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A2 noun #2,000 most common 9 min read

수행

suhaeng Top 2,000

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips 수행 in 30 Seconds

Explanation 수행 in your Level:

At the A1 level, '수행' is a very advanced word. Most A1 learners will simply use '하다' (to do). However, you might see '수행' in very simple contexts like '숙제 수행' (doing homework) in a school notice. At this stage, just remember that '수행' is a fancy way to say 'doing a task'. You don't need to use it in daily conversation yet, but recognizing it in written signs or school documents is helpful. It's like the difference between 'do' and 'execute'. If you see '수행', think 'someone is doing a job'. Focus on the '하다' part of '수행하다'.

At the A2 level, you should begin to recognize '수행' in common compound nouns like '수행평가' (performance assessment). You might hear your teacher say, '과제를 수행하세요' (Please carry out the task). This is slightly more formal than '과제를 하세요'. You should understand that '수행' is used for tasks, duties, and missions. It's a good word to start using if you want to sound more polite and professional in a classroom or office setting. Start by replacing '하다' with '수행하다' when talking about official duties or school projects.

At the B1 level, you are expected to use '수행' correctly in formal writing and professional contexts. You should be able to describe your '업무 수행 능력' (job performance ability) during an interview or in a self-introduction. You will encounter this word frequently in news articles and textbooks. You should also be able to distinguish '수행' from similar words like '실행' (execution) and '진행' (progress). At this level, '수행' becomes a key vocabulary item for discussing work, technology, and official responsibilities. You should use it naturally when discussing the fulfillment of roles.

At the B2 level, you should have a nuanced understanding of '수행'. You can use it to discuss complex topics like '정책 수행' (policy implementation) or '명령 수행' (execution of orders). You understand that '수행' implies a structured process and a sense of responsibility. You are also aware of the homonyms and can distinguish '수행' (execution) from '수행' (asceticism) or '수행' (accompanying) based on context. Your usage of '수행' in reports and presentations should be precise, showing that you understand the formal register of the Korean language.

At the C1 level, '수행' is a tool for precise expression. You use it to describe the functional performance of systems, the strategic execution of business plans, and the fulfillment of high-level diplomatic missions. You can discuss the '수행 과정' (process of execution) in detail, analyzing the efficiency and effectiveness of how a task was handled. You are comfortable using the word in academic papers, legal documents, and high-level business negotiations. You understand the subtle differences between '수행', '이행', '실천', and '처리' and choose the most appropriate one for the context.

At the C2 level, your mastery of '수행' is near-native. You can use it in all its forms and contexts, including idiomatic expressions and highly specialized technical fields. You understand the historical and Hanja roots of the word and can appreciate its use in classical or highly formal literature. You can effortlessly switch between '수행' and its synonyms to achieve specific rhetorical effects. Whether you are writing a philosophical treatise on '수행' (asceticism) or a technical manual on '수행' (task execution), your usage is flawless and contextually perfect.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

수행 in 30 Seconds

수행 is a formal Korean noun meaning the execution or fulfillment of a task, duty, or mission, often used in professional settings.
It is commonly paired with '하다' (to do) to form the verb '수행하다', which means 'to carry out' or 'to perform'.
In schools, it is a key part of '수행평가' (performance assessment), and in tech, it refers to computer processing or execution.
Be careful not to confuse it with its homonyms meaning 'spiritual practice' or 'accompanying/entourage', though context usually clarifies the meaning.

The Korean word 수행 (遂行) is a formal and sophisticated noun that translates to the execution, fulfillment, or carrying out of a specific task, duty, or mission. While at the A2 level learners might simply use '하다' (to do), '수행' elevates the register to a professional or academic level. It implies a sense of responsibility and the completion of a structured process. Whether you are in a corporate boardroom discussing project implementation or in a classroom discussing '수행평가' (performance assessment), this word is indispensable for describing the transition from planning to action.

Core Concept: The bridge between an intention or plan and its physical realization or completion.

그는 자신에게 맡겨진 임무를 완벽하게 수행했습니다. (He perfectly carried out the mission assigned to him.)

In a broader sense, '수행' is often paired with the verb '하다' to form '수행하다' (to carry out). It is frequently used in contexts where there is a clear objective or a set of instructions to follow. Unlike '실천' (practice/action), which often refers to putting an idea or philosophy into practice, '수행' is more focused on the technical or administrative completion of a job. For example, a computer '수행's a command, and a soldier '수행's an order.

Etymology: Derived from Hanja: 遂 (su - to reach/fulfill) and 行 (haeng - to go/act). Literally, to act until fulfillment is reached.

컴퓨터가 복잡한 연산을 수행하고 있습니다. (The computer is performing complex calculations.)

It is important to distinguish this from its homonym '수행 (修行)', which refers to spiritual or ascetic practice in Buddhism. While spelled the same in Hangeul, the context usually makes it clear. In the context of tasks and duties, we are dealing with 遂行. This word is a staple in official documents, news reports, and formal speeches. Using it correctly demonstrates a high level of linguistic competence and professional polish.

정부는 새로운 정책의 수행을 위해 예산을 편성했습니다. (The government allocated a budget for the implementation of the new policy.)

Synonym Note: '이행' (fulfillment) is similar but often used for contracts or promises, whereas '수행' is for tasks and duties.

업무 수행 능력이 뛰어난 직원을 찾고 있습니다. (We are looking for an employee with excellent task execution skills.)

계획의 차질 없는 수행이 중요합니다. (The smooth execution of the plan is important.)

Using 수행 effectively requires understanding its role as a formal noun that often functions as the object of a sentence or as part of a compound noun. In most cases, you will see it paired with '하다' (to do) or '능력' (ability). Because it is a Sino-Korean word, it carries a weight that native Korean words like '하다' or '치르다' do not always possess. It is the language of 'doing' in a professional capacity.

Grammar Pattern 1: [Noun] + 수행: Used to describe the execution of a specific thing (e.g., 업무 수행, 과제 수행).

비서가 일정을 수행하고 있습니다. (The secretary is carrying out the schedule.)

When you want to say 'to carry out,' you use '수행하다'. This verb is transitive, meaning it takes an object. Common objects include '임무' (mission), '역할' (role), '과제' (task), and '기능' (function). In a sentence, it looks like: '[Object]을/를 수행하다'. For example, '역할을 수행하다' means 'to perform a role'. This is very common in job descriptions or when discussing the functions of a machine or software.

Grammar Pattern 2: 수행 중: 'In the middle of performing/executing'. Often seen in status bars or progress reports.

프로그램이 명령을 수행 중입니다. (The program is currently executing the command.)

Another common usage is '수행 능력' (performance ability). This refers to how well someone can do their job or how well a system functions. In HR contexts, you might hear about '직무 수행 능력 평가' (job performance evaluation). This sounds much more professional than saying '일을 잘하는지 봐요' (seeing if they do the work well). It emphasizes the objective measurement of performance.

그는 뛰어난 업무 수행 능력을 보여주었습니다. (He showed excellent task execution ability.)

Grammar Pattern 3: 수행 과정: 'The process of execution'. Used when discussing the steps taken to reach a goal.

과제 수행 과정에서 많은 것을 배웠습니다. (I learned a lot during the process of performing the task.)

성공적인 프로젝트 수행을 축하합니다. (Congratulations on the successful execution of the project.)

You will encounter 수행 in various professional and formal environments. It is not a word typically used in casual banter with friends (where '하다' would suffice), but it is everywhere in the media, education, and the workplace. Understanding where it appears will help you grasp its formal nuance and help you transition from basic to intermediate Korean.

In the Workplace: Used in reports, performance reviews, and project planning meetings. It refers to the actual 'doing' of work.

이번 분기 업무 수행 보고서를 작성해 주세요. (Please write the task performance report for this quarter.)

In the educational system, '수행' is a keyword. '수행평가' (Performance Assessment) is a major part of the Korean grading system, where students are graded on projects, presentations, or experiments rather than just written exams. Students often complain about the amount of '수행' they have to do. If you are a student in Korea or have children in the Korean school system, you will hear this word daily.

In Technology: Used to describe computer processes, algorithms, and automated tasks.

시스템이 백업 작업을 수행하고 있습니다. (The system is performing a backup operation.)

News broadcasts frequently use '수행' when reporting on government activities or international relations. For example, '대통령이 외교 임무를 수행하기 위해 출국했습니다' (The president departed to carry out a diplomatic mission). It lends an air of officialdom and gravity to the report. Similarly, in legal or police contexts, '공무수행' (execution of public duties) is a common term, often seen on police vehicles or official notices.

경찰은 공무 수행 중입니다. (The police are in the middle of performing their official duties.)

In Literature & Film: Often used in spy thrillers or historical dramas when a character is given a secret mission.

비밀 임무를 수행하는 요원. (An agent carrying out a secret mission.)

그는 묵묵히 자신의 소임을 수행했습니다. (He silently carried out his assigned duty.)

While 수행 is a versatile word, learners often make mistakes by using it in overly casual contexts or confusing it with similar-sounding words. The most common pitfall is the homonym '수행 (修行)', which means spiritual practice or asceticism. If you tell your boss you are doing '수행' (meaning spiritual practice) instead of '업무 수행' (task execution), they might think you've joined a monastery!

Mistake 1: Over-Formalization: Using '수행' for simple daily chores like washing dishes or cleaning your room.

Incorrect: 저는 지금 설거지를 수행하고 있어요. (Sounds like you are a robot performing a dish-washing mission.)

Another mistake is confusing '수행' with '실행' (execution/implementation). While they are very close, '실행' is often used for running a program or putting a plan into action for the first time, whereas '수행' emphasizes the ongoing act of carrying out a duty or task. For example, you '실행' (run) an .exe file, but the CPU '수행's (performs) the instructions. In business, you '실행' (implement) a strategy, but the employees '수행' (carry out) the specific tasks within that strategy.

Mistake 2: Particle Errors: Forgetting that '수행하다' is a transitive verb that requires the object particle '을/를'.

Correct: 임무를 수행하다. (Carry out the mission.)

Learners also sometimes confuse '수행' with '진행' (progress/proceed). '진행' focuses on the flow of time or the state of being underway, while '수행' focuses on the agency of the person doing the task. If a meeting is '진행 중', it means it's happening. If a task is '수행 중', it means someone is actively working on it. Choosing the wrong one can slightly change the focus of your sentence from the event to the effort.

계획이 진행되고 있다 (The plan is progressing) vs 계획을 수행하고 있다 (I am carrying out the plan).

Mistake 3: Homonym Confusion: Using '수행' when you mean '동행' (accompanying). '수행원' (entourage) comes from '수행' (accompanying), which is yet another homonym!

Note: In '수행 비서' (attendant secretary), the '수행' means 'to follow/accompany'. Context is key!

그는 수행 비서와 함께 나타났습니다. (He appeared with his attendant secretary - here '수행' means accompanying.)

To truly master 수행, you must understand its relationship with other words that mean 'to do' or 'to carry out'. Korean has a rich vocabulary for different types of actions, and choosing the right one depends on the level of formality and the nature of the task. Let's compare '수행' with its closest relatives.

수행 vs 실행 (Execution): '실행' is putting a plan into action or running a program. '수행' is the act of fulfilling a duty or task.

계획을 실행하다 (Implement a plan) vs 임무를 수행하다 (Carry out a mission).

'이행' (Fulfillment) is another close synonym. However, '이행' is specifically used when you are fulfilling an obligation, a promise, or a contract. If you pay back a loan, you are '이행'-ing your contract. If you are doing the work your boss told you to do, you are '수행'-ing your duties. '수행' is more about the process of doing the work, while '이행' is about meeting the requirement.

수행 vs 실천 (Practice): '실천' is about putting ideas or morals into practice. '수행' is about completing assigned tasks.

사랑을 실천하다 (Put love into practice) vs 과제를 수행하다 (Carry out a task).

Finally, there is '처리' (Processing/Handling). '처리' is often used for administrative tasks or dealing with problems. If you '처리' a complaint, you resolve it. If you '수행' a duty, you are performing the function of your role. '처리' often implies finishing something so it's out of the way, while '수행' implies the professional conduct of the activity itself.

업무 처리 속도가 빠르다 (Processing work quickly) vs 업무 수행 능력이 좋다 (Good task execution ability).

Summary Table: 수행: Duties/Tasks | 실행: Plans/Programs | 이행: Promises/Contracts | 실천: Ideals/Ethics.

그는 약속 이행을 위해 최선을 다했습니다. (He did his best to fulfill his promise.)

다양한 프로젝트를 성공적으로 수행한 경험이 있습니다. (I have experience successfully carrying out various projects.)

How Formal Is It?

Difficulty Rating

Grammar to Know

-기 위해 (in order to)

-는 중 (in the middle of)

-ㄹ 수 있다 (can)

-기로 하다 (decide to)

-아/어 가다 (ongoing action)

Examples by Level

숙제를 수행해요.

I do my homework.

Simple present tense of 수행하다.

일을 수행합니다.

I carry out the work.

Formal polite ending -습니다.

과제 수행이 어려워요.

Doing the assignment is hard.

수행 used as a noun with the subject particle -이.

명령을 수행하세요.

Carry out the order.

Imperative form -세요.

그는 수행을 잘해요.

He carries out (tasks) well.

수행 as a noun object.

우리는 수행 중입니다.

We are in the middle of performing (it).

Noun + 중 (in the middle of).

이것은 수행 평가입니다.

This is a performance assessment.

Compound noun 수행 평가.

수행을 시작합시다.

Let's start the execution.

Suggestive ending -읍시다.

계획을 차질 없이 수행하세요.

Carry out the plan without any glitches.

Adverbial phrase 차질 없이.

그는 임무를 성공적으로 수행했습니다.

He successfully carried out the mission.

Past tense 수행했습니다.

업무 수행 능력을 키워야 해요.

You need to develop your task execution skills.

Noun phrase 업무 수행 능력.

컴퓨터가 명령을 수행하고 있어요.

The computer is executing the command.

Present progressive -고 있다.

맡은 바 소임을 수행하십시오.

Please carry out your assigned duty.

Formal imperative -십시오.

수행 과정이 아주 중요합니다.

The process of execution is very important.

Noun phrase 수행 과정.

비서가 일정을 수행합니다.

The secretary carries out the schedule.

Formal polite present tense.

새로운 프로젝트를 수행할 거예요.

I will carry out a new project.

Future tense -ㄹ 거예요.

정부는 새로운 정책을 수행하기로 결정했습니다.

The government decided to implement the new policy.

-기로 결정하다 (decide to).

그는 공무 수행 중 사고를 당했습니다.

He met with an accident while performing public duties.

공무 수행 (public duty execution).

효율적인 업무 수행을 위해 협력이 필요합니다.

Cooperation is needed for efficient task execution.

-을 위해 (for the sake of).

이 기계는 복잡한 기능을 수행할 수 있습니다.

This machine can perform complex functions.

-ㄹ 수 있다 (can).

수행 평가 점수가 잘 나왔어요.

The performance assessment score came out well.

수행 평가 (performance assessment).

그는 자신의 역할을 충실히 수행했습니다.

He faithfully performed his role.

Adverb 충실히 (faithfully).

프로그램 수행 속도가 매우 빠릅니다.

The program execution speed is very fast.

수행 속도 (execution speed).

비밀 임무를 수행하는 요원을 보았습니다.

I saw an agent carrying out a secret mission.

Noun-modifying form -는.

직무 수행 능력이 부족하면 교육을 받아야 합니다.

If your job performance ability is lacking, you must receive training.

-면 (if) conditional.

그는 대통령의 해외 순방을 수행했습니다.

He accompanied the president on his overseas tour.

Here 수행 means accompanying (homonym).

작전 수행을 위해 부대가 이동했습니다.

The unit moved to carry out the operation.

작전 수행 (operation execution).

시스템이 예기치 못한 오류로 수행을 중단했습니다.

The system stopped execution due to an unexpected error.

수행을 중단하다 (stop execution).

그는 묵묵히 고행을 수행하고 있습니다.

He is silently performing asceticism.

Here 수행 means spiritual practice (homonym).

예산 부족으로 사업 수행이 지연되고 있습니다.

Project execution is being delayed due to budget shortages.

Passive form 지연되고 있다.

그는 탁월한 위기 수행 능력을 보여주었습니다.

He showed excellent crisis management/execution ability.

Adjective 탁월한 (excellent).

연구 수행 과정에서 얻은 데이터입니다.

This is data obtained during the research execution process.

연구 수행 (research execution).

국가적 과업을 수행하는 데 막중한 책임감을 느낍니다.

I feel a heavy sense of responsibility in carrying out a national task.

-는 데 (in the act of).

알고리즘이 병렬적으로 연산을 수행합니다.

The algorithm performs calculations in parallel.

Adverb 병렬적으로 (parallelly).

그는 외교적 사명을 수행하기 위해 파견되었습니다.

He was dispatched to carry out a diplomatic mission.

Passive form 파견되었습니다.

전략적 목표의 수행을 위해 조직을 개편했습니다.

The organization was restructured to carry out strategic goals.

수행을 위해 (for the execution of).

법적 의무 수행을 게을리해서는 안 됩니다.

One must not neglect the performance of legal duties.

-해서는 안 된다 (must not).

그는 수행 비서로서의 본분을 다했습니다.

He fulfilled his duty as an attendant secretary.

본분을 다하다 (fulfill one's duty).

프로젝트 수행의 타당성을 검토하고 있습니다.

We are reviewing the feasibility of the project execution.

타당성을 검토하다 (review feasibility).

고도의 집중력을 요하는 작업을 수행 중입니다.

I am performing a task that requires a high level of concentration.

-을 요하는 (requiring).

헌법적 가치를 수행하는 사법부의 역할이 중요합니다.

The role of the judiciary in upholding constitutional values is important.

Formal academic tone.

그는 평생을 진리 탐구의 수행에 바쳤습니다.

He dedicated his whole life to the pursuit/practice of truth.

Nuanced use of 수행 (practice).

명령 수행의 정당성에 대한 논란이 일고 있습니다.

Controversy is arising over the legitimacy of the execution of orders.

정당성에 대한 논란 (controversy over legitimacy).

기술적 한계로 인해 임무 수행이 불가능해졌습니다.

Task execution has become impossible due to technical limitations.

-로 인해 (due to).

그는 수행원들의 호위를 받으며 입장했습니다.

He entered while being escorted by his entourage.

수행원 (entourage/attendants).

정밀한 기계 조작을 수행하는 로봇의 팔.

The robot arm that performs precise machine operations.

Precise technical description.

사회적 책무를 수행하는 기업의 자세가 필요합니다.

A corporate attitude of fulfilling social responsibilities is necessary.

사회적 책무 (social responsibility).

그는 고난의 수행 끝에 깨달음을 얻었습니다.

He gained enlightenment after a period of arduous spiritual practice.

Classical spiritual context.

Common Collocations

임무 수행 (mission execution)

업무 수행 (task performance)

과제 수행 (assignment fulfillment)

명령 수행 (carrying out orders)

기능 수행 (performing functions)

수행 능력 (performance ability)

수행 평가 (performance assessment)

수행 과정 (execution process)

계획 수행 (plan implementation)

공무 수행 (public duty execution)

Common Phrases

수행 중 (in progress)

성공적인 수행 (successful execution)

수행을 완료하다 (to complete execution)

수행에 차질이 생기다 (to have a glitch in execution)

수행을 거부하다 (to refuse to carry out)

수행을 지시하다 (to order execution)

수행을 돕다 (to help carry out)

수행을 방해하다 (to hinder execution)

수행의 어려움 (difficulty in execution)

수행의 중요성 (importance of execution)

Often Confused With

수행 vs 수영 (swimming)

수행 vs 수정 (correction)

수행 vs 수행 (修行 - asceticism)

Idioms & Expressions

"맡은 바 소임을 수행하다 (to fulfill one's assigned duty)"

"완벽하게 임무를 수행하다 (to carry out a mission perfectly)"

"묵묵히 수행하다 (to carry out silently/steadfastly)"

"차질 없이 수행하다 (to carry out without a hitch)"

"신의를 이행/수행하다 (to fulfill trust/faith)"

"책임을 수행하다 (to carry out responsibility)"

"역할을 수행하다 (to play/perform a role)"

"기능을 수행하다 (to perform a function)"

"명령을 수행하다 (to execute an order)"

"계획대로 수행하다 (to carry out as planned)"

Easily Confused

수행 vs 실행

Implementation/Running a program vs Carrying out a duty.

수행 vs 이행

Fulfilling a contract/promise vs Carrying out a task.

수행 vs 진행

Progressing/Happening vs Actively performing.

Sentence Patterns

How to Use It

tech

Refers to CPU cycles and algorithm steps.

general

Always implies a formal task.

business

Essential for KPIs and performance reviews.

Common Mistakes

Using '수행' for casual chores like '설거지 수행'.
Confusing '수행' (task) with '수행' (monk's practice).
Forgetting the object particle '을/를'.
Using '수행' when '진행' (progress) is more appropriate.
Misspelling it as '수영' or '수형'.

Tips

Formal Register

Use '수행' to sound more professional in written Korean.

Object Particle

Don't forget to use '을/를' with '수행하다'.

School Life

If you hear students complaining about '수행', they mean projects!

Resumes

Use '업무 수행' to describe your responsibilities in a CV.

Meetings

Say '수행 중입니다' to update your boss on a task.

News

News anchors love this word for government actions.

Programming

In coding, '수행' refers to the execution of code.

Orders

Soldiers '수행' orders; they don't just 'do' them.

vs 실행

Remember: '실행' is 'Run', '수행' is 'Perform'.

Mnemonic

Su-Haeng = Super Handling of a task.

Memorize It

Word Origin

Sino-Korean

Cultural Context

Hierarchy and clear task execution are highly valued.

Orders must be '수행'ed without question.

Performance assessment is a major part of the curriculum.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Conversation Starters

"오늘 수행평가 준비 다 했어? (Did you finish preparing for the performance assessment?)"

"새로운 프로젝트 수행은 잘 되고 있나요? (Is the execution of the new project going well?)"

"업무 수행 중에 어려운 점은 없으세요? (Are there any difficulties while performing your tasks?)"

"컴퓨터가 왜 이 명령을 수행하지 않을까요? (Why won't the computer execute this command?)"

"임무를 수행하기 위해 어디로 가야 합니까? (Where should I go to carry out the mission?)"

Journal Prompts

오늘 내가 수행한 가장 중요한 일은 무엇인가? (What was the most important task I performed today?)

업무 수행 능력을 높이기 위해 무엇을 할 수 있을까? (What can I do to improve my task execution skills?)

내가 수행했던 프로젝트 중 가장 기억에 남는 것은? (Which project that I carried out is most memorable?)

완벽한 임무 수행이란 무엇이라고 생각하는가? (What do you think perfect mission execution is?)

수행평가 때문에 힘들었던 경험이 있는가? (Do you have an experience of being stressed because of performance assessments?)

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

It is a performance-based assessment in Korean schools where students are graded on projects and tasks.

It's too formal. Use '하다' or '청소하다' instead.

It is a noun, but it becomes a verb when you add '하다'.

It means 'on official public duty', often seen on police or government cars.

You can use '프로그램 실행' or '프로그램 수행', but '실행' is more common for starting it.

Yes, a homonym '수행 (修行)' means spiritual practice, but context usually makes it clear.

It means 'performance ability' or the skill to carry out a task.

Yes, another homonym '수행 (隨行)' means to accompany a VIP.

In professional and school life, yes. In casual talk, no.

There isn't a direct opposite noun, but '중단' (interruption) or '방치' (neglect) are often used in contrast.