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세탁소

A1 noun #7,000 most common 10 min read

세탁소

setakso Top 7,000

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips 세탁소 in 30 Seconds

Explanation 세탁소 in your Level:

At the A1 level, you only need to know that '세탁소' (saetaksso) means a laundry shop or dry cleaner. It is a place (장소) where you take your clothes to be cleaned. You should learn it alongside other basic building words like '학교' (school), '병원' (hospital), and '식당' (restaurant). The most important phrase to learn is '세탁소에 가요' (I go to the laundry shop). You don't need to worry about complex grammar; just focus on recognizing the word on signs and knowing that it is related to clothes (옷) and washing (세탁). Imagine you are in Korea and you have a dirty coat—you need to find a '세탁소'. It is a very useful word for daily survival.

At the A2 level, you should be able to use '세탁소' in simple sentences with basic particles and verbs. You should know the verbs '맡기다' (to drop off) and '찾다' (to pick up). For example, '세탁소에 옷을 맡겼어요' (I dropped off clothes at the laundry shop). You should also be able to ask basic questions, such as '세탁소가 어디에 있어요?' (Where is the laundry shop?) or '언제 찾을 수 있어요?' (When can I pick it up?). At this level, you start to distinguish between a regular '세탁소' and a '빨래방' (self-service laundromat). You might also learn that 세탁소 can do '수선' (repairs/alterations), which is a very common reason to visit one in Korea.

At the B1 level, you can handle more specific interactions at the '세탁소'. You should be able to describe the condition of your clothes, such as '얼룩이 있어요' (There is a stain) or '단추가 떨어졌어요' (A button fell off). You can use more complex grammar patterns like '-아/어 주세요' to make requests: '이 얼룩 좀 지워 주세요' (Please remove this stain). You should also understand the cultural context of the neighborhood 세탁소, including the fact that many offer delivery services. You can discuss your schedule in relation to the laundry, such as '내일까지 세탁소에서 옷을 찾아야 해요' (I have to pick up my clothes from the laundry shop by tomorrow).

At the B2 level, you can use '세탁소' in more nuanced discussions about lifestyle and services. You might talk about the pros and cons of traditional neighborhood shops versus modern franchise cleaners (프랜차이즈 세탁소). You can use more advanced vocabulary related to fabrics and cleaning methods, such as '섬세한 소재' (delicate material) or '기름 얼룩' (oil stain). You should be comfortable handling issues, such as if a garment was damaged: '세탁소에서 옷이 망가졌는데 어떻게 보상받을 수 있을까요?' (My clothes were ruined at the laundry shop; how can I get compensation?). Your ability to use the word in varied contexts, including social and economic ones, should be evident.

At the C1 level, you can discuss '세탁소' within broader societal themes. You might explore the changing landscape of small businesses in Korea, the rise of unmanned '코인세탁소', and the impact of mobile laundry apps on traditional family-run shops. You can use the word in abstract or metaphorical contexts if they arise in literature or high-level discourse. Your vocabulary should include technical terms like '유기용제' (organic solvents) used in dry cleaning or '의류 관리' (garment care). You should be able to read and understand complex terms and conditions on a laundry receipt or a service contract from a high-end cleaning company.

At the C2 level, you have a complete mastery of the word '세탁소' and its place in the Korean language and culture. You can appreciate the use of '세탁소' as a literary device or a setting in film that evokes nostalgia (향수) or represents the working class. You can engage in high-level debates about environmental regulations affecting the dry cleaning industry or the labor rights of workers in large-scale laundry factories. You understand the deepest etymological roots and can use the word with perfect native-like fluency, including idiomatic expressions or subtle social cues involved in interacting with long-time shop owners in old Seoul neighborhoods.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

세탁소 in 30 Seconds

세탁소 is the Korean word for a laundry shop or dry cleaner, essential for professional garment care.
It is a place where you can get dry cleaning, wet washing, and expert clothing alterations (수선).
Common verbs used with this word are '맡기다' (to drop off) and '찾다' (to pick up).
Neighborhood shops often offer delivery services and are run by experienced local residents.

The Korean word 세탁소 (saetaksso) refers to a professional laundry or dry-cleaning establishment. In the context of South Korean daily life, a 세탁소 is much more than just a place to wash clothes; it is a vital neighborhood service hub where garments are not only cleaned but also repaired, altered, and pressed to perfection. The word itself is derived from Sino-Korean roots: 세 (洗 - wash), 탁 (濯 - rinse/wash), and 소 (所 - place). Together, they literally mean 'a place for washing and rinsing.'

Traditional vs. Modern: Traditional neighborhood 세탁소 are often small, family-run businesses located on the first floor of apartment complexes or in residential alleys. Modern versions include large-scale franchise dry cleaners and 24-hour unmanned coin-operated laundries, known as '코인세탁소' or '빨래방'.

When you walk into a typical Korean 세탁소, you will likely see rows of clothes covered in thin plastic wrap hanging from automated conveyor belts. The smell of steam and professional-grade detergent is ubiquitous. Most Koreans use these shops for items that cannot be easily washed at home, such as business suits (정장), heavy winter coats (코트), silk blouses, and delicate traditional clothing (한복). Furthermore, the 세탁소 is the primary destination for '수선' (suseon), which means alterations or repairs. Whether you need to shorten your trousers (바지 길이를 줄이다) or fix a broken zipper, the 'ajusshi' (middle-aged man) or 'ajumma' (middle-aged woman) at the 세탁소 is the local expert.

내일 면접이 있어서 정장을 세탁소에 맡겼어요. (I have an interview tomorrow, so I dropped off my suit at the dry cleaner.)

The usage of 세탁소 is deeply embedded in the rhythm of Korean seasons. During the transition from winter to spring, it is a common sight to see people carrying large bundles of heavy down jackets (패딩) to the local 세탁소 for seasonal cleaning before storage. This cultural habit ensures that expensive winter gear remains in good condition for the following year. In literature and media, the neighborhood 세탁소 often symbolizes a sense of community and the passage of time, as the owners typically stay in the same spot for decades, knowing every neighbor's clothing size and style preferences. Understanding the role of the 세탁소 is essential for anyone living in or visiting Korea, as it reflects the high value placed on appearance and the meticulous care of personal belongings.

Key Verbs: The most common verbs used with 세탁소 are '맡기다' (to leave/drop off) and '찾다' (to pick up/retrieve). You '맡기다' your clothes for cleaning and '찾다' them when they are done.

이 옷은 집에서 빨 수 없으니까 세탁소에 가져가야 해요. (Since I can't wash this at home, I have to take it to the laundry shop.)

Using 세탁소 in a sentence requires an understanding of basic Korean particles and directional verbs. Because it is a place, it is frequently followed by the location particles -에 (to/at) or -에서 (at/from). For example, if you are going to the laundry shop, you say '세탁소에 가요'. If you are doing something inside the shop, like paying or checking prices, you use '세탁소에서'.

Common Sentence Structures: 1. [Subject] + 세탁소에 + [Verb (맡기다/가다/오다)]
2. [Subject] + 세탁소에서 + [Verb (찾다/수선하다/돈을 내다)]

Let's look at the verb '맡기다' (mat-gi-da). This is the standard word for 'dropping off' items. Unlike English where we might say 'I'm doing my laundry at the dry cleaners,' Koreans say 'I left my clothes at the 세탁소.' Similarly, '찾다' (chat-da), which usually means 'to find' or 'to look for,' is the standard verb for 'picking up' your finished laundry. If you say '세탁소에서 옷을 찾았어요,' it literally means 'I found my clothes at the laundry shop,' but it translates to 'I picked up my clothes.'

어제 세탁소에 맡긴 코트가 다 됐나요? (Is the coat I dropped off at the laundry shop yesterday ready?)

Another important aspect is the type of service you are requesting. If you want dry cleaning specifically, you might say '드라이클리닝 부탁해요' (Dry cleaning, please). However, many people just say '이거 세탁해 주세요' (Please wash this) and the owner will determine the best method. For alterations, the word '수선' (suseon) is used. '세탁소에 옷 수선을 맡겼어요' means 'I left my clothes at the laundry shop for alterations.'

In more complex sentences, 세탁소 can be the subject or the object of a clause. For instance, '우리 집 근처 세탁소는 아주 친절해요' (The laundry shop near my house is very kind). Here, the shop itself is being described. In business contexts, the word might appear in discussions about urban planning or small business economics: '최근 무인 세탁소가 늘어나고 있는 추세입니다' (Recently, there is a trend of increasing unmanned laundry shops).

세탁소 아저씨가 바지 길이를 아주 잘 줄여 주셨어요. (The laundry shop man shortened the pants length very well.)

Finally, consider the honorifics. When speaking to the owner of a 세탁소, it is polite to use '-요' endings or even more formal speech if they are much older. Address the owner as '사장님' (Sajangnim - boss/owner) to show respect. For example, '사장님, 이 와이셔츠 언제까지 돼요?' (Boss, when will this dress shirt be ready?). This social etiquette is just as important as the vocabulary itself when interacting at a 세탁소.

You will encounter the word 세탁소 in various real-life scenarios in Korea. Most commonly, you will see it on signs as you walk through any residential neighborhood. The signs are often bright yellow or blue with large, bold letters. In many older neighborhoods, the sign might just say '세탁' (Laundry) or '드라이' (Dry), but the establishment is always referred to as a 세탁소.

Daily Conversations: - '퇴근하는 길에 세탁소 좀 들러줄래?' (Can you stop by the laundry shop on your way home?)
- '세탁소 영수증 어디 있지?' (Where is the laundry shop receipt?)

In Korean TV dramas (K-Dramas) and movies, the 세탁소 is a classic setting for depicting everyday life. Because these shops are often family-owned and have been in the same location for years, they serve as a backdrop for scenes involving neighborhood gossip, humble beginnings, or the hard work of the older generation. A famous example is the drama 'Backstreet Rookie' or various 'slice-of-life' series where characters interact with the local shop owner. Hearing '세탁소' in these contexts usually signals a domestic or community-focused plot point.

드라마에서 주인공의 부모님이 세탁소를 운영하는 장면이 자주 나와요. (In dramas, scenes where the protagonist's parents run a laundry shop appear frequently.)

You will also hear this word in announcements or see it in apartment complex newsletters. For example, an apartment management office might announce: '단지 내 세탁소 이용 안내' (Information on using the laundry shop within the complex). In the digital age, you'll see the word on mobile apps. Services like 'Laundrygo' (런드리고) or 'WashSwat' (세탁특공대) are modern mobile 세탁소 services that have changed how the word is used, moving it from a physical destination to a digital service category.

In transit, if you are lost and asking for directions, people might use a 세탁소 as a landmark. '저기 세탁소 보이죠? 거기서 우회전하세요' (See that laundry shop over there? Turn right there). Because they are so common, they make excellent navigation points. Whether in the lyrics of a nostalgic song about a hometown or in a news report about the rising costs of dry cleaning chemicals, '세탁소' remains a ubiquitous term in the Korean auditory landscape.

길을 물어볼 때 '파란 간판 세탁소 옆'이라고 설명해 주셨어요. (When asking for directions, they explained it as 'next to the laundry shop with the blue sign'.)

For English speakers, one of the most common mistakes is confusing 세탁소 (the place) with 세탁 (the act of washing) or 세탁기 (the washing machine). While they all share the same root, they are not interchangeable. You cannot 'go to the 세탁' or 'put your clothes in the 세탁소' (unless you mean the building itself).

Common Confusions: 1. 세탁 (Setak): Washing/Laundry (the process)
2. 세탁기 (Setakgi): Washing machine (the appliance)
3. 세탁소 (Setaksso): Laundry shop (the location)

Another frequent error is the choice of verb. English speakers often want to use '하다' (to do) with everything. While '세탁을 하다' (to do laundry) is correct for the act of washing clothes at home, saying '세탁소를 하다' means 'to run/own a laundry business.' If you want to say you are using the service, you should use '맡기다' (to entrust/drop off). Forgetting the particle '에' is also common; remember it's '세탁소에 가다', not just '세탁소 가다' (though the latter is sometimes used in very casual speech).

틀린 예: 옷을 세탁소했어요. (Incorrect: I 'did' the laundry shop.)
옳은 예: 옷을 세탁소에 맡겼어요. (Correct: I dropped the clothes off at the laundry shop.)

Misunderstanding the scope of a 세탁소 is another pitfall. In some Western countries, a 'laundromat' is purely for self-service washing. In Korea, if you go to a traditional 세탁소 expecting to put coins in a machine yourself, you will be disappointed. That would be a '빨래방' (ppallaebang) or '코인세탁소' (coin saetaksso). A traditional 세탁소 is a full-service establishment where you hand your clothes to a person.

Lastly, don't confuse '수선' (repair) with '세탁' (wash). If you only want a button sewn on, specify '수선해 주세요'. If you say '세탁해 주세요', they will wash the whole garment and might not notice the missing button. Being specific about the service you need at the 세탁소 will prevent many common communication errors.

세탁기가 고장 나서 세탁소에 가야 해요. (The washing machine is broken, so I have to go to the laundry shop.) - Note the distinction between the machine and the shop.

While 세탁소 is the most common term, there are several related words that you should know to navigate Korean laundry culture effectively. These alternatives often specify the type of laundry service or the nature of the establishment.

Comparison of Terms: 빨래방 (Ppallaebang): Literally 'laundry room'. This usually refers to a self-service laundromat where you pay to use the machines yourself.
코인세탁소 (Coin Saetaksso): A more modern term for a laundromat, emphasizing that it is coin-operated.
드라이클리닝 전문점 (Dry Cleaning Jeonmunjeom): A specialized dry cleaner, often a franchise like 'Cleanopia'.

The word 수선집 (Suseonjip) is another important alternative. While most 세탁소 perform repairs, a 수선집 focuses only on alterations and sewing. If you have a very complex alteration, like resizing a wedding dress or a luxury suit, you might seek out a specialized 수선집 instead of a general 세탁소. However, for a simple hem or a small tear, the 세탁소 is perfectly sufficient.

이불 빨래는 빨래방에서 하는 게 더 편해요. (Doing blanket laundry is more convenient at the laundromat.)

In the digital era, 세탁 앱 (Setak App) or 모바일 세탁 서비스 (Mobile Setak Service) are becoming increasingly popular. These are not physical shops you visit, but services that operate through your smartphone. You leave your laundry outside your door at night, and they pick it up and return it cleaned within 24 hours. While the underlying service is still '세탁', the way people talk about it is shifting away from the physical '소' (place).

Lastly, consider the word 크리닝 (Keulrining). This is the Konglish (Korean-English) version of 'cleaning' and is often used in shop names or to refer specifically to the dry cleaning process. You might see a sign that says 'OOO 크리닝', which is essentially a 세탁소. Knowing these nuances helps you choose the right place for your specific needs, whether it's a quick self-wash for your jeans or professional care for your best suit.

세탁소는 드라이클리닝을 해주고, 빨래방은 직접 물세탁을 하는 곳이에요. (A laundry shop provides dry cleaning, while a laundromat is a place where you do the water washing yourself.)

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

In the past, before modern shops, people washed clothes at a '빨래터' (communal stream). The first modern '세탁소' appeared in Korea in the late 19th/early 20th century as Western clothing became popular.

Pronunciation Guide

UK se.tʰak.s͈o

US se.tʰak.s͈o

The stress is relatively even, but the 'sso' syllable is emphasized due to the double consonant.

Rhymes With

장소 (jangso - place) 주소 (juso - address) 미소 (miso - smile) 청소 (cheongso - cleaning) 숙소 (sukso - lodging) 요소 (yoso - element) 교소 (gyoso - prison/archaic) 초소 (choso - guard post)

Common Errors

Pronouncing '탁' as 'dak' (without aspiration).
Pronouncing '소' as a soft 'so' instead of the tense 'sso'.
Merging the syllables too quickly; keep them distinct: se-tak-sso.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 1/5

Very easy to recognize on signs.

Writing 2/5

Simple characters, but remember the double 'ss' in '소'.

Speaking 2/5

Requires correct aspiration of 't' and tense 'ss'.

Listening 1/5

Distinct sound, usually clear in context.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

옷 (clothes) 가다 (to go) 장소 (place) 빨래 (laundry) 물 (water)

Learn Next

수선 (alteration) 맡기다 (to entrust) 찾다 (to find/pick up) 다리다 (to iron) 얼룩 (stain)

Advanced

섬유 (fiber/textile) 유기용제 (organic solvent) 탈색 (discoloration) 수축 (shrinkage) 복원 (restoration)

Grammar to Know

Location particle -에

세탁소에 가요.

Location particle -에서

세탁소에서 일해요.

Request pattern -아/어 주세요

세탁해 주세요.

Honorific -시-

사장님이 옷을 찾으셨어요.

Intentional -(으)러

옷을 찾으러 가요.

Examples by Level

세탁소에 가요.

I go to the laundry shop.

Uses the destination particle '-에'.

여기가 세탁소예요?

Is this the laundry shop?

Uses the polite ending '-예요'.

세탁소는 1층에 있어요.

The laundry shop is on the first floor.

Uses the location particle '-에' with '있어요'.

어제 세탁소에 갔어요.

I went to the laundry shop yesterday.

Past tense '갔어요'.

세탁소 전화번호가 뭐예요?

What is the laundry shop's phone number?

Asking for information using '뭐예요?'.

우리 동네 세탁소예요.

It's my neighborhood laundry shop.

Possessive '우리' (our/my).

세탁소에서 옷을 찾아요.

I pick up clothes at the laundry shop.

Uses '-에서' for an action at a location.

저기 세탁소가 있어요.

There is a laundry shop over there.

Existential '있어요'.

세탁소에 바지를 맡겼어요.

I dropped off my pants at the laundry shop.

Verb '맡기다' (to entrust/drop off).

세탁소 사장님이 친절해요.

The laundry shop owner is kind.

Subject marker '-이' and adjective '친절하다'.

이 옷, 세탁소에 가져가야 해요.

I have to take these clothes to the laundry shop.

Obligation pattern '-아/어야 하다'.

세탁소는 몇 시에 문을 열어요?

What time does the laundry shop open?

Asking for time.

세탁소에서 바지 길이를 줄였어요.

I had my pants shortened at the laundry shop.

Causative/Action context '줄이다' (to shorten).

주말에는 세탁소가 쉬어요.

The laundry shop is closed on weekends.

Verb '쉬다' (to rest/be closed).

세탁소에 운동화를 맡길 수 있어요?

Can I leave my sneakers at the laundry shop?

Ability pattern '-ㄹ 수 있다'.

세탁소 영수증을 잃어버렸어요.

I lost the laundry shop receipt.

Object marker '-을' with '잃어버리다'.

세탁소에 맡긴 옷을 언제 찾으러 가면 될까요?

When should I go to pick up the clothes I left at the laundry shop?

Intention '-으러 가다' and '-(으)면 되다'.

이 코트의 얼룩을 세탁소에서 지울 수 있을까요?

Do you think I can get this coat's stain removed at the laundry shop?

Speculative ending '-(으)ㄹ 수 있을까요?'.

집 근처 세탁소는 수선도 아주 잘해요.

The laundry shop near my house is also very good at alterations.

Adverb '아주' with '잘하다'.

세탁소에 맡기기 전에 주머니를 확인하세요.

Check your pockets before dropping them off at the laundry shop.

Time clause '-기 전에'.

비싼 옷이라서 일반 세탁소보다는 전문점에 맡기고 싶어요.

It's an expensive garment, so I want to take it to a specialist rather than a regular laundry shop.

Comparison 'A보다는 B'.

세탁소 아저씨가 내일까지 다 해준다고 하셨어요.

The laundry shop man said he would have it all done by tomorrow.

Indirect quotation '-고 하다'.

요즘은 세탁소에 직접 가지 않아도 배달이 돼요.

These days, even if you don't go to the laundry shop in person, delivery is available.

Negative '지 않다' and concession '-아/어도'.

세탁소에서 옷이 바뀌지 않게 이름을 써 두세요.

Write your name on them so the clothes don't get mixed up at the laundry shop.

Purpose '-지 않게' and result '-어 두다'.

세탁소의 부주의로 옷감이 상했을 때 어떻게 대처해야 하나요?

How should one handle it when fabric is damaged due to the laundry shop's negligence?

Causal '-(으)로' (due to).

동네 세탁소들이 대형 프랜차이즈 때문에 어려움을 겪고 있어요.

Neighborhood laundry shops are experiencing difficulties because of large franchises.

Idiom '어려움을 겪다' (to experience difficulty).

세탁소에 드라이클리닝을 맡길 때 소재를 꼭 확인해 달라고 하세요.

When you drop off dry cleaning at the laundry shop, make sure to ask them to check the material.

Requesting an action '-아/어 달라고 하다'.

이불 같은 대형 세탁물은 세탁소에 맡기는 게 훨씬 편해요.

For large laundry items like blankets, it's much more convenient to leave them at the laundry shop.

Emphasis '훨씬' (much more).

세탁소 영업시간이 변경되었으니 미리 확인하고 방문하세요.

The laundry shop's operating hours have changed, so check in advance before visiting.

Reasoning '-(으)니'.

세탁소에서 수선한 바지가 마음에 쏙 들어요.

I really like the pants that were altered at the laundry shop.

Idiom '마음에 쏙 들다' (to perfectly satisfy).

그 세탁소는 오래된 단골손님이 많기로 유명해요.

That laundry shop is famous for having many long-time regular customers.

Reasoning pattern '-기로 유명하다'.

세탁소에서 사용하는 세제가 환경에 미치는 영향에 대해 생각해 봅시다.

Let's think about the impact of detergents used in laundry shops on the environment.

Relative clause '환경에 미치는 영향' (impact on the environment).

세탁소의 전통적인 역할이 현대 사회의 서비스 변화에 따라 축소되고 있습니다.

The traditional role of the laundry shop is shrinking in accordance with service changes in modern society.

Pattern '-에 따라' (according to).

무인 코인 세탁소의 확산은 1인 가구의 증가와 밀접한 관련이 있습니다.

The spread of unmanned coin laundries is closely related to the increase in single-person households.

Noun phrase '밀접한 관련' (close relation).

세탁소 운영 시 발생하는 유해 물질에 대한 규제가 강화될 전망입니다.

Regulations regarding harmful substances generated during laundry shop operations are expected to be strengthened.

Future outlook '-ㄹ 전망이다'.

노련한 세탁소 장인들은 옷의 감촉만으로도 최적의 세탁법을 찾아냅니다.

Experienced laundry shop artisans find the optimal washing method just by the feel of the clothes.

Particle '-만으로도' (just with).

세탁소 앱의 등장은 바쁜 현대인들에게 시간적 여유를 제공해 주었습니다.

The emergence of laundry shop apps has provided busy modern people with more free time.

Compound verb '제공해 주다'.

골목 어귀의 세탁소는 단순한 상점이 아니라 이웃 간의 소통 창구였습니다.

The laundry shop at the corner of the alley was not just a store, but a channel for communication among neighbors.

Structure 'A이/가 아니라 B' (Not A but B).

세탁소에서 옷을 분실했을 경우 보상 기준은 소비자 분쟁 해결 기준을 따릅니다.

In the event of lost clothing at a laundry shop, compensation standards follow the consumer dispute resolution standards.

Condition '-ㄹ 경우' (in the event of).

세탁소의 스팀 다리미 소리는 누군가에게는 어린 시절의 향수를 불러일으킵니다.

The sound of a laundry shop's steam iron evokes childhood nostalgia for some.

Causative '불러일으키다' (to evoke/arouse).

세탁소라는 공간이 지닌 서사적 함의는 한국 근현대 문학에서 종종 탐구되어 왔습니다.

The narrative implications of the space known as a laundry shop have often been explored in modern and contemporary Korean literature.

Passive voice '탐구되어 오다' (has been explored).

영세한 세탁소들이 거대 자본의 유입으로 인해 생존권의 위협을 받고 있는 현실입니다.

It is a reality where small-scale laundry shops are facing threats to their right to survive due to the influx of large-scale capital.

Causal '-로 인해' and passive '위협을 받다'.

세탁소 주인의 굽은 등은 평생을 타인의 허물을 씻어내 온 고단한 삶의 궤적을 보여줍니다.

The bent back of the laundry shop owner shows the weary trajectory of a life spent washing away others' flaws (dirt).

Metaphorical use of '허물' (flaws/dirt).

첨단 기술이 접목된 세탁소 서비스는 이제 단순한 가사를 넘어 하나의 라이프스타일 산업으로 진화했습니다.

Laundry shop services integrated with advanced technology have now evolved beyond simple housework into a lifestyle industry.

Structure 'A를 넘어 B로' (beyond A to B).

세탁소의 화학 용제 관리는 대기 오염 방지를 위한 환경 정책의 핵심적인 부분입니다.

The management of chemical solvents in laundry shops is a core part of environmental policies for preventing air pollution.

Modifier '핵심적인' (core/essential).

어느 시인의 시구처럼, 세탁소는 구겨진 일상을 펴고 얼룩진 마음을 닦아내는 치유의 공간일지도 모른다.

Like a poet's line, a laundry shop might be a space of healing that flattens out a wrinkled daily life and wipes away a stained heart.

Speculative '-일지도 모른다'.

세탁소의 쇠락은 공동체 의식의 해체와 도시화의 가속화를 상징적으로 보여주는 지표이기도 합니다.

The decline of laundry shops is also an indicator that symbolically shows the dissolution of community spirit and the acceleration of urbanization.

Noun '쇠락' (decline) and '해체' (dissolution).

고객의 까다로운 요구를 완벽히 충족시키는 세탁소 명장의 기술은 예술의 경지에 가깝다.

The skill of a laundry shop master who perfectly satisfies a customer's fastidious demands is close to the level of art.

Idiom '예술의 경지' (the realm of art).

Common Collocations

세탁소에 맡기다

세탁소에서 찾다

동네 세탁소

세탁소 영수증

24시 세탁소

세탁소 수선

무인 세탁소

세탁소 배달

세탁소 주인

세탁소 간판

Common Phrases

세탁소에 옷을 맡기다

— To drop off clothes at the laundry shop.

겨울 코트를 세탁소에 맡겨야겠어요.

세탁소에서 옷을 찾다

— To pick up clothes from the laundry shop.

세탁소에서 옷 찾는 거 잊지 마세요.

세탁소에 가다

— To go to the laundry shop.

잠깐 세탁소에 다녀올게요.

세탁소 수선을 맡기다

— To leave clothes for alterations at the laundry shop.

바지가 너무 길어서 세탁소 수선을 맡겼어요.

세탁소 아저씨

— The man who runs the laundry shop (common informal address).

세탁소 아저씨가 옷을 잘 고쳐 주세요.

세탁소 비

— Laundry/cleaning fees.

요즘 세탁소 비가 많이 올랐어요.

집 근처 세탁소

— A laundry shop near one's house.

집 근처 세탁소가 문을 닫았어요.

세탁소에 전화를 걸다

— To call the laundry shop.

세탁소에 전화를 걸어서 배달을 요청했어요.

단골 세탁소

— A laundry shop one visits regularly.

저는 10년째 이 단골 세탁소만 다녀요.

세탁소 영업시간

— Laundry shop business hours.

세탁소 영업시간을 확인해 보세요.

Often Confused With

세탁소 vs 세탁기

The machine vs. the shop.

세탁소 vs 빨래방

Self-service vs. full-service.

세탁소 vs 수선집

Repair only vs. washing and repair.

Idioms & Expressions

"세탁소에 맡긴 옷 같다"

— To look very neat and clean, as if just picked up from the laundry.

오늘 네 차림새가 세탁소에 맡긴 옷 같아.

Informal

"세탁소집 아들 같다"

— Someone who always wears very clean or well-pressed clothes.

그는 항상 세탁소집 아들처럼 깔끔해요.

Informal

"마음을 세탁하다"

— To cleanse one's mind or start fresh (metaphorical).

새해에는 마음을 세탁소에 맡긴 듯 깨끗이 하고 싶어요.

Literary

"얼룩을 지우다"

— To erase a mistake or a bad reputation (often associated with laundry).

과거의 실수를 세탁소 얼룩 지우듯 지우고 싶어요.

Metaphorical

"빳빳하게 다리다"

— To iron something very stiffly (associated with professional laundry).

와이셔츠를 세탁소처럼 빳빳하게 다려 주세요.

Common

"수선이 필요하다"

— Needs fixing (can refer to a situation, not just clothes).

우리 관계도 세탁소 수선이 필요한 것 같아요.

Metaphorical

"드라이 맡기다"

— Short for dry cleaning; used to imply professional care.

이건 비싼 거니까 꼭 드라이 맡겨.

Neutral

"풀을 먹이다"

— To starch clothes (a traditional service of old-fashioned 세탁소).

할아버지는 세탁소에서 풀을 먹인 옷을 좋아하셨어요.

Traditional

"먼지를 털다"

— To investigate someone's secrets (laundry metaphor for cleaning/revealing).

그 정치인은 세탁소에서 먼지 털 듯 조사를 받았다.

Slang/Journalistic

"새 옷처럼 만들다"

— To restore something perfectly (the goal of a 세탁소).

이 낡은 코트를 세탁소가 새 옷처럼 만들었어요.

Common

Easily Confused

세탁소 vs 세탁

Both relate to washing.

세탁 is the act/noun for washing; 세탁소 is the place.

세탁을 해요 (I do washing) vs. 세탁소에 가요 (I go to the shop).

세탁소 vs 빨래

Synonyms for laundry.

빨래 is a native Korean word for laundry; 세탁 is Sino-Korean and sounds more formal/professional.

빨래를 널어요 (I hang the laundry) vs. 세탁소에 맡겨요.

세탁소 vs 청소

Both mean cleaning.

청소 is for rooms/places; 세탁 is for clothes/fabrics.

방 청소 (Room cleaning) vs. 옷 세탁 (Cloth washing).

세탁소 vs 목욕탕

Both are places to wash.

목욕탕 is for people to wash themselves (public bath); 세탁소 is for clothes.

목욕탕에 가요 (I go to the bathhouse).

세탁소 vs 수선

Often done at the same place.

수선 is the act of repairing; 세탁소 is the location where it happens.

수선이 잘 됐어요 (The repair was done well).

Sentence Patterns

장소 + 에 가요

세탁소에 가요.

N을/를 세탁소에 맡기다

코트를 세탁소에 맡겨요.

세탁소에서 N을/를 찾다

세탁소에서 바지를 찾아요.

세탁소에 N을/를 수선하러 가다

세탁소에 바지를 수선하러 가요.

세탁소 아저씨가 V-ㄴ다고 하다

세탁소 아저씨가 다 됐다고 하셨어요.

세탁소에 맡기는 것보다 직접 하는 게...

세탁소에 맡기는 것보다 직접 하는 게 싸요.

세탁소 서비스의 질에 따라...

세탁소 서비스의 질에 따라 가격이 달라요.

세탁소라는 공간이 주는 의미는...

세탁소라는 공간이 주는 의미는 각별합니다.

Word Family

Nouns

세탁 (washing)

세탁기 (washing machine)

세탁물 (laundry items)

세제 (detergent)

Verbs

세탁하다 (to wash)

세탁되다 (to be washed)

Adjectives

세탁 가능한 (washable)

빨래 (laundry/the act)

드라이클리닝 (dry cleaning)

수선 (alteration)

다림질 (ironing)

건조기 (dryer)

How to Use It

frequency

Extremely high in daily life.

Common Mistakes

Saying '세탁소 해요' for doing laundry. → 세탁을 해요 / 빨래를 해요.
세탁소 해요 means you are running the business, not washing clothes.
Using '찾다' to mean 'finding' a lost shop. → 세탁소를 찾고 있어요.
While '찾다' is used for picking up clothes, in the context of a location, it means searching for it. Be careful with context.
Confusing '수선' with '수리'. → 옷을 수선해요.
수선 is for clothes/fabrics; 수리 is for machines/electronics. You don't '수리' a shirt.
Forgetting the particle '에' with '맡기다'. → 세탁소에 맡겨요.
You are entrusting the item *to* the place, so '에' is necessary.
Assuming all 세탁소 are self-service. → 빨래방에 가요 (for self-service).
A traditional 세탁소 is full-service. Don't try to use their machines yourself!

Tips

Build a Relationship

Becoming a '단골' (regular) at a local 세탁소 can lead to better service, discounts, and even free minor repairs. A simple '안녕하세요' goes a long way.

Check Your Pockets

Always check your pockets before handing over clothes. While owners usually return found items, it's better to avoid the risk of losing money or damaging the machines.

Use 'Sajangnim'

Address the owner as '사장님' (Sajangnim). It is the most respectful and common way to address small business owners in Korea.

Ask for the Date

Always confirm the pickup date by asking '언제 찾으러 오면 돼요?' (When should I come to pick it up?) to avoid unnecessary trips.

Inspect on Pickup

Check your clothes before leaving the shop. If a stain isn't gone or a button is still missing, you can point it out immediately.

Use Franchises for Basics

For basic items like dress shirts, large franchises like 'Cleanopia' often have weekly discounts. Check their apps or signs.

Be Specific

When getting alterations, wear the shoes you plan to wear with the pants so the owner can measure the length accurately.

Keep the Tags

The small paper tags pinned to your clothes are how the shop organizes items. Don't remove them until you are sure the item is yours and correctly cleaned.

Spring Cleaning

In late spring, 세탁소 get very busy with winter coats. Try to drop yours off early to avoid long wait times.

Try an App

If you are too busy to visit a shop, try apps like 'Laundrygo'. They are very convenient for office workers.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Imagine a **SET** of **TAK** (talkative) people at a **SSO** (social) place cleaning clothes. **SE-TAK-SSO**.

Visual Association

Visualize a bright yellow sign with '세탁' and a picture of a steam iron.

Word Web

옷 (clothes) 세제 (detergent) 다리미 (iron) 물 (water) 드라이 (dry) 수선 (fix) 사장님 (owner) 비닐 (plastic wrap)

Challenge

Try to find three '세탁소' signs on your next walk in a Korean neighborhood and note their names.

Word Origin

Derived from Sino-Korean (Hanja).

Original meaning: 洗 (세 - wash) + 濯 (탁 - rinse) + 所 (소 - place).

Sino-Korean roots.

Cultural Context

Always address the owner as '사장님' to be respectful. It's considered rude to just say '저기요' (hey you) to older shop owners.

In the US/UK, 'dry cleaners' and 'laundromats' are often separate. In Korea, a 세탁소 usually does both plus alterations.

The drama 'Backstreet Rookie' features a neighborhood setting. The song 'Laundry' by Lee Juck uses washing as a metaphor. Various 'Reply' series (1988, 1994) show traditional laundry culture.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Dropping off a suit

드라이클리닝 해 주세요.
언제까지 돼요?
얼마예요?
영수증 주세요.

Fixing pants

바지 길이 좀 줄여 주세요.
허리 좀 늘려 주세요.
지퍼가 고장 났어요.
수선비가 얼마죠?

Picking up items

옷 찾으러 왔어요.
여기 영수증요.
카드 돼요?
깨끗하게 잘 됐네요.

Asking for delivery

배달 되나요?
집으로 가져다 주세요.
내일 오전까지 가능해요?
주소가 어떻게 되세요?

Handling a problem

옷이 줄어들었어요.
얼룩이 안 지워졌어요.
이거 제 옷이 아니에요.
변상해 주세요.

Conversation Starters

"근처에 잘하는 세탁소 어디 있어요? (Where is a good laundry shop nearby?)"

"세탁소에 맡긴 옷 찾는 거 잊지 마세요. (Don't forget to pick up the clothes from the laundry.)"

"이 옷 세탁소에 맡겨야 할까요? (Should I drop this clothing off at the laundry shop?)"

"세탁소 아저씨가 정말 친절하시더라고요. (The laundry shop man was really kind.)"

"요즘 세탁소는 수선도 정말 빨리 해줘요. (Lately, laundry shops do alterations really fast.)"

Journal Prompts

오늘 세탁소에 가서 무엇을 맡겼나요? (What did you drop off at the laundry shop today?)

당신의 단골 세탁소에 대해 써 보세요. (Write about your regular laundry shop.)

세탁소에 옷을 맡겼다가 생긴 재미있는 에피소드가 있나요? (Do you have an interesting episode from leaving clothes at the laundry?)

집에서 빨래하는 것과 세탁소에 맡기는 것 중 무엇을 더 선호하나요? (Do you prefer doing laundry at home or dropping it off at the shop?)

미래의 세탁소는 어떤 모습일까요? (What will future laundry shops look like?)

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Yes, many modern Korean laundry shops offer '운동화 세탁' (sneaker washing) services. They have specialized machines and drying processes for footwear. Just ask, '운동화도 돼요?' (Do you do sneakers too?).

Standard dry cleaning usually takes 1 to 3 days. However, many shops offer '급행' (express) services for an extra fee. If you drop it off in the morning, you might be able to pick it up the next day.

Generally, it is quite affordable. A dress shirt might cost 2,000-3,000 KRW, while a suit could be 10,000-15,000 KRW. Alterations are also reasonably priced, starting from 3,000 KRW for a simple hem.

It depends on the shop. Some traditional shops allow you to pay when you pick up the clothes ('후불'), but franchise shops often require payment when you drop them off ('선불').

Don't worry. Most shops keep a record under your phone number. Just tell them your name or phone number, and they can find your items. However, keeping the receipt ('영수증') is always safer.

A 세탁소 is a full-service shop where staff wash and iron your clothes. A 빨래방 (or 코인세탁소) is a self-service place where you use coin-operated machines yourself.

Yes, '지퍼 수선' (zipper repair) is a very common service at a 세탁소. They can either fix the existing slider or replace the entire zipper if necessary.

Many neighborhood 세탁소 offer free delivery ('배달') for orders over a certain amount. Look for a small motorcycle or van with the shop's name on it.

Most traditional 세탁소 are closed on Sundays and public holidays. Some franchise or coin laundries are open 24/7, but staff-operated ones usually follow standard business hours.

Yes, but you should ensure the shop has experience with '한복 세탁'. Hanbok is made of delicate silk and requires specialized care. Many shops specialize in this.