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A1 noun #8,000 most common 10 min read

엽서

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Practice it Examples Notes & Tips 엽서 in 30 Seconds

Explanation 엽서 in your Level:

At the A1 level, '엽서' (postcard) is a fundamental noun that learners encounter early on, typically within themes like 'Travel' or 'Shopping'. At this stage, you should focus on the basic physical object and the most common verbs associated with it. A postcard is a simple, single sheet of thick paper used for mailing. You will learn to say 'I buy a postcard' (엽서를 사요) or 'I write a postcard' (엽서를 써요). The emphasis is on identifying the object in a store and performing basic communicative tasks, such as asking for the price or the number of items. You should also be able to recognize the word when you see it in a souvenir shop or at a post office. It is important to learn the counter '장' (jang) alongside '엽서', as you will need it to specify how many you want to buy. The goal at A1 is to use '엽서' in simple, present-tense sentences to describe immediate actions related to travel and gifting. You don't need to worry about complex grammar; just focus on the subject-object-verb structure: '저는 엽서를 보냅니다' (I send a postcard).

At the A2 level, you begin to use '엽서' in more varied contexts, such as describing past experiences or future plans. You might talk about a postcard you received last week or one you plan to send during your upcoming vacation. This involves using past and future tense markers, such as '엽서를 받았어요' (I received a postcard) and '엽서를 보낼 거예요' (I will send a postcard). You also start to use adjectives to describe the postcard, such as '예쁜 엽서' (pretty postcard) or '비싼 엽서' (expensive postcard). At this level, you should be able to navigate a post office transaction more confidently, asking about stamps (우표) and the cost of mailing a postcard to your home country. You might also encounter the word in simple reading passages about Korean holidays or tourist attractions. Understanding the difference between a '엽서' and a '편지' (letter) becomes more important as you learn more specific vocabulary for communication. You can also start using the particle '에게' to specify the recipient: '친구에게 엽서를 써요' (I write a postcard to a friend).

At the B1 level, you move beyond simple transactions and begin to discuss the feelings and intentions behind sending a '엽서'. You can explain why you chose a particular postcard or what you wrote on it. This involves using more complex grammar like '-(으)려고' (in order to) or '-기 때문에' (because). For example, '친구에게 소식을 전하려고 엽서를 샀어요' (I bought a postcard to share news with my friend). You will also encounter '엽서' in more diverse media, such as radio programs or magazine articles that discuss the 'nostalgia' (향수) of handwritten mail. You should be familiar with related terms like '그림 엽서' (picture postcard) and '연하장' (New Year's card). At this stage, you can describe the process of sending mail in Korea in more detail, including finding a mailbox (우체통) or using a post office kiosk. You might also start to use '엽서' in the context of hobbies, such as '엽서 수집' (postcard collecting). Your ability to use '엽서' in polite (해요체) and formal (하십시오체) registers should be well-developed, allowing you to discuss the topic in various social situations.

At the B2 level, '엽서' is used in more abstract and cultural discussions. You might analyze the role of postcards in maintaining social connections in the digital age or discuss the 'Slow Post' (느린 우체통) phenomenon in Korea as a reflection of modern society's desire for slowness. You can use '엽서' in complex sentence structures with various connectors and endings that express nuance, such as '-다시피' or '-을 뿐만 아니라'. For instance, '엽서는 단순한 종이일 뿐만 아니라 보내는 사람의 정성이 담긴 선물이다' (A postcard is not just a piece of paper, but a gift containing the sender's sincerity). You should be able to understand and participate in debates about the declining use of physical mail versus the increasing value of 'analog' experiences. Your vocabulary will expand to include more technical or formal terms like '우편물' (postal matter) or '발송하다' (to dispatch). You can also use '엽서' in metaphorical senses or in literary contexts, such as describing a scene that looks 'like a postcard' (엽서 속 그림 같다).

At the C1 level, you use '엽서' with a high degree of precision and cultural awareness. You can discuss the historical evolution of the postcard in Korea, from its introduction during the late Joseon Dynasty to its use during the colonial period and the Korean War. You are able to read and understand literary works or academic papers where '엽서' might be used as a motif for longing, separation, or historical witness. Your language use is sophisticated, employing advanced Hanja-based vocabulary and idiomatic expressions. You might explore the 'epistolary' style in Korean literature, where postcards serve as a unique narrative device due to their brevity. You can also discuss the aesthetics of postcard design in Korea, linking it to broader trends in Korean graphic design and art. At this level, you can fluently explain the subtle differences between various types of written communication and the social etiquette associated with each. You might say, '엽서라는 매체는 그 제약된 공간 속에 화자의 진심을 응축시켜 전달하는 묘미가 있다' (The medium of the postcard has the charm of condensing and conveying the speaker's sincerity within its constrained space).

At the C2 level, you have a near-native command of the word '엽서' and can use it in any context, including highly specialized academic, legal, or artistic fields. You can participate in high-level discussions about the semiotics of postcards or their role in 'postal art' (메일 아트). You understand the deepest cultural nuances, such as how the choice of a postcard's image can reflect subtle social messages or political stances. You can analyze the linguistic features of messages written on postcards throughout different eras of Korean history, noting changes in honorifics and vocabulary. Your ability to use '엽서' in creative writing is limitless, allowing you to use it as a powerful symbol or metaphor. You might discuss the 'materiality' of the postcard in a philosophical context, contrasting its physical presence with the ephemeral nature of digital data. At this level, the word '엽서' is not just a vocabulary item but a gateway to a deep understanding of Korean history, society, and the human condition. You can effortlessly switch between registers and use the word to evoke specific emotional responses in your audience, whether through a formal lecture or a poetic reflection.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

엽서 in 30 Seconds

엽서 is the Korean word for 'postcard', a single-sheet postal medium used for short messages without an envelope.
It is commonly used during travel, for collecting art, or for sending quick holiday greetings like New Year cards.
Key verbs used with 엽서 include 쓰다 (to write), 보내다/부치다 (to send), and 받다 (to receive).
The counter for 엽서 is '장' (jang), used for flat items, and it is a CEFR A1 level essential noun.

The Korean word 엽서 (yeop-seo) refers to a postcard, a rectangular piece of thick paper or thin cardboard intended for writing and mailing without an envelope. In the hierarchy of Korean correspondence, it sits as a more casual, brief, and visually oriented sibling to the 편지 (letter). Historically and culturally, the 엽서 has evolved from a purely functional medium of communication into a cherished collectible and a vehicle for artistic expression. When you travel to scenic locations like Jeju Island or the historic streets of Gyeongju, you will inevitably encounter racks of 그림 엽서 (picture postcards) showcasing local landmarks. The word itself is derived from Hanja, where 엽 (葉) means 'leaf' or 'sheet' and 서 (書) means 'writing' or 'document'. This 'leaf of writing' perfectly encapsulates the brevity and lightness of the medium.

Common Usage: In modern Korea, 엽서 are most frequently used by tourists to send quick greetings to friends or by fans to send short messages to their favorite idols. They are also a staple of the 'Dakku' (Diary Decorating) culture, where aesthetically pleasing postcards are used to decorate rooms or journals.

제주도 여행 중에 친구에게 엽서를 보냈어요. (I sent a postcard to my friend during my trip to Jeju Island.)

The physical act of writing a 엽서 is seen as a romantic and thoughtful gesture in an era dominated by instant messaging apps like KakaoTalk. Because the space is limited, the writer must be concise, choosing their words carefully to fit the small frame. This constraint often leads to more poetic and heartfelt messages. Furthermore, Korea has a unique 'Slow Post' (느린 우체통) culture found in various tourist spots. You can write a 엽서 and drop it into a special mailbox, and it will be delivered to the recipient six months or even a year later, serving as a nostalgic surprise. This cultural practice reinforces the 엽서 as a vessel for memories rather than just information.

이 엽서는 그림이 정말 아름다워요. (The picture on this postcard is truly beautiful.)

Materiality: Standard Korean postcards are usually 100mm x 148mm, following international standards, but 'art postcards' often vary in shape and texture, sometimes using traditional Hanji paper.

Understanding the word 엽서 also requires recognizing its role in Korean media. In older K-dramas or movies, the exchange of postcards often symbolizes a long-distance relationship or a longing for someone far away. The sound of a 엽서 sliding through a mail slot is a classic auditory cue for nostalgia. Even in the digital age, the term 'e-postcard' (전자 엽서) is sometimes used, though it lacks the tactile charm of the physical version. In schools, students often create handmade 엽서 during holidays like Parents' Day or Teacher's Day to show gratitude, making it one of the first 'formal' writing tasks a Korean child learns.

Using the word 엽서 in a sentence is relatively straightforward as it functions as a standard noun. However, the verbs you pair it with are crucial for sounding natural. The most common action associated with a postcard is 'writing' it, which is 엽서를 쓰다. Once written, you 'send' it, which can be 엽서를 보내다 or the more specific postal term 엽서를 부치다. If you are on the receiving end, you use 엽서를 받다. For those who enjoy the hobby of collecting them, the phrase 엽서를 모으다 (to collect postcards) is essential.

Grammar Tip: Since '엽서' ends in a vowel (ㅓ), the object marker '를' is used (엽서를). When it is the subject, use '가' (엽서가).

박물관 기념품점에서 예쁜 엽서를 몇 장 샀어요. (I bought a few pretty postcards at the museum gift shop.)

When describing the postcard, you might use adjectives like 예쁜 (pretty), 오래된 (old), or 특별한 (special). If you want to specify the type of postcard, you can add a prefix. For example, 크리스마스 엽서 (Christmas postcard) or 풍경 엽서 (landscape postcard). In a sentence, the counter for postcards is 장 (jang), which is used for flat objects. So, 'three postcards' would be 엽서 세 장. It is important to remember that unlike a letter (편지), a 엽서 does not usually require an envelope (봉투), which is a key distinction in both usage and vocabulary choice.

그는 여행을 갈 때마다 나에게 엽서를 써 준다. (Every time he goes on a trip, he writes a postcard for me.)

In more complex sentences, you might describe the content of the postcard. For instance, 'The postcard had a picture of the sea' would be 엽서에는 바다 그림이 있었다. If you are asking for the price, you would say 이 엽서 얼마예요? (How much is this postcard?). Note that in formal settings, such as a post office, the staff might refer to '관제 엽서' (official postcards issued by the post office) versus '사제 엽서' (privately made postcards). Knowing these nuances helps in navigating real-world transactions in Korea. Finally, the verb 꾸미다 (to decorate) is very popular among younger generations who use stickers and pens to make their 엽서 unique before sending or displaying them.

If you are walking through the streets of Insadong in Seoul, you will hear the word 엽서 constantly. Shopkeepers will point to displays and say, "전통 엽서가 아주 인기가 많아요" (Traditional postcards are very popular). In any 문구점 (stationery store) like Kyobo Hottracks or Artbox, you'll see entire aisles dedicated to 엽서. You will hear customers asking, "이거 엽서예요, 아니면 그냥 카드예요?" (Is this a postcard, or just a card?), highlighting the distinction between a postcard and a greeting card that comes in an envelope.

In the Media: Radio shows in Korea often have sections where they read out '엽서 사연' (stories sent via postcard). Even though many people send stories via the internet now, the tradition of the physical postcard remains a symbol of sincerity and effort.

우체국에 가서 엽서를 부치고 올게요. (I'll go to the post office and mail the postcard.)

Another common place to hear this word is at art exhibitions or museums. At the end of an exhibit, there is almost always a souvenir shop selling 전시 엽서 (exhibition postcards) featuring the artwork you just saw. Fans of K-pop will also hear this word during 'unboxing' videos or at merchandise stands. 'Photo postcards' (포토 엽서) are a standard part of album inclusions or concert goods. You might hear a fan say, "이번 앨범 엽서 진짜 예쁘다!" (The postcard in this album is really pretty!). This modern usage has kept the word relevant even among teenagers who might never have sent a piece of mail in their lives.

라디오에 엽서를 보냈는데 당첨됐어요! (I sent a postcard to the radio station and I won!)

In a classroom setting, a teacher might say, "오늘은 친구에게 고마운 마음을 담아 엽서를 써 봅시다" (Today, let's write a postcard to a friend with a thankful heart). This usage emphasizes the 엽서 as a tool for emotional education. Furthermore, at tourist information centers, you might hear staff offering free postcards: "무료 엽서가 있으니 한 장씩 가져가세요" (There are free postcards, so please take one each). Whether it's the high-tech kiosks in Seoul or a dusty post office in a rural village, 엽서 remains a ubiquitous term for a simple yet powerful way to connect with others across distances.

One of the most frequent mistakes learners make is confusing 엽서 with 편지 (letter). While they both involve writing to someone, a 편지 usually implies a longer message enclosed in an envelope (봉투). If you tell a Korean person you sent a 엽서 in an envelope, they might be slightly confused, as the defining characteristic of a 엽서 is its 'naked' delivery. Another common error is using the wrong counter. Beginners often use 개 (the general counter for items), saying 엽서 한 개. However, for thin, flat objects like postcards, paper, or tickets, you must use 장 (jang). So, always say 엽서 한 장, 두 장, and so on.

Mispronunciation: The pronunciation of 엽서 [엽써] involves a reinforced 's' sound. Beginners sometimes pronounce it too softly as [엽서], but the 'p' sound (ㅂ) before the 's' (ㅅ) causes the 's' to become tense (ㅆ).

❌ 엽서 한 개 주세요. (Give me one postcard - incorrect counter)
✅ 엽서 한 장 주세요. (Give me one postcard - correct counter)

Another nuance involves the verb 'to send'. While 보내다 is universally understood, when talking specifically about mail, Koreans often use 부치다. A common mistake is misspelling 부치다 as 붙이다 (to stick/attach). Although they sound the same, 엽서를 부치다 means to mail the postcard, while 엽서를 붙이다 would mean to physically glue the postcard to a wall. While both are possible actions, they have very different meanings! Additionally, learners sometimes forget that 엽서 is a noun and try to use it as a verb. You cannot say '엽서해요'; you must say 엽서를 써요 (write a postcard) or 엽서를 보내요 (send a postcard).

❌ 편지 봉투에 엽서를 넣었어요. (I put the postcard in a letter envelope - unusual usage)
✅ 엽서 뒷면에 주소를 적었어요. (I wrote the address on the back of the postcard.)

Lastly, be careful with the Hanja roots. Some learners try to associate 서 with 서점 (bookstore) and think 엽서 means a 'leaf book'. While the 'writing' root is the same, 엽서 is always a single sheet. If it has multiple pages, it's no longer a 엽서. Also, in the digital world, don't confuse 엽서 with 문자 (text message). Even if the message is short, if it's digital, it's 문자 or 메시지. Only the physical card is truly a 엽서. Avoiding these pitfalls will help you use the word with the precision of a native speaker.

While 엽서 is the standard term, there are several related words that you might encounter depending on the context. The most common alternative is 그림 엽서 (picture postcard). While 엽서 can technically be plain, most postcards people buy today have a picture on one side, making 그림 엽서 a very frequent and slightly more descriptive term. Another related word is 카드 (card). In Korea, 카드 usually refers to greeting cards (like birthday or New Year cards) that are folded and sent in an envelope. If a card is not intended to be mailed without an envelope, it's a 카드, not a 엽서.

Comparison: 엽서 vs. 편지

엽서: Short, no envelope, cheaper postage, visual-heavy.
편지: Long, requires envelope, standard postage, text-heavy.

생일 카드와 여행 엽서를 둘 다 샀어요. (I bought both a birthday card and a travel postcard.)

There is also the term 서신 (seosin), which is a more formal or literary way to say 'correspondence' or 'letter'. You might see this in historical dramas or formal literature. While a 엽서 is a type of 서신, you wouldn't use 서신 in daily conversation to buy a postcard. For more specific types, you have 연하장 (yeon-ha-jang), which is a special postcard or card sent specifically for the New Year. While many 연하장 are postcards, the term specifically highlights the occasion rather than the format. In the world of marketing, you might hear DM (Direct Mail), which often takes the form of a postcard but is used for advertising.

그는 나에게 짧은 쪽지 대신 엽서를 남겼다. (He left a postcard instead of a short note.)

Finally, consider the word 쪽지 (jjok-ji). A 쪽지 is a small note, often handwritten on a scrap of paper or a sticky note. While a 엽서 is also short, a 쪽지 is usually handed directly or left on a desk, whereas a 엽서 is formal enough to be mailed. In digital contexts, '쪽지' is also used to refer to 'Direct Messages' on some Korean websites. Understanding these distinctions helps you choose the right word for the right level of formality and the right delivery method. Whether you are sending a 그림 엽서 from a beach or writing a 연하장 for the New Year, each word carries its own specific cultural weight.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

Before paper was common, people in some cultures literally wrote on large leaves, which is why the Hanja for 'leaf' (葉) is used in the word for postcard.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /jʌp.sʌ/

US /jʌp.sʌ/

The stress is equal on both syllables, as is typical for Korean words, but the transition creates a slight tension on the second syllable.

Rhymes With

독서 (dok-seo - reading) 문서 (mun-seo - document) 비서 (bi-seo - secretary) 서서 (seo-seo - standing) 질서 (jil-seo - order) 증서 (jeung-seo - certificate) 용서 (yong-seo - forgiveness) 피서 (pi-seo - summering)

Common Errors

Pronouncing it as 'yeob-seo' with a voiced 'b' sound. It should be an unvoiced 'p' stop.
Pronouncing the 's' too softly. It often sounds more like a double 'ss' [엽써] due to the preceding 'p'.
Making the 'eo' sound like 'oh'. It should be more open, like the 'u' in 'cup'.
Adding an extra vowel sound between 'p' and 's'.
Over-emphasizing the 'y' sound.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 1/5

Very easy to read; two simple syllables with clear Hanja roots.

Writing 1/5

Simple strokes, though the 'ㅂ' in '엽' requires attention.

Speaking 2/5

The 'ps' transition can be tricky for beginners to make sound natural.

Listening 1/5

Distinctive sound that is rarely confused with other common words.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

종이 (Paper) 쓰다 (To write) 보내다 (To send) 우체국 (Post office) 친구 (Friend)

Learn Next

편지 (Letter) 우표 (Stamp) 주소 (Address) 우체통 (Mailbox) 택배 (Parcel/Delivery)

Advanced

서신 (Correspondence) 안부 (Regard/Well-being) 추억 (Memory) 기념품 (Souvenir) 필기 (Handwriting)

Grammar to Know

Counter '장' (jang)

엽서 두 장 (Two postcards)

Particle '에게/께' (Recipient)

선생님께 엽서를 드렸어요.

Particle '에서' (Location of Action)

우체국에서 엽서를 부쳤어요.

Verb '부치다' vs '붙이다'

엽서를 부치다 (to mail) vs 우표를 붙이다 (to stick)

Nominalizer '-기'

엽서 쓰기는 즐거워요.

Examples by Level

엽서를 사요.

I buy a postcard.

Simple present tense with object marker '를'.

이 엽서 얼마예요?

How much is this postcard?

Question form for price.

친구에게 엽서를 써요.

I write a postcard to a friend.

Using '에게' for the recipient.

엽서 한 장 주세요.

Please give me one postcard.

Using the counter '장' for flat objects.

엽서가 예뻐요.

The postcard is pretty.

Subject marker '가' with an adjective.

우체국에서 엽서를 보내요.

I send a postcard from the post office.

Location marker '에서' and verb '보내다'.

이것은 그림 엽서예요.

This is a picture postcard.

Noun + 예요 (to be).

엽서에 우표를 붙여요.

I stick a stamp on the postcard.

Verb '붙이다' meaning to stick/attach.

어제 제주도에서 엽서를 받았어요.

I received a postcard from Jeju Island yesterday.

Past tense '받았어요'.

내일 부모님께 엽서를 보낼 거예요.

I will send a postcard to my parents tomorrow.

Future tense '-(을) 거예요' and honorific '께'.

여행을 가면 엽서를 사고 싶어요.

I want to buy a postcard when I go on a trip.

'-고 싶다' (want to) and '-(으)면' (if/when).

이 엽서는 친구가 준 거예요.

This postcard is the one my friend gave me.

Noun modifying clause '준 거예요'.

엽서를 쓰기가 힘들어요.

It is hard to write a postcard.

'-기' nominalizer with '힘들다'.

예쁜 엽서 세 장을 샀어요.

I bought three pretty postcards.

Adjective '예쁜' and counter '세 장'.

엽서 뒷면에 주소를 쓰세요.

Please write the address on the back of the postcard.

Imperative form '-(으)세요'.

편지보다 엽서가 더 싸요.

A postcard is cheaper than a letter.

Comparison using '보다'.

기념품점에서 가장 인기 있는 엽서를 골랐어요.

I chose the most popular postcard at the souvenir shop.

Superlative '가장' and verb '고르다'.

외국인 친구에게 한국의 풍경이 담긴 엽서를 보냈습니다.

I sent a postcard with Korean scenery to a foreign friend.

Relative clause '풍경이 담긴' (containing scenery).

엽서를 쓰면 마음이 따뜻해지는 것 같아요.

I feel like my heart gets warm when I write a postcard.

'-아/어지다' (to become) and '-는 것 같다' (it seems).

오랜만에 책상 정리를 하다가 옛날 엽서를 발견했어요.

While cleaning my desk after a long time, I found an old postcard.

'-다가' (while doing) and '발견하다' (to discover).

라디오 프로그램에 엽서를 보내서 사연이 소개되었습니다.

I sent a postcard to a radio program, and my story was introduced.

Passive voice '소개되었습니다'.

엽서에 적힌 글씨가 너무 작아서 읽기 어려워요.

The handwriting on the postcard is so small that it's hard to read.

'-아/어서' (reason) and '읽기 어렵다' (hard to read).

크리스마스에는 친구들에게 엽서를 써 주곤 해요.

I often write postcards to my friends at Christmas.

'-곤 하다' (to habitually do).

박물관에서 본 그림이 엽서로 만들어져 팔리고 있었어요.

The painting I saw at the museum was being sold as a postcard.

'-아/어지다' (passive) and '-고 있다' (progressive).

디지털 시대에도 엽서를 주고받는 아날로그 감성이 여전히 남아 있다.

Even in the digital age, the analog sensibility of exchanging postcards still remains.

Topic marker '에도' and '여전히' (still).

그는 여행지의 분위기를 생생하게 전달하기 위해 엽서를 썼다.

He wrote a postcard to vividly convey the atmosphere of the travel destination.

'-기 위해' (in order to) and adverb '생생하게'.

느린 우체통에 넣은 엽서가 1년 만에 나에게 돌아왔다.

The postcard I put in the slow mailbox came back to me after a year.

Time expression '1년 만에' (after a year).

엽서 한 장에 담긴 짧은 메시지가 때로는 긴 편지보다 더 큰 감동을 준다.

A short message on a single postcard sometimes gives a bigger impression than a long letter.

Noun + 에 담긴 (contained in) and comparison.

전시회 한정판 엽서를 사기 위해 사람들이 길게 줄을 섰다.

People lined up in a long row to buy limited edition exhibition postcards.

Compound noun '한정판 엽서' (limited edition postcard).

엽서의 앞면에는 화려한 도시의 야경이 인쇄되어 있었다.

The front of the postcard had a colorful city night view printed on it.

Passive progressive '인쇄되어 있었다'.

그녀는 벽에 여행지에서 모은 엽서들을 가득 붙여 놓았다.

She stuck the postcards she collected from her travels all over the wall.

'-아/어 놓다' (state of completed action).

엽서를 부치기 전에 우표가 제대로 붙어 있는지 확인해야 한다.

Before mailing the postcard, you must check if the stamp is properly attached.

'-기 전에' (before) and '-는지 확인하다' (check if).

엽서는 근대 우편 제도의 도입과 함께 대중적인 통신 수단으로 자리 잡았다.

Postcards established themselves as a popular means of communication with the introduction of the modern postal system.

Formal phrase '자리 잡다' (to establish/take place).

작가는 엽서라는 매체를 통해 일상의 소소한 기록을 예술로 승화시켰다.

The artist sublimated small records of daily life into art through the medium of the postcard.

'-라는 매체를 통해' (through the medium of) and '승화시키다' (to sublimate).

이 엽서는 일제 강점기 당시의 생활상을 엿볼 수 있는 소중한 사료이다.

This postcard is a precious historical document that provides a glimpse into life during the Japanese colonial period.

'-을 수 있는' (can) and '사료' (historical data).

엽서의 제한된 지면은 글쓴이로 하여금 가장 핵심적인 내용만을 추리게 만든다.

The limited space of a postcard forces the writer to select only the most essential content.

'-로 하여금' (making someone do) and '추리다' (to select/sort).

그의 서재에는 세계 각국에서 온 엽서들이 연대별로 정리되어 있다.

In his study, postcards from all over the world are organized by year.

'-별로' (by/according to) and '정리되어 있다' (is organized).

엽서에 쓰인 시 한 구절이 받는 이의 가슴에 깊은 울림을 주었다.

A line of poetry written on the postcard gave a deep resonance to the recipient's heart.

Noun + 이의 (possessive for person) and '울림을 주다' (to resonate).

우편 요금의 인상으로 인해 엽서 사용량이 급격히 감소하는 추세이다.

Due to the increase in postal rates, the usage of postcards is on a sharp decline.

'-로 인해' (due to) and '-는 추세이다' (is a trend).

엽서의 이미지는 단순한 풍경을 넘어 특정 시대의 미학을 반영하기도 한다.

The image on a postcard goes beyond simple scenery and sometimes reflects the aesthetics of a specific era.

'-을 넘어' (beyond) and '반영하다' (to reflect).

엽서라는 텍스트는 발신자와 수신자 사이의 공간적 거리를 압축하는 기호학적 장치이다.

The text known as a postcard is a semiotic device that compresses the spatial distance between the sender and the receiver.

High-level academic terminology like '기호학적 장치' (semiotic device).

근대 초기 엽서에 나타난 언어적 특징은 당시의 구어체와 문어체의 과도기적 양상을 보여준다.

The linguistic features appearing in early modern postcards show the transitional aspects of spoken and written language at that time.

Technical terms like '과도기적 양상' (transitional aspect).

엽서의 공개적 특성은 사적인 소통을 공적인 영역으로 끌어들이는 독특한 소통 구조를 형성한다.

The public nature of postcards forms a unique communication structure that draws private communication into the public sphere.

Abstract concept '공개적 특성' (public characteristic).

포스트모더니즘 예술에서 엽서는 기성품의 차용과 재맥락화를 실천하는 주요 매개체로 활용되어 왔다.

In postmodern art, postcards have been utilized as a major medium for practicing the appropriation and recontextualization of ready-mades.

Art theory terms like '재맥락화' (recontextualization).

엽서에 투영된 타자의 시선은 제국주의적 욕망과 이국적인 정취가 복합적으로 얽혀 있는 경우가 많다.

The gaze of the 'other' projected onto postcards often involves a complex entanglement of imperialist desires and exotic moods.

Philosophical terms like '타자의 시선' (gaze of the other).

디지털 노마드 시대의 엽서는 물리적 장소성을 확인받고자 하는 실존적 욕구의 발현으로 해석될 수 있다.

Postcards in the digital nomad era can be interpreted as a manifestation of the existential desire to confirm physical locality.

Existential terms like '실존적 욕구' (existential desire).

엽서의 뒷면에 여백 없이 빼곡히 적힌 글자들은 소통에 대한 절박함과 애틋함을 동시에 자아낸다.

The letters densely written on the back of the postcard without any margins evoke both urgency and affection for communication.

Descriptive phrase '자아내다' (to evoke/arouse).

우편 역사의 변천사 속에서 엽서는 정보의 민주화와 소통의 편의성을 획기적으로 증진시킨 혁신적 발명품이었다.

In the history of postal evolution, the postcard was an innovative invention that dramatically improved the democratization of information and convenience of communication.

Formal nouns like '민주화' (democratization) and '증진시키다' (to promote/improve).

Common Collocations

엽서를 쓰다

엽서를 보내다

엽서를 부치다

엽서를 받다

엽서를 모으다

엽서를 꾸미다

엽서 한 장

그림 엽서

관제 엽서

엽서 뒷면

Common Phrases

엽서 한 장의 여유

— The leisure/peace of mind to write a single postcard. Often refers to a slow, thoughtful lifestyle.

바쁜 일상 속에서도 엽서 한 장의 여유를 가져 보세요.

엽서 속 풍경

— Scenery like that in a postcard. Used to describe a very beautiful view.

창밖으로 보이는 모습이 마치 엽서 속 풍경 같아요.

엽서 사연

— A story sent via postcard. Frequently used in radio shows.

오늘의 엽서 사연을 읽어 드리겠습니다.

엽서 크기

— Postcard size. Used to describe the size of photos or small art pieces.

사진을 엽서 크기로 인화했어요.

엽서 릴레이

— A postcard relay. A game or activity where people take turns sending postcards.

동아리 회원들과 엽서 릴레이를 시작했어요.

엽서 전시회

— Postcard exhibition. An event where artistic postcards are displayed.

주말에 인사동에서 열리는 엽서 전시회에 가요.

엽서 꽂이

— Postcard holder/rack. A stand used to display or store postcards.

책상 위에 나무로 된 엽서 꽂이를 두었어요.

엽서 우표

— Postcard stamp. A stamp specifically for the rate of a postcard.

엽서 우표는 일반 우표보다 조금 싸요.

엽서 뭉치

— A bundle of postcards. Used when talking about a large collection.

서랍 안에서 오래된 엽서 뭉치를 발견했다.

엽서 한 장으로 전하는 마음

— A heart/feeling conveyed through a single postcard. A poetic expression of sincerity.

엽서 한 장으로 전하는 마음은 무엇보다 따뜻합니다.

Often Confused With

엽서 vs 편지

A letter. Requires an envelope and is usually longer. 엽서 is a single card.

엽서 vs 쪽지

A small note or memo. Usually not mailed and can be on any scrap of paper.

엽서 vs 카드

A greeting card. Usually folded and comes with an envelope.

Idioms & Expressions

"엽서 속 그림 같다"

— To be as beautiful as a picture in a postcard. Describes perfect scenery.

스위스의 마을은 정말 엽서 속 그림 같았어요.

Neutral/Descriptive

"엽서 한 장 못 보내다"

— To be so busy or neglectful that one cannot even send a single postcard. Expresses guilt in a relationship.

바쁘다는 핑계로 부모님께 엽서 한 장 못 보냈네요.

Informal/Emotional

"엽서에 담다"

— To put something (a feeling, a memory) into a postcard. Metaphorical use of 'containing'.

그날의 감동을 엽서에 담아 보냈습니다.

Poetic

"엽서가 오가다"

— Postcards are coming and going. Describes a steady correspondence between two people.

두 사람 사이에 수많은 엽서가 오갔다.

Narrative

"엽서 한 장의 추억"

— A memory within a single postcard. Refers to the nostalgic value of old mail.

이것은 우리 여행의 엽서 한 장의 추억이에요.

Sentimental

"엽서로 안부를 묻다"

— To ask after someone's well-being via postcard. A classic way of staying in touch.

가끔은 전화 대신 엽서로 안부를 물어보세요.

Neutral

"엽서가 쌓이다"

— Postcards are piling up. Can mean receiving many messages or being behind on reading them.

생일이 지나니 축하 엽서가 산더미처럼 쌓였다.

Descriptive

"엽서를 띄우다"

— To 'float' a postcard (to send it). A more poetic/literary verb than '보내다'.

그리운 고향으로 엽서 한 장을 띄웁니다.

Literary

"엽서로 맺어진 인연"

— A relationship/connection formed through postcards. Often refers to pen pals.

우리는 10년 전 엽서로 맺어진 인연이에요.

Warm/Narrative

"엽서만 봐도 알다"

— To know just by looking at the postcard. Implies a deep familiarity with the sender.

글씨체만 봐도 누구 엽서인지 알 수 있어요.

Informal

Easily Confused

엽서 vs 잡지

Both start with a similar vowel sound and are paper products.

잡지 is a magazine (many pages), while 엽서 is a single card.

서점에서 잡지를 읽고 엽서를 샀어요.

엽서 vs 전단지

Both are flat paper items used for communication.

전단지 is a flyer for advertising, usually free and mass-produced. 엽서 is for personal mail.

길에서 전단지를 받았지만 엽서는 우체국에서 샀어요.

엽서 vs 명함

Both are small, stiff paper cards.

명함 is a business card with contact info. 엽서 is for messages and has a picture.

명함을 주고받은 후 엽서를 보냈어요.

엽서 vs 수첩

Both are used for writing.

수첩 is a pocket notebook with many pages. 엽서 is a single sheet.

수첩에 적어둔 주소를 보고 엽서를 썼어요.

엽서 vs 봉투

Both are related to mail.

봉투 is the envelope that letters go in. 엽서 doesn't need one.

편지는 봉투가 필요하지만 엽서는 필요 없어요.

Sentence Patterns

저는 [Noun]에게 엽서를 써요.

저는 친구에게 엽서를 써요.

[Place]에서 엽서를 샀어요.

부산에서 엽서를 샀어요.

엽서를 쓰려고 [Tool]을/를 샀어요.

엽서를 쓰려고 펜을 샀어요.

엽서에는 [Image]이/가 그려져 있어요.

엽서에는 바다가 그려져 있어요.

엽서 한 장에 [Emotion]을/를 담아 보냅니다.

엽서 한 장에 그리움을 담아 보냅니다.

엽서라는 매체는 [Concept]을/를 반영합니다.

엽서라는 매체는 시대의 미학을 반영합니다.

Mixed

이 엽서 [Number]장 주세요.

이 엽서 세 장 주세요.

Mixed

엽서를 [Verb]기 위해 [Place]에 가요.

엽서를 부치기 위해 우체국에 가요.

Word Family

Nouns

그림엽서 (Picture postcard)

우편엽서 (Postal postcard)

관제엽서 (Official postcard)

사제엽서 (Private postcard)

전자엽서 (E-postcard)

Verbs

엽서하다 (To do postcard-related activities - rare/informal)

엽서화하다 (To turn something into a postcard)

Adjectives

엽서 같은 (Postcard-like)

엽서다운 (True to a postcard's nature)

우표 (Stamp)

우체통 (Mailbox)

편지 (Letter)

봉투 (Envelope)

주소 (Address)

How to Use It

frequency

Common in travel, hobbies, and holidays; less common in daily utility communication.

Common Mistakes

Using '개' instead of '장'. → 엽서 한 장
Flat items like paper and postcards must use the counter '장'.
Confusing 엽서 with 편지. → 엽서를 보내다 (for a card) / 편지를 보내다 (for a letter)
If it doesn't have an envelope, it's a 엽서. If it does, it's a 편지.
Misspelling '부치다' as '붙이다'. → 엽서를 부치다
부치다 means to mail; 붙이다 means to stick or glue.
Saying '엽서해요'. → 엽서를 써요
엽서 is a noun and cannot be turned into a verb by adding '하다'.
Putting a 엽서 in a 봉투 by default. → Just mail the 엽서.
Culturally, a 엽서 is mailed as is. Putting it in an envelope makes it a '카드' or '편지'.

Tips

Use the right counter

Always use '장' (jang) for postcards. Using '개' (gae) is a very common beginner mistake that sounds unnatural to native speakers.

Learn '그림 엽서'

If you are looking for those beautiful postcards with scenery in a shop, ask for '그림 엽서' to sound more specific and natural.

Try a Slow Postbox

If you see a '느린 우체통' at a tourist site, use a 엽서 to write a message to your future self. It's a great way to practice Korean!

Concise is best

Because space is limited, practice writing short, impactful sentences. This is excellent for improving your ability to summarize thoughts in Korean.

Pronunciation Check

Make sure to tense the 's' sound. It's [엽써], not [엽서]. The 'p' sound at the end of the first syllable naturally makes the next sound stronger.

Check the back

Some Korean postcards have very small spaces for addresses. Check the back before buying to ensure you can fit the recipient's international address.

Great small gift

A 엽서 with a nice drawing is a very common and appreciated small gift in Korea, often given along with a coffee or a book.

Word Web

Connect 엽서 to '우체국' (post office) and '우표' (stamp) in your mind. Learning these three together makes remembering them much easier.

Honorifics matter

Even on a small postcard, use appropriate honorifics (like -께 and -으시-) if you are writing to someone older or in a higher position.

Analog vs Digital

Understand that '전자 엽서' (e-postcard) exists, but using the word '엽서' alone almost always implies a physical, paper card.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of a 'Leaf' (엽) with 'Writing' (서) on it. A postcard is like a single leaf falling from a tree of letters.

Visual Association

Imagine a bright red Korean mailbox (우체통) with a single, colorful postcard sticking out of the slot.

Word Web

Post office Stamp Travel Handwriting Souvenir Address Mailbox Friend

Challenge

Go to a Korean stationery website (like 10x10) and search for '엽서'. Try to describe three different postcards you see using only Korean.

Word Origin

Derived from the Hanja 葉書. 葉 (엽) means 'leaf' or 'sheet of paper', and 書 (서) means 'writing' or 'book'.

Original meaning: A sheet of writing or a leaf-like document. It originally referred to any single sheet used for correspondence.

Sino-Korean (Hanja-based vocabulary).

Cultural Context

None. It is a neutral, positive word. However, avoid sending plain postcards for very formal occasions like weddings; use a '카드' (card) in an envelope instead.

In English-speaking countries, postcards are almost exclusively for tourists. In Korea, they are also used for 'Dakku' (diary decorating) and as small art prints for room decor.

The 'Slow Mailbox' at N Seoul Tower. The song 'Postcard' (엽서) by various Korean indie artists. Radio programs like 'Starry Night' (별이 빛나는 밤에) which popularized postcard culture.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

At a Souvenir Shop

엽서 어디에 있어요?
이 엽서 한 장에 얼마예요?
그림 엽서 세 장 주세요.
엽서가 참 예쁘네요.

At the Post Office

엽서를 보내고 싶어요.
엽서 우표는 얼마예요?
미국까지 엽서가 얼마나 걸려요?
이 엽서에 우표를 어디에 붙여요?

With Friends

여행 가서 엽서 써 줄게.
어제 네 엽서 받았어. 고마워!
우리 엽서 같이 고를까?
이 엽서에 뭐라고 쓸까?

On the Radio

엽서로 사연을 보내 주세요.
이번 주 엽서 당첨자입니다.
정성스럽게 쓴 엽서가 도착했습니다.
엽서 뒷면의 주소를 확인하세요.

Hobby/Decorating

엽서로 벽을 꾸몄어요.
엽서 수집이 제 취미예요.
이것은 한정판 엽서예요.
엽서 앨범을 샀어요.

Conversation Starters

"여행 가서 엽서 쓰는 거 좋아하세요?"

"최근에 엽서를 받아본 적이 있나요?"

"가장 기억에 남는 엽서는 무엇인가요?"

"엽서와 편지 중에서 무엇을 더 좋아하세요?"

"예쁜 엽서를 보면 사고 싶은 마음이 드나요?"

Journal Prompts

오늘 친구에게 보낼 엽서에 어떤 내용을 쓰고 싶은지 적어 보세요.

가장 좋아하는 엽서의 그림이나 사진을 묘사해 보세요.

만약 1년 뒤의 나에게 엽서를 쓴다면 어떤 말을 하고 싶나요?

엽서를 주고받는 것이 왜 특별한지 당신의 생각을 써 보세요.

여행지에서 엽서를 샀던 경험에 대해 자세히 기록해 보세요.

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

No, the main characteristic of a 엽서 (postcard) is that it is designed to be mailed without an envelope. You write the message and the address directly on the back.

엽서 is the general term for any postcard. 그림 엽서 specifically means a 'picture postcard' which has an image on the front. Most postcards sold today are 그림 엽서.

You use the counter '장' (jang). For example, one postcard is '엽서 한 장', two is '엽서 두 장', and so on.

Yes, you can. You just need to go to a post office and ask for an international stamp for a postcard (국제 우편 엽서 우표).

Yes, many New Year's cards are in postcard format and are called '연하 엽서' or simply '연하장'.

쓰다 (to write), 보내다 (to send), 부치다 (to mail), 받다 (to receive), and 모으다 (to collect).

It is a neutral noun. However, the act of sending a postcard is considered more personal and thoughtful than a digital message, though less formal than a long letter (편지).

You can buy them at stationery stores (문구점), souvenir shops (기념품점), museums, bookstores, and some convenience stores.

It translates to 'Slow Mailbox'. It's a service where you write a 엽서 and it is mailed to the recipient months or a year later.

Sometimes people use '카드' generally, but if you want to be specific about the postal card that doesn't need an envelope, '엽서' is the correct and most common term.