This page in your language

فارسی

العربية

Deutsch

Español

Français

日本語

한국어

Português

中文

हिन्दी

Home
Learn
Korean
Vocabulary
입국하다

A2 verb #6,000 most common 12 min read

입국하다

Top 6,000

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips 입국하다 in 30 Seconds

Explanation 입국하다 in your Level:

At the A1 level, you should learn '입국하다' as a basic travel word. You don't need to know all the complex legal nuances yet. Just think of it as the 'official' way to say 'to come into Korea.' You will see this word on the arrival cards you fill out on the airplane. It is composed of 'Ip' (enter) and 'Guk' (country). At this stage, focus on the simple present and past tense. For example, '저는 한국에 입국해요' (I enter Korea). You might hear the flight attendant say '입국 신고서' (arrival card). Just remember that when you travel between countries, you '입국' (enter) and '출국' (leave). It is a very useful word for your first trip to Korea. Try to recognize it on signs at the airport. It usually has an icon of a plane landing or a person walking into a building. Even if you don't use it in conversation, being able to read it will make your travel much smoother. Don't worry about the Hanja yet; just memorize the sound 'ip-guk-ha-da.'

At the A2 level, you should understand that '입국하다' is more formal than '오다' (to come). You should be able to use it in basic sentences about your travel plans. For instance, '내일 친구가 입국해요' (My friend enters the country tomorrow). You should also learn common pairings like '입국 심사' (immigration inspection). At this level, you can start to distinguish it from '출국하다' (to leave the country). You should know how to use the particle '-에' with it. For example, '미국에 입국했어요' (I entered the USA). You might also start to see it in simple news headlines or social media posts about your favorite K-pop idols. It's important to know that this word is specifically for countries, not for rooms or cities. If you use it for a room, people will understand but it will sound funny. Focus on using it correctly in the context of international travel. You can also practice the honorific form '입국하시다' for when you talk about your parents or teachers traveling.

At the B1 level, you should be comfortable using '입국하다' in more complex sentence structures. You should know how to use connectives like '-기 전에' (before) or '-ㄴ 후에' (after). For example, '입국하기 전에 비자를 받아야 해요' (You must get a visa before entering the country). You should also be aware of the noun form '입국' and how it is used in compound words like '입국 절차' (entry procedures) or '입국 금지' (entry ban). At this level, you can begin to understand the difference between '입국하다' and '귀국하다' (to return to one's home country). You should also be able to understand short news clips or airport announcements that use this word. For instance, '불법 입국' (illegal entry) is a term you might encounter in the media. You should also be able to use the word in a business context, such as explaining when a business partner is arriving. Your pronunciation should be clear, paying attention to the tense 'kk' sound in the middle [ip-kkuk].

At the B2 level, you should have a deep understanding of '입국하다' and its various administrative and legal connotations. You should be able to discuss topics like immigration policy, visa requirements, and border control using this term. You should understand the nuances of causative forms like '입국시키다' (to allow entry) and how they are used in formal reports. For example, '정부는 특별한 사유가 있는 외국인만 입국시켰다' (The government only allowed entry to foreigners with special reasons). You should also be familiar with more advanced vocabulary related to '입국,' such as '입국 불허' (denial of entry) or '입국 요건' (entry requirements). At this level, you should be able to read newspaper articles about international relations or migration that use this word frequently. You should also be able to use it in formal writing, such as an essay about the benefits and drawbacks of international travel. You can distinguish between the literal entry and the legal concept of 'entry' into a nation's jurisdiction.

At the C1 level, '입국하다' is a word you use with precision and stylistic awareness. You understand its role in diplomatic language and legal statutes. You can analyze how the word is used in political discourse to frame issues of national security or human rights. For example, you might discuss '무단 입국' (unauthorized entry) in the context of refugee law. You are also aware of the historical weight the word carries, such as in discussions about the division of North and South Korea and the rare '입국' events across the DMZ. Your usage of the word in professional settings is flawless, and you can switch between '입국하다,' '귀국하다,' and '입성하다' to achieve specific rhetorical effects. You understand the Hanja roots deeply enough to guess the meaning of related but rarer terms like '재입국' (re-entry) or '입국 관리소' (immigration office). You can also use the word metaphorically in high-level literature, though its primary use remains administrative.

At the C2 level, you possess a near-native command of '입국하다' and its place within the broader structure of the Korean language. You can interpret the word's usage in complex legal cases, constitutional law, and international treaties. You are sensitive to the subtle emotional and political connotations the word might have in different contexts, such as the '입국' of a controversial figure or the '입국' of a long-lost diaspora member. You can engage in academic debates about '입국 관리' (immigration management) and '국경' (borders) with ease. Your ability to use the word is not just about accuracy but about nuance—knowing exactly when to use the formal '입국하다' versus a more descriptive phrase to convey a specific tone. You are also familiar with archaic or highly specialized variations of the word that might appear in historical documents or specialized legal texts. You can explain the historical evolution of the 'Ip-Guk' concept from the Joseon dynasty to the modern era, showing how the concept of a 'nation' and 'entering' it has changed over time.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

입국하다 in 30 Seconds

입국하다 is a formal Korean verb meaning 'to enter a country' through official immigration channels, primarily used in travel, legal, and news contexts.
It is composed of the Hanja 'Ip' (enter) and 'Guk' (country), distinguishing it from general words for 'coming in' like 들어오다.
Commonly used with particles like -에 (to) or -를 통해 (through), it is essential for navigating airports and understanding official travel documents.
The word has various forms like 입국 심사 (immigration) and antonyms like 출국하다 (to leave a country), making it a core part of travel vocabulary.

The Korean verb 입국하다 (ip-guk-ha-da) is a formal and specific term used to describe the act of entering a country through official channels. Etymologically, it is derived from the Hanja (Sino-Korean characters) 入 (입 - ip) meaning 'to enter' and 國 (국 - guk) meaning 'country' or 'nation.' When combined with the verb-forming suffix 하다 (ha-da), it literally translates to 'to do country-entering.' This word is not used for casually walking into a room or a building; it is strictly reserved for the administrative and physical process of crossing an international border and passing through customs and immigration. Understanding this word is crucial for anyone traveling to Korea or dealing with official documentation, as it appears on arrival cards, airport signage, and news reports regarding international travel.

Administrative Context: This term is used by immigration officers, airline staff, and government officials. When you land at Incheon International Airport, the process of showing your passport and getting a stamp is your official '입국' (entry).

관광객들이 한국에 입국하다. (Tourists enter Korea.)

In daily life, while you might say '한국에 왔어요' (I came to Korea) to a friend, you would see '입국' on your travel documents. The word carries a sense of legality and formality. For instance, if someone is denied entry into a country, the term used is 입국 거부 (entry refusal). If a country closes its borders, they might say 입국 금지 (entry ban). These nuances show that 입국하다 is more than just movement; it is about the legal permission to be within a nation's territory. It is also important to distinguish this from 귀국하다 (to return to one's home country). You '입국' a foreign country, but you '귀국' your own country. However, technically, when you return home, you are still 'entering' the country, so '입국' is still used in the official immigration sense even for citizens.

비자 없이 입국하다. (To enter without a visa.)

News Usage: You will frequently hear this in news reports about celebrities arriving at the airport: 'BTS가 오늘 오전 인천공항을 통해 입국했습니다' (BTS entered through Incheon Airport this morning).

Furthermore, the word is often paired with specific arrival methods. You might '입국' via ship (항구를 통해 입국) or via plane (공항을 통해 입국). In the context of the Korean Peninsula, the term takes on historical and political weight when discussing those crossing the border. It is a word that signifies a transition of space, law, and often culture. For learners, mastering this word helps transition from basic 'travel' vocabulary to more sophisticated 'official' vocabulary, which is essential for reading news, filling out forms, and understanding announcements in transport hubs.

그는 어제 인천공항으로 입국했다. (He entered through Incheon Airport yesterday.)

Legal Distinction: The term is used in legal documents to define the exact moment a person becomes subject to a country's laws upon crossing the threshold of immigration.

외국인들은 입국하다가 심사를 받습니다. (Foreigners undergo an inspection while entering the country.)

Using 입국하다 correctly requires an understanding of Korean particles and verb conjugations. Since it is an intransitive verb (though it can sometimes take an object like '공항을' representing the path), it most commonly pairs with the location particle -에 (e) or the direction particle -로 (ro). For example, '한국에 입국하다' means 'to enter Korea.' If you want to specify the entry point, you use -을/를 통해 (reul tong-hae), meaning 'through.' For example, '인천공항을 통해 입국하다' means 'to enter through Incheon Airport.'

Tense Conjugation: Past: 입국했다 (Entered). Present: 입국한다 (Enters - plain) / 입국해요 (Enters - polite). Future: 입국할 것이다 (Will enter).

내일 한국에 입국할 예정입니다. (I am scheduled to enter Korea tomorrow.)

When describing a completed action, the past tense 입국했습니다 is most common in formal reports. In news headlines, you might see the noun form 입국 used alone or with -중 (in the middle of). For example, '유명 배우 입국 중' (Famous actor currently entering). In complex sentences, you can use the connective -자마자 (as soon as) to say '입국하자마자 전화를 했어요' (I called as soon as I entered the country). This shows how the verb functions as a specific anchor in time for travelers.

불법으로 입국하다가 적발되었습니다. (He was caught while entering the country illegally.)

Another important structure is the use of -려다(가) which indicates an intention that was interrupted. '미국에 입국하려다가 문제가 생겼어요' (I was trying to enter the US, but a problem occurred). This verb also frequently appears in the passive-like causative '입국시키다' (to allow entry/to make someone enter), often used by authorities: '정부는 관광객들을 입국시켰다' (The government allowed the tourists to enter). Mastering these variations allows for precise communication in travel-related scenarios.

Formal Announcements: In airports, you will hear: '입국 심사를 위해 줄을 서 주시기 바랍니다' (Please line up for immigration/entry inspection).

그는 무비자로 입국했다. (He entered visa-free.)

Finally, consider the honorific forms. When talking about someone older or in a higher position, such as a CEO or a professor, you should use 입국하시다. For example, '사장님께서 언제 입국하십니까?' (When does the CEO enter the country?). This maintains the necessary social hierarchy in Korean speech. Even in a simple context, choosing '입국하다' over '오다' (to come) or '들어가다' (to go in) signals that you are speaking about a formal, national-level event, which is vital for professional and official communication.

모든 승객은 입국하다 전에 서류를 작성해야 합니다. (All passengers must fill out documents before entering.)

Common Collocations: Commonly paired with '절차' (procedure), '심사' (inspection), and '신고' (declaration).

The most common place you will encounter 입국하다 is, naturally, at an international airport. From the moment you step off the plane, signage will guide you toward 입국 심사 (Immigration). Announcements over the PA system often use this word to direct passengers or provide information about customs procedures. For example, '입국 신고서를 작성해 주세요' (Please fill out the entry declaration form). This environment is the primary practical application of the word for most learners.

In the Media: Korean news broadcasts (KBS, MBC, SBS) use '입국하다' daily. Whether it's a politician returning from a diplomatic trip or a foreign dignitary visiting Seoul, the term is standard journalism. You will hear phrases like '대통령이 오늘 오후 귀국(입국)했습니다.'

공항에서 입국하다가 짐을 잃어버렸어요. (I lost my luggage while entering the country at the airport.)

Another frequent setting is in the world of K-pop and Korean entertainment. Fans often track their favorite idols' schedules, and '입국' is a keyword used on Twitter (X) and Instagram. Fans will post '입국 사진' (arrival photos) or '입국 영상' (arrival videos) when a group returns to Korea after an overseas tour. Headlines like '블랙핑크, 빛나는 입국' (Blackpink, a radiant entry) are very common in entertainment news tabloids. This has made the word quite familiar even to casual fans of Korean culture.

그 선수는 경기를 위해 한국에 입국했다. (The athlete entered Korea for the match.)

In business contexts, '입국' is used when discussing foreign labor or business trips. Human resources departments and immigration lawyers use this term when processing E-9 or H-2 visas. You might hear, '외국인 근로자들이 내일 입국할 예정입니다' (Foreign workers are scheduled to enter tomorrow). Additionally, during global health crises like the COVID-19 pandemic, the word became ubiquitous in public health announcements regarding quarantine and '입국 제한' (entry restrictions). This highlights the word's importance in administrative and public safety communications.

Legal and Travel Documents: On your passport or visa, you will see '입국일' (Date of Entry). Knowing this word helps you identify where to sign or what date to check.

어떤 목적으로 입국하셨습니까? (For what purpose did you enter the country?)

Lastly, in educational settings, '입국' is taught as a key vocabulary word for the TOPIK (Test of Proficiency in Korean) exam, especially at the level 2 (A2) and above. It appears in reading passages about travel experiences or listening exercises set in an airport. Because it is a foundational 'Hanja' word, it also serves as a gateway to learning other related words like '출국' (exit country), '귀국' (return to country), and '국가' (nation). Hearing and seeing this word in these diverse contexts reinforces its role as a vital piece of the Korean linguistic landscape.

그는 어제 비밀리에 입국했다. (He entered the country secretly yesterday.)

Digital Contexts: Online travel forums and blogs often use hashtags like #입국 #한국입국 to share tips on how to navigate the process smoothly.

One of the most frequent mistakes learners make with 입국하다 is using it for the wrong scale of 'entry.' Because the English word 'enter' is very general, students often try to use 입국하다 to mean entering a building, a room, or even a city. For example, saying '서울에 입국했어요' (I entered Seoul) is incorrect unless Seoul is its own sovereign nation. For cities, one should use 도착하다 (to arrive) or simply 가다/오다. 입국 specifically requires a 'Guk' (country).

Confusing 입국 with 귀국: Another common error is failing to distinguish between 'entering a foreign country' and 'returning home.' While a Korean citizen '입국's Korea when they return, they would more naturally say '귀국하다' (return to one's country) to emphasize that they are coming home. Using the wrong one can sound slightly clinical or detached.

❌ 저는 방에 입국했어요. (Incorrect: I entered the room.)
✅ 저는 방에 들어갔어요. (Correct: I went into the room.)

Grammatically, learners often struggle with the choice between the particles -에 and -을/를. While '한국에 입국하다' is the standard way to say 'enter Korea,' some learners try to use '한국을 입국하다.' While not entirely unheard of in specific poetic or administrative contexts, it is much less common and can sound unnatural. The rule of thumb is to use -에 for the destination and -을/를 통해 for the gateway (like the airport).

❌ 일본을 입국했어요.
✅ 일본에 입국했어요. (I entered Japan.)

There is also a confusion between 입국하다 and 입학하다 (to enter school). Because they sound similar and both involve 'entering' (Ip), beginners often swap them. '대학교에 입국했어요' would mean you legally entered the 'University Country,' which makes no sense. Always check if the second syllable is Guk (Country) or Hak (Learning). Similarly, '입사하다' (to join a company) is another 'Ip' word that learners frequently mix up with '입국하다'.

Pronunciation Pitfall: The 'p' (ㅂ) in '입' and the 'g' (ㄱ) in '국' meet to create a slight tense sound. Beginners often pronounce them too softly or separately. It should flow as [입꾹].

❌ 저는 회사에 입국하고 싶어요.
✅ 저는 회사에 입사하고 싶어요. (I want to join the company.)

Finally, avoid using '입국하다' in very casual, slang-heavy conversations where a simple '왔어' (I'm here/I came) would suffice. While not 'wrong,' using such a formal word with close friends can make you sound like a news reporter or a legal document. It's about matching the 'register' of your speech to the situation. Reserve '입국하다' for when you are talking about the process, the logistics, or the official status of travel. Overusing it in casual settings is a sign of a learner who hasn't yet grasped the social nuances of Korean vocabulary.

❌ 친구야, 나 어제 한국에 입국했어! (A bit too formal for a close friend.)
✅ 친구야, 나 어제 한국 왔어! (Much more natural for friends.)

Summary of Errors: 1. Wrong scale (buildings/cities). 2. Confusing with 'return' (귀국). 3. Particle mismatch (-을 vs -에). 4. Similar sounding words (입학, 입사).

To truly master 입국하다, you must understand its relationship with other words that describe movement and arrival. The most direct counterpart is its antonym, 출국하다 (to leave a country). These two form the 'in and out' of international travel. Another closely related word is 귀국하다 (to return to one's home country). While '입국' focuses on the act of entering, '귀국' focuses on the destination being 'home.'

입국하다 vs. 들어오다: '들어오다' is the general, native Korean way to say 'come in.' It can be used for rooms, houses, and countries. '입국하다' is the Sino-Korean, formal version specifically for countries. Use '들어오다' with friends and '입국하다' in professional settings.

그는 무사히 고국으로 귀국했다. (He safely returned to his home country.)

Another alternative is 도착하다 (to arrive). While '입국하다' implies the whole process of crossing the border, '도착하다' simply means you have reached the destination. You arrive (도착) at the airport, and then you enter (입국) the country. There is also 상륙하다 (to land/disembark), which is used specifically for ships or military operations. For example, '인천 상륙 작전' (The Incheon Landing Operation) uses this word. It implies coming from the sea onto the land.

비행기가 공항에 도착했다. (The plane arrived at the airport.)

In more literary or historical contexts, you might see 입성하다 (to enter a castle/city). This is used when a sports team wins a championship and enters their home city, or when an army conquers a capital. It has a much more triumphant and grand connotation than the clinical '입국하다.' For learners, knowing these distinctions helps you choose the right word for the right 'vibe' and level of formality.

Register Comparison: Official: 입국하다. Casual: 들어오다. Home-bound: 귀국하다. Triumphant: 입성하다.

우승팀이 서울에 입성했다. (The winning team entered Seoul [triumphantly].)

Finally, let's look at the causative form 수입하다 (to import). While '입국' is for people, '수입' is for goods. Both share the 'Ip' (enter) character. If you are bringing goods into the country, you aren't '입국'-ing them; you are '수입'-ing them. This helps build a 'word family' in your mind. By grouping '입국' (people), '수입' (goods), and '입학' (students), you can see the logical pattern of how the 'Ip' character functions across the Korean language.

한국은 많은 과일을 수입한다. (Korea imports many fruits.)

Quick Reference Table: 입국 (People/Country) | 출국 (People/Leave) | 수입 (Goods/In) | 수출 (Goods/Out)

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The character for 'Guk' (國) originally depicted a territory (口) defended by a weapon (戈) and a person (口). It shows how central defense was to the concept of a country!

Pronunciation Guide

UK /ip.kuk.ha.da/

US /ip.kʊk.ha.də/

The stress is relatively even, but the second syllable 'guk' feels slightly stronger because of the tense 'kk' sound.

Rhymes With

귀국하다 (gwi-guk-ha-da) 출국하다 (chul-guk-ha-da) 건국하다 (geon-guk-ha-da) 애국하다 (ae-guk-ha-da) 자국하다 (ja-guk-ha-da) 망국하다 (mang-guk-ha-da) 강국하다 (gang-guk-ha-da) 제국하다 (je-guk-ha-da)

Common Errors

Pronouncing '입' and '국' as two completely separate words with a gap.
Failing to tense the 'ㄱ' in '국' to a 'ㄲ' sound after the 'ㅂ' in '입'.
Pronouncing the 'h' in 'hada' too strongly; it often blends with the preceding 'k'.
Mixing up the 'u' sound in 'guk' with an 'o' sound.
Pronouncing the final 'da' as 'ta'.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 2/5

Easy to recognize once you know the 'Guk' character.

Writing 3/5

Requires remembering the 'ㅂ' batchim in '입'.

Speaking 3/5

The 'p-g' transition can be tricky for beginners.

Listening 2/5

Clear sound, but often spoken fast in airport announcements.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

한국 (Korea) 가다 (To go) 오다 (To come) 나라 (Country) 공항 (Airport)

Learn Next

출국하다 (To leave a country) 귀국하다 (To return to one's country) 비자 (Visa) 여권 (Passport) 세관 (Customs)

Advanced

입국 관리국 (Immigration Office) 체류하다 (To stay/sojourn) 거주하다 (To reside) 망명하다 (To seek asylum)

Grammar to Know

-기 전에 (Before doing)

입국하기 전에 비자를 받으세요.

-(으)ㄴ 후에 (After doing)

입국한 후에 짐을 찾았어요.

-자마자 (As soon as)

한국에 입국하자마자 친구를 만났어요.

-(으)려고 (In order to)

관광을 하려고 입국했습니다.

-아/어야 하다 (Must do)

입국할 때는 여권이 있어야 해요.

Examples by Level

저는 어제 한국에 입국했어요.

I entered Korea yesterday.

Uses the past tense '-았/었어요'.

언제 한국에 입국해요?

When do you enter Korea?

Simple present tense used for future plans.

입국 신고서를 쓰세요.

Please write the entry declaration form.

'-세요' is a polite command.

비행기로 입국해요.

I enter by plane.

'-로' indicates the means of transport.

제 친구가 오늘 입국해요.

My friend enters today.

Subject marker '-가' is used.

일본에 입국하고 싶어요.

I want to enter Japan.

'-고 싶어요' expresses desire.

공항에서 입국해요.

I enter at the airport.

'-에서' indicates the location of the action.

여권으로 입국해요.

I enter with a passport.

'-로' indicates the tool used.

입국 심사가 정말 빨라요.

The immigration inspection is really fast.

'-가' is the subject marker.

비자 없이 입국할 수 있어요?

Can I enter without a visa?

'-ㄹ 수 있어요' expresses possibility.

그는 관광을 위해 입국했다.

He entered for the purpose of tourism.

'-을 위해' indicates purpose.

입국할 때 여권을 보여주세요.

Please show your passport when you enter.

'-ㄹ 때' means 'when'.

가족과 함께 입국했어요.

I entered together with my family.

'-와/과 함께' means 'together with'.

입국 절차가 복잡해요.

The entry procedure is complicated.

Adjective '복잡하다' (to be complicated).

인천공항을 통해 입국했습니다.

I entered through Incheon Airport.

'-을 통해' means 'through'.

내일 오전에 입국할 거예요.

I will enter tomorrow morning.

'-ㄹ 거예요' is the future tense.

입국하기 전에 건강 상태를 확인하세요.

Check your health status before entering.

'-기 전에' means 'before doing'.

그는 불법으로 입국하다가 잡혔어요.

He was caught while entering illegally.

'-다가' indicates an interrupted action.

입국이 거부된 이유가 뭐예요?

What is the reason entry was denied?

Noun '입국' used with the passive-like '거부되다'.

외국인 노동자들이 단체로 입국했다.

Foreign workers entered as a group.

'-로' indicates the manner (as a group).

입국 시 필요한 서류를 준비하세요.

Prepare the necessary documents for entry.

'시' (at the time of) is a formal marker.

그는 비즈니스 목적으로 입국했습니다.

He entered for business purposes.

'-로' indicates the purpose/reason.

입국한 지 벌써 일주일이 되었어요.

It has already been a week since I entered.

'-ㄴ 지' indicates the time since an action.

공항이 붐벼서 입국이 늦어졌어요.

The airport was crowded, so entry was delayed.

'-아/어서' indicates cause.

정부는 감염병 확산을 막기 위해 입국을 제한했다.

The government restricted entry to prevent the spread of infectious diseases.

'-기 위해' indicates purpose.

그 가수는 팬들의 환호를 받으며 입국했다.

The singer entered while receiving cheers from fans.

'-(으)며' indicates simultaneous actions.

입국 심사관이 방문 목적을 꼼꼼히 물었다.

The immigration officer asked the purpose of the visit meticulously.

Adverb '꼼꼼히' (meticulously).

그는 과거의 범죄 기록 때문에 입국이 금지되었다.

He was banned from entry because of his past criminal record.

'- 때문에' indicates reason.

무비자 입국이 가능한 국가가 늘어나고 있다.

The number of countries where visa-free entry is possible is increasing.

'-고 있다' indicates a continuing state.

입국 절차를 간소화하려는 노력이 계속되고 있다.

Efforts to simplify entry procedures are continuing.

'-으려는' indicates intention.

그는 한국에 입국하자마자 김치찌개를 먹으러 갔다.

As soon as he entered Korea, he went to eat kimchi stew.

'-자마자' means 'as soon as'.

입국 시 면세 한도를 초과하지 않도록 주의하세요.

Be careful not to exceed the duty-free limit upon entry.

'-지 않도록' means 'so as not to'.

인도주의적 차원에서 난민들의 입국을 허용했다.

The entry of refugees was allowed from a humanitarian perspective.

'-적 차원에서' means 'from the perspective of'.

그 정치인은 논란 속에 조용히 입국했다.

The politician entered quietly amidst controversy.

'- 속에' means 'amidst'.

입국 관리법 위반으로 강제 출국 조치를 당했다.

He was forcibly deported for violating the Immigration Control Act.

'-로' indicates the reason (violation).

국가 안보를 위협할 우려가 있는 인물의 입국을 차단했다.

The entry of individuals concerned about threatening national security was blocked.

'-ㄹ 우려가 있는' means 'with the concern of'.

그는 재입국 허가를 받기 위해 대사관을 방문했다.

He visited the embassy to obtain re-entry permission.

Noun '재입국' (re-entry).

입국자 전원을 대상으로 전수 조사를 실시하고 있다.

A complete survey is being conducted for all entrants.

'-을 대상으로' means 'targeting'.

그의 입국은 양국 관계에 중대한 영향을 미칠 것이다.

His entry will have a significant impact on bilateral relations.

'-에 영향을 미치다' means 'to influence'.

합법적인 절차를 거쳐 입국한 외국인들이 많다.

There are many foreigners who entered through legal procedures.

'-를 거쳐' means 'going through/via'.

입국이라는 행위는 단순한 공간의 이동을 넘어 법적 지위의 변화를 의미한다.

The act of entry means more than just movement in space; it signifies a change in legal status.

'-라는' is used for defining a concept.

글로벌 시대에 입국 규제는 국가의 주권과 직결되는 민감한 사안이다.

In the global era, entry regulation is a sensitive issue directly linked to national sovereignty.

'-와 직결되다' means 'to be directly linked with'.

그는 망명을 목적으로 입국을 시도했으나 끝내 거부당했다.

He attempted entry for the purpose of asylum but was ultimately denied.

'-했으나' means 'but'.

입국 심사의 엄격함은 그 나라의 대외 정책을 반영하기도 한다.

The strictness of entry inspections also reflects that country's foreign policy.

'-기도 한다' means 'also does'.

불법 입국을 근절하기 위한 국제적인 공조가 절실하다.

International cooperation to eradicate illegal entry is desperately needed.

'-기 위한' means 'in order to'.

사이버 공간에는 국경이 없지만, 물리적 입국은 여전히 통제되고 있다.

There are no borders in cyberspace, but physical entry is still controlled.

'-지만' means 'although'.

그의 입국이 허가되자 지지자들은 환호성을 질렀다.

When his entry was permitted, supporters cheered.

'-자' indicates that the second action follows immediately.

입국 관리 시스템의 디지털화는 여행객의 편의를 증진시켰다.

The digitalization of entry management systems has enhanced traveler convenience.

'-화' is a suffix meaning '-ization'.

Common Collocations

입국 심사

입국 신고서

입국 금지

입국 절차

입국 허가

무비자 입국

불법 입국

입국 일자

입국 목적

입국 거부

Common Phrases

한국에 입국하다

— To enter Korea (the most standard usage).

저는 관광 비자로 한국에 입국했습니다.

공항을 통해 입국하다

— To enter through an airport.

많은 사람들이 인천공항을 통해 입국합니다.

입국 심사를 마치다

— To finish the immigration inspection.

입국 심사를 마친 후 짐을 찾으러 갔어요.

입국이 늦어지다

— For entry to be delayed.

비행기 연착으로 입국이 늦어졌습니다.

입국을 환영하다

— To welcome someone's entry into the country.

우리는 그의 입국을 진심으로 환영합니다.

입국 시 주의사항

— Precautions to take upon entry.

입국 시 주의사항을 미리 읽어보세요.

입국 관리를 강화하다

— To strengthen entry management/border control.

정부는 입국 관리를 강화하기로 했습니다.

입국 비자를 받다

— To receive an entry visa.

대사관에서 입국 비자를 받았습니다.

입국이 제한되다

— For entry to be restricted.

전염병 때문에 입국이 제한되고 있어요.

입국 서류를 준비하다

— To prepare entry documents.

입국 서류를 꼼꼼히 준비해야 합니다.

Often Confused With

입국하다 vs 입학하다

Means 'to enter school'. Sounds similar but 'Hak' is for learning, 'Guk' is for country.

입국하다 vs 입사하다

Means 'to join a company'. 'Sa' is for company.

입국하다 vs 귀국하다

Means 'to return to one's own country'. Use this when going home.

Idioms & Expressions

"입국 컷"

— Slang for being denied entry or failing to meet the entry requirements.

비자가 없어서 입국 컷 당했어.

Slang

"금의환향하여 입국하다"

— To enter the country returning in glory (like a hero returning home).

올림픽 금메달리스트가 금의환향하여 입국했다.

Formal/Literary

"몰래 입국하다"

— To enter secretly/stealthily.

그는 감시를 피해 몰래 입국했다.

Neutral

"입국 도장을 찍다"

— To get an entry stamp (often used to mean successfully entering).

드디어 여권에 입국 도장을 찍었어요.

Neutral

"무혈 입성(입국)하다"

— To enter without any resistance or bloodshed (metaphorical).

그 기업은 한국 시장에 무혈 입성했다.

Formal/Business

"입국 길에 오르다"

— To set out on the journey to enter a country.

그는 오늘 한국행 입국 길에 올랐다.

Literary

"입국 문턱이 높다"

— The threshold for entry is high (meaning it's hard to get in).

요즘은 비자 받기가 힘들어서 입국 문턱이 높아요.

Neutral

"입국을 서두르다"

— To hurry one's entry into the country.

급한 일 때문에 입국을 서둘렀습니다.

Neutral

"입국 정지"

— Suspension of entry.

특정 국가에 대한 입국 정지 조치가 내려졌다.

Formal

"입국 대기"

— Waiting for entry.

많은 사람들이 공항에서 입국 대기 중이다.

Neutral

Easily Confused

입국하다 vs 들어오다

Both mean 'to enter/come in'.

들어오다 is general and casual; 입국하다 is specific to countries and formal.

방에 들어오세요 (Come into the room). vs 한국에 입국하세요 (Enter Korea).

입국하다 vs 도착하다

Both happen at the airport.

도착하다 is the physical arrival of the plane/person; 입국하다 is the legal entry process.

비행기가 도착했다 (The plane arrived). vs 승객이 입국했다 (The passenger entered the country).

입국하다 vs 출국하다

Both relate to international travel.

출국하다 is leaving; 입국하다 is entering.

저는 오늘 출국해요 (I leave today). vs 저는 오늘 입국해요 (I enter today).

입국하다 vs 수입하다

Both share the 'Ip' (enter) root.

수입하다 is for goods (import); 입국하다 is for people.

커피를 수입하다 (Import coffee). vs 관광객이 입국하다 (Tourists enter).

입국하다 vs 입성하다

Both mean entering a territory.

입성하다 is for cities/castles and is grand/triumphant; 입국하다 is for countries and is administrative.

서울에 입성하다 (Enter Seoul triumphantly).

Sentence Patterns

저는 [Country]에 입국해요.

저는 한국에 입국해요.

[Country]에 [Purpose]로 입국했습니다.

미국에 관광으로 입국했습니다.

입국하기 전에 [Action]해야 해요.

입국하기 전에 서류를 준비해야 해요.

입국한 후에 [Action]했어요.

입국한 후에 전화를 했어요.

[Reason] 때문에 입국이 금지되었습니다.

비자 문제 때문에 입국이 금지되었습니다.

입국 시 [Requirement]를 준수하세요.

입국 시 방역 수칙을 준수하세요.

[Target]의 입국을 허용하다/차단하다.

정부는 난민의 입국을 허용했다.

입국 절차의 [Noun]화가 추진되고 있다.

입국 절차의 자동화가 추진되고 있다.

Word Family

Nouns

입국 (Entry/Immigration)

입국자 (Entrant/Person entering)

입국장 (Arrival hall)

입국세 (Entry tax)

입국권 (Right of entry)

Verbs

입국시키다 (To allow/make someone enter a country)

재입국하다 (To re-enter a country)

출국 (Departure from country)

귀국 (Return to home country)

공항 (Airport)

비자 (Visa)

여권 (Passport)

How to Use It

frequency

Very frequent in travel and news contexts; rare in casual daily life at home.

Common Mistakes

서울에 입국하다 → 서울에 도착하다 / 서울에 가다
입국하다 is only for countries, not cities.
방에 입국하다 → 방에 들어가다
You cannot 'enter a country' into a room.
미국을 입국하다 → 미국에 입국하다
The particle '-에' is much more natural for the destination of entry.
입학하다 and 입국하다 confusion → 입국하다 (country), 입학하다 (school)
Learners often mix these up because of the 'Ip' prefix.
Using 입국하다 for returning home → 귀국하다
While technically okay, 귀국하다 is the correct term for returning to one's own nation.

Tips

Use -에 for Destination

Always pair 입국하다 with the destination particle -에 to indicate the country you are entering.

Learn the Pair

Always learn 입국하다 (enter) and 출국하다 (leave) together as a pair.

The Tense 'K'

Remember that the 'g' in 'guk' becomes a tense 'kk' sound: [ip-kkuk].

Airport Signs

When you arrive in Korea, look for the '입국' sign. It will lead you to immigration.

Listen for Celebrities

Watch 'airport arrival' videos of K-pop idols to hear this word in a real context.

Fill out Forms

Practice writing this word when you fill out mock arrival cards for study.

Hanja Roots

Remembering 'Ip' (Enter) and 'Guk' (Country) will help you learn dozens of other words.

Register Awareness

Don't use this word with close friends unless you're being intentionally formal or funny.

Official Documents

On your visa, look for '입국일' (Date of Entry) to know your legal start date.

Compare with 귀국

Make sure you know when to use 'return home' (귀국) vs 'enter a country' (입국).

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'IP' as your 'Internet Protocol' address which lets you 'enter' a network, and 'GUK' as the sound of a 'gulp' when you're nervous at the border. 'IP-GUK' is entering the country network!

Visual Association

Imagine a big stamp hitting a passport page with the word 'IPGUK' written in red ink.

Word Web

여권 (Passport) 비행기 (Airplane) 세관 (Customs) 비자 (Visa) 심사관 (Officer) 가방 (Bag) 도장 (Stamp) 국경 (Border)

Challenge

Try to say '저는 한국에 입국했습니다' five times fast without tripping over the 'p-g' transition.

Word Origin

Derived from Sino-Korean (Hanja) roots. 'Ip' (入) means 'to enter' and 'Guk' (國) means 'country'. The suffix 'hada' (하다) is a native Korean verb meaning 'to do'.

Original meaning: To perform the action of entering a nation.

Sino-Korean vocabulary.

Cultural Context

Be aware that '입국' can be a sensitive topic for refugees or those with visa issues. Always use the word respectfully in those contexts.

In English, we usually just say 'arrive' or 'get in,' but 'enter' is the closest formal equivalent to 입국하다.

Incheon Airport (The primary setting for '입국' in Korea). The movie 'The Terminal' (Dealing with the struggle of being unable to '입국'). K-pop 'Arrival' videos on YouTube.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Airport / Immigration

입국 심사는 어디예요?
입국 신고서를 주세요.
관광으로 입국했습니다.
여권을 보여주세요.

News / Media

입국 금지 조치
유명 인사의 입국
불법 입국 시도
입국자 격리

Visa Application

입국 목적이 무엇입니까?
입국 예정일
재입국 허가
입국 비자 발급

Travel Planning

언제 입국할 거야?
무비자 입국 가능 국가
입국 절차 확인하기
입국 시 필요한 서류

Business

바이어가 오늘 입국합니다.
입국 일정을 조율하다.
입국 후 바로 미팅이 있어요.
직원 입국 비자 신청

Conversation Starters

"한국에 입국할 때 기분이 어땠어요? (How did you feel when you entered Korea?)"

"입국 심사에서 무슨 질문을 받았어요? (What questions were you asked at immigration?)"

"비자 없이 입국할 수 있는 나라가 어디예요? (Which countries can you enter without a visa?)"

"가장 최근에 입국한 나라가 어디예요? (Which country did you enter most recently?)"

"입국 신고서 작성이 어렵지 않았어요? (Wasn't it difficult to fill out the entry form?)"

Journal Prompts

한국에 처음 입국했을 때의 기억을 써 보세요. (Write about your memory of entering Korea for the first time.)

입국 절차가 더 간소해져야 한다고 생각하나요? 왜 그런가요? (Do you think entry procedures should be simpler? Why?)

외국인이 우리나라에 입국할 때 가장 주의해야 할 점은 무엇일까요? (What is the most important thing for foreigners to be careful about when entering our country?)

공항에서 입국하는 사람들의 표정을 관찰하고 그들의 이야기를 상상해 보세요. (Observe the faces of people entering at the airport and imagine their stories.)

미래의 입국 심사는 어떻게 변할까요? (How will future immigration inspections change?)

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

No, 입국하다 is only for countries. For a hometown, use '고향에 가다' or '귀향하다' (return to hometown).

Yes, it is a formal Sino-Korean word. It is appropriate for all professional and official settings.

입국 is the noun (entry), and 입국하다 is the verb (to enter). For example, '입국 심사' (entry inspection) vs '한국에 입국하다' (to enter Korea).

You can say '나 어제 한국 왔어' (I came to Korea yesterday).

Yes, if you are entering a country by ship, you still '입국' through a port.

It means 'entry ban' or being prohibited from entering a country.

There isn't a direct slang verb, but '입국 컷' is used in online communities for being denied entry.

No, only when they are traveling, watching the news, or working in related fields.

'한국에 입국하다' is the most natural and common form.

Metaphorically, yes, but it sounds very formal and humorous. Usually, '접속하다' (connect) or '들어가다' is used.