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전자결제

A2 noun 12 min read

전자결제

jeonjagyeolje

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips 전자결제 in 30 Seconds

Explanation 전자결제 in your Level:

At the A1 level, you don't need to use the word '전자결제' (electronic payment) in complex sentences. Instead, think of it as a label you see on buttons when you try to buy things online or on signs in stores. Korea is very digital, so you will see this word often. You should know that '전자' (jeon-ja) means 'electronic' and '결제' (gyeol-je) means 'payment.' If you want to pay with your phone or a card, you can simply point and say '이거 돼요?' (Does this work?), but knowing the word '전자결제' helps you recognize the right place to click on a website. It is a noun, so you can use it with '해요' (to do) to say '전자결제 해요' (I do electronic payment). In simple terms, it means paying without using paper money or coins. Most A1 learners will find this word on receipts or at the end of a shopping process. Just remember: 'Jeon-ja' is like 'electronics' and 'Gyeol-je' is 'paying the bill.' If you see a button with this word, it's the 'Buy' or 'Pay' button.

At the A2 level, you should be able to use '전자결제' to describe how you pay for things. You might say, '저는 보통 전자결제를 사용해요' (I usually use electronic payment). This level involves understanding that Korea is a 'cashless' society and using the correct vocabulary to navigate daily life. You should be able to distinguish between '현금' (cash) and '전자결제' (electronic payment). For example, if a taxi driver asks how you will pay, you can say '카드로 할게요' (I'll use a card), which is a type of '전자결제'. You will also see this word in convenience stores or at kiosks (self-service machines). When the machine says '결제 수단을 선택하세요' (Please select a payment method), '전자결제' or its specific types (like credit card or mobile pay) will be the options. You should also be careful with the spelling. Even though '결제' and '결재' sound the same, '결제' is for money. At A2, you are starting to form more complete thoughts about your habits, so practicing sentences like '전자결제가 편해요' (Electronic payment is convenient) is very helpful.

At the B1 level, you can use '전자결제' in more complex discussions about technology and convenience. You should be able to explain the advantages and disadvantages of digital transactions. For instance, you might say, '전자결제 덕분에 쇼핑이 아주 빨라졌어요' (Thanks to electronic payment, shopping has become very fast). You will encounter this word in news articles or longer blog posts about Korean lifestyle. You should also be familiar with related terms like '전자결제 대행사' (PG - Payment Gateway) and '간편결제' (simple payment). At this level, you should understand the grammar of '로' (by means of) when saying '전자결제로 지불하다' (to pay by means of electronic payment). You might also start noticing the word in formal contexts, such as paying for government services or utility bills online. Understanding '전자결제' at this level means you can handle technical issues too. If your payment fails, you could tell a customer service representative, '전자결제 도중에 오류가 발생했어요' (An error occurred during the electronic payment). This shows a higher level of fluency and the ability to use specific, professional vocabulary in a problem-solving context.

At the B2 level, '전자결제' becomes a topic for debate and detailed explanation. You should be able to discuss the economic impact of electronic payments on society, such as the decline of cash and the rise of fintech. You might use the word in sentences like, '전자결제의 확산은 금융 투명성을 높이는 데 기여하고 있습니다' (The spread of electronic payment is contributing to increasing financial transparency). You should be comfortable with formal registers and technical jargon associated with the industry, such as '보안 인증' (security authentication) or '플랫폼 수수료' (platform fees). At B2, you should also be very precise with the '결제' vs. '결재' distinction, as making this mistake in a professional email would be noticed. You can read business news about the '전자결제 업계' (electronic payment industry) and understand the competition between different companies. Your ability to use this word should extend to abstract contexts, such as discussing the 'system' or the 'infrastructure' (기반) of electronic payments in Korea. You should also be able to compare the Korean system with systems in other countries using this formal terminology.

At the C1 level, you use '전자결제' with the nuance of a native professional. You can discuss the legal frameworks surrounding digital transactions, such as the '전자금융거래법' (Electronic Financial Transactions Act). You might analyze the security protocols involved in '전자결제 시스템' and discuss topics like '해킹 방지' (hacking prevention) or '개인정보 보호' (personal information protection). Your vocabulary should include highly specific terms like '결제 대행' (payment agency), '정산' (settlement), and '에스크로 서비스' (escrow service). In a professional or academic setting, you can give a presentation on the '전자결제 시장의 동향' (trends in the electronic payment market). You understand that '전자결제' is not just a method of buying, but a complex ecosystem involving banks, IT companies, and regulatory bodies. You can use the word in high-level rhetorical structures, such as '전자결제 기술의 진보는 단순히 편리함을 넘어 사회 구조 전반을 변화시키고 있다' (The advancement of electronic payment technology is changing the overall social structure beyond mere convenience). Your command of the word is absolute, and you can switch between casual and highly technical registers effortlessly.

At the C2 level, '전자결제' is a foundational concept that you can deconstruct and analyze within the context of global economics and digital philosophy. You might explore the implications of a society that relies entirely on '전자결제', touching on issues of digital inclusion, the 'unbanked' population, and the surveillance capabilities inherent in digital footprints. You can discuss the evolution of '전자결제' from simple credit card processing to decentralized finance (DeFi) and central bank digital currencies (CBDC). Your language use is sophisticated, incorporating idioms and advanced Hanja-based synonyms where appropriate. You can write policy papers or academic articles discussing the '전자결제 인프라의 고도화' (the advancement of electronic payment infrastructure) and its role in '국가 경쟁력' (national competitiveness). At this level, you don't just use the word; you understand its place in the historical trajectory of human commerce. You can engage in deep philosophical debates about the nature of money in an era of '전자결제', using the term as a starting point for complex explorations of value, trust, and the digital state. Your proficiency allows you to navigate the most technical legal documents and the most abstract economic theories related to the field.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

전자결제 in 30 Seconds

Electronic payment (전자결제) is the formal term for any non-cash transaction in Korea.
It is a compound noun: '전자' (electronic) + '결제' (payment/settlement).
Commonly used in online shopping, mobile apps, and business news.
Must be distinguished from '전자결재' (electronic approval), which sounds identical.

The term 전자결제 (jeon-ja-gyeol-je) is a critical compound noun in modern Korean life, reflecting the nation's status as one of the most digitally advanced economies in the world. At its core, it translates to 'electronic payment,' but its practical application covers everything from tapping a smartphone on a bus reader to complex international wire transfers performed via blockchain or secure bank protocols. To understand this word, we must break down its components: 전자 (electronic) and 결제 (payment/settlement). In a society where physical cash is becoming increasingly rare, knowing how to navigate situations involving 전자결제 is not just a linguistic skill, but a survival necessity for any traveler or resident in Korea.

Daily Transactions: When you buy a coffee using Samsung Pay or Kakao Pay, you are engaging in a form of electronic payment. The clerk might ask, "전자결제로 하시겠어요?" (Would you like to pay via electronic payment?).

요즘은 대부분의 상점에서 전자결제 시스템을 도입하고 있습니다. (These days, most stores are adopting electronic payment systems.)

The historical context of this word is tied to the rapid growth of the Korean internet infrastructure in the late 1990s. As e-commerce platforms like G-Market and Coupang rose to dominance, the methods for settling debts shifted from 'mu-tong-jang-ip-geum' (deposit without a bankbook) to sophisticated gateway systems. Today, 전자결제 encompasses credit cards, mobile apps, and even biometric authentication like fingerprint or facial recognition. It is a broad term that acts as an umbrella for various fintech innovations. For English speakers, it is helpful to think of it as the formal term for any non-cash, non-paper-check transaction handled by a computer system.

E-Commerce Context: When shopping online, the final button you click to finalize the order is often labeled as '결제하기' (Make Payment). The underlying technology facilitating this is the 전자결제대행사 (Payment Gateway or PG).

전자결제 보안이 강화되어 이제는 비밀번호만으로도 물건을 살 수 있습니다. (Electronic payment security has been strengthened, so now you can buy things with just a password.)

Furthermore, the term is frequently used in business and economic news. When discussing the 'cashless society' (현금 없는 사회), experts often cite the increase in 전자결제 volume as the primary indicator. It represents a shift in how value is perceived and moved. Instead of physical tokens, we move bits of data. This word is essential for anyone looking to work in Korea's tech sector or simply wanting to understand their monthly bank statement. It appears on receipts, app notifications, and government policy documents regarding the digital economy.

Government Usage: The Korean government promotes '전자결제 서비스' to increase transparency in the economy and reduce the costs associated with printing physical currency.

정부는 전자결제 수수료를 낮추기 위해 새로운 정책을 발표했습니다. (The government announced a new policy to lower electronic payment fees.)

In summary, 전자결제 is a versatile and ubiquitous term. Whether you are discussing the macroeconomics of fintech or simply trying to pay for a snack at a convenience store, this word serves as the bridge between your intentions and the digital execution of a financial transaction. It is a hallmark of the 21st-century Korean linguistic landscape, blending traditional Hanja roots with cutting-edge technological concepts.

Using 전자결제 correctly requires an understanding of its role as a noun and its interaction with various verbs. Most commonly, it is paired with the verb 하다 (to do) to form 전자결제를 하다 (to make an electronic payment). However, in professional contexts, you might see it paired with 이용하다 (to use), 도입하다 (to introduce/adopt), or 처리하다 (to process). Because it is a formal noun, it often appears in written instructions or technical descriptions rather than casual slang, though the concept is discussed daily.

The 'Doing' Aspect: When a customer wants to pay, they might say: "전자결제로 할게요" (I'll do it by electronic payment). This is a standard way to indicate the method of transaction.

스마트폰을 이용해 전자결제를 하는 사람들이 늘고 있습니다. (The number of people making electronic payments using smartphones is increasing.)

In a sentence structure, 전자결제 often acts as the object of the sentence. For example, "우리는 전자결제를 선호합니다" (We prefer electronic payment). It can also be used as a modifier for other nouns to create compound terms like 전자결제 시스템 (electronic payment system) or 전자결제 시장 (electronic payment market). When used as a modifier, it describes the nature of the following noun, narrowing its scope to the digital realm of finance.

Business Implementation: Businesses often discuss the 'introduction' of these systems. "우리 가게에도 전자결제를 도입해야 해요" (We need to introduce electronic payment to our store as well).

해외 사이트에서 물건을 살 때 전자결제가 실패하는 경우가 있습니다. (There are cases where electronic payment fails when buying items from overseas sites.)

When discussing security or failures, the word is often the subject. "전자결제가 안 돼요" (The electronic payment isn't working). This is a vital phrase if you encounter technical difficulties at a kiosk or online check-out page. In more advanced sentences, you might describe the benefits of the system: "전자결제는 거래의 투명성을 높여줍니다" (Electronic payment increases the transparency of transactions). Here, the word is used to discuss a broader economic concept rather than a single act of buying.

Passive Usage: Sometimes the word is used to describe a state. "이곳은 전자결제 전용 매장입니다" (This is an electronic payment-only store).

안전한 전자결제를 위해 2단계 인증이 필요합니다. (Two-step authentication is required for safe electronic payment.)

Finally, consider the register. While you might use '페이' (Pay) or '카드' (Card) in very casual speech, 전자결제 remains the standard term for formal documentation, news, and official communication. If you are writing an email to a customer service center or filling out a form, this is the word you should choose to appear professional and clear. It covers the technical reality of the transaction without being overly specific to one brand or method.

You will encounter 전자결제 in a variety of real-world environments in Korea, ranging from the mundane to the highly professional. One of the most common places is during the online shopping checkout process. As you navigate sites like Naver Shopping or Coupang, the term appears in the selection of payment methods. It acts as a category header for options like credit cards, bank transfers, and mobile points. Hearing the word in person is also frequent at 'unmanned stores' (무인 점포) or kiosks where a recorded voice might guide you through the process: "전자결제를 진행해 주세요" (Please proceed with the electronic payment).

Financial News and Reports: If you watch Korean news (like KBS or SBS), the 'Economy' section frequently features reports on the '전자결제 시장' (electronic payment market). Journalists use it to discuss the growth of fintech giants like Toss or Kakao.

최근 전자결제 사기 수법이 정교해지고 있으니 주의하시기 바랍니다. (Please be careful as electronic payment fraud methods are becoming more sophisticated recently.)

In the workplace, particularly in administrative or accounting roles, 전자결제 is a daily reality. However, here we must be careful with a very similar-sounding word. While electronic payment is 전자결제 (ending in 'je'), the process of getting a boss's digital signature on a document is 전자결재 (ending in 'jae'). Despite the slight spelling difference, they sound identical in fast speech. Context is your only guide: if it's about money leaving the company, it's 'je'; if it's about a report being approved, it's 'jae'. You'll hear managers say, "전자결제 시스템 확인해봤어요?" referring to the company's billing system.

Educational Contexts: In schools and universities, students use '전자결제' to pay for tuition, meal plans, or printing services through student ID cards or mobile apps.

학생증을 이용한 전자결제가 가능합니다. (Electronic payment using student ID cards is possible.)

Another place you'll see and hear this is in the legal and security warnings that pop up before you enter your credit card info. The 'Terms and Conditions' (약관) will always use the formal term 전자결제 to define the legal scope of the transaction. If you call a bank's customer service (고객센터), the automated menu will likely have an option for '전자결제 관련 문의' (Inquiries regarding electronic payments). Understanding this word allows you to navigate these complex automated systems with much more confidence.

Public Service Announcements: During tax season, the National Tax Service (HomeTax) uses this term to explain how citizens can pay their taxes online without visiting a bank.

연말정산 후 추가 세금은 전자결제로 간편하게 납부하세요. (Easily pay additional taxes after year-end settlement via electronic payment.)

In summary, while the average person might say "카드 돼요?" (Does card work?) in a small shop, the word 전자결제 is the professional, technical, and official standard. It is the language of the system itself, used by the machines, the bankers, the journalists, and the software developers who keep Korea's digital heart beating. When you hear it, you know the conversation is moving into the realm of formal financial processing.

The most notorious mistake regarding 전자결제 involves its homophone, 전자결재. In Korean, '결제' (je) and '결재' (jae) are pronounced almost identically, but their meanings are worlds apart in a professional setting. This error is so common that it is a staple of Korean spelling quizzes and corporate training. '결제' (je) refers specifically to the settlement of accounts or payment for goods. '결재' (jae), on the other hand, refers to the official approval of a document by a superior. If you write '전자결재' on a receipt, you are technically asking for a boss's signature, not paying for your coffee.

The 'Je' vs 'Jae' Rule: A common mnemonic for Koreans is that '제' (je) is in '경제' (economy), which involves money. '재' (jae) is in '재가' (approval), which involves authority.

틀린 예: 이번 달 카드 결재 금액이 많아요. (Wrong: This month's card 'approval' amount is high.)
옳은 예: 이번 달 카드 결제 금액이 많아요. (Correct: This month's card 'payment' amount is high.)

Another mistake learners make is over-using the term in casual settings. While 전자결제 is technically correct for a credit card transaction, saying "전자결제 할게요" to a busy street food vendor might sound a bit stiff or overly formal. In those situations, it's better to say "카드로 할게요" (I'll do it by card) or "계좌이체 할게요" (I'll do a bank transfer). Use 전자결제 when you are talking about the system, the technology, or in a formal business meeting. It describes the 'how' of the transaction at a technical level.

Confusion with '송금': '송금' (song-geum) means 'remittance' or 'sending money'. While it is a form of electronic transaction, '전자결제' is specifically for paying a merchant or service provider.

친구에게 돈을 보낼 때는 전자결제라는 표현보다 '송금'이나 '이체'를 사용합니다. (When sending money to a friend, use 'remittance' or 'transfer' rather than 'electronic payment'.)

A third mistake is misunderstanding the scope of the word. Some beginners think 전자결제 only refers to online shopping. However, it also includes offline transactions where no physical money is exchanged, such as using a transportation card or a mobile wallet at a physical store. If a sign says "현금 없는 매장, 전자결제만 가능" (Cashless store, only electronic payment possible), it means they take cards and apps, not just that they have an online store.

Grammatical Particle Errors: Using '전자결제에서' (at electronic payment) instead of '전자결제로' (by means of electronic payment) is a common particle mistake. Remember, it's a tool or method.

배달 앱에서 전자결제로 주문을 마쳤습니다. (I finished the order via electronic payment on the delivery app.)

Lastly, be aware of the difference between '결제' and '지불' (ji-bul). '지불' is a general term for 'payment' or 'paying out' (often used for wages or general costs), whereas '결제' is specifically the closing of a transaction or settlement of an account. In the context of technology and finance, 전자결제 is the fixed term. You will almost never see '전자지불' used in modern Korean fintech contexts, even though it might seem logically correct to an English speaker.

While 전자결제 is the most encompassing term, there are several related words that you might use or hear depending on the specific method or context. Understanding these nuances will help you sound more like a native speaker and navigate Korean commerce more effectively. The most common alternative in daily life is 간편결제 (gan-pyeon-gyeol-je), which translates to 'simple payment' or 'easy payment'. This refers specifically to one-click or biometric services like Kakao Pay, Naver Pay, or Toss.

전자결제 vs. 간편결제: '전자결제' is the technical category (all digital payments). '간편결제' is a sub-type focused on speed and ease of use (no need to enter card numbers every time).

요즘은 복잡한 인증 대신 간편결제를 선호하는 추세입니다. (These days, the trend is to prefer simple payment over complex authentication.)

Another important term is 모바일 결제 (mobile payment). As the name suggests, this is restricted to transactions made via a smartphone. While all mobile payments are electronic payments, not all electronic payments are mobile (some might be done on a desktop computer via a web browser). Then there is 카드 결제 (card payment), which is the most specific. If you know you are using a credit or debit card, this is the most natural term to use in a store. If you are paying for something by transferring money directly from your bank account online, you might use 계좌 이체 (account transfer) or 실시간 계좌이체 (real-time account transfer).

Online-Specific Terms: PG (Payment Gateway) is often used in business contexts. '전자결제 대행사' is the Korean translation. These are companies like KG Inicis or Danal that process the payments.

온라인 쇼핑몰을 운영하려면 전자결제 대행사(PG)와 계약해야 합니다. (To run an online shopping mall, you must contract with a Payment Gateway (PG) company.)

In the realm of public transport, you will hear 교통카드 결제 (transportation card payment). And in the evolving world of cryptocurrency, you might see 가상화폐 결제 (virtual currency payment). All of these fall under the massive umbrella of 전자결제. When you are unsure of the specific method but know it's not cash, 전자결제 is your safest, most professional bet. However, knowing these specific alternatives allows you to be more precise. For instance, if a website asks for your '결제 수단' (payment method), you will see all these terms listed as options.

Modern Slang/Apps: People often just use the app names as verbs: "카카오페이로 할게요" (I'll do it with Kakao Pay) or "삼성페이 돼요?" (Does Samsung Pay work?).

전자결제 수단 중 가장 많이 쓰이는 것은 신용카드입니다. (The most used among electronic payment methods is the credit card.)

To conclude, while 전자결제 is the formal 'dictionary' term for digital transactions, the world of Korean finance is rich with specific vocabulary. By mastering the umbrella term and its specific branches like 간편결제 and 계좌이체, you will be able to handle any transaction in Korea, from a 500-won bus fare to a multi-million won business contract, with the linguistic precision of a professional.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The 'je' (濟) in '결제' is the same character used in 'Gyeongje' (Economy), which originally meant 'governing the world and aiding the people'.

Pronunciation Guide

UK t͡ɕʌnd͡ʑaɡjʌlt͡ɕe

US t͡ɕʌnd͡ʑaɡjʌlt͡ɕe

The stress is relatively even across all four syllables, which is typical for Korean nouns.

Rhymes With

경제 (Economy) 형제 (Brothers) 문제 (Problem) 축제 (Festival) 국제 (International) 실제 (Reality) 과제 (Task) 전제 (Premise)

Common Errors

Pronouncing '결제' (je) as '결재' (jae). While they sound similar, ensure the 'e' sound is crisp.
Over-emphasizing the 'y' in 'gyeol'. It should be a quick glide.
Failing to distinguish the 'j' in 'jeonja' from the 'ch' sound.
Pronouncing 'jeon' like 'john'. It should be more like 'jun' with a neutral vowel.
Dropping the final 'e' sound in 'je'.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 2/5

The Hanja components are common, making it easy to recognize once you know '전자' and '결제'.

Writing 3/5

Commonly confused with '전자결재', so careful spelling of '제' is required.

Speaking 2/5

Standard four-syllable word with no difficult consonant clusters.

Listening 3/5

Can be confused with '전자결재' in fast speech without context.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

전자 (Electronic) 결제 (Payment) 카드 (Card) 현금 (Cash) 돈 (Money)

Learn Next

간편결제 (Simple payment) 계좌이체 (Bank transfer) 영수증 (Receipt) 환불 (Refund) 보안 (Security)

Advanced

가상화폐 (Cryptocurrency) 핀테크 (Fintech) 결제 대행사 (PG) 본인 인증 (Identity verification) 부정 거래 (Fraudulent transaction)

Grammar to Know

Noun + 로/으로 (Method/Means)

전자결제로 결제해요. (I pay by means of electronic payment.)

Noun + 를/을 하다 (To do a noun)

전자결제를 해요. (I do electronic payment.)

Noun + 만 (Only)

전자결제만 가능합니다. (Only electronic payment is possible.)

Noun + 관련 (Related to)

전자결제 관련 문의 (Inquiries related to electronic payment.)

Noun + 덕분에 (Thanks to)

전자결제 덕분에 편해요. (Thanks to electronic payment, it's convenient.)

Examples by Level

전자결제 해요.

I do electronic payment.

전자결제 (noun) + 해요 (verb: to do).

전자결제는 편해요.

Electronic payment is convenient.

The particle '는' marks the subject/topic.

이거 전자결제 돼요?

Does this work with electronic payment?

돼요? means 'is it possible?' or 'does it work?'

전자결제 버튼을 누르세요.

Press the electronic payment button.

누르세요 is the polite imperative form of '누르다' (to press).

현금 없어요. 전자결제 할게요.

I have no cash. I will do electronic payment.

할게요 indicates a future intention or promise.

전자결제가 빨라요.

Electronic payment is fast.

The particle '가' marks the subject.

여기서 전자결제 하세요.

Please do the electronic payment here.

여기서 (here) + 하세요 (please do).

전자결제는 쉬워요.

Electronic payment is easy.

쉬워요 is the polite form of '쉽다' (to be easy).

저는 보통 스마트폰으로 전자결제를 해요.

I usually make electronic payments with my smartphone.

스마트폰으로 (with/by means of a smartphone).

전자결제 비밀번호를 잊어버렸어요.

I forgot my electronic payment password.

잊어버렸어요 is the past tense of '잊어버리다' (to forget).

이 가게는 전자결제만 가능합니다.

This store only allows electronic payment.

전자결제를 이용하면 할인을 받을 수 있어요.

If you use electronic payment, you can get a discount.

어떤 전자결제 앱을 쓰세요?

Which electronic payment app do you use?

전자결제가 안 돼서 당황했어요.

I was flustered because the electronic payment didn't work.

편의점에서 전자결제로 우유를 샀어요.

I bought milk with electronic payment at the convenience store.

전자결제 영수증을 보여주세요.

Please show me the electronic payment receipt.

전자결제 덕분에 지갑을 가지고 다닐 필요가 없어요.

Thanks to electronic payment, there is no need to carry a wallet.

요즘은 시장에서도 전자결제가 잘 돼요.

These days, electronic payment works well even in traditional markets.

전자결제 보안을 위해 지문 인식을 사용합니다.

I use fingerprint recognition for electronic payment security.

인터넷 쇼핑몰에서 전자결제를 취소하고 싶어요.

I want to cancel the electronic payment on the internet shopping mall.

전자결제 시스템이 점검 중이라서 사용할 수 없습니다.

The electronic payment system is under maintenance, so it cannot be used.

부모님께 전자결제 사용법을 가르쳐 드렸어요.

I taught my parents how to use electronic payment.

전자결제 내역을 확인해 보니 돈이 너무 많이 나갔어요.

When I checked the electronic payment history, too much money had gone out.

공공요금도 이제는 전자결제로 간편하게 낼 수 있습니다.

Now, utility bills can also be easily paid via electronic payment.

전자결제 기술의 발전으로 인해 금융 서비스가 혁신되고 있습니다.

Financial services are being innovated due to the development of electronic payment technology.

해외 여행 중에도 전자결제를 통해 환전 없이 결제할 수 있어요.

Even during overseas travel, you can pay without currency exchange through electronic payment.

전자결제 대행사(PG)는 온라인 거래에서 중요한 역할을 합니다.

Payment Gateways (PG) play an important role in online transactions.

소상공인들은 전자결제 수수료 부담을 줄여달라고 요구하고 있습니다.

Small business owners are demanding a reduction in the burden of electronic payment fees.

전자결제 사기를 방지하기 위해 이상 거래 탐지 시스템이 도입되었습니다.

An abnormal transaction detection system was introduced to prevent electronic payment fraud.

한국은 세계에서 전자결제 비중이 가장 높은 국가 중 하나입니다.

Korea is one of the countries with the highest proportion of electronic payments in the world.

전자결제 시 본인 인증 과정이 다소 번거로울 때가 있습니다.

Sometimes the identity verification process during electronic payment is a bit cumbersome.

기업들은 자체적인 전자결제 플랫폼을 구축하여 고객을 확보하고 있습니다.

Companies are securing customers by building their own electronic payment platforms.

전자결제의 보편화는 화폐의 물리적 형태에 대한 근본적인 의문을 제기합니다.

The universalization of electronic payment raises fundamental questions about the physical form of currency.

정부는 전자결제 활성화를 통해 지하경제를 양성화하려는 목적이 있습니다.

The government aims to bring the underground economy into the light by activating electronic payment.

전자결제 데이터 분석을 통해 소비자의 구매 패턴을 정교하게 파악할 수 있습니다.

Through electronic payment data analysis, consumer purchasing patterns can be precisely identified.

블록체인 기반의 전자결제는 중앙 집중식 금융 시스템의 대안으로 주목받고 있습니다.

Blockchain-based electronic payment is gaining attention as an alternative to centralized financial systems.

전자결제 보안 사고 발생 시 책임 소재를 명확히 하는 법적 장치가 필요합니다.

Legal mechanisms are needed to clarify where responsibility lies when an electronic payment security accident occurs.

비대면 경제가 확산되면서 전자결제 시장의 경쟁이 더욱 치열해지고 있습니다.

As the contactless economy spreads, competition in the electronic payment market is becoming more intense.

전자결제 시스템의 안정성은 국가 경제의 연속성을 보장하는 핵심 요소입니다.

The stability of the electronic payment system is a key factor in ensuring the continuity of the national economy.

디지털 소외 계층이 전자결제 중심의 사회에서 배제되지 않도록 대책을 마련해야 합니다.

Measures must be prepared so that the digitally marginalized are not excluded from an electronic payment-centered society.

전자결제 체제로의 전면적 전환은 국가의 통화 정책 및 금융 감독 체계의 전면적인 재설계를 요구한다.

A total transition to an electronic payment system requires a complete redesign of the state's monetary policy and financial supervision system.

전자결제의 데이터화는 개인의 사생활 보호와 공익적 데이터 활용 사이의 윤리적 갈등을 심화시킨다.

The datafication of electronic payments intensifies the ethical conflict between individual privacy protection and the public use of data.

중앙은행 디지털 화폐(CBDC)의 도입은 기존 전자결제 생태계에 가히 혁명적인 변화를 몰고 올 것이다.

The introduction of Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) will bring about a truly revolutionary change to the existing electronic payment ecosystem.

전자결제 플랫폼의 독점화 현상은 시장의 자율성을 저해하고 혁신을 가로막는 부작용을 낳을 수 있다.

The monopolization of electronic payment platforms can lead to side effects that hinder market autonomy and block innovation.

초연결 사회에서 전자결제 인프라의 마비는 단순한 불편을 넘어 국가적 재난으로 이어질 가능성이 크다.

In a hyper-connected society, the paralysis of electronic payment infrastructure is highly likely to lead to a national disaster beyond mere inconvenience.

전자결제 로그는 현대인의 사회경제적 활동을 추적하는 가장 정밀한 지표로서의 학술적 가치를 지닌다.

Electronic payment logs hold academic value as the most precise indicators for tracking the socio-economic activities of modern people.

전자결제 기술은 국경을 초월한 즉각적 가치 이전을 가능케 함으로써 글로벌 경제의 통합을 가속화하고 있다.

Electronic payment technology is accelerating the integration of the global economy by enabling the instantaneous transfer of value across borders.

자본주의의 고도화 과정에서 전자결제는 화폐의 물신성을 제거하고 순수한 수치적 교환 가치만을 남기게 되었다.

In the process of the advancement of capitalism, electronic payment has removed the fetishism of money and left only pure numerical exchange value.

Common Collocations

전자결제 시스템

전자결제 시장

전자결제 대행사

전자결제 수수료

전자결제 보안

전자결제 서비스

전자결제 이용자

전자결제 오류

전자결제 내역

전자결제 플랫폼

Common Phrases

전자결제로 하시겠어요?

— Would you like to pay via electronic payment? This is a common question at kiosks or stores.

현금 대신 전자결제로 하시겠어요?

전자결제가 완료되었습니다.

— The electronic payment has been completed. This is the standard message on screens.

전자결제가 완료되었습니다. 영수증을 챙기세요.

전자결제 수단

— Method of electronic payment. Refers to the specific tool used (card, app, etc.).

원하시는 전자결제 수단을 선택해 주세요.

전자결제 승인

— Electronic payment approval. When the bank confirms the transaction.

전자결제 승인이 거절되었습니다.

전자결제 모듈

— Electronic payment module. The software part that handles payments.

전자결제 모듈을 웹사이트에 설치했습니다.

전자결제 전문 기업

— Company specializing in electronic payments. Often refers to fintech firms.

그 회사는 전자결제 전문 기업으로 유명합니다.

전자결제 한도

— Electronic payment limit. The maximum amount you can pay digitally.

전자결제 한도를 상향 조정하고 싶습니다.

전자결제 취소

— Electronic payment cancellation. Refunding or voiding a digital transaction.

전자결제 취소는 영업일 기준 3일이 소요됩니다.

전자결제 비밀번호

— Electronic payment password. A PIN used for authentication.

전자결제 비밀번호를 6자리로 설정하세요.

전자결제 전용

— Electronic payment only. Used for stores or kiosks that don't take cash.

이 키오스크는 전자결제 전용입니다.

Often Confused With

전자결제 vs 전자결재

This means 'electronic approval' of documents. It is the most common spelling mistake for Koreans.

전자결제 vs 인터넷 뱅킹

Internet banking is the platform/service, while 전자결제 is the act of paying for a specific purchase.

전자결제 vs 계좌 이체

This is a direct bank transfer, which is one *type* of electronic payment, but not the only one.

Idioms & Expressions

"현금 없는 사회"

— A cashless society. A concept where electronic payment replaces all physical money.

전자결제가 보편화되면서 현금 없는 사회가 다가오고 있습니다.

Formal/Socio-economic

"지갑이 가벼워지다"

— Literally 'wallet becomes light'. Historically meant becoming poor, but now often refers to not needing a physical wallet due to electronic payment.

전자결제 덕분에 지갑이 가벼워졌어요.

Casual/Humorous

"손가락 하나로 결제하다"

— To pay with just one finger. Refers to the ease of mobile/biometric payment.

이제는 손가락 하나로 모든 전자결제가 가능합니다.

Neutral

"결제의 문턱을 낮추다"

— To lower the threshold of payment. Making it easier for people to spend money via electronic means.

간편 전자결제는 소비의 문턱을 낮추는 역할을 합니다.

Business/Marketing

"디지털 지갑"

— Digital wallet. An app that stores electronic payment information.

내 디지털 지갑에 카드를 등록했다.

Neutral

"종이 화폐의 종말"

— The end of paper currency. A dramatic way to describe the dominance of electronic payment.

전자결제의 확산은 종이 화폐의 종말을 예고합니다.

Journalistic

"터치 한 번으로"

— With a single touch. Emphasizes the speed of NFC or mobile payment.

터치 한 번으로 전자결제가 끝납니다.

Neutral

"금융의 디지털화"

— Digitalization of finance. The broader trend encompassing electronic payment.

전자결제는 금융의 디지털화를 이끄는 핵심입니다.

Formal

"보이지 않는 돈"

— Invisible money. Refers to digital currency used in electronic payments.

전자결제는 보이지 않는 돈의 흐름을 만들어냅니다.

Philosophical/Journalistic

"결제 혁명"

— Payment revolution. Describes the massive shift caused by new electronic payment tech.

스마트폰은 전자결제 혁명을 일으켰습니다.

Marketing

Easily Confused

전자결제 vs 결제 (je)

Homophone with '결재'.

'결제' is for financial settlement (money). '결재' is for administrative approval (signatures).

이 물건을 결제해 주세요.

전자결제 vs 지불

Both mean payment.

'지불' is a general term for giving money. '결제' is more technical, referring to the completion of a transaction or settlement.

대금을 지불하다 vs 카드 결제를 하다.

전자결제 vs 송금

Both involve moving money digitally.

'송금' is sending money to another person (remittance). '결제' is paying a business for a good or service.

친구에게 1만원을 송금했다.

전자결제 vs 입금

Involves money entering an account.

'입금' is a deposit. '결제' is the act of paying out to settle a bill.

통장에 돈을 입금했어요.

전자결제 vs 수납

Both relate to receiving/making payments.

'수납' is the act of the receiver (like a hospital or office) taking the money. '결제' is the process of the payer finishing the transaction.

수납 창구에서 결제하세요.

Sentence Patterns

N + 해요

전자결제 해요.

N + 로 결제하다

전자결제로 결제합니다.

N + 덕분에 V

전자결제 덕분에 쇼핑이 편해졌어요.

N + 하는 중이다

전자결제 하는 중이에요.

N + 을/를 통해 V

전자결제를 통해 간편하게 구매할 수 있습니다.

N + 관련 N

전자결제 관련 보안 기술이 중요합니다.

N + 의 보편화

전자결제의 보편화는 사회를 변화시킵니다.

N + 체제로의 전환

전자결제 체제로의 전면적 전환이 필요합니다.

Word Family

Nouns

결제 (Payment)

전자 (Electron/Electronic)

결제자 (Payer)

결제액 (Payment amount)

결제일 (Payment date)

Verbs

결제하다 (To pay/settle)

결제되다 (To be paid/settled)

Adjectives

전자적인 (Electronic)

결제 가능한 (Payable)

신용카드 (Credit card)

핀테크 (Fintech)

보안 (Security)

인증 (Authentication)

은행 (Bank)

How to Use It

frequency

Extremely high in urban settings and online environments in Korea.

Common Mistakes

Using '전자결재' for buying coffee. → 전자결제
'결재' is for official approval/signatures. '결제' is for financial settlement. They are homophones.
Saying '전자결제에서' to mean 'by electronic payment'. → 전자결제로
The particle '로' indicates a tool or method, while '에서' indicates a location.
Using '전자결제' to mean sending money to a friend. → 송금 or 계좌이체
'전자결제' is specifically for paying for goods/services. '송금' is for person-to-person transfers.
Spelling '전자' as '전차'. → 전자
'전차' means 'tank' (military) or 'tram/streetcar'. '전자' is 'electronic'.
Confusing '전자결제' with '전자우편'. → 전자결제
'전자우편' is an older term for email (이메일). Don't mix up paying with emailing!

Tips

The 'Money' Je

Remember that '결제' (payment) uses the same 'je' as '경제' (economy). If it's about the economy or money, use '제'!

Natural Phrasing

In casual stores, don't say '전자결제'. Use the specific method: '카드' (card), '삼성페이' (Samsung Pay), or '카카오페이' (Kakao Pay).

PG Companies

When shopping online, you might see names like 'Inicis' or 'Danal'. These are '전자결제 대행사' (PGs). Don't be alarmed if the name on your bank statement is different from the shop name.

Particle '로'

Always use the particle '로' to indicate the method. '전자결제로 결제하다' means 'to pay via electronic payment'.

Cashless Buses

Many buses in Seoul are now '현금 없는 버스'. You MUST use '전자결제' (a transport card or credit card) to ride.

Public Wi-Fi

Avoid doing '전자결제' while connected to public Wi-Fi in cafes to protect your financial information.

Receipts

Even if you pay via '전자결제', you can still ask for a '영수증' (receipt). Many apps now provide '전자영수증' (e-receipts) automatically.

Approval Confusion

In a Korean office, if someone asks for '결제', look at the context. If they are holding a document, they likely mean '결재' (approval).

Foreign Cards

Some Korean '전자결제' systems (especially online) don't accept foreign credit cards easily. Look for the 'Global Payment' or 'PayPal' option.

Dutch Pay

Use '전자결제' apps like Kakao Pay to easily '더치페이' (split the bill) with your Korean friends.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'John' (Jeon) and 'Ja' (his son) paying a 'Gyeol' (girl) for 'Je' (Jello) using their phones. John-Ja-Gyeol-Je.

Visual Association

Imagine a bolt of electricity (Jeon) hitting a credit card (Gyeol-je) and turning it into a smartphone app.

Word Web

Fintech Samsung Pay Naver Pay Credit Card QR Code Security Transaction Digital Wallet

Challenge

Try to go a whole day in Korea using only '전자결제' and no cash. Every time you pay, say '전자결제' in your head.

Word Origin

The word is a Sino-Korean compound. '전자' (電子) comes from 'electricity' (電) and 'particle/noun suffix' (子). '결제' (決濟) comes from 'to decide' (決) and 'to cross/aid/settle' (濟).

Original meaning: The original Hanja for '결제' (決濟) meant to settle a debt or finish a transaction. Combined with '전자', it literally means 'settling a transaction via electronic means'.

Sino-Korean (Hanja-based)

Cultural Context

Be aware that while electronic payment is the norm, some elderly people may struggle with it. Using the term around them should be accompanied by patience.

In many English-speaking countries, 'electronic payment' sounds very formal. People usually say 'paying by card' or 'using Apple Pay'. In Korea, '전자결제' is the formal standard used in all official apps.

The movie 'Parasite' shows the contrast between those with access to digital technology and those without. K-Dramas often feature characters using 'Samsung Pay' as a prominent product placement. The rise of Kakao Pay has changed how Koreans split bills (Dutch pay).

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Online Shopping

전자결제창이 안 떠요.
전자결제 수단을 변경하고 싶어요.
전자결제 완료 문자가 왔어요.
전자결제 비밀번호를 입력하세요.

In-store Kiosk

전자결제 전용 키오스크입니다.
전자결제 바코드를 찍어주세요.
전자결제가 승인되었습니다.
전자결제 오류입니다. 다시 시도해 주세요.

Business Meeting

전자결제 시장 점유율을 분석했습니다.
새로운 전자결제 보안 솔루션입니다.
전자결제 수수료 인하가 필요합니다.
전자결제 시스템 통합 작업을 시작합니다.

Customer Service

전자결제 내역을 확인해 드릴까요?
전자결제 취소 요청을 받았습니다.
전자결제 도중 오류가 났습니다.
전자결제 영수증은 앱에서 확인 가능합니다.

News/Media

전자결제 규모가 사상 최대를 기록했습니다.
전자결제 관련 규제가 강화됩니다.
전자결제 플랫폼 간의 경쟁이 치열합니다.
전자결제 기술의 미래에 대해 토론합니다.

Conversation Starters

"한국에서는 전자결제가 정말 편한 것 같아요. 그렇지 않나요?"

"주로 어떤 전자결제 앱을 사용하세요? 저는 카카오페이를 써요."

"전자결제 할 때 보안이 걱정된 적은 없으세요?"

"요즘 현금을 안 쓰는 가게들이 많은데, 전자결제만 가능하면 불편하지 않으세요?"

"해외에서도 한국 전자결제 시스템을 쓸 수 있으면 좋겠어요."

Journal Prompts

오늘 하루 동안 전자결제를 몇 번이나 사용했나요? 어떤 상황이었는지 적어보세요.

전자결제와 현금 결제 중 어떤 것을 더 선호하나요? 그 이유는 무엇인가요?

미래에는 전자결제가 어떻게 변할 것 같나요? 당신의 상상을 적어보세요.

전자결제를 사용하면서 겪었던 가장 당황스러운 경험이나 오류에 대해 써보세요.

전자결제가 우리 사회를 어떻게 더 투명하게 만드는지, 혹은 어떤 문제를 일으키는지 생각해보세요.

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

No, it includes any electronic means, such as using a physical credit card or a smartphone app at a brick-and-mortar store. It is an umbrella term for all non-cash, non-check digital transactions.

You can say '전자결제로 할게요' (Jeon-ja-gyeol-je-ro hal-ge-yo). However, in a real store, it's more common to say '카드로 할게요' (I'll use card) or '페이로 할게요' (I'll use pay).

This is a crucial distinction. '결제' (ending in 'je') is for money/payments. '결재' (ending in 'jae') is for getting a boss's approval or signature on a document. They sound the same but have different Hanja.

Yes, Samsung Pay is a type of '모바일 결제' (mobile payment), which falls under the category of '전자결제'. It is specifically a '간편결제' (simple payment) service.

Korea has a very high smartphone penetration rate and excellent internet infrastructure. Additionally, the government provides tax incentives for using cards and digital payments to increase financial transparency.

Yes, using a transportation card (T-Money) is a form of electronic payment. You will often see machines labeled for electronic payment at stations.

You should check your internet connection, ensure you have enough balance, and then contact the customer service of the payment app or your bank. You can say '결제가 안 돼요' (The payment isn't working).

Generally, yes. Korean payment systems use advanced encryption and multi-factor authentication. However, always be careful of 'smishing' (SMS phishing) related to payment notifications.

Usually, for the consumer, there are no extra fees for using electronic payment in a store. However, merchants pay a small percentage as a '수수료' (commission fee) to the payment provider.

Technically, yes, it is an electronic means of payment. However, in Korea, it is usually referred to specifically as '가상화폐 결제' or '암호화폐 결제' to distinguish it from traditional banking systems.