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수저통

A2 noun #9,000 most common 10 min read

수저통

sujeotong Top 9,000

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips 수저통 in 30 Seconds

Explanation 수저통 in your Level:

At the A1 level, you only need to know that 수저통 (sujeotong) is the place where you find spoons and chopsticks. Think of it as 'the spoon box'. In Korea, when you sit down to eat, you don't always get your utensils from a waiter. Instead, you look for the 수저통 on the table. It is usually a small plastic or metal container. You might hear someone say, '수저통 어디 있어요?' (Where is the cutlery holder?). This is a very useful word because it helps you get what you need to start eating! You can remember it by breaking it down: 'sujeo' (spoon/chopsticks) + 'tong' (box). It's a simple, everyday object found in every kitchen and restaurant. At this level, just focus on recognizing the word and knowing it's related to eating.

At the A2 level, you should be able to use 수저통 in basic sentences with common verbs. You are moving beyond just naming the object to describing actions. For example, you can say '수저통에 숟가락을 넣어요' (I put the spoon in the holder) or '수저통에서 젓가락을 꺼내요' (I take chopsticks out of the holder). You should also recognize that 수저통 is a compound noun. Understanding how 'tong' (container) works as a suffix will help you learn other words like 'piltong' (pencil case). You might also encounter different types of holders, like those made of wood (namu) or plastic (peullaseutik). Practice asking for one in a restaurant politely using '-jusseyo'.

At the B1 level, you can discuss the 수저통 in the context of household chores and organization. You might describe your kitchen cleaning routine: '설거지 후에 수저통을 깨끗이 닦았어요' (I wiped the cutlery holder clean after doing the dishes). You can also use more descriptive adjectives and adverbs. At this stage, you should be comfortable with the social etiquette surrounding the 수저통 in Korea—usually, the youngest person at the table opens the 수저통 and hands out the utensils to the elders. This word becomes part of your understanding of Korean social dynamics. You might also start noticing more specialized versions, like '살균 수저통' (sterilizing holder), and be able to explain why they are used (for hygiene/위생).

At the B2 level, you can use 수저통 in more complex grammatical structures and discuss it as a cultural element. You might compare Korean dining habits with those of other cultures, noting how the presence of a 수저통 on every table facilitates a self-service culture in many Korean restaurants. You can use the word in passive constructions or complex sentences, such as '식탁 한쪽 구석에 놓여 있는 수저통은 오래된 나무로 만들어졌다' (The cutlery holder placed in a corner of the table was made of old wood). You should also be aware of the different registers; for instance, using '수납함' (storage box) in a formal interior design context instead of the more casual 'tong'. Your vocabulary should now include terms for the maintenance of the holder, such as '물 빠짐' (drainage).

At the C1 level, your understanding of 수저통 includes its historical and design evolution. You can discuss how the material of the 수저통—from traditional ceramics and lacquered wood to modern stainless steel and UV-LED sterilizers—reflects changes in Korean society's focus on health, technology, and aesthetics. You can use the word in idiomatic or metaphorical contexts if they arise, and you understand the subtle nuances between 'sujeotong', 'sujeojip', and 'sikgiham'. You might read articles about kitchen organization trends where 수저통 is discussed as a design object that balances functionality with 'minimal life' principles. Your speech should be fluid, allowing you to explain the mechanics of a table-side drawer 수저통 to someone unfamiliar with Korean restaurants.

At the C2 level, you possess a near-native command of the word 수저통 and its place in the broader linguistic landscape. You can engage in deep conversations about the industrial design of kitchenware, discussing the ergonomic features of different 수저통 models or the environmental impact of plastic versus metal holders. You might analyze the word's role in literature or film as a symbol of domesticity or the mundane reality of daily life. You understand the historical shift from individual utensil cases used by the nobility to the communal 수저통 seen in modern mass-dining. At this level, the word is not just a label for an object, but a small piece of a large cultural and historical puzzle that you can articulate with precision, nuance, and sophisticated vocabulary.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

수저통 in 30 Seconds

A sujeotong is a container for spoons and chopsticks.
It is found on tables in homes and restaurants.
Common materials include wood, plastic, and stainless steel.
It is a key part of Korean dining etiquette and organization.

The Korean word 수저통 (sujeotong) is an indispensable noun in the daily life of anyone living in or visiting Korea. At its most basic level, it refers to a container, box, or holder used specifically for storing sujeo—the collective term for spoons (숟가락) and chopsticks (젓가락). Unlike Western dining setups where utensils might be laid out individually on a napkin or kept in a broad cutlery drawer, Korean culture treats the spoon and chopsticks as a unified pair. This pairing is so fundamental that the word 수저 itself is a portmanteau of the first syllables of 'spoon' (수) and 'chopsticks' (저). Therefore, a 수저통 is the dedicated home for these two essential tools.

The Etymology: The word is composed of 수저 (sujeo) and 통 (tong), where 'tong' signifies a bucket, box, or container. It is a highly productive suffix in Korean, seen in words like '쓰레기통' (trash can) or '필통' (pencil case).
Cultural Significance: In a Korean household, the sujeotong is often placed in the center of the table or near the sink. In restaurants, you will frequently find a built-in version—a drawer on the side of the table that you pull out to find neatly organized utensils. This reflects the communal and efficient nature of Korean dining.

"식탁 위에 있는 수저통에서 숟가락 좀 꺼내 줄래?" (Could you take a spoon out of the cutlery holder on the table?)

A common request during meal preparation at home.

When you walk into a traditional Korean restaurant, the first thing you might look for is the 수저통. Sometimes it is a vertical cylinder standing on the table, made of stainless steel or wood. Other times, it is a horizontal plastic box with a lid to maintain hygiene. The act of opening the 수저통 and laying out the utensils for your dining companions is a subtle but important social etiquette in Korea, usually performed by the youngest person or the one closest to the container as a sign of respect and helpfulness.

"요즘 식당들은 테이블 옆에 수저통이 붙어 있어서 편해요." (These days, restaurants are convenient because the cutlery holders are attached to the side of the tables.)

Material Variations: You will encounter 나무 수저통 (wooden holders) in traditional settings, which offer a warm, rustic aesthetic. In contrast, 스테인리스 수저통 (stainless steel holders) are the gold standard for hygiene in commercial kitchens because they are easy to sterilize.

In terms of maintenance, the 수저통 must be kept dry. Many modern designs include drainage holes at the bottom or a removable drip tray to prevent water from pooling, which could lead to bacterial growth or rust. When Koreans shop for kitchenware, they look for a sujeotong that is not only functional but also matches the decor of their kitchen, as it is a highly visible item. Whether it's a sleek ceramic piece or a high-tech UV-sterilizing box, the 수저통 remains a central component of the Korean 'table-scape'.

"이 수저통은 디자인이 아주 깔끔하네요." (The design of this cutlery holder is very clean/sleek.)

Using 수저통 in a sentence is relatively straightforward as it functions as a standard noun. However, to sound like a native speaker, you should pair it with the correct particles and verbs that describe common actions related to cutlery organization. The most frequent verbs you will use are 넣다 (to put in), 꺼내다 (to take out), 비우다 (to empty), and 닦다 (to wipe/clean).

Placement and Movement: When talking about where the holder is, use the location particle -에. For example, "수저통에 숟가락이 없어요" (There are no spoons in the cutlery holder). If you are moving items into it, the same particle applies: "수저를 수저통에 넣으세요" (Put the cutlery in the holder).

"설거지가 끝나면 물기를 닦아서 수저통에 정리해 주세요." (Once the dishes are done, wipe the moisture off and organize them in the cutlery holder.)

In a restaurant setting, you might need to ask for one if it's missing from your table. You could say, "여기 수저통 좀 주시겠어요?" (Could we have a cutlery holder here, please?). Or, if the container is empty, you might inform the staff: "수저통이 비어 있어요" (The cutlery holder is empty). These are practical, everyday phrases that use the word in its natural context.

"새로 산 수저통을 주방 선반 위에 두었어요." (I placed the newly bought cutlery holder on the kitchen shelf.)

Descriptive Usage: You can use adjectives like 무거운 (heavy), 가벼운 (light), or 예쁜 (pretty) to describe the holder. For example, "이 나무 수저통은 디자인이 정말 예뻐요" (This wooden cutlery holder has a really pretty design).

For more advanced usage, you might discuss the functionality of the item. "이 수저통은 물 빠짐 기능이 있어서 위생적이에요" (This cutlery holder is hygienic because it has a drainage function). Here, '위생적' (hygienic) and '물 빠짐' (water drainage) are excellent vocabulary words to pair with 수저통 when discussing kitchen appliances or home goods.

"수저통 바닥에 물이 고이지 않게 자주 비워주세요." (Please empty the cutlery holder frequently so that water doesn't collect at the bottom.)

Finally, consider the social context of 'setting the table'. In a sentence like "수저통에서 숟가락을 꺼내서 인원수대로 놓아라" (Take the spoons out of the holder and set them according to the number of people), the word 수저통 acts as the starting point for a sequence of cultural actions. Mastering these sentence patterns will help you navigate Korean dining environments with ease and confidence.

The word 수저통 is a staple of everyday Korean conversation, appearing in various environments ranging from domestic settings to commercial ones. If you are living with a Korean family, you will hear it every single day during meal times. Parents often instruct their children to help with the table by saying, "수저통에서 수저 좀 꺼내서 놓아라" (Take the cutlery out of the holder and set it). In this context, it is a word associated with family cooperation and daily chores.

In Restaurants (식당): This is perhaps the most common place for a learner to encounter the word. When a waiter brings a new set of utensils, or when you are looking for them yourself, 수저통 is the term used. You might hear a server say, "수저는 테이블 옆 수저통에 있습니다" (The cutlery is in the holder on the side of the table).

"저기요, 이 테이블 수저통에 젓가락이 하나도 없어요." (Excuse me, there aren't any chopsticks in this table's cutlery holder.)

Another common location is at a 주방용품점 (kitchenware store) or the home goods section of a department store like Daiso or E-Mart. You will see aisles labeled with 수저통, and sales associates will use the word to describe various models. They might highlight features like "살균 수저통" (sterilizing cutlery holder), which uses UV light to kill bacteria—a popular item in health-conscious Korean households.

"캠핑 갈 때 가져갈 휴대용 수저통을 샀어요." (I bought a portable cutlery holder to take when going camping.)

On Korean variety shows or cooking programs (often called 'Mukbang' or 'Cook-bang'), you'll see the 수저통 as part of the set design. Celebrities might comment on the cleanliness or the unique style of a restaurant's 수저통 as a way to judge the overall quality of the establishment. It's a small detail that speaks volumes about the restaurant's attention to hygiene and hospitality.

In Boarding Houses (고시원/자취방): For students living in shared housing, the 수저통 is often a personal item. You might hear roommates discussing who left their holder in the shared kitchen: "이 파란색 수저통 누구 거예요?" (Whose blue cutlery holder is this?).

In summary, whether you are dining out, shopping for your home, or watching Korean media, 수저통 is a word that anchors you in the practical realities of Korean life. It is not just a vocabulary word; it is a gateway to understanding the Korean emphasis on shared meals and organized living.

While 수저통 is a relatively simple compound noun, English speakers and learners of Korean often make a few specific errors. The most common mistake is a conceptual one: confusing a 수저통 with a general cutlery drawer or a Western-style silverware tray. In Korean, a 'drawer' is 서랍. While a 수저통 can be inside a drawer, the word itself refers specifically to the container holding the utensils, not the furniture piece.

Spelling and Pronunciation: Some learners mistakenly write it as '수저동' or '수저단'. Remember that 통 (tong) is the standard suffix for containers. Pronunciation-wise, ensure you don't over-emphasize the 'r' sound in 'jeo'; it should be a soft, flat vowel sound. Also, because of the 'ㄹ' in '숟가락', some beginners try to force an 'l' sound into 'sujeo', which is incorrect.

"수저박스에 넣어주세요." (Incorrect: 'Sujeo-box')
"수저통에 넣어주세요." (Correct)

Another mistake involves the scope of the word. Some learners use 수저통 to refer to a pencil holder or a tool box because they look similar. However, 수저통 is strictly for dining utensils. For pencils, you must use 필통 (piltong), and for tools, 공구함 (gongguham). Using the wrong 'tong' word can lead to confusion, though people will likely understand you from the context.

"수저통이들이 많아요." (Incorrect pluralization)
"수저통이 여러 개 있어요." (Correct: There are several cutlery holders.)

Register and Formality: While 수저통 is a neutral word, using it without polite verb endings in a restaurant can sound rude. Instead of saying "수저통 줘" (Give me the sujeotong), always use "수저통 좀 주세요" or "수저통 좀 주시겠어요?" to maintain social harmony.

Lastly, don't confuse 수저통 with 수저집 (sujeojip). A sujeojip is usually a paper or cloth sleeve for a single set of utensils, whereas a 수저통 is the larger container for many sets. Using 'sujeotong' when you mean a single paper sleeve might result in the waiter bringing you a whole box of utensils instead of just one set!

To expand your Korean vocabulary, it is helpful to look at words related to 수저통. While 수저통 is the most common term, there are variations and related items that you might encounter depending on the level of formality or the specific type of container being used.

수저집 (Sujeojip): This refers to a small pouch or paper sleeve for a single set of a spoon and chopsticks. You see these at upscale restaurants or when getting takeout. Jip (집) here means 'house' or 'case'.
식기함 (Sikgiham): A more formal or comprehensive term. 식기 (sikgi) means tableware/dishes, and 함 (ham) means a box. This might refer to a larger storage unit that holds not just spoons but also plates and bowls.
커틀러리 홀더 (Cutlery Holder): In modern, western-style cafes or trendy shops, you might see the English loanword transliterated. It sounds more 'hip' but is less common than the traditional 수저통.

"고급 한정식집에서는 수저를 수저집에 넣어서 줍니다." (In high-end traditional Korean restaurants, they give you cutlery in a paper sleeve.)

When comparing 수저통 and 수저집, the main difference is capacity and usage. A 수저통 is for bulk storage and self-service, while a 수저집 is for individual presentation. If you are at a camping site, you might use a 휴대용 수저 케이스 (portable cutlery case), which is a smaller, travel-friendly version of a 수저통.

"주방을 깔끔하게 정리하려면 수저 수납함을 활용해 보세요." (Try using a cutlery storage box to organize your kitchen neatly.)

In conclusion, while 수저통 is your 'go-to' word for 90% of situations, knowing these alternatives allows you to describe different settings—from a quick meal at a gimbap shop to a fancy dinner at a Hanjeongsik restaurant—with precision and cultural awareness.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

In ancient times, 'sujeo' was often made of bronze or silver to detect poison in food. The container was a symbol of the household's health and safety.

Pronunciation Guide

UK su.dʑʌ.tʰoŋ

US su.dʒʌ.tɔŋ

The stress is balanced across all three syllables, but a slight emphasis is often placed on the first syllable '수'.

Rhymes With

필통 (Piltong) 전통 (Jeontong) 대통 (Daetong) 보통 (Botong) 고통 (Gotong) 소통 (Sotong) 쓰레기통 (Sseuregitong) 반찬통 (Banchan-tong)

Common Errors

Pronouncing 'su' as 'soo-ee'.
Making the 'j' in 'jeo' too sharp like a 'z'.
Pronouncing 'tong' like 'tongue'.
Adding an 'r' sound to 'jeo' (e.g., 'jer').
Failing to distinguish the aspirated 't' in 'tong'.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 2/5

Easy to recognize as it consists of common nouns.

Writing 3/5

Spelling is straightforward, but remember the 'ㅇ' ending.

Speaking 2/5

Pronunciation is simple for English speakers.

Listening 3/5

Can be confused with other 'tong' words in noisy restaurants.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

숟가락 젓가락 통 식탁 넣다

Learn Next

설거지 정리하다 위생 주방용품 식기세척기

Advanced

수납장 살균기 배수구 인테리어 생활용품

Grammar to Know

Compound Nouns (N+N)

수저 (Cutlery) + 통 (Box) = 수저통

Location Particle -에

수저통에 (In the cutlery holder)

Source Particle -에서

수저통에서 (From the cutlery holder)

Object Marker -을

수저통을 (Object of the sentence)

Subject Marker -이

수저통이 (Subject of the sentence)

Examples by Level

수저통은 어디에 있어요?

Where is the cutlery holder?

Simple question with subject marker -은.

이것은 수저통입니다.

This is a cutlery holder.

Standard formal ending -입니다.

수저통에 숟가락이 있어요.

There is a spoon in the cutlery holder.

Location particle -에 followed by exist verb 있어요.

수저통이 작아요.

The cutlery holder is small.

Adjective usage with subject marker -이.

수저통을 주세요.

Please give me the cutlery holder.

Object marker -을 with the request verb 주세요.

식탁 위에 수저통이 있어요.

There is a cutlery holder on the table.

Compound location phrase '식탁 위' (on the table).

수저통에 젓가락도 있어요.

There are also chopsticks in the cutlery holder.

Particle -도 meaning 'also'.

수저통이 예뻐요.

The cutlery holder is pretty.

Simple descriptive sentence.

수저통에서 숟가락을 두 개 꺼내세요.

Take two spoons out of the cutlery holder.

Source particle -에서 and imperative -세요.

수저를 씻어서 수저통에 넣었어요.

I washed the cutlery and put it in the holder.

Sequential action marker -어서.

나무로 만든 수저통을 샀어요.

I bought a cutlery holder made of wood.

Noun modifying clause '나무로 만든' (made of wood).

수저통이 너무 더러워요.

The cutlery holder is too dirty.

Adverb '너무' (too/very).

이 수저통은 뚜껑이 없어요.

This cutlery holder doesn't have a lid.

Negative existence '없어요'.

수저통을 식탁 가운데에 놓아 주세요.

Please place the cutlery holder in the middle of the table.

Auxiliary verb -아/어 주다 for a favor.

수저통 안에 뭐가 들어 있어요?

What is inside the cutlery holder?

Location noun '안' (inside).

식당 테이블 옆에 수저통이 있어요.

There is a cutlery holder on the side of the restaurant table.

Specific location '옆' (side).

수저통 바닥에 물이 고이지 않게 하세요.

Make sure water doesn't collect at the bottom of the cutlery holder.

Negative purpose structure '-지 않게'.

이 수저통은 디자인이 심플해서 마음에 들어요.

I like this cutlery holder because the design is simple.

Reasoning marker -어서 and idiom '마음에 들다'.

수저통을 정기적으로 소독하는 것이 좋습니다.

It is good to regularly disinfect the cutlery holder.

Noun phrase '하는 것' and adverb '정기적으로'.

손님이 오기 전에 수저통을 채워 두세요.

Fill up the cutlery holder before the guests arrive.

Time clause '-기 전에' and prepared state '-어 두다'.

수저통을 떨어뜨려서 깨졌어요.

I dropped the cutlery holder and it broke.

Causality marker -어서 with intransitive verb '깨지다'.

휴대용 수저통을 챙겨서 캠핑을 갔어요.

I packed a portable cutlery holder and went camping.

Compound noun '휴대용 수저통'.

수저통에 숟가락과 젓가락을 따로 정리했어요.

I organized the spoons and chopsticks separately in the holder.

Adverb '따로' (separately).

이 수저통은 물 빠짐 구멍이 있어서 편리해요.

This cutlery holder is convenient because it has drainage holes.

Compound noun '물 빠짐 구멍' (drainage hole).

수저통의 위생 상태는 식당의 첫인상을 결정합니다.

The hygiene of the cutlery holder determines the restaurant's first impression.

Possessive -의 and formal verb '결정합니다'.

공간을 절약하기 위해 테이블 일체형 수저통을 설치했습니다.

To save space, we installed an integrated table-type cutlery holder.

Purpose marker '-기 위해' and technical term '일체형'.

수저통에 묻은 얼룩을 깨끗이 지웠어요.

I thoroughly wiped away the stains on the cutlery holder.

Past tense noun modifier '-ㄴ/은' modifying '얼룩'.

도자기로 된 수저통은 깨지기 쉬우니 조심하세요.

Ceramic cutlery holders break easily, so be careful.

Tendency marker '-기 쉽다'.

수저통을 비우고 나서 깨끗한 행주로 닦았습니다.

After emptying the cutlery holder, I wiped it with a clean cloth.

Sequential marker '-고 나서'.

요즘은 UV 살균 기능이 있는 수저통이 인기입니다.

These days, cutlery holders with UV sterilization functions are popular.

Noun modifying clause with '기능' (function).

수저통이 꽉 차 있어서 숟가락을 꺼내기가 힘들어요.

The cutlery holder is so full that it's hard to take out a spoon.

State marker '-어 있다' and difficulty marker '-기가 힘들다'.

전통적인 문양이 새겨진 수저통을 선물로 받았어요.

I received a cutlery holder engraved with traditional patterns as a gift.

Passive participle '새겨진' (engraved).

수저통 하나만 봐도 그 집의 살림 솜씨를 알 수 있다.

You can tell a household's management skills just by looking at their cutlery holder.

Conditional marker '-만 봐도' (even just looking at).

플라스틱 수저통은 환경 호르몬 문제로 기피하는 추세입니다.

There is a trend of avoiding plastic cutlery holders due to environmental hormone issues.

Reasoning particle '-로' and noun '추세' (trend).

수저통의 배수 구조가 잘못되면 세균 번식의 원인이 됩니다.

If the drainage structure of the cutlery holder is faulty, it causes bacterial growth.

Conditional '-면' and complex noun '세균 번식'.

인테리어의 통일감을 위해 수저통의 색상을 맞췄습니다.

I matched the color of the cutlery holder for a sense of interior unity.

Abstract noun '통일감' (sense of unity).

이 수저통은 칸막이가 조절 가능해서 실용적입니다.

This cutlery holder is practical because the dividers are adjustable.

Noun '칸막이' (divider) and suffix '-가능하다'.

식당의 수저통 관리는 식품 위생법 준수의 기본입니다.

Managing cutlery holders in restaurants is the basis of complying with food hygiene laws.

Formal noun '준수' (compliance).

오래된 수저통에는 가족의 수많은 식사 시간이 담겨 있다.

An old cutlery holder contains the memories of a family's countless mealtimes.

Metaphorical use of '담겨 있다' (to be contained/imbued).

수저통을 고를 때는 세척의 용이성을 최우선으로 고려해야 합니다.

When choosing a cutlery holder, the ease of cleaning must be the top priority.

Noun '용이성' (ease) and '최우선' (top priority).

수저통의 변천사는 한국 식문화의 근대화 과정을 투영한다.

The history of the cutlery holder reflects the modernization process of Korean food culture.

Academic verb '투영하다' (to project/reflect).

공동체 의식이 강한 한국에서는 수저통을 공유하는 것이 자연스럽다.

In Korea, where community spirit is strong, sharing a cutlery holder is natural.

Adjective clause '강한' and abstract concept '공동체 의식'.

미니멀리즘의 확산으로 수저통조차 없애는 가구가 늘고 있다.

With the spread of minimalism, more households are getting rid of even their cutlery holders.

Particle '-조차' (even) and '확산' (spread).

수저통의 소재에 따른 항균 효과의 차이를 분석한 논문이 있다.

There is a thesis analyzing the difference in antibacterial effects according to the material of the cutlery holder.

Structure '-에 따른' (according to).

과거의 수저통은 단순한 수납 도구를 넘어 가문의 위상을 상징하기도 했다.

In the past, the cutlery holder went beyond a simple storage tool and symbolized the family's status.

Expression '-을 넘어' (beyond).

현대 식당의 수저통은 효율성과 위생이라는 두 마리 토끼를 잡아야 한다.

Modern restaurant cutlery holders must catch 'two rabbits': efficiency and hygiene.

Idiom '두 마리 토끼를 잡다' (kill two birds with one stone).

수저통 내부의 습기 조절 실패는 치명적인 위생 사고로 이어질 수 있다.

Failure to control moisture inside the cutlery holder can lead to fatal hygiene accidents.

Complex noun phrase '습기 조절 실패'.

장인의 손길이 닿은 수공예 수저통은 그 자체로 하나의 예술품이다.

A handcrafted cutlery holder touched by a master's hand is a work of art in itself.

Noun '예술품' (work of art).

Common Collocations

수저통을 비우다

수저통에 넣다

나무 수저통

스테인리스 수저통

살균 수저통

수저통이 비다

휴대용 수저통

수저통을 닦다

수저통 위치

일체형 수저통

Common Phrases

수저통 좀 주세요

— A polite request for the cutlery holder in a restaurant.

저기요, 여기 수저통 좀 주세요.

수저통 어디 있어요?

— Asking for the location of the utensil holder.

엄마, 수저통 어디 있어요?

수저통이 꽉 찼어요

— Indicating the holder is full.

수저통이 꽉 찼으니 그만 넣으세요.

수저통을 정리하다

— To organize the cutlery holder.

주말에 수저통을 깨끗하게 정리했어요.

수저통에 물이 고이다

— Water collecting at the bottom of the holder.

수저통에 물이 고이지 않게 조심하세요.

수저통에서 꺼내다

— To take something out of the holder.

수저통에서 젓가락을 꺼냈어요.

수저통을 새로 사다

— To buy a new cutlery holder.

주방 분위기를 바꾸려고 수저통을 새로 샀어요.

수저통 뚜껑을 닫다

— To close the lid of the holder.

먼지가 안 들어가게 수저통 뚜껑을 닫으세요.

수저통이 고장 나다

— The holder (usually a mechanical or drawer type) is broken.

테이블 옆 수저통이 고장 났어요.

수저통을 비치하다

— To provide/place a cutlery holder (formal).

각 테이블마다 수저통을 비치했습니다.

Often Confused With

수저통 vs 필통

A pencil case. Both end in 'tong', but 'pil' is for writing instruments.

수저통 vs 쓰레기통

A trash can. Don't confuse the 'tong' suffix and put utensils in the wrong box!

수저통 vs 수저집

A paper/cloth sleeve for one set of utensils, not the container for many.

Idioms & Expressions

"수저통을 뒤집다"

— To mess up the organization completely; to search frantically.

잃어버린 반지를 찾으려고 수저통을 뒤집었어요.

Informal

"수저통 신세"

— Being stuck in a place waiting to be used (metaphorical).

나는 하루 종일 사무실에서 수저통 신세야.

Slang/Metaphorical

"수저통에 숟가락 얹기"

— Adding something small to an already completed set (similar to 'jumping on the bandwagon').

다 된 일에 수저통에 숟가락 얹는 격이네요.

Informal

"수저통이 마를 날이 없다"

— The holder is always wet because it's used so much (busy household).

우리 집은 식구가 많아서 수저통이 마를 날이 없어요.

Neutral

"수저통을 비워야 새 수저가 들어온다"

— One must let go of the old to welcome the new.

마음을 비우세요. 수저통을 비워야 새 수저가 들어오는 법입니다.

Literary

"수저통만 봐도 배부르다"

— Feeling satisfied just by seeing the tools for a meal (anticipation).

맛있는 음식을 기다리니 수저통만 봐도 배부르네요.

Informal

"수저통 속의 젓가락"

— Two things that are always together.

그 둘은 수저통 속의 젓가락처럼 붙어 다녀요.

Informal

"수저통을 닦는 마음"

— A state of mind focused on small, humble tasks to find peace.

복잡할 때는 수저통을 닦는 마음으로 사세요.

Philosophical

"수저통이 넘치면 쏟아진다"

— Greed or overfilling leads to failure.

욕심부리지 마세요. 수저통이 넘치면 쏟아집니다.

Proverbial

"수저통의 주인"

— The person who controls the meal or the household.

이 집 수저통의 주인은 할머니이십니다.

Honorific

Easily Confused

수저통 vs 서랍

Both store utensils.

Seorap is a drawer (furniture), while sujeotong is the specific container.

서랍 안에 수저통이 있어요.

수저통 vs 찬장

Both relate to kitchen storage.

Chanjang is a cupboard/cabinet, much larger than a sujeotong.

찬장에서 수저통을 꺼내세요.

수저통 vs 식기건조대

Both hold wet utensils.

Sikgi-geonjodae is a dish drying rack for all dishes, not just cutlery.

건조대에서 수저를 꺼내 수저통에 넣으세요.

수저통 vs 함

Both mean box.

Ham is usually a more formal, often flat-topped box (like a jewelry box).

보석함과 수저통은 다릅니다.

수저통 vs 바구니

Both are containers.

Baguni is a basket (woven), whereas tong is a solid box/bucket.

수저를 바구니가 아닌 수저통에 담으세요.

Sentence Patterns

[Place]에 수저통이 있어요.

식탁 위에 수저통이 있어요.

수저통에서 [Item]을/를 꺼내세요.

수저통에서 숟가락을 꺼내세요.

수저통을 [Adverb] 닦으세요.

수저통을 깨끗이 닦으세요.

수저통에 [Item]이/가 없어요.

수저통에 젓가락이 없어요.

[Material]로 된 수저통을 사다.

나무로 된 수저통을 샀어요.

수저통에 [Noun] 기능이 있다.

수저통에 살균 기능이 있어요.

수저통의 [Noun]을/를 고려하다.

수저통의 디자인을 고려해야 합니다.

수저통은 [Noun]의 상징이다.

수저통은 한국 식문화의 상징이다.

Word Family

Nouns

수저 (cutlery)

숟가락 (spoon)

젓가락 (chopsticks)

통 (container)

수저함 (cutlery box)

Verbs

(수저를) 넣다 (to put in)

(수저를) 꺼내다 (to take out)

(수저통을) 닦다 (to wipe)

Adjectives

깨끗한 (clean)

더러운 (dirty)

편리한 (convenient)

식탁 (dining table)

주방 (kitchen)

설거지 (dishwashing)

위생 (hygiene)

식사 (meal)

How to Use It

frequency

Very high in daily life and restaurant settings.

Common Mistakes

Using '수저통' for a trash can. → 쓰레기통
Both are 'tong', but 'sujeo' is for food tools, 'sseuregi' is for trash.
Writing '수저동'. → 수저통
The suffix for container is always '통' (tong) with a strong 't' sound.
Thinking it means 'spoon'. → 숟가락
Sujeotong is the container. Sujeo is the spoon/chopstick set. Sudgarak is just the spoon.
Saying '수저통을 먹다'. → 수저통에서 꺼내 먹다
You don't eat the holder; you take tools from it to eat food.
Confusing '수저통' with '수저집'. → 수저통
Sujeotong is the big container for many sets; sujeojip is a single sleeve.

Tips

Setting the Table

When taking utensils from the sujeotong for others, hold the middle or the top of the spoon/chopsticks, not the part that goes in the mouth.

Keep it Dry

Always make sure the sujeotong is dry. Damp environments in the box can lead to bacteria growth, which is why many have drainage holes.

Separate Your Tools

If your sujeotong has dividers, keep spoons in one section and chopsticks in another to make it easier for people to grab a set.

Material Matters

Stainless steel is best for easy cleaning, while wood provides a traditional aesthetic but requires more careful drying.

The Hidden Drawer

In many modern Korean BBQ places, the sujeotong is a drawer hidden under the table edge. Don't be afraid to feel around for a handle!

Suffix -Tong

Learn 'tong' as a general word for container. It will help you understand 'sseuregitong' (trash), 'piltong' (pencils), and 'mul-tong' (water bottle).

Particles

Remember to use 'e-seo' when taking things OUT of the sujeotong and 'e' when putting things INTO it.

Respect

It's a nice gesture to open the sujeotong and set the table for everyone before the food arrives.

Regular Cleaning

Clean the inside of your sujeotong at least once a week, as dust and moisture tend to accumulate at the bottom.

Housewarming

A high-quality ceramic or designer sujeotong makes a practical and thoughtful housewarming gift in Korea.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'Su' (Spoon) + 'Jeo' (Chopsticks) + 'Tong' (Tank/Container). It's the 'Spoon-Chopstick-Tank'.

Visual Association

Picture a vertical cylinder on a restaurant table filled with shiny metal sticks and spoons.

Word Web

Spoon Chopstick Box Table Kitchen Clean Restaurant Drawer

Challenge

Try to spot the 'sujeotong' in every Korean drama dining scene you watch today.

Word Origin

A compound of the Sino-Korean word '수저' (匙箸 - spoon and chopsticks) and the native/Sino-Korean suffix '통' (桶 - bucket/container).

Original meaning: A container for the primary eating tools of the Korean people.

Koreanic (with heavy Hanja influence).

Cultural Context

Always ensure the sujeo you take out of a communal holder is clean. Touching other people's utensils while reaching into the holder is considered impolite.

Unlike the Western 'cutlery tray' hidden in a drawer, the 'sujeotong' is often a visible, vertical centerpiece on the table.

Featured in various 'K-Food' documentaries. A common prop in 'Reply 1988' kitchen scenes. Mentioned in etiquette guides for foreigners.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

At a Restaurant

수저통이 어디 있어요?
수저통에 젓가락이 없어요.
수저통 좀 채워 주세요.
테이블 옆에 수저통이 있네요.

In the Kitchen

수저통 좀 닦아 줄래?
수저를 수저통에 정리해.
새 수저통을 사야겠어.
수저통 바닥에 물이 많아.

Shopping

이 수저통 얼마예요?
디자인이 예쁜 수저통 추천해 주세요.
살균 기능 있는 수저통 있어요?
나무로 된 수저통인가요?

Camping

휴대용 수저통 챙겼어?
수저통을 차에 두고 왔네.
캠핑용 수저통은 가벼워야 해.
수저통 안에 숟가락 두 개 있어.

Doing Chores

수저통 비우고 씻어라.
수저통 물기 좀 닦아.
수저통에 숟가락 거꾸로 넣지 마.
수저통 위치 좀 옮길까?

Conversation Starters

"집에서 어떤 수저통 쓰세요? 나무예요, 아니면 스텐이에요?"

"식당 갔을 때 수저통이 테이블 옆에 있으면 편하지 않나요?"

"수저통 청소는 얼마나 자주 하세요?"

"요즘 유행하는 살균 수저통에 대해 어떻게 생각하세요?"

"예쁜 수저통을 보면 사고 싶은 마음이 생기나요?"

Journal Prompts

오늘 식당에서 본 수저통의 디자인에 대해 묘사해 보세요.

우리 집 주방에 있는 수저통에는 무엇이 들어 있는지 써 보세요.

수저통을 정리하면서 느낀 점이나 생각나는 추억이 있나요?

새로운 수저통을 산다면 어떤 소재와 기능을 선택하고 싶나요?

한국 식당의 수저통 문화가 처음에는 어색했나요? 지금은 어떤가요?

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

'Sujeo' refers to the set of a spoon and chopsticks themselves. 'Sujeotong' is the box or container that holds them. You put the sujeo inside the sujeotong.

Yes, absolutely! While the name specifically mentions spoons and chopsticks, modern Korean households use the sujeotong for all types of cutlery, including forks and knives.

Look on top of the table first. If it's not there, check the side of the table for a drawer. If you still can't find it, ask the staff: 'Sujeotong eodi isseoyo?'

You say '나무 수저통' (namu sujeotong). 'Namu' means wood.

It is a neutral, standard word. It's appropriate for almost any situation, though in very formal design contexts, 'sujeo sunapham' might be used.

Those are drainage holes (mul-ppajim gumeong). They allow water to escape after you wash the utensils and put them away, keeping the holder hygienic.

It's a 'sterilizing cutlery holder'. It uses UV light or heat to kill germs on the spoons and chopsticks.

Technically, you could, but it would sound strange. For pencils, the correct word is 'piltong'.

You can say: '수저통에 숟가락 좀 채워 주세요' (Please fill the spoons in the cutlery holder).

No, it's a standard 's' sound. The word is pronounced smoothly as 'su-jeo-tong'.