang·Beo·Seu Airport bus Limousine bus to and from the airport with luggage space.
과속단속 Gwa·Sok·Dan·Sok Speed enforcement Speed camera ahead — mind the limit.
관광지도 Gwan·Gwang·Ji·Do Tourist map Map of nearby sights and attractions.
관람시간 Gwan·Ram·Si·Gan Viewing hours Hours the site is open to visitors.
광역버스 Gwang·Yeok·Beo·Seu Metropolitan bus Red bus linking Seoul with suburbs — often a seat each.
교통카드 Gyo·Tong·Ka·Deu Transit card Tap-to-pay card for subway, bus and taxi.
구조요청 Gu·Jo·Yo·Cheong Call for help How to call for rescue in an emergency.
국민연금 Guk·Min·Yeon·Geum National pension State pension scheme office.
국제우편 Guk·Je·U·Pyeon International mail Send letters and parcels abroad.
금연객실 Geum·Yeon·Gaek·Sil Non-smoking room Smoking forbidden — fines apply if you light up.
금연구역 Geum·Yeon·Gu·Yeok No-smoking area No smoking here — fines apply on many city streets.
기념품점 Gi·Nyeom·Pum·Jeom Souvenir shop Shop for gifts and mementos at the attraction.
기획전시 Gi·Hoek·Jeon·Si Special exhibition Limited-run themed show — may cost extra.
공영주차장 Gong·Yeong·Ju·Cha·Jang Public parking City-run lot — usually cheaper than private ones.
공중화장실 Gong·Jung·Hwa·Jang·Sil Public restroom Public toilet open to everyone.
과속방지턱 Gwa·Sok·Bang·Ji·Teok Speed bump Raised bump that forces cars to slow down.
과태료부과 Gwa·Tae·Ryo·Bu·Gwa Fine imposed Breaking the rule here means a fine.
관광안내소 Gwan·Gwang·An·Nae·So Tourist information Desk for maps, directions and tips — staff speak English.
관리사무소 Gwan·Ri·Sa·Mu·So Management office Building admin office for bills and complaints.
갈아타는 곳 Gal·A·Ta·Neun·Got Transfer point The spot where you switch to another subway line or bus.
게스트하우스 Ge·Seu·Teu·Ha·U·Seu Guesthouse Budget stay with shared rooms — popular with backpackers.
기저귀교환대 Gi·Jeo·Gwi·Gyo·Hwan·Dae Diaper-changing table Fold-down table for changing a baby's diaper.
거주자우선주차 Geo·Ju·Ja·U·Seon·Ju·Cha Resident-only parking Street spots reserved for registered local residents.
공공 와이파이 Gong·Gong·Wa·I·Pa·I Public Wi-Fi Free city Wi-Fi — look for the 'Seoul' network.
기대지 마세요 Gi·Dae·Ji·Ma·Se·Yo Do not lean Don't lean on the door, glass or railing.
관계자 외 출입금지 Gwan·Gye·Ja·Oe·Chul·Ip·Geum·Ji Staff only Authorized personnel only beyond this point.
꽃집 Kkot·Jip Florist Flower shop for bouquets and gifts.
내과 Nae·Gwa Internal medicine For colds, stomach issues and general illness.
냉면 Naeng·Myeon Cold noodles Chewy buckwheat noodles in icy broth — summer favorite.
냉장고 Naeng·Jang·Go Refrigerator In-room fridge for your own food and drinks.
네일샵 Ne·Il·Syap Nail salon Salon for manicures and nail art.
놀이터 Nol·I·Teo Playground Children's play area with swings and slides.
낙석주의 Nak·Seok·Ju·Ui Falling rocks Rocks may fall from the slope — stay alert.
낚시금지 Nak·Si·Geum·Ji No fishing Fishing is prohibited in these waters.
노약자석 No·Yak·Ja·Seok Seat for elderly & disabled Seats at car ends for elderly, sick or disabled riders.
녹화 중 Nok·Hwa·Jung Under video surveillance Cameras are recording this area.
나가는 곳 Na·Ga·Neun·Got Way out Points to the way out of a station or building.
낙하물주의 Nak·Ha·Mul·Ju·Ui Falling objects Things may fall from above — stay clear.
남자화장실 Nam·Ja·Hwa·Jang·Sil Men's room Men's toilet — usually marked in blue.
내리는 곳 Nae·Ri·Neun·Got Alighting point Where you get off the train, bus or taxi.
노인보호구역 No·In·Bo·Ho·Gu·Yeok Senior protection zone Slow zone near senior facilities — drive with care.
도착 Do·Chak Arrival Arrivals — when or where a train or flight comes in.
등기 Deung·Gi Registered mail Tracked mail with delivery confirmation.
등본 Deung·Bon Resident registration copy Document listing everyone at your address.
대피로 Dae·Pi·Ro Evacuation route Marked path to follow when evacuating.
대피소 Dae·Pi·So Shelter Safe place to gather during a disaster.
대합실 Dae·Hap·Sil Waiting hall Seating hall where you wait for your train or bus.
도서관 Do·Seo·Gwan Library Public library — quiet reading and study rooms.
둘레길 Dul·Re·Gil Loop trail Gentle trail circling a mountain's base, not the peak.
등산로 Deung·San·Ro Hiking trail Mountain path — Korea's favorite weekend pastime.
디저트 Di·Jeo·Teu Dessert Sweets shop — cakes, bingsu, tarts.
다음 역 Da·Eum·Yeok Next station The upcoming stop, shown on in-car displays.
단체할인 Dan·Che·Hal·In Group discount Cheaper rate for groups, often 20 or more.
당기세요 Dang·Gi·Se·Yo Pull Pull the door to open it.
당직의사 Dang·Jik·Ui·Sa Doctor on duty The doctor available after regular hours.
대기번호 Dae·Gi·Beon·Ho Waiting number Your place in the queue, shown on screen.
대학병원 Dae·Hak·Byeong·Won University hospital Teaching hospital for advanced and serious care.
대형폐기물 Dae·Hyeong·Pye·Gi·Mul Bulky waste Furniture and large items — buy a disposal sticker first.
들어가는 곳 Deul·Eo·Ga·Neun·Got Way in Points to the way into a station or building.
로비 Ro·Bi Lobby Entrance lounge of the hotel.
렌터카 Ren·Teo·Ka Rental car Car rental desk — needs an international driving permit.
리조트 Ri·Jo·Teu Resort Holiday complex with pools, dining and activities.
룸서비스 Rum·Seo·Bi·Seu Room service Food and service delivered to your room.
라스트오더 Ra·Seu·Teu·O·Deo Last order Final time to order before the kitchen closes.
마트 Ma·Teu Mart Grocery store, from corner shops to big-box chains.
막차 Mak·Cha Last train The last train (or bus) of the night — don't miss it.
만실 Man·Sil No vacancy Fully booked — no rooms left.
맛집 Mat·Jip Famous eatery A spot known for great food — worth the queue.
명승 Myeong·Seung Scenic Site Place of designated natural beauty.
모텔 Mo·Tel Motel Budget lodging, often rented by the night or hours.
민박 Min·Bak Homestay Room in a local family's home.
매표소 Mae·Pyo·So Ticket office Counter selling tickets for trains, buses or attractions.
메뉴판 Me·Nyu·Pan Menu The menu board or booklet of dishes.
면세점 Myeon·Se·Jeom Duty-free shop Tax-free shopping for travelers — passport needed.
모닝콜 Mo·Ning·Kol Wake-up call Front desk phones to wake you at a set time.
문구점 Mun·Gu·Jeom Stationery shop Shop for pens, notebooks and school supplies.
문화재 Mun·Hwa·Jae Cultural property State-protected heritage — treat it with care.
미니바 Mi·Ni·Ba Minibar Stocked mini-fridge — items are charged extra.
미세요 Mi·Se·Yo Push Push the door to open it.
미술관 Mi·Sul·Gwan Art museum Gallery showing paintings and art.
미용실 Mi·Yong·Sil Hair salon Hair salon for cuts, color and styling.
민원실 Min·Won·Sil Civil affairs office Window for public requests and paperwork.
마을버스 Ma·Eul·Beo·Seu Village (neighborhood) bus Small green bus looping through a neighborhood to the station.
매표마감 Mae·Pyo·Ma·Gam Ticket sales end Tickets stop selling before closing — come early.
맹견주의 Maeng·Gyeon·Ju·Ui Beware of dog A fierce dog may be present — take care.
머리조심 Meo·Ri·Jo·Sim Mind your head Low ceiling or beam — watch your head.
모범택시 Mo·Beom·Taek·Si Deluxe taxi Black premium taxi — pricier, experienced drivers.
무료입장 Mu·Ryo·Ip·Jang Free admission No charge to enter.
무빙워크 Mu·Bing·Wo·Keu Moving walkway Flat moving belt — common at airports.
무인주문 Mu·In·Ju·Mun Self-order Order yourself at a machine, no staff needed.
목줄 착용 Mok·Jul·Chak·Yong Leash required Keep your dog on a leash.
무인발권기 Mu·In·Bal·Gwon·Gi Ticket machine Self-service machine for buying or picking up tickets.
무인수납기 Mu·In·Su·Nap·Gi Payment kiosk Self-service machine to pay your medical bill.
무인택배함 Mu·In·Taek·Bae·Ham Self-service parcel box Unstaffed locker to send or pick up parcels with a code.
물리치료실 Mul·Ri·Chi·Ryo·Sil Physical therapy Rehab room for muscles, joints and recovery.
물품보관함 Mul·Pum·Bo·Gwan·Ham Storage locker Lockers to stash bags while you explore.
미끄럼주의 Mi·Kkeu·Reom·Ju·Ui Slippery surface Watch your footing — surface may be slippery.
마스크 착용 Ma·Seu·Keu·Chak·Yong Wear a mask Mask required to enter this area.
무단투기금지 Mu·Dan·Tu·Gi·Geum·Ji No illegal dumping Don't dump trash here — use proper bags and bins.
무단횡단금지 Mu·Dan·Hoeng·Dan·Geum·Ji No jaywalking Cross only at crosswalks, not mid-block.
문화관광해설 Mun·Hwa·Gwan·Gwang·Hae·Seol Guided commentary Free guided talks by a cultural docent.
만지지 마세요 Man·Ji·Ji·Ma·Se·Yo Do not touch Look but don't touch the exhibits.
무료 와이파이 Mu·Ryo·Wa·I·Pa·I Free Wi-Fi Free wireless internet — ask for the password.
무인민원발급기 Mu·In·Min·Won·Bal·Geup·Gi Self-service document kiosk Machine that prints certificates without staff.
배달 Bae·Dal Delivery Food brought to your door — huge in Korea.
버스 Beo·Seu Bus City bus — tap your transit card on boarding.
법원 Beop·Won Courthouse Court of law where trials are held.
병원 Byeong·Won Hospital Hospital — for illness, injury or checkups.
보물 Bo·Mul Treasure (heritage grade) Designated heritage just below National Treasure rank.
분식 Bun·Sik Snacks (bunsik) Cheap snack food — tteokbokki, kimbap, fishcake.
비닐 Bi·Nil Plastic film Bin for plastic bags and wrappers.
박물관 Bak·Mul·Gwan Museum Museum — many national ones are free to enter.
반납함 Ban·Nap·Ham Return box Drop returned books or items here.
백화점 Baek·Hwa·Jeom Department store Upscale multi-floor store with a famous food hall below.
번호표 Beon·Ho·Pyo Take a number Pull a queue ticket and wait for your number.
보건소 Bo·Geon·So Public health center Public clinic for shots, tests and health services.
비상구 Bi·Sang·Gu Emergency exit Exit to use in a fire or emergency — green sign.
비상벨 Bi·Sang·Bel Emergency bell Press to raise the alarm in an emergency.
발렛파킹 Bal·Ret·Pa·King Valet parking Staff park your car for you.
발밑주의 Bal·Mit·Ju·Ui Watch your step Uneven floor or step — watch your footing.
베이커리 Be·I·Keo·Ri Bakery Bakery selling bread and pastries.
보안검색 Bo·An·Geom·Saek Security screening Bag and body scan before entering the gate area.
비밀번호 Bi·Mil·Beon·Ho Password The Wi-Fi or door password.
비상계단 Bi·Sang·Gye·Dan Emergency stairs Stairs to use when the elevator can't — in a fire.
방문객주차 Bang·Mun·Gaek·Ju·Cha Visitor parking Spaces reserved for guests, not residents.
버스정류장 Beo·Seu·Jeong·Ryu·Jang Bus stop Where buses stop — screens show arrival times.
보행자우선 Bo·Haeng·Ja·U·Seon Pedestrians first People on foot have right of way over cars here.
보행자전용 Bo·Haeng·Ja·Jeon·Yong Pedestrians only Walking only — no cars or bikes allowed.
분실물센터 Bun·Sil·Mul·Sen·Teo Lost and found Where lost items are handed in and reclaimed.
비상연락처 Bi·Sang·Yeon·Rak·Cheo Emergency contact Number to call when something goes wrong.
버스전용차로 Beo·Seu·Jeon·Yong·Cha·Ro Bus-only lane Center lane reserved for buses — cars not allowed.
보호자대기실 Bo·Ho·Ja·Dae·Gi·Sil Family waiting room Where family wait during surgery or treatment.
브레이크타임 Beu·Re·I·Keu·Ta·Im Break time Kitchen closed between lunch and dinner.
비보호좌회전 Bi·Bo·Ho·Jwa·Hoe·Jeon Unprotected left turn Left turn allowed on green, but yield to oncoming cars.
비상통화장치 Bi·Sang·Tong·Hwa·Jang·Chi Emergency intercom Press to speak with station staff in an emergency.
비즈니스센터 Bi·Jeu·Ni·Seu·Sen·Teo Business center Desks, computers and printing for guests.
반려동물출입금지 Ban·Ryeo·Dong·Mul·Chul·Ip·Geum·Ji No pets Pets are not allowed inside.
반려동물 동반 가능 Ban·Ryeo·Dong·Mul·Dong·Ban·Ga·Neung Pets welcome Pets are allowed inside.
빵집 Ppang·Jip Bread shop Everyday word for a neighborhood bakery.
사적 Sa·Jeok Historic Site Officially designated place of historic importance.
사찰 Sa·Chal Buddhist temple Buddhist temple — dress modestly, keep quiet.
서점 Seo·Jeom Bookstore Bookshop — big chains also sell stationery and gifts.
서행 Seo·Haeng Slow Slow down and drive carefully through here.
세일 Se·Il Sale Sale event with reduced prices.
소포 So·Po Parcel Send or collect a postal parcel.
송금 Song·Geum Money transfer Send money to another account.
수건 Su·Geon Towel Towels for the bath or pool.
수납 Su·Nap Payment Pay your bill after the consultation.
쉼터 Swim·Teo Rest area Small spot with benches to take a break.
슈퍼 Syu·Peo Supermarket Small neighborhood grocery (short for 'supermarket').
시청 Si·Cheong City hall Seat of the city government.
식당 Sik·Dang Restaurant Generic word for an eatery serving meals.
신발 Sin·Bal Shoes Shoe shop — sneakers, heels, boots.
사우나 Sa·U·Na Sauna Hot sauna and bath facilities.
산책로 San·Chaek·Ro Walking path Pleasant path for a stroll, often by a river.
세면대 Se·Myeon·Dae Washbasin Sink for washing your hands.
세무서 Se·Mu·Seo Tax office Handles tax filing and refunds.
세탁소 Se·Tak·So Laundry shop Laundry and dry-cleaning service.
소방서 So·Bang·Seo Fire station Fire and ambulance base. Emergency: 119.
소아과 So·A·Gwa Pediatrics Doctor for babies and children.
소화기 So·Hwa·Gi Fire extinguisher Portable extinguisher for small fires.
소화전 So·Hwa·Jeon Fire hydrant Water hookup for firefighting — keep it clear.
수영장 Su·Yeong·Jang Swimming pool Hotel pool — swim cap may be required.
수유실 Su·Yu·Sil Nursing room Private room for nursing and changing babies.
승강장 Seung·Gang·Jang Platform The platform where you wait to board the train.
신분증 Sin·Bun·Jeung ID card Photo ID required for most official tasks.
신상품 Sin·Sang·Pum New arrival Newly arrived items just in stock.
신청서 Sin·Cheong·Seo Application form Form to fill out to request a service.
신호등 Sin·Ho·Deung Traffic light Traffic signal — cross or go on green.
산부인과 San·Bu·In·Gwa OB-GYN Women's health, pregnancy and childbirth.
상설전시 Sang·Seol·Jeon·Si Permanent exhibition The museum's always-on, core collection.
성형외과 Seong·Hyeong·Oe·Gwa Plastic surgery Cosmetic and reconstructive surgery.
세금납부 Se·Geum·Nap·Bu Tax payment Pay your taxes and public fees here.
세트메뉴 Se·Teu·Me·Nyu Set menu Combo deal bundling dishes at one price.
셔틀버스 Syeo·Teul·Beo·Seu Shuttle bus Free hotel shuttle to the station or airport.
손소독제 Son·So·Dok·Je Hand sanitizer Disinfect your hands before entering.
수영금지 Su·Yeong·Geum·Ji No swimming Swimming is not allowed here — unsafe water.
승차위치 Seung·Cha·Wi·Chi Boarding position Floor mark showing where a train door will open.
시내버스 Si·Nae·Beo·Seu City bus Regular bus running routes within the city.
시외버스 Si·Oe·Beo·Seu Suburban bus Bus to nearby towns, stopping more often than express.
심야버스 Sim·Ya·Beo·Seu Late-night bus Seoul's 'owl bus' (N-routes) running after midnight.
세탁서비스 Se·Tak·Seo·Bi·Seu Laundry service Hotel washes your clothes for a fee.
셀프서비스 Sel·Peu·Seo·Bi·Seu Self-service Serve yourself — water, sides or refills.
소방차전용 So·Bang·Cha·Jeon·Yong Fire lane Keep clear for fire engines — never block it.
수하물위탁 Su·Ha·Mul·Wi·Tak Baggage drop Drop off checked bags after online check-in.
심폐소생술 Sim·Pye·So·Saeng·Sul CPR Chest compressions to revive someone not breathing.
사진촬영금지 Sa·Jin·Chwal·Yeong·Geum·Ji No photography Taking photos is not allowed here.
스마트도서관 Seu·Ma·Teu·Do·Seo·Gwan Smart library kiosk Unstaffed kiosk to borrow and return books 24/7.
손대지 마세요 Son·Dae·Ji·Ma·Se·Yo Do not touch Hands off — equipment or surface may be unsafe.
수하물 찾는 곳 Su·Ha·Mul·Chat·Neun·Got Baggage claim Carousel where you collect checked bags after landing.
쓰레기분리수거 Sseu·Re·Gi·Bun·Ri·Su·Geo Sort your trash Separate recyclables, food and general waste — it's the law.
안과 An·Gwa Eye clinic Doctor for eyes and vision.
약국 Yak·Guk Pharmacy Fill prescriptions and buy medicine — green cross sign.
양식 Yang·Sik Western food Western dishes — pasta, steak, salads.
오픈 O·Peun Now open Newly opened — expect launch deals.
외과 Oe·Gwa Surgery For wounds, operations and surgical care.
우표 U·Pyo Postage stamp Stamp to pay for sending a letter.
위험 Wi·Heom Danger Danger — stay alert and keep away.
유턴 Yu·Teon U-turn Make a U-turn where the sign permits.
육교 Yuk·Gyo Pedestrian overpass Bridge for crossing the road above traffic.
의류 Ui·Ryu Clothing Clothing store selling apparel.
의원 Ui·Won Clinic Small local clinic for everyday ailments.
인도 In·Do Sidewalk The pavement for walking, alongside the road.
일반 Il·Ban Local (all-stop) Regular train that stops at every station.
일식 Il·Sik Japanese food Japanese cuisine — sushi, ramen, donburi.
입구 Ip·Gu Entrance Way in — entrance to a station or building.
입장 Ip·Jang Enter Entry point into the venue or event.
아울렛 A·Ul·Ret Outlet Discount mall selling brands at lower prices.
안경점 An·Gyeong·Jeom Optician Glasses shop — exams and frames, often same-day.
안전문 An·Jeon·Mun Platform safety door Glass screen doors that open with the train doors.
안전선 An·Jeon·Seon Safety line Stand behind it — e.g. on the platform edge.
연회장 Yeon·Hoe·Jang Banquet hall Large hall for weddings and events.
영수증 Yeong·Su·Jeung Receipt Proof of purchase — needed for exchanges.
온돌방 On·Dol·Bang Ondol (floor-heated) room Room with heated floor — sleep on a mat, no bed.
완강기 Wan·Gang·Gi Emergency descent device Rope device to lower yourself out a window in a fire.
우대권 U·Dae·Gwon Concession ticket Discounted fare for elderly, disabled or veterans.
우선석 U·Seon·Seok Priority seat Reserved for those who need it most — give it up if asked.
우체국 U·Che·Guk Post office Mail, parcels and some banking — red sign.
우회전 U·Hoe·Jeon Right turn Turn right — yield to crossing pedestrians.
유람선 Yu·Ram·Seon Sightseeing cruise Pleasure boat — e.g. a Han River cruise.
유리병 Yu·Ri·Byeong Glass bottles Bin for glass bottles — some have a deposit refund.
유적지 Yu·Jeok·Ji Historic ruins Site with remains of an old settlement or structure.
음수대 Eum·Su·Dae Drinking fountain Public fountain for a drink of water.
응급실 Eung·Geup·Sil Emergency room 24-hour ER for urgent illness and injury.
이발관 I·Bal·Gwan Barbershop Traditional barber, mainly men's cuts and shaves.
입국장 Ip·Guk·Jang Arrivals hall Where arriving passengers clear immigration and customs.
입장권 Ip·Jang·Gwon Admission ticket Ticket needed to enter — buy at the booth.
안내지도 An·Nae·Ji·Do Directory map Map showing where facilities are in the building.
안전거리 An·Jeon·Geo·Ri Keep your distance Leave enough gap to the car ahead.
안전제일 An·Jeon·Je·Il Safety first Common worksite slogan — put safety above all.
안전지대 An·Jeon·Ji·Dae Safety island Painted island where pedestrians can wait safely.
야영금지 Ya·Yeong·Geum·Ji No camping Camping and tents are not allowed here.
어메니티 Eo·Me·Ni·Ti Amenities Free toiletries: soap, shampoo, toothbrush.
엑스레이 Ek·Seu·Re·I X-ray X-ray imaging room.
여권발급 Yeo·Gwon·Bal·Geup Passport issuance Apply for or pick up a passport here.
연중무휴 Yeon·Jung·Mu·Hyu Open every day Open all year — no regular days off.
영업 중 Yeong·Eop·Jung Open The shop is open for business right now.
영업종료 Yeong·Eop·Jong·Ryo Closed Done for the day — closed until next opening.
예방접종 Ye·Bang·Jeop·Jong Vaccination Get vaccinated against disease here.
예약확인 Ye·Yak·Hwak·In Reservation confirmation Verify your booking at the desk.
우측통행 U·Cheuk·Tong·Haeng Keep right Walk on the right — Korea's default for stairs and halls.
우회도로 U·Hoe·Do·Ro Detour Alternate route around a closed road.
운동기구 Un·Dong·Gi·Gu Outdoor exercise equipment Free exercise machines in parks.
운행정보 Un·Haeng·Jeong·Bo Service information Live arrivals, delays and service status board.
음주금지 Eum·Ju·Geum·Ji No drinking (alcohol) Drinking alcohol is banned in this area.
이번 역 I·Beon·Yeok This station The current stop the train is pulling into now.
인기메뉴 In·Gi·Me·Nyu Popular menu The best-selling, most-ordered dishes.
인적사항 In·Jeok·Sa·Hang Personal details Name, birth date and other personal info to enter.
인화물질 In·Hwa·Mul·Jil Flammable material Flammable substances stored here.
일방통행 Il·Bang·Tong·Haeng One way Traffic flows in one direction only.
임산부석 Im·San·Bu·Seok Seat for expectant mothers Pink seat kept free for pregnant passengers.
안내데스크 An·Nae·De·Seu·Keu Help desk Front desk for questions and assistance.
어린이주의 Eo·Rin·I·Ju·Ui Children nearby Children may run out — drive slowly.
에너지절약 E·Neo·Ji·Jeol·Yak Save energy Turn off lights and save power.
엘리베이터 El·Ri·Be·I·Teo Elevator Lift between floors — handy with luggage.
여자화장실 Yeo·Ja·Hwa·Jang·Sil Women's room Women's toilet — usually marked in red.
영상의학과 Yeong·Sang·Ui·Hak·Gwa Radiology Department for X-rays, CT and MRI scans.
우산보관함 U·San·Bo·Gwan·Ham Umbrella stand Leave wet umbrellas here before entering.
원산지표시 Won·San·Ji·Pyo·Si Country-of-origin label Required notice of where the ingredients come from.
원플러스원 Won·Peul·Reo·Seu·Won Buy one get one 1+1 deal — buy one, get one free.
의류수거함 Ui·Ryu·Su·Geo·Ham Used-clothing bin Street bin for donating used clothes.
이비인후과 I·Bi·In·Hu·Gwa ENT (ear, nose & throat) For ear, nose and throat problems.
일반쓰레기 Il·Ban·Sseu·Re·Gi General waste Non-recyclable trash — needs a paid volume-rate bag.
일반의약품 Il·Ban·Ui·Yak·Pum Over-the-counter medicine Medicine you can buy without a prescription.
안전모 착용 An·Jeon·Mo·Chak·Yong Wear a hard hat Hard hat required in this zone.
에스컬레이터 E·Seu·Keol·Re·I·Teo Escalator Moving stairs — hold the handrail.
오디오가이드 O·Di·O·Ga·I·Deu Audio guide Rentable narrated tour — usually has English.
외국인등록증 Oe·Guk·In·Deung·Rok·Jeung Alien registration card ID card for foreigners staying long-term in Korea.
음식물쓰레기 Eum·Sik·Mul·Sseu·Re·Gi Food waste Food scraps go in a separate bin, charged by weight.
어린이보호구역 Eo·Rin·I·Bo·Ho·Gu·Yeok School zone Slow 30 km/h zone near schools — strictly enforced.
음식물반입금지 Eum·Sik·Mul·Ban·Ip·Geum·Ji No food or drink Don't bring food or drinks inside.
적립 Jeok·Rip Earn points Collect loyalty points on your purchase.
전철 Jeon·Cheol Metro train Electric commuter rail — overlaps with the subway network.
절수 Jeol·Su Save water Please use water sparingly.
접수 Jeop·Su Registration Sign in here before seeing the doctor.
정숙 Jeong·Suk Quiet, please Keep your voice down in this space.
정지 Jeong·Ji Stop Come to a full stop before proceeding.
조식 Jo·Sik Breakfast Morning meal, sometimes included with the room.
주문 Ju·Mun Order Place your order here.
주의 Ju·Ui Caution Take care — minor hazard nearby.
중식 Jung·Sik Chinese food Korean-Chinese food — jjajangmyeon, jjamppong.
지연 Ji·Yeon Delayed Running late — the train or flight is behind schedule.
직진 Jik·Jin Go straight Proceed straight ahead.
자동문 Ja·Dong·Mun Automatic door Door that opens by itself as you approach.
자판기 Ja·Pan·Gi Vending machine Machine selling drinks and snacks.
재활용 Jae·Hwal·Yong Recycling Recyclables — sorted by material, collected free.
전망대 Jeon·Mang·Dae Observatory Lookout point with sweeping city views.
전시관 Jeon·Si·Gwan Exhibition hall Building or hall housing exhibitions.
접수처 Jeop·Su·Cheo Reception Where you submit forms and check in.
정기권 Jeong·Gi·Gwon Commuter pass Fixed-period pass for unlimited rides — good for commuters.
정수기 Jeong·Su·Gi Water dispenser Free purified water, hot and cold.
조제실 Jo·Je·Sil Dispensary Where the pharmacist prepares your medicine.
종이류 Jong·I·Ryu Paper Bin for paper and cardboard — flatten boxes.
종착역 Jong·Chak·Yeok Terminus Last stop — everyone gets off here.
좌회전 Jwa·Hoe·Jeon Left turn Turn left — usually on the left-turn signal.
주사실 Ju·Sa·Sil Injection room Room where shots and IVs are given.
주차장 Ju·Cha·Jang Parking lot Where to park — fees usually by the 10 minutes.
중앙선 Jung·Ang·Seon Center line Road's center line — never cross it to overtake.
증정품 Jeung·Jeong·Pum Free gift A freebie that comes with your purchase.
지구대 Ji·Gu·Dae Police substation Neighborhood police unit, staffed around the clock.
지하철 Ji·Ha·Cheol Subway The city's subway system — fastest way around Seoul.
진료실 Jin·Ryo·Sil Examination room Room where the doctor sees patients.
짐보관 Jim·Bo·Gwan Luggage storage Leave your bags before check-in or after check-out.
작성예시 Jak·Seong·Ye·Si Sample (how to fill in) Filled-in example showing how to complete the form.
작업 중 Jak·Eop·Jung Work in progress Workers active — keep clear of the area.
전입신고 Jeon·Ip·Sin·Go Move-in report Register your new address after moving in.
전통시장 Jeon·Tong·Si·Jang Traditional market Old-style market with food stalls and bargains.
절대금지 Jeol·Dae·Geum·Ji Strictly prohibited Absolutely not allowed under any circumstances.
접근금지 Jeop·Geun·Geum·Ji Keep away Don't get close — hazard area.
정형외과 Jeong·Hyeong·Oe·Gwa Orthopedics For bones, joints and muscle injuries.
제한속도 Je·Han·Sok·Do Speed limit Maximum legal speed — city roads are often 50 km/h.
종합병원 Jong·Hap·Byeong·Won General hospital Large hospital with all major departments.
좌측통행 Jwa·Cheuk·Tong·Haeng Keep left Walk on the left where marked.
주민등록 Ju·Min·Deung·Rok Resident registration The national resident registry system.
주민센터 Ju·Min·Sen·Teo Community service center Local office for documents and resident services.
주차금지 Ju·Cha·Geum·Ji No parking Don't park here — you may be ticketed or towed.
준비 중 Jun·Bi·Jung Preparing (not yet open) Getting ready — not serving customers yet.
지하보도 Ji·Ha·Bo·Do Pedestrian underpass Underground walkway for crossing under a busy road.
진료시간 Jin·Ryo·Si·Gan Consultation hours When the clinic sees patients.
진입금지 Jin·Ip·Geum·Ji No entry Do not enter — road or area closed to traffic this way.
자동화기기 Ja·Dong·Hwa·Gi·Gi Self-service banking machine Bank machine for deposits, withdrawals and transfers.
자전거도로 Ja·Jeon·Geo·Do·Ro Bike lane Lane for cyclists — pedestrians should keep clear.
자전거전용 Ja·Jeon·Geo·Jeon·Yong Bicycles only Reserved for bicycles only.
장애인전용 Jang·Ae·In·Jeon·Yong Accessible facility Reserved for people with disabilities.
종합민원실 Jong·Hap·Min·Won·Sil General services office One-stop hall handling many kinds of paperwork.
종합안내도 Jong·Hap·An·Nae·Do Area guide map Big 'you are here' map of the whole site.
주정차금지 Ju·Jeong·Cha·Geum·Ji No stopping or standing No stopping at all, even briefly to drop off.
증명서발급 Jeung·Myeong·Seo·Bal·Geup Certificate issuance Get official certificates and documents here.
지진대피소 Ji·Jin·Dae·Pi·So Earthquake shelter Designated safe area for earthquakes.
자전거보관소 Ja·Jeon·Geo·Bo·Gwan·So Bicycle parking Racks for locking up your bike.
장애인화장실 Jang·Ae·In·Hwa·Jang·Sil Accessible restroom Wheelchair-accessible toilet with grab bars.
주민공동시설 Ju·Min·Gong·Dong·Si·Seol Residents' shared facility Shared amenities like a gym or lounge for residents.
자동심장충격기 Ja·Dong·Sim·Jang·Chung·Gyeok·Gi Automated defibrillator (AED) Device to restart a stopped heart in an emergency.
잔디밭출입금지 Jan·Di·Bat·Chul·Ip·Geum·Ji Keep off the grass Don't walk on the lawn.
정신건강의학과 Jeong·Sin·Geon·Gang·Ui·Hak·Gwa Psychiatry For mental health and emotional care.
차도 Cha·Do Roadway The part of the road for vehicles — don't walk here.
창구 Chang·Gu Service window Numbered counter where staff serve you.
철도 Cheol·Do Railroad Rail transport in general — tracks, trains, the network.
첫차 Cheot·Cha First train The first train (or bus) of the day, around 5:30am.
초본 Cho·Bon Resident registration abstract Document for one person, including address history.
출구 Chul·Gu Exit Numbered station exit to the street — follow the number.
출발 Chul·Bal Departure Departures — when or where a train or flight leaves.
충전 Chung·Jeon Recharge Top up your transit card with cash here.
치과 Chi·Gwa Dental clinic Dentist for teeth and gum care.
치킨 Chi·Kin Fried chicken Korean fried chicken — a beer's best friend (chimaek).
처방전 Cheo·Bang·Jeon Prescription Doctor's note to fill at the pharmacy.
체크인 Che·Keu·In Check-in Register and get your room — usually from 3pm.
체험관 Che·Heom·Gwan Hands-on center Interactive space to try crafts or activities.
출국장 Chul·Guk·Jang Departures hall Past here you clear immigration to board your flight.
충전소 Chung·Jeon·So Charging station Spot to charge your phone or devices.
차량주의 Cha·Ryang·Ju·Ui Watch for vehicles Vehicles may pass — watch for cars.
체크아웃 Che·Keu·A·Ut Check-out Settle up and leave — usually by 11am.
추락주의 Chu·Rak·Ju·Ui Fall hazard Edge or drop nearby — risk of falling.
추천메뉴 Chu·Cheon·Me·Nyu Recommended menu The house's recommended dishes.
출생신고 Chul·Saeng·Sin·Go Birth registration Register a newborn with the government.
출입금지 Chul·Ip·Geum·Ji No entry Do not enter this area.
취사금지 Chwi·Sa·Geum·Ji No cooking No cooking or open fires in this area.
천연기념물 Cheon·Yeon·Gi·Nyeom·Mul Natural Monument Protected tree, animal or natural feature.
출입국사무소 Chul·Ip·Guk·Sa·Mu·So Immigration office Handles visas and foreigner registration — book online.
층간소음주의 Cheung·Gan·So·Eum·Ju·Ui Mind the noise (neighbors) Keep noise down — sound carries between apartment floors.
카페 Ka·Pe Cafe Coffee shop — Korea has one on every corner.
캔류 Kaen·Ryu Cans Bin for metal cans.
커피 Keo·Pi Coffee Coffee — 'Americano' is the national default.
칼국수 Kal·Guk·Su Knife-cut noodles Hand-cut wheat noodles in a warm broth.
카드결제 Ka·Deu·Gyeol·Je Card payment Cards accepted — the norm almost everywhere.
케이블카 Ke·I·Beul·Ka Cable car Aerial ride up to a peak or viewpoint.
코인락커 Ko·In·Rak·Keo Coin locker Pay-per-use locker, by coin or card.
키오스크 Ki·O·Seu·Keu Kiosk Touchscreen for ordering and paying yourself.
택시 Taek·Si Taxi Metered taxi — hail one or use a call app.
터널 Teo·Neol Tunnel Road tunnel — turn on lights, no lane changes.
퇴장 Toe·Jang Exit (venue) Way out of the venue or event.
특가 Teuk·Ga Special price Limited-time bargain price.
탐방로 Tam·Bang·Ro Walking trail Marked path for exploring a park or site on foot.
탑승구 Tap·Seung·Gu Boarding gate The gate where you board your plane — check the number.
티머니 Ti·Meo·Ni T-money card Korea's most common transit card — sold at convenience stores.
타는 곳 Ta·Neun·Got Boarding point Where you get on — board trains, buses or taxis here.
탑승수속 Tap·Seung·Su·Sok Check-in Counter to check bags and get your boarding pass.
통장정리 Tong·Jang·Jeong·Ri Passbook update Print recent transactions into your bankbook.
통제구역 Tong·Je·Gu·Yeok Restricted area Access controlled — entry is limited.
통행금지 Tong·Haeng·Geum·Ji Closed to traffic Passage blocked — no through traffic at all.
택배보관함 Taek·Bae·Bo·Gwan·Ham Parcel locker Locker holding your deliveries until you collect them.
택시승강장 Taek·Si·Seung·Gang·Jang Taxi stand Designated spot where taxis line up for passengers.
투숙객전용 Tu·Suk·Gaek·Jeon·Yong Guests only Facility reserved for hotel guests.
펜션 Pen·Syeon Pension (lodge) Self-catering countryside lodge, great for groups.
포장 Po·Jang Takeout Order to go — packed up to take away.
품절 Pum·Jeol Sold out Out of stock — none left to sell.
피자 Pi·Ja Pizza Pizza shop — Korean styles can be sweet or loaded.
파출소 Pa·Chul·So Police box Small local police post for quick help.
편의점 Pyeon·Ui·Jeom Convenience store 24-hour shop for snacks, drinks and quick meals.
포토존 Po·To·Jon Photo spot Marked spot for the best photo.
프런트 Peu·Reon·Teu Front desk Reception for check-in and questions.
피부과 Pi·Bu·Gwa Dermatology For skin issues and skincare treatments.
폭발위험 Pok·Bal·Wi·Heom Explosion risk Explosive hazard — no flames or sparks.
플라스틱 Peul·Ra·Seu·Tik Plastic Plastics recycling bin — rinse before tossing.
플래시금지 Peul·Rae·Si·Geum·Ji No flash Photos OK, but no flash — it damages artifacts.
한식 Han·Sik Korean food Korean cuisine — rice, soups, banchan side dishes.
한옥 Han·Ok Hanok (traditional house) Traditional Korean house with tiled or thatched roof.
할인 Hal·In Discount Price marked down from the original.
호텔 Ho·Tel Hotel Full-service hotel with front desk and rooms.
환불 Hwan·Bul Refund Get your money back for a returned item.
환승 Hwan·Seung Transfer Change to another line or bus — often free within time.
환전 Hwan·Jeon Currency exchange Exchange foreign currency for Korean won.
한의원 Han·Ui·Won Korean medicine clinic Traditional clinic — acupuncture and herbal medicine.
헬스장 Hel·Seu·Jang Fitness room Gym with exercise machines for guests.
화장실 Hwa·Jang·Sil Restroom Toilet — clean and free almost everywhere in Korea.
화장품 Hwa·Jang·Pum Cosmetics K-beauty shop — skincare and makeup.
환전기 Hwan·Jeon·Gi Currency exchange machine Self-service machine to exchange cash.
회의실 Hoe·Ui·Sil Meeting room Bookable room for meetings.
휴게실 Hyu·Ge·Sil Lounge Room to sit and rest for a while.
휴관일 Hyu·Gwan·Il Closed day Day the venue is shut — often Mondays.
현금결제 Hyeon·Geum·Gyeol·Je Cash payment Cash only, or a discount for paying cash.
호출번호 Ho·Chul·Beon·Ho Now serving The number currently being called.
화기엄금 Hwa·Gi·Eom·Geum No open flame No flames or sparks — flammable area.
화재주의 Hwa·Jae·Ju·Ui Fire hazard Fire risk area — take care with heat and flame.
환경보호 Hwan·Gyeong·Bo·Ho Protect the environment Help keep the area clean and green.
환승통로 Hwan·Seung·Tong·Ro Transfer passage Connecting corridor between lines — can be a long walk.
횡단보도 Hoeng·Dan·Bo·Do Crosswalk Marked crossing — wait for the green walking signal.
흡연구역 Heup·Yeon·Gu·Yeok Smoking area Designated spot where smoking is allowed.
한옥스테이 Han·Ok·Seu·Te·I Hanok stay Overnight stay in a traditional Korean house.
현금인출기 Hyeon·Geum·In·Chul·Gi Cash machine (ATM) ATM for cash — look for 'Global' for foreign cards.
화재경보기 Hwa·Jae·Gyeong·Bo·Gi Fire alarm Device that sounds the alarm when fire is detected.
회전교차로 Hoe·Jeon·Gyo·Cha·Ro Roundabout Circular junction — cars inside have priority.
휴대폰충전 Hyu·Dae·Pon·Chung·Jeon Phone charging Charge your phone here, sometimes for a small fee.
행정복지센터 Haeng·Jeong·Bok·Ji·Sen·Teo Admin & welfare center Newer name for the community center, adds welfare help.
헤어드라이어 He·Eo·Deu·Ra·I·Eo Hair dryer Hair dryer provided in the room.