Meaning
To capture an image using a camera.
Cultural Background
The 'Kimchi' pose. Instead of saying 'Cheese', Koreans often say 'Kimchi' because the 'i' sound at the end makes the mouth form a smile. The 'V-sign' (Peace sign) is the most common pose for photos in Korea, used by people of all ages to look friendly and cute. Privacy Laws. Korea has very strict laws regarding the 'right to one's own face' (초상권). Taking photos of strangers in public and posting them online can lead to lawsuits. Cafe Culture. Many cafes are designed specifically for photography, with 'photo zones' and perfect lighting to help customers get their 'Insaeng-shot'. Manner Mode. Most smartphones sold in Korea have a mandatory shutter sound that cannot be turned off to prevent 'molka' (hidden camera) crimes.
Drop the particle
In casual speech, just say '사진 찍어' instead of '사진을 찍어'.
Privacy First
Always ask '찍어도 돼요?' before taking photos of people or inside private shops.
Meaning
To capture an image using a camera.
Drop the particle
In casual speech, just say '사진 찍어' instead of '사진을 찍어'.
Privacy First
Always ask '찍어도 돼요?' before taking photos of people or inside private shops.
The 'Service' Shot
If someone asks you to take a photo, take 3-4 shots from different angles. They will appreciate it!
Say Kimchi!
Saying 'Kimchi' makes your smile look more natural in photos.
Medical usage
Remember that '찍다' is also used for X-rays and MRIs at the hospital.
Test Yourself
Choose the correct verb to complete the sentence: '공원에서 {사진|寫眞}을 _______.'
공원에서 {사진|寫眞}을 _______.
The standard verb for taking a photo is '찍다'.
Fill in the blank to ask for a favor politely.
{사진|寫眞} 좀 _______ 주세요.
The pattern 'V-아/어 주다' is used for favors. '찍다' becomes '찍어'.
Match the phrase to the situation.
You want to take a selfie with a friend.
'셀카' is the Korean word for selfie.
Complete the dialogue.
A: 여기서 {사진|寫眞}을 찍어도 돼요? B: 아니요, 여기는 _______.
If the answer is 'No' (아니요), you should use the negative command '지 마세요'.
Match the Korean phrase with its English meaning.
1. 인생샷 2. 인증샷 3. 단체 사진
These are common variations of photo types in Korea.
🎉 Score: /5
Visual Learning Aids
Take vs. Jjik-da
Practice Bank
5 exercises공원에서 {사진|寫眞}을 _______.
The standard verb for taking a photo is '찍다'.
{사진|寫眞} 좀 _______ 주세요.
The pattern 'V-아/어 주다' is used for favors. '찍다' becomes '찍어'.
You want to take a selfie with a friend.
'셀카' is the Korean word for selfie.
A: 여기서 {사진|寫眞}을 찍어도 돼요? B: 아니요, 여기는 _______.
If the answer is 'No' (아니요), you should use the negative command '지 마세요'.
Match each item on the left with its pair on the right:
These are common variations of photo types in Korea.
🎉 Score: /5
Frequently Asked Questions
12 questionsYes, but it's better to say '동영상을 찍다' to be specific.
'촬영하다' is more formal and often used for professional filming or studio shoots.
Say '죄송하지만 사진 좀 찍어 주시겠어요?'
Yes, but '셀카를 찍다' is more common for selfies.
Because '찍다' describes the physical action of pressing the shutter, like a stamp.
No, for drawing use '그림을 그리다'.
It means 'the best photo of your life'.
In formal writing, yes. In casual speech, it's often dropped.
Generally yes, but avoid taking photos where other people's faces are clearly visible.
Say '사진 찍고 있어요'.
A 'proof shot' taken to show you were somewhere or did something.
No, for that use '복사하다'.
Related Phrases
셀카를 찍다
specialized formTo take a selfie
동영상을 찍다
similarTo record a video
{촬영|撮影}하다
synonymTo film/shoot
인증샷을 남기다
specialized formTo leave a proof shot
포즈를 취하다
builds onTo strike a pose
{사진|寫眞}이 잘 나오다
similarTo come out well in a photo
