난민
난민 en 30 segundos
- 난민 (Nan-min) means 'refugee' in Korean, referring to people forced to flee their country due to danger or persecution.
- It is a formal and serious noun derived from Hanja, meaning 'people in hardship' (難 hardship + 民 people).
- Commonly used in news, law, and humanitarian contexts, it is distinct from 'immigrant' (이민자) which implies voluntary movement.
- In Korea, the word is central to debates on the Refugee Act and the treatment of North Korean defectors (탈북민).
The Korean word 난민 (Nan-min) is a noun that translates directly to 'refugee' in English. Etymologically, it is derived from two Hanja characters: 難 (nan), meaning 'hardship' or 'difficulty,' and 民 (min), meaning 'people.' Together, the word literally describes 'people in hardship' or 'distressed people.' In a modern legal and social context, it refers specifically to individuals who have been forced to flee their home country due to war, persecution, violence, or natural disasters. Understanding this word is crucial for discussing global issues, human rights, and international relations in Korean.
- Core Definition
- A person residing outside their country of nationality who is unable or unwilling to return due to a well-founded fear of persecution based on race, religion, nationality, membership in a particular social group, or political opinion.
In everyday Korean conversation, the term is used with a high degree of seriousness. You will frequently encounter it in news broadcasts (뉴스), documentaries (다큐멘터리), and academic discussions. While the word itself is neutral, the discourse surrounding nanmin in South Korea can be quite complex, involving debates over humanitarian responsibility versus national security and economic stability. For instance, the arrival of Yemeni refugees in Jeju Island in 2018 sparked a nationwide conversation that brought this word into the daily vocabulary of many Koreans.
전쟁으로 인해 수많은 난민들이 발생했습니다. (Due to the war, countless refugees were created.)
Beyond the strict legal definition, the word is sometimes used metaphorically in contemporary slang, though this is less common than its serious usage. For example, '공부 난민' (study refugees) might refer to students who wander from cafe to cafe looking for a place to study because libraries are full. However, as a learner, you should primarily focus on its standard meaning to avoid sounding insensitive in serious contexts.
- Historical Context
- South Korea has its own history with refugees, particularly during the Korean War (1950-1953), when millions were internally displaced. This historical memory often colors how the older generation perceives the word, sometimes using the term '피난민' (pi-nan-min) to describe those fleeing war specifically.
정부는 난민 수용 문제를 신중하게 검토하고 있습니다. (The government is carefully reviewing the issue of accepting refugees.)
Linguistically, '난민' functions as a regular noun. It can be the subject of a sentence, the object, or part of a compound noun. Common compounds include '난민 캠프' (refugee camp), '난민 지위' (refugee status), and '난민법' (Refugee Act). Unlike English, where 'refugee' can sometimes be used as an adjective (e.g., refugee crisis), Korean typically keeps it as a noun or uses the possessive particle '의' (난민의 위기 - the crisis of refugees).
- Global Usage
- In international organizations like the UN (국제연합), '난민' is the standard term used in all official Korean translations of documents related to the UNHCR (유엔난민기구).
우리는 난민들에게 인도적 지원을 아끼지 말아야 합니다. (We should not spare humanitarian aid for refugees.)
Finally, it is important to distinguish '난민' from '이민자' (immigrant). While an immigrant chooses to move for various reasons (economic, family, etc.), a refugee is forced to move for survival. This distinction is vital in both legal and social discussions in Korea.
Using 난민 (Nan-min) correctly requires an understanding of the verbs and particles that typically accompany it. Since it refers to people, it often takes the plural marker -들 (난민들) when referring to a group. Here we will explore the grammatical structures and common collocations that will help you use this word naturally.
- Common Verbs
- 수용하다 (to accept/accommodate)
- 지원하다 (to support)
- 보호하다 (to protect)
- 발생하다 (to occur/arise - used for the situation of refugees being created)
- 신청하다 (to apply for - usually with '난민 지위')
When discussing the act of a country taking in refugees, the verb 수용하다 is the standard formal choice. For example, '독일은 많은 난민을 수용했습니다' (Germany accepted many refugees). If you are talking about providing help, use 지원하다. '국제 사회는 난민을 지원해야 합니다' (The international community must support refugees).
그는 한국 정부에 난민 지위를 신청했습니다. (He applied for refugee status to the Korean government.)
In passive or descriptive contexts, you might see '난민이 되다' (to become a refugee). This describes the process of losing one's home and status. '전쟁이 시작되자 많은 사람들이 난민이 되었습니다' (When the war started, many people became refugees). Note the use of the particle -이/가 here.
- Compound Nouns
- 난민 문제 (refugee issue)
- 난민 정책 (refugee policy)
- 난민 구호 (refugee relief)
- 난민 인정 (refugee recognition/status approval)
난민 캠프의 생활 환경은 매우 열악합니다. (The living conditions in the refugee camp are very poor.)
In more advanced sentences, you might see '난민' paired with words like '인권' (human rights). '난민의 인권을 보호하는 것은 우리의 의무입니다' (Protecting the human rights of refugees is our duty). Here, the possessive particle 의 links the two nouns. This structure is very common in formal writing and news reports.
- Usage in Different Registers
- In formal settings (news, speeches), you will hear '난민 여러분' (refugees - as a polite address) or '난민 보호 대상자' (persons subject to refugee protection). In neutral settings, '난민' is used directly. In informal settings, the word is rarely used unless discussing current events.
기후 변화로 인한 난민이 앞으로 더 늘어날 것으로 보입니다. (It appears that refugees caused by climate change will increase more in the future.)
Finally, remember that '난민' is a collective noun often used with counting units like '명' (people). '천 명의 난민' (a thousand refugees). When referring to the group as a whole in a sociological sense, '난민 집단' (refugee group) can be used. Mastering these combinations will allow you to discuss the topic with precision and empathy.
The word 난민 (Nan-min) is not a word you would typically use while ordering coffee or chatting about the weather. Instead, it occupies a specific space in the Korean linguistic landscape—primarily in the realms of news, politics, social activism, and global education. Understanding these contexts will help you recognize the word and understand the nuances of the conversation.
- News and Media
- This is the most common place to hear '난민'. News anchors frequently report on '유럽의 난민 위기' (Europe's refugee crisis) or '국내 난민 수용 현황' (the current state of refugee acceptance in Korea). The tone is usually objective but can be emotionally charged depending on the story being told.
In documentaries, you will hear personal stories of individuals. A narrator might say, '그는 5년 전 난민이 되어 이곳에 왔습니다' (He became a refugee five years ago and came here). Here, the word is used to establish a person's history and current legal status. Documentaries often focus on the human side of the statistics, using the word with a sense of gravity and empathy.
오늘 뉴스에서 난민 수용을 반대하는 시위 소식을 들었어요. (I heard news about a protest opposing the acceptance of refugees on the news today.)
In the Korean political sphere, '난민' is a keyword in debates regarding the '난민법' (Refugee Act). Politicians and commentators discuss whether the laws should be tightened or loosened. You might hear phrases like '난민 심사 강화' (strengthening refugee screening) or '난민의 권리 보호' (protecting the rights of refugees). These discussions are often found in talk shows (토론 프로그램) or opinion pieces in newspapers (사설).
- Educational and Academic Settings
- In university lectures on international relations, sociology, or law, '난민' is a fundamental concept. Students study '난민의 정의' (the definition of a refugee) and '세계 난민의 날' (World Refugee Day, June 20th). Academic textbooks provide a structured look at the causes and effects of displacement.
학교에서 난민 문제에 대한 토론 수업을 했습니다. (We had a discussion class about the refugee issue at school.)
Lastly, you will see the word in the promotional materials of NGOs (비정부기구) like World Vision (월드비전) or Save the Children (세이브더칠드런). Their campaigns often use images of children and families with captions like '난민 아동을 도와주세요' (Please help refugee children). In this context, the word is used to evoke a sense of global citizenship and the desire to help those in need.
- Social Media and Online Forums
- On platforms like Twitter (X) or Korean forums like Clien or DC Inside, '난민' appears in hashtags and heated debates. Users share news articles and express varying opinions, ranging from humanitarian support to concerns about social integration.
유튜브에서 난민들의 삶을 다룬 다큐멘터리를 봤어요. (I watched a documentary about the lives of refugees on YouTube.)
By paying attention to these specific areas, you will see that '난민' is a word that carries significant weight and is central to how modern Korean society engages with the rest of the world.
While 난민 (Nan-min) seems straightforward as a translation for 'refugee,' there are several nuances and potential pitfalls that English speakers should be aware of. Misusing this word can lead to misunderstandings or, in some cases, can sound insensitive. Here are the most common mistakes and how to avoid them.
- Mistake 1: Confusing '난민' with '이민자' (Immigrant)
- This is the most common conceptual mistake. An 이민자 (i-min-ja) is someone who chooses to move to another country, often for work or a better life. A 난민 is someone forced to flee for their life. In Korean, using these interchangeably can undermine the legal and humanitarian urgency of a refugee's situation. Always use '난민' when the displacement is forced.
For example, saying '그는 경제적 난민입니다' (He is an economic refugee) is a phrase used in debates, but legally and traditionally, 'refugee' excludes those moving solely for economic reasons. In strict Korean usage, keep the distinction clear.
❌ 이민자와 난민은 같은 의미가 아닙니다. (Immigrants and refugees do not have the same meaning.)
- Mistake 2: Confusing '난민' with '피난민' (Evacuee/Displaced Person)
- While related, 피난민 (pi-nan-min) often refers to people who have fled their homes but are still within their own country (internally displaced) or those fleeing a temporary disaster like a flood. '난민' usually implies an international border has been crossed and carries a specific legal status. Using '피난민' for international refugees isn't 'wrong' per se, but '난민' is the more precise legal and modern term.
During the Korean War, people were called '피난민' because they were moving within the peninsula. In modern contexts involving Syria or Ukraine, '난민' is the preferred term in media.
- Mistake 3: Incorrect Particle Usage
- English speakers often forget that '난민' refers to people, so it should be treated as a human noun. When saying 'to the refugees,' use 난민들에게 (polite/standard) or 난민들께 (honorific), not '난민들에' (which is for objects/places). Using '에' for people is a common beginner mistake.
✅ 난민들에게 음식을 나누어 주었습니다. (We distributed food to the refugees.)
- Mistake 4: Overusing Slang Meanings
- As mentioned, terms like '카페 난민' (cafe refugee) exist in internet slang. However, using these in a formal or serious conversation about actual refugees can come across as trivializing a very serious issue. Be aware of your audience and the context before using '난민' in a lighthearted or metaphorical way.
Finally, be careful with the verb 발생하다. While in English we might say 'the number of refugees grew,' in Korean, we often say '난민이 발생하다' (refugees were generated/occurred). Using '만들다' (to make) sounds unnatural in this context. Use '발생하다' for the phenomenon of people becoming refugees due to an event.
지진으로 인해 많은 난민이 발생했습니다. (Many refugees were created [occurred] due to the earthquake.)
In Korean, several words share a semantic space with 난민 (Nan-min). Choosing the right one depends on the legal status, the reason for displacement, and the tone of the conversation. Understanding these distinctions will make your Korean sound more precise and professional.
- 난민 (Refugee) vs. 망명자 (Asylee/Exile)
- While '난민' is a broad term for those fleeing for various reasons (war, disaster, etc.), 망명자 (mang-myeong-ja) specifically refers to someone who flees for political reasons. A high-ranking official fleeing a regime is almost always called a '망명자'. '난민' is more common for large groups of people fleeing war or generalized violence.
For example, a North Korean defector who was a high-level diplomat might be called a '망명자', whereas a family fleeing a conflict zone in Africa is called '난민'.
그 정치인은 이웃 나라로 망명을 신청했습니다. (The politician applied for asylum in a neighboring country.)
- 난민 (Refugee) vs. 피난민 (Evacuee)
- As discussed in the 'Common Mistakes' section, 피난민 (pi-nan-min) emphasizes the act of 'escaping' (피난). It is often used for internal displacement or temporary flight from a specific disaster. '난민' is the more modern, international, and legal term for those who have lost the protection of their own country.
In historical contexts like the Korean War, '피난민' is almost exclusively used. In modern international news, '난민' is the standard.
홍수 때문에 수천 명의 피난민이 체육관에 모였습니다. (Thousands of evacuees gathered in the gym because of the flood.)
- 난민 (Refugee) vs. 이주민 (Migrant)
- 이주민 (i-ju-min) is an umbrella term for anyone who moves from one place to another, regardless of the reason. It is often used in social science to talk about '이주민 정책' (migrant policy). It is less specific than '난민' and doesn't carry the same legal implications of 'forced flight'.
If you are talking about the broader community of people who have moved to Korea from other countries, '이주민' or '다문화 가정' (multicultural families) are common terms. '난민' is only for a specific subset of that population.
- 탈북민 (North Korean Defector)
- In the specific context of Korea, North Koreans who flee to the South are rarely called '난민' in daily life, though they technically meet the international definition. Instead, they are called 탈북민 (tal-buk-min) or 새터민 (sae-teo-min). This is because the South Korean constitution views them as citizens, not foreigners.
정부는 탈북민의 정착을 돕기 위해 노력하고 있습니다. (The government is working to help North Korean defectors settle.)
Using these terms correctly shows a deep understanding of Korean law, history, and social dynamics. When in doubt, '난민' is the safe, standard term for international refugees fleeing conflict.
How Formal Is It?
Dato curioso
While '난민' is the modern standard, the word '피난민' (people escaping hardship) was more common in the mid-20th century due to the Korean War experience.
Guía de pronunciación
Nivel de dificultad
The word itself is easy to read, but the contexts (news/law) can be difficult.
Requires knowledge of formal particles and specific collocations.
Pronunciation is simple, but the topic is advanced.
Commonly heard in news broadcasts with clear pronunciation.
Qué aprender después
Requisitos previos
Aprende después
Avanzado
Gramática que debes saber
-로 인한 (due to/caused by)
전쟁으로 인한 난민이 늘고 있습니다. (Refugees caused by war are increasing.)
-기 위해 (in order to)
난민을 돕기 위해 돈을 모았습니다. (I collected money in order to help refugees.)
-에 대한 (about/toward)
난민에 대한 편견을 버려야 합니다. (We must throw away prejudices toward refugees.)
-아/어지다 (to become/get)
난민 문제가 점점 심각해지고 있습니다. (The refugee issue is getting more serious.)
-기로 하다 (to decide to)
정부는 난민을 수용하기로 했습니다. (The government decided to accept refugees.)
Ejemplos por nivel
난민이 있어요.
There are refugees.
난민 (refugee) + 이 (subject marker) + 있어요 (there is/are).
난민을 도와요.
Help the refugees.
난민 (refugee) + 을 (object marker) + 도와요 (help - polite).
난민은 사람입니다.
Refugees are people.
난민 (refugee) + 은 (topic marker) + 사람 (person) + 입니다 (is).
난민들이 많아요.
There are many refugees.
난민 (refugee) + 들 (plural marker) + 이 (subject marker) + 많아요 (many).
난민이 배고파요.
The refugee is hungry.
난민 (refugee) + 이 (subject marker) + 배고파요 (hungry).
난민이 집이 없어요.
The refugee has no home.
난민 (refugee) + 이 (subject marker) + 집 (house) + 이 (subject marker) + 없어요 (don't have).
이분은 난민입니다.
This person is a refugee.
이분 (this person - polite) + 은 (topic marker) + 난민 (refugee) + 입니다 (is).
난민을 사랑해요.
I love refugees.
난민 (refugee) + 을 (object marker) + 사랑해요 (love).
난민들은 음식이 필요해요.
Refugees need food.
난민들 (refugees) + 은 (topic marker) + 음식 (food) + 이 (subject marker) + 필요해요 (need).
난민 캠프에 가고 싶어요.
I want to go to a refugee camp.
난민 캠프 (refugee camp) + 에 (to/at) + 가고 싶어요 (want to go).
그녀는 난민이 되었습니다.
She became a refugee.
난민 (refugee) + 이 (subject marker) + 되었습니다 (became).
난민들에게 옷을 주었어요.
I gave clothes to the refugees.
난민들 (refugees) + 에게 (to - people) + 옷 (clothes) + 을 (object marker) + 주었어요 (gave).
전쟁 때문에 난민이 생겼어요.
Refugees were created because of the war.
전쟁 (war) + 때문에 (because of) + 난민 (refugee) + 이 (subject marker) + 생겼어요 (appeared/was created).
난민들은 어디에 살아요?
Where do refugees live?
난민들 (refugees) + 은 (topic marker) + 어디 (where) + 에 (at) + 살아요 (live)?
난민을 돕는 것은 착한 일이에요.
Helping refugees is a good thing.
난민 (refugee) + 을 (object marker) + 돕는 것 (helping - gerund) + 은 (topic marker) + 착한 일 (good deed) + 이에요 (is).
그들은 난민을 위해 기도해요.
They pray for the refugees.
그들 (they) + 은 (topic marker) + 난민 (refugee) + 을 위해 (for) + 기도해요 (pray).
난민들이 안전한 나라를 찾고 있습니다.
Refugees are looking for a safe country.
안전한 (safe) + 나라 (country) + 를 (object marker) + 찾고 있습니다 (are looking for - progressive).
한국에도 난민이 살고 있나요?
Are there refugees living in Korea too?
한국 (Korea) + 에도 (also in) + 난민 (refugee) + 이 (subject marker) + 살고 있나요 (is living? - polite question).
난민 문제를 해결하기 위해 노력해야 합니다.
We must work hard to solve the refugee problem.
난민 문제 (refugee issue) + 를 (object marker) + 해결하기 위해 (in order to solve) + 노력해야 합니다 (must work hard).
그 아이는 난민 캠프에서 태어났어요.
That child was born in a refugee camp.
난민 캠프 (refugee camp) + 에서 (in/at) + 태어났어요 (was born).
많은 나라들이 난민 수용을 거절하고 있어요.
Many countries are refusing to accept refugees.
난민 수용 (accepting refugees) + 을 (object marker) + 거절하고 있어요 (are refusing).
난민의 권리를 보호하는 법이 필요합니다.
A law to protect the rights of refugees is needed.
난민의 권리 (rights of refugees) + 를 (object marker) + 보호하는 (protecting) + 법 (law) + 이 (subject marker) + 필요합니다 (is needed).
그는 난민 지위를 인정받았습니다.
He was recognized with refugee status.
난민 지위 (refugee status) + 를 (object marker) + 인정받았습니다 (was recognized/granted).
난민들은 새로운 삶을 시작하고 싶어 해요.
Refugees want to start a new life.
새로운 삶 (new life) + 을 (object marker) + 시작하고 싶어 해요 (they want to start).
난민 수용에 대한 찬성과 반대 의견이 팽팽합니다.
Opinions for and against accepting refugees are evenly matched.
찬성 (pro) + 과 (and) + 반대 (con) + 의견 (opinion) + 이 (subject marker) + 팽팽합니다 (is tight/tense/even).
정부는 난민 심사 과정을 더욱 강화하겠다고 발표했습니다.
The government announced that it will further strengthen the refugee screening process.
난민 심사 과정 (refugee screening process) + 을 (object marker) + 강화하겠다 (will strengthen) + 고 (quotative) + 발표했습니다 (announced).
인도주의적 차원에서 난민을 돕는 것은 당연한 일입니다.
It is natural to help refugees from a humanitarian perspective.
인도주의적 차원 (humanitarian level/perspective) + 에서 (from) + 당연한 일 (natural/obvious thing) + 입니다 (is).
기후 변화로 인한 환경 난민이 급증하고 있습니다.
Environmental refugees due to climate change are increasing rapidly.
기후 변화 (climate change) + 로 인한 (due to) + 환경 난민 (environmental refugee) + 이 (subject marker) + 급증하고 있습니다 (is increasing rapidly).
난민들이 사회에 잘 적응할 수 있도록 교육 프로그램을 제공해야 합니다.
We must provide educational programs so that refugees can adapt well to society.
사회에 (to society) + 적응할 수 있도록 (so that they can adapt) + 교육 프로그램 (educational program) + 을 (object marker) + 제공해야 합니다 (must provide).
일부 사람들은 난민 유입이 치안을 악화시킬까 봐 걱정합니다.
Some people worry that the influx of refugees might worsen public safety.
난민 유입 (influx of refugees) + 이 (subject marker) + 치안 (public safety) + 을 (object marker) + 악화시킬까 봐 (fearing it might worsen) + 걱정합니다 (worry).
난민들은 자신의 의지와 상관없이 고국을 떠나야 했습니다.
Refugees had to leave their homeland regardless of their own will.
자신의 의지 (one's own will) + 와 상관없이 (regardless of) + 고국 (homeland) + 을 (object marker) + 떠나야 했습니다 (had to leave).
유엔난민기구는 전 세계 난민 현황을 매년 발표합니다.
The UNHCR announces the global refugee status every year.
유엔난민기구 (UNHCR) + 는 (topic marker) + 전 세계 (entire world) + 난민 현황 (refugee status/situation) + 을 (object marker) + 발표합니다 (announces).
난민 인정 절차의 투명성과 공정성을 확보하는 것이 시급합니다.
It is urgent to ensure the transparency and fairness of the refugee recognition process.
난민 인정 절차 (refugee recognition procedure) + 의 (possessive) + 투명성 (transparency) + 과 (and) + 공정성 (fairness) + 을 (object marker) + 확보하는 것 (securing/ensuring - gerund) + 이 (subject marker) + 시급합니다 (is urgent).
난민에 대한 혐오 표현은 민주주의 가치를 훼손하는 행위입니다.
Hate speech against refugees is an act that undermines democratic values.
난민에 대한 (toward refugees) + 혐오 표현 (hate speech) + 은 (topic marker) + 민주주의 가치 (democratic values) + 를 (object marker) + 훼손하는 (undermining/damaging) + 행위 (act) + 입니다 (is).
국제 사회는 난민 발생의 근본적인 원인인 분쟁 해결에 힘써야 합니다.
The international community must strive to resolve conflicts, which are the fundamental cause of refugee creation.
난민 발생 (refugee occurrence) + 의 (possessive) + 근본적인 원인 (fundamental cause) + 인 (which is) + 분쟁 해결 (conflict resolution) + 에 (to/in) + 힘써야 합니다 (must strive).
난민들이 겪는 트라우마를 치유하기 위한 전문적인 상담이 지원되어야 합니다.
Professional counseling must be supported to heal the trauma that refugees experience.
난민들이 겪는 (that refugees experience) + 트라우마 (trauma) + 를 (object marker) + 치유하기 위한 (for healing) + 전문적인 상담 (professional counseling) + 이 (subject marker) + 지원되어야 합니다 (must be supported).
난민 수용은 단순한 시혜가 아니라 보편적 인권의 실현입니다.
Accepting refugees is not simple charity, but the realization of universal human rights.
단순한 시혜 (simple charity/favor) + 가 아니라 (not A but B) + 보편적 인권 (universal human rights) + 의 (possessive) + 실현 (realization) + 입니다 (is).
난민의 유입이 노동 시장에 미치는 영향에 대해 다각적인 분석이 필요합니다.
A multi-faceted analysis is needed on the impact of the influx of refugees on the labor market.
노동 시장 (labor market) + 에 (to) + 미치는 영향 (influence/impact) + 에 대해 (about) + 다각적인 분석 (multi-faceted analysis) + 이 (subject marker) + 필요합니다 (is needed).
제주도 예멘 난민 사태는 한국 사회의 난민 인식에 큰 전환점이 되었습니다.
The Yemeni refugee situation in Jeju Island became a major turning point in Korean society's perception of refugees.
제주도 예멘 난민 사태 (Jeju Island Yemeni refugee incident) + 는 (topic marker) + 난민 인식 (perception of refugees) + 에 (to) + 큰 전환점 (big turning point) + 이 (subject marker) + 되었습니다 (became).
난민의 강제 송환은 국제법상 '농르풀망 원칙'에 위배되는 행위입니다.
The forced repatriation of refugees is an act that violates the principle of non-refoulement under international law.
강제 송환 (forced repatriation) + 은 (topic marker) + 국제법상 (under international law) + 농르풀망 원칙 (non-refoulement principle) + 에 (to) + 위배되는 (violating) + 행위 (act) + 입니다 (is).
난민 문제는 국가 주권과 보편적 인권 사이의 긴장 관계를 여실히 보여줍니다.
The refugee issue clearly demonstrates the tension between national sovereignty and universal human rights.
국가 주권 (national sovereignty) + 과 (and) + 보편적 인권 (universal human rights) + 사이의 (between) + 긴장 관계 (tense relationship) + 를 (object marker) + 여실히 (clearly/vividly) + 보여줍니다 (shows).
포스트콜로니얼 관점에서 볼 때, 난민은 제국주의와 자본주의가 낳은 구조적 산물입니다.
From a post-colonial perspective, refugees are a structural product of imperialism and capitalism.
포스트콜로니얼 관점 (post-colonial perspective) + 에서 볼 때 (when viewed from) + 제국주의 (imperialism) + 와 (and) + 자본주의 (capitalism) + 가 (subject marker) + 낳은 (produced/born) + 구조적 산물 (structural product) + 입니다 (is).
난민의 타자성을 어떻게 포용하느냐가 현대 민주 사회의 성숙도를 가늠하는 척도가 됩니다.
How we embrace the 'otherness' of refugees becomes a measure of the maturity of modern democratic societies.
난민의 타자성 (otherness of refugees) + 을 (object marker) + 어떻게 (how) + 포용하느냐 (embrace - interrogative clause) + 가 (subject marker) + 현대 민주 사회 (modern democratic society) + 의 (possessive) + 성숙도 (maturity) + 를 (object marker) + 가늠하는 (measuring) + 척도 (measure/scale) + 가 됩니다 (becomes).
난민의 서사는 종종 미디어를 통해 정형화되거나 타자화되는 경향이 있습니다.
The narratives of refugees often tend to be stereotyped or othered through the media.
난민의 서사 (narrative of refugees) + 는 (topic marker) + 미디어를 통해 (through media) + 정형화되다 (be stereotyped) + 거나 (or) + 타자화되다 (be othered) + 는 (attributive) + 경향 (tendency) + 이 있습니다 (there is).
난민 보호를 위한 국제적 연대는 정치적 이해관계를 초월한 윤리적 결단이어야 합니다.
International solidarity for the protection of refugees must be an ethical decision that transcends political interests.
국제적 연대 (international solidarity) + 는 (topic marker) + 정치적 이해관계 (political interests) + 를 (object marker) + 초월한 (transcending) + 윤리적 결단 (ethical decision) + 이어야 합니다 (must be).
난민 인정 여부를 결정하는 심사관의 재량권 행사는 엄격한 사법적 통제 하에 있어야 합니다.
The exercise of discretion by examiners who determine refugee status must be under strict judicial control.
심사관의 재량권 행사 (exercise of an examiner's discretion) + 는 (topic marker) + 엄격한 사법적 통제 (strict judicial control) + 하에 (under) + 있어야 합니다 (must be).
난민들이 지닌 문화적 자본을 사회적 자산으로 전환하려는 정책적 노력이 수반되어야 합니다.
Policy efforts to transform the cultural capital possessed by refugees into social assets must be accompanied.
문화적 자본 (cultural capital) + 을 (object marker) + 사회적 자산 (social asset) + 으로 (into) + 전환하려는 (trying to transform) + 정책적 노력 (policy effort) + 이 (subject marker) + 수반되어야 합니다 (must be accompanied).
난민의 존재는 고정된 영토 중심의 국민 국가 개념에 근본적인 질문을 던집니다.
The existence of refugees poses a fundamental question to the concept of the territory-centered nation-state.
고정된 영토 중심 (fixed territory-centered) + 의 (possessive) + 국민 국가 개념 (concept of nation-state) + 에 (to) + 근본적인 질문 (fundamental question) + 을 (object marker) + 던집니다 (throws/poses).
Colocaciones comunes
Frases Comunes
— World Refugee Day (June 20th). It is a day designated by the UN to honor refugees.
6월 20일은 세계 난민의 날입니다.
— Refugee shelter or detention center. A place where refugees are kept temporarily.
난민 수용소의 시설을 개선해야 합니다.
— Humanitarian stayers. People who are not recognized as refugees but are allowed to stay for humanitarian reasons.
그는 난민은 아니지만 인도적 체류자로 인정받았습니다.
— Refugee screening or evaluation. The process of checking if someone qualifies as a refugee.
난민 심사 기간이 너무 길어서 문제입니다.
— Refugee children. Children who have been displaced.
난민 아동들은 교육을 받을 권리가 있습니다.
— Refugee women. Women who have been displaced.
난민 여성들은 범죄의 위험에 노출되기 쉽습니다.
— The Refugee Act. The specific law governing refugee status and treatment.
한국은 2013년에 난민법을 시행했습니다.
— Refugee organization. Usually refers to UNHCR or similar groups.
유엔난민기구는 난민 보호를 위해 일합니다.
— Refugee visa. A specific visa given to those recognized as refugees.
그는 난민 비자를 받아 한국에 머물고 있습니다.
— Refugee hatred/xenophobia. Hostility directed toward refugees.
사회 전반에 퍼진 난민 혐오를 멈춰야 합니다.
Se confunde a menudo con
Immigrants move voluntarily; refugees move by force.
Evacuees are often temporary or internal; refugees are long-term/international.
Asylees are usually political; refugees are a broader group.
Modismos y expresiones
— People who wander from cafe to cafe to study or work because they have no other place.
시험 기간이라 도서관 자리가 없어서 카페 난민이 되었어요.
Slang/Metaphorical— Students who move around looking for a place to study.
독서실이 문을 닫아 공부 난민들이 늘어났습니다.
Slang/Metaphorical— People in public places searching for an electrical outlet to charge their devices.
기차역에는 노트북 충전을 위한 콘센트 난민들이 많습니다.
Slang/Metaphorical— Office workers who can't find a place to eat lunch because restaurants are too crowded.
강남역 주변은 12시만 되면 점심 난민들로 붐벼요.
Slang/Metaphorical— People who have to move frequently because of rising 'jeonse' (deposit-only) housing prices.
집값이 너무 올라서 서울 외곽으로 밀려난 전세 난민들이 많습니다.
Social/Journalistic— Parents who move to expensive areas just to get their children into better schools.
좋은 학교에 보내려고 무리해서 이사하는 학군 난민이 늘고 있어요.
Social/Journalistic— People, often elderly, who are excluded from society because they cannot use digital technology.
키오스크 사용이 어려운 노인들은 디지털 난민이 되고 있습니다.
Social/Journalistic— People living in areas where it is difficult to buy daily necessities due to a lack of stores.
지방 소도시에는 대형 마트가 없어 쇼핑 난민이 발생하는 경우가 있습니다.
Social/Journalistic— Patients who have to travel long distances or wait a long time to find a hospital that can treat them.
응급실을 찾아 헤매는 의료 난민 문제가 심각합니다.
Social/Journalistic— People searching for free public Wi-Fi signals.
데이터가 다 떨어져서 와이파이 난민이 되었어요.
Slang/MetaphoricalFácil de confundir
Both involve moving to a new country.
Immigration is usually a choice for a better life. Refugee status is a forced escape for survival.
그는 더 좋은 직장을 위해 미국으로 이민을 갔습니다.
Both involve seeking protection in another country.
Asylum is specifically for political persecution. Refugees can flee war or disasters too.
반정부 인사가 해외로 망명했습니다.
Both involve escaping danger.
Pi-nan is the act of escaping. Nan-min is the status of the person who has escaped.
폭풍을 피해 지하실로 피난했습니다.
North Koreans are technically refugees.
In Korea, they are called 'Talbukmin' for political and constitutional reasons.
그는 10년 전에 탈북하여 서울에 살고 있습니다.
Both are foreigners living in the country.
Foreign workers come to work under a contract. Refugees come for safety.
공장에는 많은 외국인 노동자들이 일하고 있습니다.
Patrones de oraciones
N이/가 있어요.
난민이 있어요.
N을/를 도와주세요.
난민을 도와주세요.
V-기 위해 N이/가 필요해요.
난민을 돕기 위해 음식이 필요해요.
N에 대한 찬반 의견이 있다.
난민 수용에 대한 찬반 의견이 있다.
N은/는 N의 실현이다.
난민 보호는 인권의 실현이다.
N으로 인해 N이/가 발생하다.
분쟁으로 인해 난민이 발생하다.
N은/는 N을 가늠하는 척도이다.
난민 포용은 사회의 성숙도를 가늠하는 척도이다.
N에 근본적인 질문을 던지다.
난민은 국가 개념에 근본적인 질문을 던진다.
Familia de palabras
Sustantivos
Verbos
Relacionado
Cómo usarlo
Common in media and academic contexts, rare in casual daily conversation.
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Using '난민' for people moving for better jobs.
→
이민자 (Immigrant) or 경제 이주민 (Economic migrant).
Refugee status is specifically for those fleeing danger, not just seeking better economic opportunities.
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Saying '난민에' instead of '난민에게'.
→
난민에게 (to the refugees).
'-에' is for places or things. '-에게' is for people. Since refugees are people, use '-에게'.
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Confusing '난민' with '피난민' in historical contexts.
→
피난민 (Evacuees) for the Korean War.
While '난민' is used now, '피난민' is the historically accurate term for the Korean War displacement.
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Using '만들다' (to make) for refugees.
→
발생하다 (to occur/be created).
In Korean, we say refugees 'occur' or 'are generated' as a phenomenon, rather than being 'made'.
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Calling North Korean defectors '난민' in South Korea.
→
탈북민 (North Korean defector).
Legally, they are considered citizens, so '난민' is not the standard term used for them in the South.
Consejos
Use in Formal Writing
When writing an essay about global issues, always use '난민' instead of '도망친 사람' (person who ran away). It sounds much more professional and accurate.
Be Mindful of History
Koreans have a history of being displaced (Korean War). Mentioning this can show you understand their perspective on the word '피난민'.
Subject Particles
Use '난민이' when introducing the fact that refugees exist. Use '난민은' when talking about refugees in general (e.g., 'Refugees are...').
Learn Compounds
Learning '난민 지위' and '난민 신청' together will help you understand 90% of news reports about this topic.
Clear 'N' sounds
Make sure to pronounce both 'n' sounds in 'nan-min'. Don't let them slur together into 'namin'.
Empathy
When discussing this topic, using words like '인도적' (humanitarian) shows that you are approaching the subject with empathy.
Watch Documentaries
Search for '난민 다큐멘터리' on YouTube to hear the word used in real-life contexts and emotional stories.
Refugee Act
Knowing that Korea has a '난민법' (Refugee Act) is a great fact to bring up in advanced conversations about law.
Slang Caution
Only use slang like '카페 난민' with close friends. Avoid it in serious discussions about international politics.
News Keywords
If you hear '난민' on the news, listen for '수용' (acceptance) or '반대' (opposition) to understand the public mood.
Memorízalo
Mnemotecnia
Think of 'NAN' as 'No-one's-land' and 'MIN' as 'Men'. People from no-one's-land seeking help.
Asociación visual
Imagine a blue UN tent (난민 캠프) with people standing outside it.
Word Web
Desafío
Try to write three sentences about how a '난민' might feel when they arrive in a new country.
Origen de la palabra
The word is composed of two Hanja characters: 難 (nan) and 民 (min).
Significado original: 難 means 'difficult,' 'hardship,' or 'suffering.' 民 means 'people' or 'citizens.'
Sino-Korean (Hanja-based vocabulary).Contexto cultural
Be careful when discussing '난민' in Korea as opinions can be very polarized. Avoid using the slang '난민' terms in serious humanitarian contexts.
In English, 'refugee' is often used as a broad term, but in Korean, '난민' has a very specific legal and news-oriented feel.
Practica en la vida real
Contextos reales
International News
- 난민 위기 (refugee crisis)
- 난민 유입 (refugee influx)
- 국경을 넘다 (to cross the border)
- 인도적 지원 (humanitarian aid)
Legal/Governmental
- 난민 지위 인정 (recognition of refugee status)
- 불법 체류 (illegal stay)
- 강제 출국 (forced departure)
- 심사 과정 (screening process)
Charity/NGO
- 후원하기 (to sponsor/donate)
- 구호 물품 (relief supplies)
- 자원봉사 (volunteering)
- 모금 활동 (fundraising)
History Class
- 전쟁 피난민 (war evacuees)
- 남북 분단 (division of North and South)
- 이산가족 (separated families)
- 정착 지원 (settlement support)
Daily Slang
- 카페 난민 (cafe refugee)
- 점심 난민 (lunch refugee)
- 와이파이 난민 (Wi-Fi refugee)
- 충전 난민 (charging refugee)
Inicios de conversación
"최근 뉴스에서 본 난민 문제에 대해 어떻게 생각하세요? (What do you think about the refugee issue you saw in the news recently?)"
"한국의 난민 정책이 더 관대해져야 한다고 보시나요? (Do you think Korea's refugee policy should become more generous?)"
"난민들을 돕기 위해 우리가 할 수 있는 일은 무엇일까요? (What can we do to help refugees?)"
"난민들이 새로운 나라에 적응할 때 가장 힘든 점이 무엇일까요? (What would be the hardest thing for refugees when adapting to a new country?)"
"세계 난민의 날에 대해 들어본 적이 있나요? (Have you ever heard of World Refugee Day?)"
Temas para diario
만약 내가 갑자기 난민이 된다면, 가장 먼저 무엇을 챙기고 싶나요? 그 이유는 무엇인가요? (If I suddenly became a refugee, what would I want to pack first? What is the reason?)
우리 사회가 난민들을 더 따뜻하게 맞이하기 위해 어떤 노력이 필요할지 써 보세요. (Write about what efforts are needed for our society to welcome refugees more warmly.)
난민에 대한 나의 인식이 과거와 어떻게 달라졌는지 기록해 보세요. (Record how your perception of refugees has changed compared to the past.)
인도주의적 지원과 국가 안보 사이의 균형에 대한 자신의 생각을 정리해 보세요. (Organize your thoughts on the balance between humanitarian aid and national security.)
내가 난민을 돕는 자원봉사자가 된다면 어떤 활동을 하고 싶은지 계획해 보세요. (Plan what kind of activities you would want to do if you became a volunteer helping refugees.)
Preguntas frecuentes
10 preguntasNot exactly. '난민' is the formal, legal term for international refugees. '피난민' is a more general term for anyone escaping danger, often used for people displaced within their own country during a war or disaster.
No. A homeless person is '노숙자' (no-suk-ja). '난민' specifically implies displacement from one's country or a major disaster.
No, it is a neutral legal term. However, using it as slang (like 'cafe refugee') can be seen as insensitive if real refugees are present.
It is '난민 캠프' (nan-min kaem-peu) or '난민 수용소' (nan-min su-yong-so).
Rarely. They use '탈북민' (tal-buk-min). Under the South Korean constitution, North Koreans are technically citizens, so the term 'refugee' (which implies a foreigner) is avoided.
There isn't a single direct opposite, but '정착민' (settler) or '자국민' (citizen of the country) are often used in contrast.
Yes, '환경 난민' (environmental refugee) or '기후 난민' (climate refugee) are common terms now.
Common verbs include '수용하다' (accept), '지원하다' (support), and '발생하다' (to occur/be created).
Yes, '난민들' (nan-min-deul). Use this when referring to a group of refugees.
It's pronounced [nan-min]. Both syllables are short and have equal stress.
Ponte a prueba 200 preguntas
Write a sentence using '난민' and '도와주세요'.
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Translate: 'Many refugees live in the camp.'
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Write a sentence using '전쟁' and '난민'.
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Explain why people become refugees in Korean (1 sentence).
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Write a formal sentence about refugee policy.
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Translate: 'Protecting human rights is our duty.'
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Write a sentence using the slang '카페 난민'.
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Translate: 'He applied for refugee status.'
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Write a sentence about climate refugees.
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Translate: 'Refugees need humanitarian aid.'
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Write a sentence using '난민 인정률'.
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Translate: 'World Refugee Day is June 20th.'
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Write a sentence about North Korean defectors.
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Translate: 'We should not discriminate against refugees.'
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Write a sentence using '연대' (solidarity).
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Translate: 'The living conditions in the camp are poor.'
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Write a sentence using '수용소'.
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Translate: 'Refugees are looking for a safe country.'
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Write a sentence using '정치적 망명'.
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Translate: 'Refugees are people like us.'
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Pronounce the word '난민' aloud.
Read this aloud:
Dijiste:
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Say 'I help refugees' in Korean.
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Dijiste:
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Say 'Refugee camp' in Korean.
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Explain what a refugee is in simple Korean.
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Dijiste:
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Express your opinion on helping refugees.
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Dijiste:
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Discuss the causes of refugees (war, climate).
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Dijiste:
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Say 'World Refugee Day' in Korean.
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Dijiste:
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Ask someone if they have seen the news about refugees.
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Dijiste:
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Say 'Human rights are important' in Korean.
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Dijiste:
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Discuss the difference between '난민' and '이민자'.
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Dijiste:
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Say 'Refugee status' in Korean.
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Dijiste:
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Ask 'Where is the refugee camp?'
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Dijiste:
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Say 'Climate refugee' in Korean.
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Dijiste:
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Talk about a documentary you saw about refugees.
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Dijiste:
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Say 'We need a solution for the refugee problem.'
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Dijiste:
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Explain 'cafe refugee' slang.
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Dijiste:
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Say 'Refugees need food and water.'
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Dijiste:
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Say 'I want to volunteer for refugees.'
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Dijiste:
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Discuss the importance of international solidarity.
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Dijiste:
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Say 'Welcome the refugees.'
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Dijiste:
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Listen and write the word: [난민]
Listen and write the word: [수용소]
Listen and write the word: [인권]
Listen and write the word: [지위]
Listen and write the word: [망명]
Listen and identify the number of syllables in '난민'.
Listen to the sentence: '난민을 도와주세요.' What is the action?
Listen to the phrase: '난민 캠프'. What is the place?
Listen and write: [인도주의적]
Listen and write: [기후 난민]
Listen to: '전쟁 때문에 난민이 생겼어요.' What is the cause?
Listen and write: [심사 과정]
Listen and write: [탈북민]
Listen and write: [인정률]
Listen and write: [세계 난민의 날]
/ 200 correct
Perfect score!
Summary
The word '난민' (refugee) is an essential term for discussing international news and human rights in Korean. It carries a heavy emotional and legal weight. Example: '전쟁으로 인해 많은 난민이 발생했습니다' (Many refugees were created due to the war).
- 난민 (Nan-min) means 'refugee' in Korean, referring to people forced to flee their country due to danger or persecution.
- It is a formal and serious noun derived from Hanja, meaning 'people in hardship' (難 hardship + 民 people).
- Commonly used in news, law, and humanitarian contexts, it is distinct from 'immigrant' (이민자) which implies voluntary movement.
- In Korea, the word is central to debates on the Refugee Act and the treatment of North Korean defectors (탈북민).
Use in Formal Writing
When writing an essay about global issues, always use '난민' instead of '도망친 사람' (person who ran away). It sounds much more professional and accurate.
Be Mindful of History
Koreans have a history of being displaced (Korean War). Mentioning this can show you understand their perspective on the word '피난민'.
Subject Particles
Use '난민이' when introducing the fact that refugees exist. Use '난민은' when talking about refugees in general (e.g., 'Refugees are...').
Learn Compounds
Learning '난민 지위' and '난민 신청' together will help you understand 90% of news reports about this topic.
Ejemplo
전쟁으로 인해 많은 사람들이 난민이 되었다.
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선진화
B1El proceso de modernización para alcanzar el nivel de las naciones desarrolladas.
가중되다
B2La carga de trabajo se agravó después de que dos colegas renunciaran. (The workload was aggravated after two colleagues resigned.)
지향
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또한
A1Además; asimismo. Se utiliza para añadir información en contextos formales o escritos.
대안
B2Un plan, propuesta u opción que puede reemplazar a uno existente, generalmente para resolver un problema. El gobierno debe presentar una alternativa a esta ley.
비록
A1Aunque; a pesar de que. Se usa para conectar ideas opuestas.
도래
B1La llegada o el comienzo de un período, evento o era significativa.