지뢰
At the A1 level, you don't need to know all the technical details about landmines, but you should recognize the word 지뢰 (ji-roe) because it appears in basic culture and games. The word means 'landmine.' Imagine a bomb hidden under the ground. If someone steps on it, it goes 'Boom!'
You might see this word in a game like 'Minesweeper,' which in Korean is called 지뢰 찾기 (ji-roe chat-gi). '찾기' means 'finding.' So the game is about 'finding landmines.' This is a fun way to remember the word. In very simple sentences, you can say '지뢰가 있어요' (There is a landmine) or '지뢰는 위험해요' (Landmines are dangerous). These sentences use the basic particles '가' and '는' which you learn at the beginning of your Korean journey.
Even though it is a scary word, in A1, we focus on the noun itself. It is a thing. You can see it in pictures of soldiers or in history books. Just remember: 지 (ji) = ground, and 뢰 (roe) = thunder. Thunder in the ground! This makes the word easy to visualize. Don't worry about using it in complex ways yet; just knowing what it is when you see it in a game or a simple news headline is enough for now.
As an A2 learner, you can start using 지뢰 (ji-roe) in slightly more descriptive sentences. You know that it means 'landmine,' and now you can talk about where they are or what they do. For example, '산에 지뢰가 많이 있어요' (There are many landmines in the mountains). This uses the location particle '-에' and the quantifier '많이.'
You might also learn the verb 밟다 (balp-da), which means 'to step on.' This is the most common action associated with landmines. A sentence like '지뢰를 밟지 마세요' (Please do not step on the landmine) is a good example of using the '-지 마세요' (don't do) grammar pattern. It is a very important warning! You might see signs like this if you ever visit the border areas in Korea.
At this level, you can also understand that '지뢰' is a noun that can be part of a bigger story. Maybe you are reading a simple story about a soldier or a history lesson about the Korean War. The word '지뢰' will help you understand why certain areas are closed to the public. It is a concrete noun, so it is easy to use with basic verbs like '있다' (to be/exist), '없다' (to not exist), and '조심하다' (to be careful). Try saying '지뢰를 조심하세요!' to practice your warning skills.
At the B1 level, you are expected to understand 지뢰 (ji-roe) in both its literal and figurative senses. This is where the word becomes really interesting. Literally, you should be able to discuss the situation in the DMZ. You can use verbs like 매설하다 (to bury/plant) and 제거하다 (to remove). For example, '정부는 지뢰를 제거하기 위해 노력하고 있습니다' (The government is working hard to remove landmines). This uses the '-기 위해' (in order to) pattern, which is common at this level.
More importantly, you can now start using the figurative meaning. In Korean social media and casual talk, a '지뢰' is something you want to avoid because it is bad or disappointing. If you bought a sandwich and it tasted terrible, you could tell your friend, '그 샌드위치는 완전 지뢰였어!' (That sandwich was a total landmine!). This means it was a hidden disaster. This kind of metaphorical usage shows that you are becoming more fluent and natural in your Korean.
You will also encounter the word in news reports about safety. For instance, after heavy rain, the news might warn people about '유실된 지뢰' (washed-away landmines). Understanding the passive/resultative form '유실된' (lost/washed away) combined with '지뢰' is a great way to practice your B1 grammar. You are moving from simple identification to understanding the word's impact on society and daily conversation.
At the B2 level, you should be comfortable with the technical and idiomatic nuances of 지뢰 (ji-roe). You can distinguish between different types of mines, such as 대인지뢰 (anti-personnel mine) and 대전차지뢰 (anti-tank mine). You can also discuss the international context, such as the '지뢰 금지 협약' (Mine Ban Treaty). Using these specific terms shows a high level of vocabulary precision.
In terms of idioms, you can use 지뢰밭 (minefield) to describe complex situations. For example, '새로운 프로젝트는 곳곳에 위험이 도사리고 있는 지뢰밭과 같았다' (The new project was like a minefield with dangers lurking everywhere). Here, you are using advanced verbs like '도사리다' (to lurk) and the comparative '와 같다' (to be like). This level of description is expected in B2 writing and speaking tasks.
You should also be aware of the social nuances of the word. In fan communities, '지뢰' refers to things that trigger or upset someone. If you are discussing hobbies or interests, you might say, '저는 그 커플링이 지뢰라서 안 봐요' (I don't watch it because that pairing is a 'landmine' [disliked trope] for me). Understanding this specific subculture usage is key to participating in modern Korean online life. You are not just learning a word; you are learning how a society uses a military term to express personal boundaries and preferences.
For C1 learners, 지뢰 (ji-roe) is a tool for deep cultural and political analysis. You can use it to discuss the humanitarian impact of landmines on the Korean Peninsula, focusing on issues like '지뢰 피해자' (landmine victims) and the legal frameworks for compensation. Your vocabulary should include terms like 탐지기 (detector), 폭발 사고 (explosion accident), and 평화 지대 (peace zone). You can construct complex arguments about whether demining is a prerequisite for peace or a result of it.
Stylistically, you can use the word in sophisticated metaphors in literature or high-level journalism. For instance, you might write about '마음의 지뢰' (landmines of the heart), referring to past traumas that can 'explode' when touched. This move from the physical to the psychological demonstrates a mastery of the language's expressive potential. You can also analyze how the word's meaning has shifted over time, from a purely military term to a versatile slang word that reflects the anxieties and tastes of modern youth.
Furthermore, you should be able to handle the word in specialized contexts, such as history or law. Discussing the 'Mined Areas' in international law or the history of '지뢰 부대' (mine units) during the Korean War requires a high degree of lexical control. You can use the word to add flavor to your speech, using it ironically or with dark humor, which is a hallmark of near-native proficiency. At this level, you don't just know the word; you know its history, its politics, and its diverse social applications.
At the C2 level, your understanding of 지뢰 (ji-roe) is indistinguishable from that of a highly educated native speaker. You can engage in professional debates about demining technology, the chemical composition of explosives, or the geopolitical implications of landmine placement in the DMZ. You can navigate the most subtle linguistic terrain, recognizing when '지뢰' is used as a satirical tool to critique government incompetence or social trends.
You can also appreciate the word's role in Korean literature and cinema at a profound level. You might analyze how the presence of landmines in a film like 'Joint Security Area' symbolizes the invisible but deadly barriers between people. Your ability to connect the word to broader themes of division, trauma, and reconciliation is a sign of true mastery. You can use the word in creative writing, perhaps personifying a landmine or using it as a central motif in a poem about the scars of war.
In everyday life, you use the slang and idiomatic forms with perfect timing and register. You understand the evolution of terms like '지뢰계' and can discuss its origins in Japanese 'Jirai-kei' and its adaptation into Korean culture. Your linguistic competence allows you to move seamlessly between the technical, the political, the metaphorical, and the trendy. For a C2 learner, '지뢰' is not just a noun; it is a multi-layered cultural signifier that encapsulates decades of history and the vibrant, sometimes volatile, nature of contemporary Korean life.
지뢰 in 30 Sekunden
- A landmine (literal) or a hidden trap/disappointment (figurative).
- Derived from Hanja 'Ground' + 'Thunder'.
- Commonly associated with the DMZ and the game Minesweeper.
- Used as slang to warn about bad products, content, or people.
The Korean word 지뢰 (ji-roe) is a noun that primarily refers to a landmine—an explosive device designed to be placed on or under the ground and detonated by the weight of a person or vehicle. Etymologically, it is derived from the Hanja characters 地 (ji), meaning ground or earth, and 雷 (roe), meaning thunder. Together, they evoke the powerful imagery of 'thunder from the earth,' a fitting description for the sudden and devastating nature of such weapons. In the context of the Korean Peninsula, this word carries significant historical and contemporary weight, as the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) between North and South Korea remains one of the most heavily mined areas in the world. Consequently, Koreans are often more aware of the literal implications of this word than people in many other developed nations.
- Literal Military Use
- In military contexts, it refers to various types of mines, including anti-personnel and anti-tank mines. It is a central term in news reports concerning border security or historical military operations.
- Figurative Social Use
- Metaphorically, it describes a 'hidden trap' or an 'unpleasant surprise.' For instance, if a person buys a product that looks good but turns out to be terrible, they might call it a '지뢰' (ji-roe). Similarly, in social settings, a '지뢰' person is someone who causes unexpected trouble or is difficult to deal with.
Beyond warfare and slang, the word is deeply embedded in digital culture. For many years, the classic computer game 'Minesweeper' was translated in Korea as 지뢰 찾기 (ji-roe chat-gi), literally meaning 'Finding Landmines.' This has led to the word being associated with logic puzzles and careful navigation. When Koreans use this word in daily life, they are often signaling a warning—telling someone to watch their step, either literally in a dangerous zone or figuratively when making a choice that might have hidden negative consequences.
비무장지대에는 아직도 수많은 지뢰가 매설되어 있어 출입이 엄격히 통제됩니다. (There are still countless landmines buried in the DMZ, so entry is strictly controlled.)
In modern internet slang, particularly among younger generations, 지뢰 is frequently used to describe content, characters, or even people that one wishes to avoid. For example, '지뢰계' (ji-roe-gye) is a term borrowed from Japanese subculture to describe a specific fashion and personality aesthetic that is perceived as emotionally volatile or 'dangerous' to interact with. Understanding these nuances is crucial for B1 learners who want to move beyond dictionary definitions and understand how the word functions in real-world conversations and online spaces.
- Gaming Context
- In games, it can refer to a skill that places traps or a specific type of enemy that explodes upon contact.
이 식당의 메뉴 중에는 지뢰 같은 음식이 하나 있으니 조심해! (There is one dish in this restaurant's menu that is like a landmine, so be careful!)
Using 지뢰 (ji-roe) correctly requires understanding its common verb pairings. In a literal sense, the most common verbs are 매설하다 (to bury/plant), 탐지하다 (to detect), 제거하다 (to remove), and 밟다 (to step on). These verbs cover the entire lifecycle of a landmine, from its installation to its dangerous encounter or safe removal. For instance, a news report might say, '군인들이 지뢰를 탐지하고 있다' (Soldiers are detecting landmines), using formal and precise language.
- Formal Usage
- '지뢰 제거 작전' (Landmine removal operation) is a standard term used in government and military briefings. It implies a high level of danger and technical skill.
- Casual/Figurative Usage
- In daily life, '지뢰를 피하다' (to avoid a landmine) is used when you successfully avoid a bad situation, such as a boring meeting or a bad movie. '완전 지뢰였어' (It was a total landmine) is a common way to describe a terrible experience.
Grammatically, 지뢰 functions as a standard noun. It can be modified by adjectives or other nouns to specify the type, such as 대인지뢰 (anti-personnel mine) or 대전차지뢰 (anti-tank mine). When used figuratively, it often acts as a predicate with '이다' (to be), as in '그 영화는 지뢰야' (That movie is a landmine). This structure is very common in online reviews to warn others about poor quality content.
폭우로 인해 산속에 묻혀 있던 지뢰가 유실될 위험이 있습니다. (Due to heavy rain, there is a risk that landmines buried in the mountains may be washed away.)
In complex sentences, you might see 지뢰 used as part of a compound noun phrase, such as 지뢰밭 (minefield). This word is frequently used metaphorically to describe a situation fraught with hidden dangers or difficulties. For example, '정치계는 지뢰밭과 같다' (Politics is like a minefield). Here, the speaker is emphasizing that any move could lead to a 'detonation' or a major problem. This usage is common in editorials and professional discussions about risk management.
그 게임의 마지막 스테이지는 정말 지뢰밭이었어요. (The last stage of that game was truly a minefield.)
You will encounter 지뢰 (ji-roe) in several distinct environments in South Korea. First and foremost is the national news. Because of the ongoing division of the country, issues regarding the DMZ and military safety are frequent topics. Reports on '지뢰 제거' (landmine removal) efforts, especially during periods of inter-Korean dialogue or after heavy flooding, are common. If you are watching a Korean documentary about the war or the border, this word will appear repeatedly as experts discuss the technical and humanitarian challenges of demining.
- Military Service
- Since South Korea has mandatory military service, almost every Korean man is familiar with this word from a tactical perspective. They learn about '지뢰 설치' (mine installation) and safety protocols during their training, making the word a part of the common male vocabulary.
- Online Communities
- On platforms like DC Inside, Twitter (X), or various community forums, '지뢰' is used to warn others about bad content. You might see a post titled '이 웹툰 지뢰임' (This webtoon is a landmine), meaning the story takes a terrible turn or the quality is poor.
In the entertainment industry, particularly in variety shows and movies, 지뢰 is often used for dramatic or comedic effect. In a variety show, a game might involve stepping on 'hidden mines' (metaphorical ones like a bucket of water or a penalty) to create tension. In thrillers or war movies like 'JSA' (Joint Security Area) or 'The Front Line,' the physical presence of landmines serves as a primary source of suspense, highlighting the thin line between life and death at the border.
뉴스에서 이번 장마로 인해 지뢰가 민가 근처로 떠내려왔다고 보도했어요. (The news reported that landmines washed down near residential areas due to the recent rainy season.)
Lastly, in the context of fan culture (fandoms), 지뢰 refers to 'triggering' or 'disliked' tropes or pairings. If a fan says 'A and B pairing is my 지뢰,' they mean they find that specific romantic pairing offensive or unpleasant and want to avoid it at all costs. This usage is very common on social media and fan-fiction sites, showing how a harsh military term has been repurposed for emotional and aesthetic preferences.
트위터에서 본 지뢰 체크리스트가 꽤 정확하더라고요. (The 'landmine' checklist I saw on Twitter was quite accurate.)
One of the most common mistakes learners make with 지뢰 (ji-roe) is confusing it with other types of explosives. While all are 'bombs,' they have specific names in Korean. 폭탄 (pok-tan) is the general word for bomb, 수류탄 (su-ryu-tan) is a hand grenade, and 미사일 (mi-sa-il) is a missile. Using '폭탄' when referring to a landmine isn't necessarily wrong in a broad sense, but it lacks the precision needed in military or descriptive contexts where the 'hidden in the ground' aspect is essential.
- Confusing 지뢰 with 기뢰
- Another technical error is confusing '지뢰' with '기뢰' (gi-roe). While they sound similar, '기뢰' refers specifically to sea mines (naval mines). The '지' in 지뢰 means earth, while the '기' in 기뢰 refers to water/sea in this specific military context (though the Hanja is actually ⿓/機 depending on the type, the distinction is clear in Korean).
- Overusing the Slang
- Learners might use '지뢰' figuratively in formal situations where it might sound too casual or dramatic. While it is common in slang, calling a bad business deal a '지뢰' in a formal meeting might be seen as unprofessional. In those cases, words like '위험 요소' (risk factor) or '함정' (trap) are more appropriate.
Another mistake is the incorrect use of particles with the verb '밟다' (to step on). Since '지뢰' is the thing being stepped on, it should take the object particle '를'. Some learners mistakenly use the subject particle '가' when they want to say 'I stepped on a mine,' resulting in '지뢰가 밟았어요,' which would literally mean 'The landmine stepped [on something].' Always ensure the person or vehicle is the subject and the mine is the object.
틀린 예: 바다에 지뢰가 있어요. (Wrong: There is a landmine in the sea. -> Correct: 바다에 기뢰가 있어요.)
Finally, be careful with the nuance of '지뢰계' (ji-roe-gye). While it is a popular slang term, it can sometimes carry a negative or judgmental connotation depending on who is using it. Using it to describe someone's fashion might be seen as an insult if you aren't in a community that uses the term affectionately or neutrally. As with all slang, observe how native speakers use it before adopting it into your own speech.
틀린 예: 그는 지뢰를 던졌다. (Wrong: He threw a landmine. -> Landmines are buried, not thrown. Correct: 그는 수류탄을 던졌다.)
To enrich your Korean vocabulary, it is helpful to compare 지뢰 (ji-roe) with related terms. The most direct relatives are other types of mines and explosives. Understanding these differences allows for more precise communication, especially in technical or journalistic contexts.
- 폭탄 (Pok-tan) vs. 지뢰 (Ji-roe)
- '폭탄' is the umbrella term for any bomb. '지뢰' is a specific type of bomb that is stationary and hidden. You 'plant' (매설) a landmine, but you 'drop' (투하) or 'throw' (투척) a bomb.
- 함정 (Ham-jeong) vs. 지뢰 (Ji-roe)
- '함정' means 'trap' or 'pitfall.' While a landmine is a physical trap, '함정' is more often used for abstract traps, like a trick question in an exam or a deceptive clause in a contract. '지뢰' is more visceral and implies an explosion or total failure.
- 부비트랩 (Booby Trap)
- This is a loanword used in Korean to describe a device designed to surprise and harm someone, often triggered by an everyday action. It is similar to '지뢰' but usually refers to improvised devices rather than military-grade landmines.
In figurative language, if you want to describe something bad without using the harsh military imagery of a landmine, you can use 꽝 (kkwang). This is an onomatopoeia for a small explosion or a 'thud,' and it is used to mean 'a dud' or 'a losing ticket.' For example, if you open a mystery box and get nothing good, you say '꽝이에요!' (It's a dud!). This is much lighter and more common in games and shopping than '지뢰.'
이 문제는 함정이 많아서 지뢰밭을 걷는 기분이었어요. (This problem had so many traps it felt like walking through a minefield.)
For learners interested in advanced vocabulary, 매설물 (mae-seol-mul) is a formal term for 'buried objects,' which often refers to landmines in official reports. Conversely, 폭발물 (pok-bal-mul) means 'explosive material.' Knowing these terms helps when reading news articles or watching crime procedurals where bomb disposal units (EOD) are featured. While '지뢰' is the most common word, these alternatives provide the necessary variety for different registers of speech.
그 영화는 지뢰라기보다는 그냥 지루한 편이에요. (That movie isn't exactly a 'landmine' [disaster]; it's just on the boring side.)
How Formal Is It?
Wusstest du?
The word literally means 'Earth Thunder.' This poetic but terrifying description captures the essence of a hidden explosion coming from beneath your feet. In ancient times, the word 'thunder' (雷) was often used to describe any loud, powerful explosion.
Aussprachehilfe
- Pronouncing '뢰' (roe) like English 'row' (rhymes with go). It should be closer to 'way' but starting with a Korean 'r' sound.
- Pronouncing '지' (ji) with too much friction, like 'zhi'. It should be a crisp, light 'j' sound.
Schwierigkeitsgrad
The word itself is short and easy to read, but it appears in complex news and technical military texts.
A simple two-syllable word that is easy to spell correctly.
Requires correct pronunciation of the 'roe' sound and understanding of figurative nuances to sound natural.
Must be distinguished from similar-sounding words like '기뢰' or '의뢰' in fast speech.
Was du als Nächstes lernen solltest
Voraussetzungen
Als Nächstes lernen
Fortgeschritten
Wichtige Grammatik
-(으)로 인해 (Due to/Because of)
지뢰 사고로 인해 다쳤어요.
-지 않도록 (So that... not/To avoid...)
지뢰를 밟지 않도록 주의하세요.
-는 것처럼 (Like.../As if...)
지뢰밭을 걷는 것처럼 긴장돼요.
-기 위해 (In order to)
지뢰를 제거하기 위해 노력합니다.
-어/아 있다 (State of being)
지뢰가 땅속에 묻혀 있어요.
Beispiele nach Niveau
지뢰가 있어요.
There is a landmine.
Basic 'noun + 가/이 있다' structure.
지뢰는 위험해요.
Landmines are dangerous.
Topic marker '는' used for a general statement.
지뢰 찾기 게임을 해요.
I play the Minesweeper game.
'찾기' is a noun form of '찾다' (to find).
이것은 지뢰입니다.
This is a landmine.
Formal '입니다' ending for identification.
지뢰가 무서워요.
I am afraid of landmines.
Adjective '무섭다' (to be scary) with the subject '지뢰.'
지뢰를 보았어요.
I saw a landmine.
Past tense of '보다' (to see).
산에 지뢰가 있어요?
Are there landmines in the mountain?
Question form with the location particle '-에.'
지뢰는 작아요.
The landmine is small.
Simple descriptive sentence.
지뢰를 조심하세요.
Please be careful of landmines.
'-세요' is a polite imperative/request.
여기에서 지뢰를 발견했어요.
I discovered a landmine here.
'발견하다' (to discover) in past tense.
지뢰를 밟으면 안 돼요.
You must not step on a landmine.
'-으면 안 되다' means 'must not' or 'should not.'
군인이 지뢰를 찾고 있어요.
The soldier is looking for landmines.
'-고 있다' indicates a progressive action (is doing).
지뢰가 땅속에 있어요.
The landmine is inside the ground.
'땅속' means 'inside the earth.'
지뢰는 정말 나빠요.
Landmines are really bad.
Using the adverb '정말' (really) for emphasis.
어제 지뢰 뉴스를 봤어요.
I watched the news about landmines yesterday.
Noun + Noun structure: '지뢰 뉴스.'
지뢰를 어떻게 제거해요?
How do you remove a landmine?
'어떻게' (how) used in a question.
비무장지대에는 많은 지뢰가 매설되어 있습니다.
Many landmines are buried in the DMZ.
'매설되어 있다' is the state of being buried (passive state).
그 영화는 진짜 지뢰였어요.
That movie was a real landmine (disaster).
Figurative use of '지뢰' to mean a disappointment.
비가 많이 와서 지뢰가 유실될까 봐 걱정돼요.
I'm worried the landmines might be washed away because of the heavy rain.
'-을까 봐' expresses worry about a potential future event.
지뢰를 밟지 않도록 주의해야 합니다.
You must take care not to step on a landmine.
'-도록' expresses a purpose or goal (so that/in order to).
이 식당에서 이 메뉴는 지뢰예요.
This menu item is a 'landmine' (bad choice) at this restaurant.
Figurative use in a casual context.
지뢰 제거 작업이 시작되었습니다.
The landmine removal work has begun.
'작업' (work/operation) combined with '시작되다' (to be started).
지뢰 탐지기를 사용해서 찾아요.
They find them using a landmine detector.
'-를 사용해서' means 'by using.'
갑자기 지뢰가 터져서 깜짝 놀랐어요.
A landmine suddenly exploded, so I was very surprised.
'터지다' is the verb for 'to explode.'
지뢰밭을 걷는 것처럼 긴장되는 순간이었습니다.
It was a tense moment, like walking through a minefield.
'지뢰밭' (minefield) used in a simile with '처럼.'
민간인 통제 구역에는 여전히 미확인 지뢰가 많습니다.
There are still many unidentified landmines in the civilian control zone.
'미확인' (unidentified) is a formal prefix.
그는 지뢰계 패션을 즐겨 입습니다.
He enjoys wearing 'landmine-style' (jirai-kei) fashion.
'지뢰계' refers to a specific subculture aesthetic.
국제 사회는 지뢰 사용 금지를 촉구하고 있습니다.
The international community is urging a ban on the use of landmines.
'촉구하다' (to urge/call for) is a high-level verb.
지뢰 사고로 인해 다리를 다친 사람들이 많습니다.
There are many people who injured their legs due to landmine accidents.
'-(으)로 인해' indicates a cause or reason.
이번 프로젝트는 곳곳에 지뢰가 숨어 있는 위험한 일이다.
This project is a dangerous task with 'landmines' (hidden risks) hiding everywhere.
Figurative use meaning 'hidden risks.'
지뢰를 제거하는 기술이 점점 발전하고 있어요.
Technology for removing landmines is gradually developing.
'-는 기술' (technology for doing something).
그 작가의 신작은 팬들에게 지뢰 같은 작품이었다.
The author's new work was like a 'landmine' (huge disappointment) to the fans.
Using '같은' (like) for comparison.
지뢰 매설은 인도주의적 차원에서 큰 비판을 받고 있습니다.
Landmine placement is receiving great criticism from a humanitarian perspective.
'인도주의적 차원' (humanitarian perspective/level).
접경 지역 주민들은 지뢰에 대한 공포 속에 살고 있습니다.
Residents in the border areas live in fear of landmines.
'공포 속에 살다' (to live in fear).
지뢰 탐지견의 활약으로 많은 인명을 구할 수 있었습니다.
Thanks to the activities of landmine detection dogs, many lives could be saved.
'활약' (activity/heroics) and '인명' (human life).
과거의 아픈 기억은 때로 마음속의 지뢰가 되어 우리를 괴롭힌다.
Painful memories of the past sometimes become landmines in our hearts and torment us.
Metaphorical use in a psychological context.
지뢰 제거를 위한 남북 협력이 평화의 첫걸음이 될 수 있습니다.
Inter-Korean cooperation for landmine removal could be the first step toward peace.
'첫걸음' (first step) used metaphorically.
그의 발언은 정치적으로 지뢰를 밟은 것이나 다름없었다.
His remarks were no different from stepping on a political landmine.
'이나 다름없다' (is no different from/is as good as).
홍수 때 유실된 지뢰가 하류로 떠내려와 인명 피해를 입혔다.
Landmines washed away during the flood drifted downstream and caused human casualties.
'피해를 입히다' (to cause damage/harm).
지뢰 문제는 단순한 군사적 사안을 넘어선 복합적인 이슈입니다.
The landmine issue is a complex one that goes beyond simple military matters.
'넘어서다' (to go beyond/transcend).
지뢰의 무분별한 매설은 생태계 파괴라는 부작용을 낳기도 합니다.
The indiscriminate planting of landmines also results in the side effect of ecosystem destruction.
'무분별한' (indiscriminate) and '낳다' (to give birth to/result in).
오랜 세월 방치된 지뢰는 토양 오염의 원인이 되기도 합니다.
Landmines left neglected for a long time can also cause soil pollution.
'방치된' (neglected/left alone).
지뢰 피해자들에 대한 정당한 보상과 재활 지원이 시급합니다.
Just compensation and rehabilitation support for landmine victims are urgent.
'시급하다' (to be urgent) and '재활' (rehabilitation).
문학적 은유로서의 지뢰는 보이지 않는 위협과 갑작스러운 파멸을 상징한다.
As a literary metaphor, the landmine symbolizes invisible threats and sudden ruin.
'은유' (metaphor) and '파멸' (ruin/destruction).
지뢰 탐지 기술의 비약적인 발전에도 불구하고 완벽한 제거는 여전히 어렵다.
Despite the rapid development of landmine detection technology, complete removal remains difficult.
'비약적인' (rapid/leaping) and '에도 불구하고' (despite).
그 토론회는 논리적인 지뢰가 도처에 깔린 고도의 심리전이었다.
The debate was a high-level psychological war with logical landmines laid everywhere.
'도처에 깔린' (spread/laid everywhere).
지뢰 금지 협약의 이행을 감시하는 국제 기구의 역할이 중요하다.
The role of international organizations in monitoring the implementation of the Mine Ban Treaty is important.
'이행' (implementation/fulfillment).
전쟁의 잔해인 지뢰는 평화 시기에도 여전히 인류를 위협하는 유산이다.
Landmines, remnants of war, are a legacy that continues to threaten humanity even in times of peace.
'잔해' (remnants/debris) and '유산' (legacy/heritage).
Häufige Kollokationen
Häufige Phrasen
— Something is a total disaster or a huge disappointment.
그 영화 봤는데 완전 지뢰야, 보지 마.
— You've encountered a bad situation or person unexpectedly.
오늘 길에서 이상한 사람을 만났어. 지뢰를 밟았네.
— The classic Minesweeper computer game.
지뢰 찾기 게임의 최고 기록이 뭐야?
— A warning to be careful of landmines (literal or figurative).
이 지역은 지뢰 주의 표지판이 많아요.
— An area where landmines have been planted.
지뢰 매설 구역에는 절대로 들어가면 안 됩니다.
— A dog trained to find landmines by scent.
지뢰 탐지견은 군에서 아주 중요한 역할을 해요.
— A bomb disposal or demining squad.
지뢰 제거반이 현장에 도착했습니다.
— An unidentified or unmapped landmine.
폭우로 인해 미확인 지뢰가 떠내려왔다.
— Damage or injury caused by a landmine.
지뢰 피해를 입은 주민들을 도와야 합니다.
— A sensitive political issue that can cause trouble if touched.
그 발언은 이번 선거에서 정치적 지뢰가 될 것이다.
Wird oft verwechselt mit
Sea mine. Sounds similar but is used only for underwater explosives.
General bomb. '지뢰' is a specific stationary, buried type.
Torpedo. An underwater moving missile, not a stationary mine.
Redewendungen & Ausdrücke
— Feeling extremely nervous or tense, as if any small mistake could cause a disaster.
사장님과의 면담은 항상 지뢰밭을 걷는 기분이에요.
Neutral/Common— To encounter a terrible person, product, or situation unexpectedly.
소개팅 나갔는데 정말 지뢰를 밟고 왔어.
Informal/Slang— To create a potential problem or trap for someone else in the future.
그는 나중에 문제가 될 지뢰를 곳곳에 심어 두었다.
Informal/Figurative— To happen suddenly and violently, often referring to emotions or scandals.
그의 분노가 지뢰가 터지듯 폭발했다.
Literary— To try to avoid one bad thing only to encounter something even worse.
나쁜 상사를 피하려다 더 나쁜 회사를 갔으니, 지뢰를 피하려다 똥을 밟은 격이다.
Informal/Proverbial— A person who is unpredictable and likely to cause trouble.
그 팀원은 우리 팀의 지뢰 같은 존재야.
Informal— A sensitive topic or trauma that triggers a strong emotional reaction.
그에게 가족 이야기는 마음의 지뢰와 같다.
Literary/Psychological— Doing something very carefully and slowly, checking for risks.
우리는 지뢰 찾기 하듯 조심스럽게 협상을 진행했다.
Neutral— To resolve a potential conflict or problem before it becomes a disaster.
팀장은 회의 전에 갈등의 지뢰를 미리 제거했다.
Business/Figurative— A life full of constant hardships and unexpected troubles.
그의 인생은 그야말로 지뢰밭 인생이었다.
LiteraryLeicht verwechselbar
Both are explosives.
A bomb (폭탄) can be dropped or thrown, while a landmine (지뢰) is buried and waits for someone to step on it.
그는 폭탄을 던졌지만, 지뢰는 밟았다.
Both are traps.
A '함정' is often a hole or a clever trick, whereas '지뢰' is specifically an explosive device.
이 시험 문제는 함정이지 지뢰가 아니야.
Similar sound and function.
'지뢰' is on land (地), '기뢰' is in the sea (機/⿓).
바다에는 기뢰가, 땅에는 지뢰가 있다.
Both are small military explosives.
A grenade (수류탄) is thrown by hand, while a landmine (지뢰) is buried.
수류탄은 던지는 것이고 지뢰는 매설하는 것이다.
Both mean failure/dud.
'꽝' is light and used for games/lotteries. '지뢰' is heavier and used for major disappointments or dangers.
뽑기는 꽝이고, 산 가방은 지뢰였다.
Satzmuster
[Noun]이/가 있어요.
지뢰가 있어요.
[Noun]을/를 조심하세요.
지뢰를 조심하세요.
[Noun]은/는 완전 [Noun]이에요.
그 영화는 완전 지뢰예요.
[Verb]-지 않도록 주의하세요.
지뢰를 밟지 않도록 주의하세요.
[Noun]처럼 [Adjective]하다.
지뢰밭처럼 위험하다.
[Noun]으로 인해 [Result].
지뢰 사고로 인해 다리가 아파요.
[Noun]적 차원에서 [Verb].
인도주의적 차원에서 지뢰를 제거합니다.
[Noun]에도 불구하고 [Result].
기술의 발전에도 불구하고 지뢰 제거는 어렵다.
Wortfamilie
Substantive
Verben
Adjektive
Verwandt
So verwendest du es
Medium-High (Literal in news, High in figurative slang).
-
Saying '지뢰가 밟았어요' for 'I stepped on a mine.'
→
'지뢰를 밟았어요.'
The landmine is the object, not the subject. You are the one doing the stepping.
-
Using '지뢰' for a sea mine.
→
'기뢰'
'지' specifically means ground. Using it for the sea is factually and linguistically incorrect.
-
Using '지뢰' as a verb.
→
'지뢰를 매설하다' or '지뢰이다.'
'지뢰' is a noun. You cannot say '지뢰해요.' You must use a supporting verb.
-
Using '지뢰' in a formal business apology.
→
'실수' or '착오'
Calling your own professional mistake a '지뢰' is too slangy and dramatic for a formal apology.
-
Confusing '지뢰' with '저뢰' or '주뢰'.
→
'지뢰'
The vowel 'ㅣ' and 'ㅚ' are distinct. Be careful with spelling to ensure you are understood.
Tipps
Learn the Hanja
Learning 地 (Ground) and 雷 (Thunder) helps you remember '지뢰' and also helps with words like '지진' (earthquake) and '낙뢰' (lightning strike).
Use it for Bad Purchases
The next time you buy a snack that tastes terrible, say '이거 완전 지뢰네!' to practice your natural slang.
Watch 'JSA'
Watching the movie 'Joint Security Area' will give you a profound understanding of why this word is so significant in Korean culture.
Verb Pairings
Focus on the verb '밟다' (to step on). It's the most common verb used with '지뢰' and is useful for other contexts like 'stepping on a shadow' or 'stepping on the gas.'
Literal Warnings
If you see a sign with a skull and the word '지뢰' while hiking near the border, take it very seriously and do not leave the path.
Play Minesweeper
Change your computer's language to Korean and play '지뢰 찾기'. It's a great way to learn related words like '깃발' (flag) and '숫자' (number).
News Keywords
When listening to the news, '지뢰' often appears with '비무장지대' (DMZ) and '남북' (North and South). Use these keywords to predict the topic.
Metaphorical Minefields
Use '지뢰밭' to describe a stressful day or a difficult relationship in your journal to master figurative expression.
Check Fandom Slang
If you're on Korean Twitter, look for '지뢰' in profiles to see what topics or tropes people want to avoid. It's a key part of online etiquette.
Avoid Disasters
When looking at restaurant reviews, if you see the word '지뢰,' it's a strong warning to stay away!
Einprägen
Eselsbrücke
Think of 'Ji' as 'Ground' (like Geography) and 'Roe' as 'Roar' (the sound of thunder). A landmine is a 'Ground Roar.'
Visuelle Assoziation
Imagine a small metal disk hidden in the grass with a 'thunderbolt' icon on it. When you step on it, the ground 'roars.'
Word Web
Herausforderung
Try to find three things today (a bad snack, a boring video, a difficult task) and label them as '지뢰' in your mind to practice the figurative usage.
Wortherkunft
Derived from Hanja (Sino-Korean characters).
Ursprüngliche Bedeutung: 地 (지 - ji) means 'ground' or 'earth'. 雷 (뢰 - roe) means 'thunder'.
Sino-Korean (Hanja).Kultureller Kontext
Avoid using '지뢰' jokingly when talking to people who have actually been affected by landmine accidents or in very solemn military contexts. The literal meaning is quite tragic.
In English, 'minefield' is a common metaphor for a difficult situation, similar to '지뢰밭'. However, calling a person or a bad movie a 'landmine' is less common in English than '지뢰' is in Korean slang.
Im Alltag üben
Kontexte aus dem Alltag
Military/War
- 지뢰를 매설하다
- 지뢰 제거 작전
- 대인지뢰 금지
- 탐지 장비
Gaming
- 지뢰 찾기
- 지뢰를 클릭하다
- 폭탄을 피하다
- 깃발을 꽂다
Online Shopping/Reviews
- 이 제품은 지뢰다
- 지뢰를 밟았다
- 믿고 거르는 지뢰
- 돈 아까운 지뢰
Fandom/Subculture
- 지뢰 커플링
- 지뢰 소재
- 지뢰계 패션
- 지뢰 체크리스트
Daily Warnings
- 지뢰 조심
- 발밑 주의
- 거기는 지뢰밭이야
- 조심해서 가
Gesprächseinstiege
"옛날에 컴퓨터로 지뢰 찾기 게임 많이 해봤어요? (Did you play Minesweeper on the computer a lot in the past?)"
"한국의 비무장지대에 지뢰가 얼마나 많은지 아세요? (Do you know how many landmines are in Korea's DMZ?)"
"최근에 산 물건 중에 '지뢰'였던 게 있나요? (Have you bought anything recently that turned out to be a 'landmine' [disaster]?)"
"지뢰계 패션에 대해 어떻게 생각하세요? (What do you think about 'landmine-style' [jirai-kei] fashion?)"
"인생에서 '지뢰밭을 걷는 것 같은' 경험을 해본 적이 있나요? (Have you ever had an experience in life that felt like 'walking through a minefield'?)"
Tagebuch-Impulse
지뢰를 피하는 가장 좋은 방법은 무엇이라고 생각합니까? (What do you think is the best way to avoid landmines [literal or figurative]?)
당신에게 '지뢰' 같은 영화나 책은 무엇이었나요? 왜 그렇게 생각하나요? (What was a 'landmine' movie or book for you? Why do you think so?)
비무장지대의 지뢰가 모두 제거된다면 어떤 일이 일어날까요? (What would happen if all the landmines in the DMZ were removed?)
누군가에게 '지뢰' 같은 사람이 되지 않으려면 어떻게 해야 할까요? (What should one do to avoid becoming a 'landmine' [difficult person] to others?)
게임 '지뢰 찾기'를 통해 배울 수 있는 인생의 교훈이 있을까요? (Are there any life lessons we can learn from the game 'Minesweeper'?)
Häufig gestellte Fragen
10 FragenYes, in slang, a '지뢰' person is someone who is difficult, annoying, or likely to cause trouble. However, it's quite informal and can be rude, so use it carefully with friends.
Yes! It's remembered fondly as a classic PC game. Even younger people know what it is, and it's often used as a metaphor for a situation where you have to be very careful.
'폭발물' is the broad category of 'explosive materials.' A '지뢰' is a specific object made of '폭발물.' It's like the difference between 'vehicle' and 'car.'
The most common term is '지뢰 제거' (ji-roe je-geo). In a more technical or military context, you might hear '지뢰 소탕.'
Yes, it is estimated that there are over a million landmines buried in and around the DMZ, making it a very serious topic in South Korea.
It usually involves a mix of cute and dark elements—black and pink colors, lace, ribbons, and often a slightly 'unstable' or 'melancholic' vibe. It originated in Japan (Jirai-kei).
While similar, '부비트랩' is the specific word for booby traps. '지뢰' usually refers to factory-made military landmines.
'지' (地) means ground. It tells you exactly where the mine is located. This is common in Hanja-based words, like '지구' (earth) or '지도' (map).
Yes, because while its literal meaning is specific, its figurative use in daily life and its cultural importance in Korea make it essential for intermediate learners.
Literally, only if you are in the defense industry. Figuratively, it's better to use '위험 요소' (risk factor) or '잠재적 문제' (potential problem) for a professional tone.
Teste dich selbst 200 Fragen
Write a sentence using '지뢰' and '위험하다'.
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Translate: 'Please be careful of landmines.'
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Describe a bad movie you saw using the word '지뢰'.
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Explain why landmines are dangerous in the DMZ. (3 sentences)
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Use the metaphor '지뢰밭을 걷는 기분' in a sentence about work.
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Translate: 'Demining is the first step toward peace.'
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Write a short warning sign for a mined area.
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Compare '지뢰' and '폭탄' in two sentences.
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Describe 'Minesweeper' in Korean.
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Write a blog review title for a terrible product using '지뢰'.
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How would you say 'I stepped on a political landmine'?
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Use '유실된 지뢰' in a sentence about a flood.
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Write a sentence about '지뢰 탐지견'.
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Translate: 'There are many hidden risks (landmines) in this project.'
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Explain the etymology of '지뢰' in simple Korean.
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Write a sentence using '지뢰 제거 작전'.
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Translate: 'I don't like that pairing; it's my landmine (dislike).'
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What does '지뢰를 피하다' mean in daily life? Write an example.
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Write about the humanitarian impact of landmines. (C1 level)
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Create a creative metaphor using '지뢰'.
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Pronounce '지뢰' out loud.
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Say 'Be careful of landmines' in formal Korean.
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Explain the figurative meaning of '지뢰' in English.
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Describe the game 'Minesweeper' in three Korean sentences.
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Use '지뢰밭' in a sentence about a difficult exam.
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Tell a friend not to buy a certain product using '지뢰'.
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Explain the Hanja for '지뢰' (地雷).
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How would you warn someone in a dangerous area?
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Talk about the DMZ and landmines for 30 seconds.
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Discuss the pros and cons of using demining robots.
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Use '지뢰를 밟다' in a story about a bad restaurant experience.
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Describe 'Jirai-kei' (지뢰계) fashion in Korean.
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Tell a joke or a story involving a 'landmine' situation.
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Say 'I'm worried about washed-away landmines' in Korean.
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Ask a soldier where the landmines are buried.
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Pronounce '대전차지뢰' correctly.
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Explain why you dislike a certain trope using the word '지뢰'.
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Describe a 'minefield-like' office environment.
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Translate and say: 'The mine removal operation was successful.'
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Summarize the international ban on landmines in Korean.
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Listen to the word: '지뢰'. What does it mean?
Listen to: '지뢰를 조심하세요'. What is the speaker saying?
Listen to: '이 영화 완전 지뢰야'. Is the speaker happy?
Listen to: '비무장지대 지뢰 제거'. What is the topic?
Listen to: '지뢰를 밟았을 때 대처법'. What is this about?
Listen to: '지뢰 찾기 게임 할 줄 알아?'. What is the question?
Listen to: '홍수로 지뢰가 유실되었습니다'. What happened?
Listen to: '지뢰 탐지견의 활약'. Who is the hero of the story?
Listen to: '그는 정치적 지뢰를 피했다'. Did he get into trouble?
Listen to: '대인지뢰 금지 협약'. What kind of treaty is it?
Listen to: '발밑에 지뢰 주의!'. Where is the danger?
Listen to: '이 물건은 지뢰니까 사지 마'. What is the advice?
Listen to: '지뢰 매설 구역'. What is this place?
Listen to: '지뢰밭 같은 세상'. What is the world like?
Listen to: '지뢰 제거 비용'. What is being discussed?
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Summary
지뢰 (ji-roe) means 'landmine.' While its primary meaning is military, it is widely used in South Korea to describe hidden dangers or total disappointments in daily life, such as a 'landmine movie' (a terrible film). For example: '그 식당은 지뢰야' (That restaurant is a landmine/terrible).
- A landmine (literal) or a hidden trap/disappointment (figurative).
- Derived from Hanja 'Ground' + 'Thunder'.
- Commonly associated with the DMZ and the game Minesweeper.
- Used as slang to warn about bad products, content, or people.
Learn the Hanja
Learning 地 (Ground) and 雷 (Thunder) helps you remember '지뢰' and also helps with words like '지진' (earthquake) and '낙뢰' (lightning strike).
Use it for Bad Purchases
The next time you buy a snack that tastes terrible, say '이거 완전 지뢰네!' to practice your natural slang.
Watch 'JSA'
Watching the movie 'Joint Security Area' will give you a profound understanding of why this word is so significant in Korean culture.
Verb Pairings
Focus on the verb '밟다' (to step on). It's the most common verb used with '지뢰' and is useful for other contexts like 'stepping on a shadow' or 'stepping on the gas.'
Beispiel
지뢰밭을 조심스럽게 지나야 한다.
Verwandte Inhalte
Mehr military Wörter
진격하다
A1In entschlossener Weise vorrücken, besonders im Kampf.
공군
A2Die Luftwaffe; der Zweig der Streitkräfte, der Luftkrieg führt.
경보
A2Ein Signal oder Ton, der vor Gefahr warnt; ein Alarm.
갑옷
A1Schutzkleidung, die zur Verteidigung des Körpers im Kampf getragen wird; Rüstung. Die Rüstung des Ritters glänzte in der Sonne.
육군
A2Das Heer oder die Landstreitkräfte eines Landes. In Südkorea ist dies der größte Zweig des Militärs.
공격
A1Ein Akt des Angriffs oder das Starten einer Offensive gegen einen Feind. Es kann physisch, verbal oder strategisch sein.
공격하다
A1Einen Angriff oder eine Offensive gegen einen Feind starten.
피하다
A1Etwas oder jemanden vermeiden oder ausweichen.
전쟁터
B1Ein Schlachtfeld; ein Ort, an dem eine Schlacht geschlagen wird. Auch für chaotische Orte verwendet.
국경
B1Die Grenze ist eine Linie, die zwei Länder trennt.