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A2 noun #3,500 most common 13 min read

금지

Top 3,500

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips 금지 in 30 Seconds

Explanation 금지 in your Level:

At the A1 level, you only need to recognize '금지' as a sign that means 'No' or 'Stop.' You will mostly see it in two-word combinations like '주차 금지' (No Parking) or '출입 금지' (No Entry). Think of it as a red traffic light in word form. At this stage, you don't need to worry about the grammar of how to use it in long sentences. Just remember that when you see these two characters, it means you should not do the action written right before them. It is one of the most important 'survival' words to know when walking around a Korean city. You might also hear a teacher say '잡담 금지' (No chatting) in a classroom. Even if you don't know the first word, seeing '금지' tells you that a rule is being stated. It is a very direct and clear way to understand boundaries in a new environment.

At the A2 level, you should start using '금지' as a noun in simple sentences and understand its basic verb forms: '금지하다' (to prohibit) and '금지되다' (to be prohibited). You can use it to talk about school rules or simple house rules. For example, '우리 학교는 교복 변형이 금지예요' (Modifying school uniforms is prohibited at our school). You should also be able to recognize more specific prohibitions, such as '음식물 반입 금지' (No outside food) in cafes or '사진 촬영 금지' (No photography) in museums. This level is about moving from just seeing the word on signs to understanding it as a part of a sentence structure. You will notice that '금지' is often used with the polite ending '-예요' or '-입니다' to state a rule clearly. Learning this word helps you describe the environment and the regulations you encounter in your daily life in Korea.

At the B1 level, you can use '금지' to discuss social issues, health, and more complex regulations. You should be comfortable using '금지되다' in the present perfect or continuous states, such as '이곳은 작년부터 흡연이 금지되었습니다' (Smoking has been prohibited here since last year). You can also use it to talk about personal resolutions or medical advice, like '의사 선생님이 저에게 짠 음식을 금지하셨어요' (The doctor prohibited me from eating salty food). At this stage, you should also begin to distinguish '금지' from similar words like '제한' (restriction) or '금지령' (a formal ban/decree). You might participate in a simple debate about whether '노키즈존' (No Kids Zones) should be '금지' or allowed. Your vocabulary is expanding to include the 'why' and 'how' of prohibitions, not just the fact that they exist.

At the B2 level, '금지' becomes a tool for discussing legal, political, and ethical topics. You should be able to understand and use it in formal contexts, such as writing an essay about '표현의 자유와 금지' (Freedom of expression and prohibition). You will encounter the word in news reports about '수출 금지' (export bans) or '개발 금지 구역' (greenbelts/development prohibited zones). You should also understand the nuance of '금지' in historical contexts, such as the '금서' (prohibited books) of the past. At this level, you can use the word to express complex ideas about authority and social control. You might use phrases like '금지 조치를 취하다' (to take prohibitive measures) or '금지를 해제하다' (to lift a ban). Your understanding of the word is now deep enough to handle professional and academic discussions where precision is required.

At the C1 level, you are exploring the philosophical and legislative nuances of '금지.' You can analyze the effectiveness of certain '금지 정책' (prohibition policies) and discuss their social impact in detail. You will encounter the word in high-level literature and legal documents where it might be paired with complex Hanja-based synonyms. You should be able to discuss the tension between '금지' and '권리' (rights) with sophistication. For example, you might analyze how '부정경쟁방지법' (Unfair Competition Prevention Act) uses '금지' to protect intellectual property. Your usage of the word is now indistinguishable from a native speaker's in formal settings. You can use it in rhetorical ways to argue for or against social regulations, and you understand the subtle connotations it carries in different professional fields like law, medicine, or environmental science.

At the C2 level, you have a masterly command of '금지' and all its related classical and modern forms. You can interpret the word within the context of constitutional law or ancient historical decrees (like the '금주령' or prohibition of alcohol in the Joseon Dynasty). You are capable of understanding the most subtle legal distinctions between '금지,' '부작위' (omission/non-action), and '위법' (illegality). You can read and write academic papers or legal briefs that use '금지' as a core conceptual framework. You understand how the word functions in the 'proleptic' sense in literature or how it is used in complex international treaties. At this level, '금지' is not just a word but a multifaceted concept that you can manipulate to express the highest levels of thought in the Korean language. You can also appreciate and use wordplay or historical puns involving the Hanja roots of the word.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

금지 in 30 Seconds

A formal noun meaning 'prohibition' or 'ban' used for rules.
Commonly seen on public signs (No Parking, No Entry).
Can be used as a verb with '하다' (active) or '되다' (passive).
Essential for understanding safety and legal boundaries in Korea.

The Korean word 금지 (Geum-ji) is a fundamental noun that translates to 'prohibition' or 'ban.' Derived from Hanja (Chinese characters), it consists of 禁 (금), meaning 'to forbid' or 'to restrict,' and 止 (지), meaning 'to stop.' Together, they form a concept that is ubiquitous in Korean daily life, from public signage to legal statutes. Unlike the English word 'no,' which is a simple negation, 금지 carries a more formal, authoritative, and categorical weight. It implies that a specific action is not merely discouraged but strictly disallowed by a rule, law, or authority. When you see this word, it serves as a clear boundary marker between what is permissible and what is forbidden.

Public Safety: In public spaces, 금지 is the standard term for safety regulations. For instance, '주차 금지' (No Parking) or '출입 금지' (No Entry) are phrases every resident and traveler must recognize. These aren't suggestions; they are directives often backed by fines or legal consequences.

이 구역은 흡연 금지 구역입니다. (This area is a smoking prohibited zone.)

The usage of 금지 extends into the digital and social realms as well. In the context of the internet, you might encounter '댓글 금지' (comments disabled) or '캡처 금지' (screenshotting prohibited). Socially, it can refer to parental restrictions or institutional bans. For example, a school might implement a '휴대폰 사용 금지' (ban on mobile phone use) policy during classes. The word is versatile because it can act as a standalone noun on a sign or be combined with the verb 하다 (to do) to form 금지하다 (to prohibit) or 되다 (to become) to form 금지되다 (to be prohibited).

박물관 내에서 사진 촬영은 금지되어 있습니다. (Photography is prohibited inside the museum.)

Legal Context: Lawyers and government officials use 금지 to describe statutory bans. A '금지령' is a formal decree or injunction. This highlights the word's inherent formality compared to more conversational ways of saying 'don't do that' like '하지 마세요.'

Furthermore, 금지 often appears in the context of 'No Kids Zones' (노키즈존), a topic of significant debate in modern Korea. These establishments post signs saying '노키즈존: 아동 출입 금지,' which sparks discussions about social inclusion versus business rights. Understanding this word allows you to navigate not just the physical landscape of Korea, but also its social and legal boundaries. It is a word that demands attention and compliance, signaling the end of a permission and the start of a restriction.

미성년자에게 술 판매는 법으로 금지되어 있습니다. (Selling alcohol to minors is prohibited by law.)

밤 10시 이후에는 소음 발생 금지입니다. (Generating noise is prohibited after 10 PM.)

Professional Usage: In a professional setting, an employer might '금지' certain behaviors like '직장 내 괴롭힘 금지' (prohibition of workplace harassment). This usage frames the prohibition as a matter of policy and professional ethics.

In summary, 금지 is a word that communicates authority, safety, and order. Whether it is a hand-written sign on a local shop door or a printed regulation in a government building, it serves as the definitive marker of what cannot be done. Learning to recognize and use this word correctly is essential for anyone living in or visiting Korea, as it ensures you remain respectful of local laws and social norms.

외부 음식 반입 금지. (Bringing in outside food is prohibited.)

Using 금지 in a sentence requires an understanding of its grammatical flexibility. As a noun, it often sits at the end of a phrase on a sign, but in speech and writing, it is frequently transformed into a verb. The most common way to do this is by adding 하다 (active) or 되다 (passive). When you say 금지하다, you are saying that an authority is actively forbidding something. When you use 금지되다, you are stating that something is in a state of being prohibited. This distinction is crucial for achieving natural-sounding Korean.

Active Voice: 금지하다: Typically used when the subject is an entity like the government, a school, or a manager. '정부는 실내 흡연을 금지했습니다' (The government prohibited indoor smoking). Here, the focus is on the action taker.

선생님은 수업 시간에 잡담을 금지하셨어요. (The teacher prohibited small talk during class.)

For learners at the A2 level, the passive form 금지되다 is often more useful because it describes the environment around you. It is frequently paired with the grammar pattern -어/아 있다 to describe a continuing state. For example, '이곳은 주차가 금지되어 있습니다' (Parking is prohibited in this place). This is the standard, polite way to inform someone of a rule without sounding overly aggressive or personal. It attributes the rule to the situation or the location rather than to a specific person's whim.

해수욕장에서는 야간 수영이 금지됩니다. (Night swimming is prohibited at the beach.)

Noun + 금지 Structure: You can create compound nouns easily. '통행 금지' (curfew/prohibited passage), '수출 금지' (export ban), '사용 금지' (prohibited use). This is the most efficient way to communicate a specific ban.

Another advanced way to use 금지 is in the form of 금지령 (prohibition order). This is used in news reports or historical contexts. For example, during the COVID-19 pandemic, '5인 이상 집합 금지령' (a ban on gatherings of 5 or more people) was a common phrase. In daily conversation, you might use 금지 to set boundaries with friends or family, though it might sound a bit dramatic or humorous depending on the tone. '내 방 출입 금지!' (Entry to my room is prohibited!) is a common phrase siblings might say to each other.

의사는 나에게 술과 담배를 금지시켰다. (The doctor made me prohibit alcohol and cigarettes - i.e., forbade me from them.)

유통기한이 지난 식품은 판매가 금지됩니다. (Selling food past its expiration date is prohibited.)

Common Verb Collocations: '금지를 어기다' (to break a prohibition), '금지를 풀다' (to lift a prohibition), '금지를 강화하다' (to strengthen a prohibition).

In conclusion, whether you are reading a sign on the street or writing a formal report, 금지 is your go-to word for expressing that something is not allowed. By mastering both its noun form and its verb forms (금지하다/되다), you can communicate rules and boundaries clearly and appropriately in any Korean context.

낚시 금지 구역에서 낚시를 하면 벌금을 냅니다. (If you fish in a fishing-prohibited area, you will pay a fine.)

If you spend even a single day in South Korea, you will encounter the word 금지 dozens of times. It is the language of the 'public sphere.' You hear it in automated announcements, see it on neon signs, and read it in news headlines. Its primary function in the real world is to maintain social order in a densely populated society. Because Korean culture places a high value on collective harmony and rule-following, 금지 acts as the linguistic guardrail that keeps everyone on the same page regarding safety and etiquette.

Transportation Hubs: In the Seoul Subway or at Incheon Airport, you will hear announcements like '안전선 밖으로 나가는 것은 금지되어 있습니다' (Crossing the safety line is prohibited). These announcements use the formal passive voice to ensure the message is authoritative yet polite.

열차 내에서는 음식물 섭취가 금지되어 있습니다. (Eating food inside the train is prohibited.)

In the digital age, 금지 is just as common online. When a K-pop agency releases a new music video or photo, they often post '무단 전재 및 재배포 금지' (Unauthorized reproduction and redistribution prohibited). Fans see this word constantly on social media platforms like Weverse or X (Twitter). It is also used in gaming communities, where '핵 사용 금지' (Prohibition of using hacks/cheats) is a standard rule. If you are a fan of Korean media, you will notice this word in the disclaimer at the beginning of every TV show, warning against illegal recording.

이 영상의 무단 캡처를 금지합니다. (Unauthorized capturing of this video is prohibited.)

News and Media: News anchors frequently use the word when reporting on new laws. '새로운 부동산 대출 금지 조치가 발표되었습니다' (A new measure prohibiting real estate loans has been announced). It sounds professional and definitive in these contexts.

You will also hear it in personal interactions that involve rules. A gym instructor might say '운동 중에는 개인 신발 착용 금지입니다' (Wearing personal shoes during exercise is prohibited). A librarian might remind you, '도서관 내 대화 금지입니다' (Talking is prohibited in the library). In these cases, the word is used to enforce the specific 'culture' of the space. It is less about 'being mean' and more about maintaining the designated purpose of the environment.

공원 내 텐트 설치가 금지되었습니다. (Installing tents in the park has been prohibited.)

군사 시설이라 사진 촬영 금지예요. (It's a military facility, so photography is prohibited.)

Workplace Etiquette: In offices, you might see '회의 중 휴대폰 사용 금지' (No mobile phone use during meetings). This helps maintain focus and respect for the speaker.

Ultimately, 금지 is the sound of the rules that keep Korean society functioning smoothly. Whether it's a polite request in a museum or a strict law from the government, hearing this word tells you exactly where the line is drawn. By paying attention to where and how it's used, you'll gain a deeper understanding of Korean social expectations and legal boundaries.

이 호수는 수영 금지입니다. (Swimming is prohibited in this lake.)

While 금지 is a straightforward word, English speakers often make mistakes by overusing it in informal situations or confusing it with other forms of negation. The most common error is using 금지 when a simpler 'don't' or 'can't' would be more natural. 금지 is a formal noun; using it with your close friends might make you sound like a police officer or a robot unless you are intentionally being funny. Understanding the 'formality gap' is key to using this word correctly.

Mistake 1: Confusing 금지 with 안 돼요: '안 돼요' (It's not allowed/It won't do) is the conversational equivalent. If a friend asks to borrow your car and you want to say no, saying '차 대여 금지' sounds incredibly stiff. Instead, say '안 돼' or '빌려줄 수 없어.'

Incorrect: 친구야, 내 사탕 먹기 금지야! (Friend, eating my candy is prohibited!)
Natural: 친구야, 내 사탕 먹지 마! (Friend, don't eat my candy!)

Another frequent mistake is the incorrect use of particles. Because 금지 is a noun, it needs a verb like 하다 or 되다 to function as a predicate in a full sentence. Beginners often just say '주차 금지!' in a conversation where they should say '여기는 주차하면 안 돼요' (You shouldn't park here). Remember: '주차 금지' is for a sign; '주차하시면 안 됩니다' is for talking to a person. Using the noun form alone in speech can come across as blunt or rude.

Incorrect: 엄마가 나를 게임 금지했어. (Mom prohibited me from games - slightly awkward)
Natural: 엄마가 게임 못 하게 하셔. (Mom won't let me play games.)

Mistake 2: Mixing up 금지하다 and 금지되다: Learners often say '주차가 금지해요' (Parking prohibits). This is grammatically wrong because parking cannot prohibit anything; it is the thing being prohibited. You must use '주차가 금지돼요' (Parking is prohibited).

A third mistake involves semantic nuances with similar words like 제한 (restriction). While 금지 means a total ban (0%), 제한 means a limit (e.g., you can do it, but only up to a certain point). If you say '속도 금지' (speed prohibition), it sounds like you aren't allowed to move at all! The correct term is '속도 제한' (speed limit). Being careful with these distinctions will make your Korean much more precise and professional.

Incorrect: 이 도로는 속도 금지가 60km예요. (This road has a speed prohibition of 60km.)
Correct: 이 도로는 속도 제한이 60km예요. (This road has a speed limit of 60km.)

입장 금지 (No Entry) vs. 인원 제한 (Capacity Limit)

Mistake 3: Over-formalizing with 금지: Using '금지' in a diary or personal note about your own habits can sound a bit robotic. Instead of '오늘부터 커피 금지' (Prohibition of coffee from today), '오늘부터 커피 안 마시기' (Not drinking coffee from today) is more natural.

In summary, avoid using 금지 as a replacement for every 'don't.' Keep it for formal rules, public signs, and legal contexts. Use passive 되다 for states and active 하다 for authorities. By navigating these common pitfalls, you will use 금지 with the same nuance and accuracy as a native speaker.

이곳에서는 사진 촬영이 금지되어 있습니다. (Photography is prohibited here. - Correct and formal.)

To truly master the concept of 'prohibition' in Korean, it's helpful to compare 금지 with its synonyms and related terms. While 금지 is the most general and common word, other words offer specific nuances depending on whether you're talking about legal restrictions, physical blocks, or social discouragement. Understanding these alternatives will help you choose the right word for the right situation, elevating your Korean from functional to sophisticated.

제한 (Je-han) - Restriction/Limit: Unlike '금지' (total ban), '제한' implies a boundary or a maximum. '인원 제한' (limit on the number of people) means some people can enter, but not everyone. '속도 제한' (speed limit) means you can drive, but not too fast. Use '제한' when something is allowed within certain parameters.

이 식당은 이용 시간이 2시간으로 제한되어 있습니다. (This restaurant's usage time is limited to 2 hours.)

Another important word is 제지 (Je-ji), which means 'restraint' or 'stopping someone in the act.' While 금지 is often a rule written on a sign, 제지 is the physical or verbal action of stopping someone. If a security guard physically prevents you from entering a building, that is 제지. It is more dynamic and immediate than the static word 금지. You will often see this in news reports about police '제지' (restraining) protesters or unruly individuals.

경찰이 군중의 진입을 제지했습니다. (The police restrained the crowd's entry.)

불허 (Bul-heo) - Non-permission/Disallowance: This is a very formal, bureaucratic term. It is often the opposite of '허가' (permission). If a government agency rejects your application for a permit, they might issue a '불허' notice. It sounds more official and 'paperwork-oriented' than '금지.'

For more abstract or internal restrictions, you might use 억제 (Eok-je), meaning 'suppression' or 'control.' This is used for emotions or economic trends. For example, '감정 억제' (suppressing emotions) or '물가 상승 억제' (curbing inflation). You wouldn't use 금지 here because you can't really 'ban' inflation by decree; you can only 'suppress' it through policy. Similarly, 차단 (Cha-dan) means 'block' or 'cut off.' It's used for physical things like '차단기' (circuit breaker) or digital things like '광고 차단' (ad-blocking).

스팸 전화를 차단했습니다. (I blocked spam calls.)

과도한 지출을 억제해야 합니다. (We must suppress/curb excessive spending.)

폐지 (Pye-ji) - Abolition: This word is used when a law or a system is completely removed. '노예제 폐지' (abolition of slavery). While '금지' stops an action, '폐지' removes the structure that allowed or governed it.

In conclusion, while 금지 is your primary tool for saying 'no' in a formal or public context, knowing these synonyms allows you to be much more specific. Whether you're blocking a phone number (차단), limiting your sugar intake (제한), or curbing your anger (억제), choosing the right word will make your Korean sound much more natural and precise.

그 법안은 작년에 폐지되었습니다. (That bill was abolished last year.)

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The character 禁 (금) shows two trees (林) and a 'command' or 'vision' (示) at the bottom, originally suggesting a sacred grove where entry was forbidden.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /ɡɯm.dʑi/

US /ɡʊm.dʒi/

The stress is equal on both syllables, typical of Korean word structure.

Rhymes With

천지 (Cheon-ji) 단지 (Dan-ji) 편지 (Pyeon-ji) 인지 (In-ji) 의지 (Ui-ji) 유지 (Yu-ji) 정지 (Jeong-ji) 복지 (Bok-ji)

Common Errors

Pronouncing '금' like 'gum' (candy) with an English 'u' sound.
Over-aspirating the 'g' so it sounds like 'k'.
Pronouncing '지' with a heavy 'z' sound.
Making the 'm' sound too short.
Adding an extra vowel sound at the end.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 2/5

Very easy to recognize on signs due to its distinct Hanja-based shape.

Writing 3/5

Requires understanding of '하다/되다' verb conversions.

Speaking 3/5

Must be careful with formality levels to avoid sounding too blunt.

Listening 2/5

Clearly enunciated in public announcements.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

하다 (To do) 되다 (To become) 안 돼요 (Not allowed) 구역 (Area) 법 (Law)

Learn Next

제한 (Restriction) 허가 (Permission) 방지 (Prevention) 규제 (Regulation) 의무 (Obligation)

Advanced

과잉금지의 원칙 (Principle of Proportionality) 부작위 (Omission) 위법성 (Illegality) 해제 (Lifting/Cancellation)

Grammar to Know

-지 마세요 (Don't do...)

사진 찍지 마세요. (Don't take pictures.)

-(으)면 안 돼요 (You shouldn't... / It's not allowed...)

여기 주차하면 안 돼요. (You shouldn't park here.)

-어/아 있다 (State of being)

문이 닫혀 있어요. / 금지되어 있어요. (The door is closed. / It is prohibited.)

-기 위해 (In order to)

사고를 방지하기 위해 금지합니다. (We prohibit it to prevent accidents.)

-(으)로 인해 (Due to)

공사로 인해 통행이 금지됩니다. (Passage is prohibited due to construction.)

Examples by Level

주차 금지

No Parking

A simple noun-noun compound used on signs.

출입 금지

No Entry

Commonly seen at construction sites or private property.

취사 금지

No Cooking

Often seen in national parks or public beaches.

흡연 금지

No Smoking

Standard sign in all public buildings in Korea.

수영 금지

No Swimming

Used for safety in dangerous water areas.

낚시 금지

No Fishing

Common at reservoirs or protected piers.

잡담 금지

No Chatting

Often used in study rooms or during exams.

음식 금지

No Food

Short for '음식물 반입 금지' (No bringing in food).

여기는 주차 금지 구역이에요.

This is a no-parking zone.

Uses '구역' (zone) to specify the location.

박물관에서 사진 촬영은 금지예요.

Photography is prohibited in the museum.

Uses the noun form as a predicate with '-예요'.

학교에서 휴대폰 사용은 금지되어 있어요.

Mobile phone use is prohibited at school.

Uses '금지되어 있다' to describe a rule in effect.

밤에는 큰 소리로 노래하는 것이 금지입니다.

Singing loudly at night is prohibited.

Uses the nominalizer '-는 것' to make the action a subject.

이곳은 아이들 출입이 금지된 곳입니다.

This is a place where children's entry is prohibited.

Uses the past participle form '금지된' to modify '곳'.

시험 중에는 대화가 금지됩니다.

Conversation is prohibited during the exam.

Uses '금지되다' in the present tense.

외부 음식은 반입 금지입니다.

Outside food is prohibited from being brought in.

'반입' means 'bringing in' (items/goods).

강아지와 함께 들어가는 것은 금지예요.

Entering with a dog is prohibited.

Uses '-는 것' to form the subject.

건강을 위해 의사가 술을 금지했어요.

The doctor prohibited alcohol for health reasons.

Active voice '금지하다' with a human subject.

정부는 공공장소에서의 흡연을 법으로 금지했습니다.

The government prohibited smoking in public places by law.

Formal past tense '금지했습니다'.

이 도로는 공사 중이라서 통행이 금지되고 있습니다.

This road is currently under construction, so passage is being prohibited.

Progressive passive '금지되고 있다'.

부모님은 내가 밤늦게 나가는 것을 금지하셨다.

My parents prohibited me from going out late at night.

Honorific form '금지하셨다' for parents.

Unauthorized duplication is prohibited by copyright law.

Passive state '-어 있다' used for legal warnings.

다이어트 중이라서 탄수화물 섭취를 금지하고 있어요.

I'm on a diet, so I'm prohibiting (avoiding) carbohydrate intake.

Active progressive '금지하고 있다' for personal discipline.

환경 보호를 위해 일회용품 사용이 금지될 예정입니다.

The use of disposable items is scheduled to be prohibited for environmental protection.

Future passive '금지될 예정이다'.

그 선수는 약물 복용 혐의로 출전이 금지되었습니다.

The player was prohibited from competing due to drug use allegations.

Passive past tense '금지되었습니다'.

이 지역은 군사 보호 구역으로 민간인 출입이 엄격히 금지됩니다.

This area is a military protection zone, so civilian entry is strictly prohibited.

Uses the adverb '엄격히' (strictly) to emphasize the ban.

정치적 중립을 지키기 위해 공무원의 선거 운동은 금지되어 있습니다.

To maintain political neutrality, civil servants' election campaigning is prohibited.

Explains the 'purpose' using '-기 위해'.

과거에는 특정 노래들이 정부에 의해 금지곡으로 지정되기도 했습니다.

In the past, certain songs were designated as prohibited songs by the government.

'금지곡' is a compound noun for 'prohibited song'.

회사 기밀 유출을 방지하기 위해 USB 사용을 금지하고 있습니다.

To prevent company secret leaks, the use of USBs is prohibited.

Uses '방지하기 위해' (to prevent).

재판부는 피고인에게 피해자에 대한 접근 금지 명령을 내렸습니다.

The court issued a restraining order (prohibition of approach) against the defendant.

'접근 금지 명령' is the legal term for a restraining order.

부정부패를 막기 위해 김영란법은 금품 수수를 금지합니다.

To stop corruption, the Kim Young-ran Act prohibits the receiving of money and goods.

Refers to a specific Korean law.

독과점을 방지하기 위해 기업 간의 담합은 법률로 금지됩니다.

To prevent monopolies, collusion between companies is prohibited by law.

Academic/Legal context regarding economy.

희귀 동식물의 포획 및 채취는 자연공원법에 의해 금지되어 있습니다.

Capturing and collecting rare flora and fauna is prohibited by the Natural Parks Act.

Uses formal conjunction '및' (and).

표현의 자유와 명예훼손 금지 사이의 균형을 맞추는 것은 어려운 과제입니다.

Balancing freedom of expression and the prohibition of defamation is a difficult task.

Discusses abstract concepts and legal balance.

유전자 변형 식품의 안전성이 검증될 때까지 판매를 일시적으로 금지해야 한다는 주장이 제기되었습니다.

Arguments have been raised that the sale of GMOs should be temporarily prohibited until safety is verified.

Complex sentence with nested clauses and '주장이 제기되다'.

해당 국가는 인권 침해 논란으로 인해 무기 수출 금지 조치를 당했습니다.

The country was subjected to an arms export ban due to human rights violation controversies.

Uses '조치를 당하다' (to be subjected to a measure).

정보의 비대칭성을 해소하기 위해 내부자 거래는 엄격하게 금지되는 행위입니다.

To resolve information asymmetry, insider trading is a strictly prohibited act.

Economic theory context.

전통적인 가치관과 충돌하는 새로운 문화적 흐름을 금지하는 것이 항상 효과적인 것은 아닙니다.

Prohibiting new cultural trends that clash with traditional values is not always effective.

Sociological analysis.

사생활 침해 우려로 인해 공공장소에서의 안면 인식 기술 사용 금지 논의가 활발합니다.

Due to privacy invasion concerns, discussions about prohibiting facial recognition technology in public places are active.

Discusses modern technology and ethics.

특정 종교적 신념에 근거한 행위가 타인의 기본권을 침해할 경우 법적으로 금지될 수 있습니다.

Acts based on specific religious beliefs may be legally prohibited if they violate the basic rights of others.

Legal/Constitutional context.

환경 오염의 심각성을 고려할 때, 노후 경유차의 도심 진입 금지는 불가피한 선택입니다.

Considering the severity of environmental pollution, prohibiting old diesel cars from entering the city center is an inevitable choice.

Environmental policy context.

헌법상 과잉금지의 원칙은 국가 권력의 행사가 국민의 기본권을 최소한으로 침해해야 함을 명시하고 있습니다.

The principle of prohibition of excess in the Constitution specifies that the exercise of state power must minimize the infringement of basic rights.

Refers to the 'Principle of Proportionality' (과잉금지의 원칙).

조선 시대의 금주령은 단순한 도덕적 규제를 넘어 국가 재정 및 식량 수급 조절의 방편으로 활용되었습니다.

The prohibition of alcohol in the Joseon Dynasty was used as a means of adjusting national finances and food supply beyond simple moral regulation.

Historical analysis of policy.

기술적 복제 방지 조치를 무력화하는 행위는 저작권법상 금지될 뿐만 아니라 형사 처벌의 대상이 됩니다.

The act of neutralizing technical copy protection measures is not only prohibited under copyright law but is also subject to criminal punishment.

Highly technical legal language.

시장 지배적 사업자의 지위 남용 금지는 공정 거래 질서 확립의 핵심적인 기둥입니다.

The prohibition of the abuse of a dominant market position is a core pillar of establishing a fair trade order.

Antitrust law context.

국제법상 고문 금지는 어떠한 예외도 허용되지 않는 절대적인 규범(jus cogens)으로 간주됩니다.

In international law, the prohibition of torture is considered an absolute norm (jus cogens) for which no exceptions are allowed.

International law and human rights context.

소급입법에 의한 참정권 제한이나 재산권 박탈은 헌법에 의해 엄격히 금지되어 있습니다.

The restriction of suffrage or deprivation of property rights by retroactive legislation is strictly prohibited by the Constitution.

Constitutional law regarding retroactive legislation.

생명 윤리 및 안전에 관한 법률은 인간 복제 및 생식세포의 유전자 변형을 절대적으로 금지하고 있습니다.

The Bioethics and Safety Act absolutely prohibits human cloning and genetic modification of germ cells.

Bioethics and medical law.

언론의 자유를 위축시키는 사전 검열 제도는 민주주의 사회에서 원칙적으로 금지됩니다.

The system of prior censorship, which shrinks the freedom of the press, is prohibited in principle in a democratic society.

Political science and constitutional rights.

Common Collocations

금지 구역

금지 조치

금지 명령

엄격히 금지

법으로 금지

일시 금지

전면 금지

사용 금지

출입 금지

판매 금지

Common Phrases

주차 금지

— No Parking. The most common sign found on Korean streets.

집 앞에 '주차 금지' 표지판을 세웠어요.

출입 금지

— No Entry. Used to keep people out of dangerous or private areas.

관계자 외 출입 금지입니다.

흡연 금지

— No Smoking. Found in virtually all public indoor spaces.

이 건물 전체가 흡연 금지 구역이에요.

사진 촬영 금지

— No Photography. Common in museums, concerts, or sensitive areas.

공연 중에는 사진 촬영 금지입니다.

— No Unauthorized Reproduction. Standard copyright notice on websites.

접근 금지

— Keep Out / No Approach. Used in legal restraining orders.

그는 접근 금지 명령을 받았다.

통행 금지

— Curfew or No Passage. Used for road closures or historical curfews.

밤 12시부터 통행 금지였던 시절이 있었다.

취사 금지

— No Cooking. Seen in parks and on mountains to prevent fires.

계곡에서는 취사 금지입니다.

음식물 반입 금지

— No Outside Food. Common in cafes, theaters, and libraries.

도서관은 음식물 반입 금지예요.

사용 금지

— Out of Order / Do Not Use. Used for broken equipment.

고장으로 인해 화장실 사용 금지입니다.

Often Confused With

금지 vs 제한

금지 is a total ban (0%), while 제한 is a limit (e.g., 60km/h).

금지 vs 중단

금지 means you can't start/do it, while 중단 means to stop something that was already happening.

금지 vs 방지

금지 is the rule against an action, while 방지 is the effort to prevent a result (like an accident).

Idioms & Expressions

"금기시하다"

— To treat something as a taboo (related to 금지).

그 사회에서는 죽음에 대해 이야기하는 것을 금기시한다.

Formal

"금단의 열매"

— Forbidden fruit. Something tempting but prohibited.

그에게 도박은 금단의 열매와 같았다.

Literary

"성역 없는 수사"

— Investigation without holy ground (no area is prohibited from being investigated).

검찰은 성역 없는 수사를 약속했다.

Journalistic

"금줄을 치다"

— To hang a 'Geum-jul' (sacred rope). Historically used to prohibit entry to protect a newborn or sacred space.

아이를 낳고 대문에 금줄을 쳤다.

Traditional

"금지옥엽"

— A precious child (Gold branch, jade leaf). While it contains 'Geum', it refers to 'Gold' but sounds phonetically similar to prohibition contexts in classical puns.

그녀는 금지옥엽으로 자란 귀한 딸이다.

Formal

"문외한"

— An outsider (prohibited from the gate of knowledge). Someone who knows nothing about a specific field.

저는 클래식 음악에는 문외한입니다.

Neutral

"통행금지 해제"

— Lifting of the curfew. Often used metaphorically for gaining freedom.

시험이 끝나고 드디어 외출 금지가 해제되었다.

Informal/Humorous

"금지된 사랑"

— Forbidden love. A very common trope in Korean dramas.

두 사람의 금지된 사랑은 비극으로 끝났다.

Literary/Media

"말문이 막히다"

— To be at a loss for words (speech is prohibited/blocked).

너무 놀라서 말문이 막혔다.

Neutral

"발길을 끊다"

— To stop visiting (effectively prohibiting oneself from going).

그 사건 이후로 그 가게에 발길을 끊었다.

Neutral

Easily Confused

금지 vs 정지

Both imply 'stopping'.

금지 is a rule (prohibition), while 정지 is a physical stop or a suspension of a license/service.

영업 정지 (Suspension of business) vs. 영업 금지 (Prohibition of business).

금지 vs 억제

Both involve stopping something.

억제 is about controlling or curbing a flow or emotion, not a legal ban.

식욕 억제 (Appetite suppression).

금지 vs 차단

Both block an action.

차단 is usually technical or physical (blocking a signal or a road).

광고 차단 (Ad block).

금지 vs 거부

Both involve a 'no'.

거부 is a refusal of an offer or request, not necessarily a general rule.

입장 거부 (Refusal of entry).

금지 vs 금기

Both mean 'forbidden'.

금기 (Taboo) is social or cultural, while 금지 is legal or rule-based.

사회적 금기 (Social taboo).

Sentence Patterns

Noun + 금지

주차 금지

Noun + 은/는 금지예요

사진 촬영은 금지예요.

Noun + 이/가 금지되다

낚시가 금지되었습니다.

Noun + 을/를 금지하다

정부가 흡연을 금지했다.

Noun + (으)로 인해 금지되다

폭설로 인해 통행이 금지되었다.

Noun + 금지 조치를 내리다

수출 금지 조치를 내렸다.

Noun + 금지 논란

노키즈존 금지 논란이 있다.

과잉금지의 원칙

과잉금지의 원칙을 준수해야 한다.

Word Family

Nouns

금지구역 (Restricted area)

금지령 (Prohibition decree)

출입금지 (No entry)

주차금지 (No parking)

금서 (Prohibited book)

Verbs

금지하다 (To prohibit)

금지되다 (To be prohibited)

금지시키다 (To make/order someone to prohibit)

Adjectives

금지된 (Prohibited/Banned - participle)

금지적 (Prohibitive - rare, usually use nouns)

방지 (Prevention)

정지 (Stop/Suspension)

폐지 (Abolition)

제지 (Restraint)

억제 (Suppression)

How to Use It

frequency

Extremely high in public spaces and legal documents.

Common Mistakes

Using '금지' for personal 'don'ts'. → Use '-지 마세요' or '안 돼요'.
금지 is for formal rules, not casual requests. Saying '내 연필 쓰기 금지' to a friend is too stiff.
Saying '주차가 금지해요'. → '주차가 금지돼요'.
Parking doesn't prohibit; it is prohibited. You need the passive '되다'.
Confusing '금지' with '제한'. → Use '제한' for limits (like speed).
금지 means 0% allowed. 제한 means a specific amount/speed is allowed.
Using '금지' without a verb in a full sentence. → '금지입니다' or '금지되어 있습니다'.
As a noun, it needs a copula (이다) or a verb to complete a sentence.
Mixing up the Hanja '금' (Gold) and '금' (Prohibit). → Check the context.
While they sound the same, '금지' is never about gold. '금메달' is gold; '금지' is a ban.

Tips

Noun vs Verb

Remember that '금지' is a noun. To use it as an action, you must attach '하다' or '되다'.

Sign Recognition

Whenever you see two characters where the second one is '지' (止), there's a good chance it's a rule (금지, 정지, 제지).

Compound Power

You can combine almost any action noun with '금지' to create a rule. Example: '게임 금지', '간식 금지'.

Avoid Rudeness

Don't just say '금지!' to people. Use full polite sentences like '~하면 안 됩니다' to maintain social harmony.

Formal Reports

In professional writing, use '금지 조치' (prohibitive measures) to sound more sophisticated.

Subway Cues

Listen for '금지' in subway announcements; it usually signals safety rules you need to follow immediately.

Hanja Root

Learning the character 禁 (Geum) will help you understand other words like 금연 (non-smoking) and 금주 (abstinence from alcohol).

Check the Prefix

The word before '금지' is the key. '주차' (parking), '출입' (entry), '취사' (cooking). Focus on those nouns.

Road Safety

If you drive in Korea, '주차 금지' and '유턴 금지' (No U-turn) are the two most important signs to know.

Copyright

On Korean blogs, look for '불펌 금지' (No illegal scraping/copying) to respect content creators.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Imagine a 'Gum' (금) stuck on a 'G' (지) sign. You are 'prohibited' from stepping on the gum!

Visual Association

A bright red circle with a diagonal slash over a person trying to park a car.

Word Web

Law Sign No Parking No Smoking Authority Stop Restriction Rule

Challenge

Go for a walk in a Korean neighborhood (or use Google Street View) and count how many '금지' signs you can find in 5 minutes.

Word Origin

The word is a Sino-Korean term (Hanja). It has been used in the Korean language for centuries, originating from classical Chinese legal texts.

Original meaning: To forbid and to stop.

Sino-Korean (Hanja: 禁止)

Cultural Context

Be careful when using '금지' with people; it can sound very bossy. Use '안 돼요' or '-지 마세요' for a softer, more socially appropriate tone.

In English-speaking countries, signs usually say 'No' (No Smoking) or 'Prohibited.' '금지' is the direct equivalent of 'Prohibited' but is used much more frequently on common signs.

The song '금지된 사랑' (Forbidden Love) by Kim Kyung-ho is a legendary Korean rock ballad. The term '금서' (Prohibited Books) refers to literature banned during various political eras in Korea. Public service announcements in the Seoul Subway use '금지' for safety warnings.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

On the street

주차 금지 (No Parking)
견인 지역 (Towing zone)
일방 통행 (One way)
무단 횡단 금지 (No jaywalking)

In a building

출입 금지 (No Entry)
금연 건물 (Non-smoking building)
음식물 반입 금지 (No outside food)
반려동물 출입 금지 (No pets)

Online/Copyright

무단 복제 금지 (No unauthorized copying)
캡처 금지 (No screenshots)
댓글 금지 (Comments disabled)
공유 금지 (No sharing)

At school/work

지각 금지 (No being late)
잡담 금지 (No chatting)
휴대폰 사용 금지 (No phone use)
졸음 금지 (No nodding off - humorous)

Health/Doctor

금주 (Refraining from alcohol)
금연 (Refraining from smoking)
운동 금지 (No exercise)
과식 금지 (No overeating)

Conversation Starters

"한국의 '노키즈존'에 대해 어떻게 생각하세요? (What do you think about 'No Kids Zones' in Korea?)"

"건강을 위해 금지하고 있는 음식이 있나요? (Are there any foods you are prohibiting for your health?)"

"가장 이해하기 힘든 규칙이나 금지 사항이 뭐예요? (What is a rule or prohibition that is hardest to understand?)"

"학교 다닐 때 어떤 것들이 금지되어 있었나요? (What things were prohibited when you were in school?)"

"공공장소에서 금지해야 할 행동은 무엇이라고 생각하세요? (What behaviors do you think should be prohibited in public places?)"

Journal Prompts

오늘 내가 본 '금지' 표지판들에 대해 써보세요. (Write about the 'prohibition' signs you saw today.)

만약 내가 하루 동안 왕이 된다면, 무엇을 금지하고 싶나요? (If you became king for a day, what would you want to prohibit?)

자유와 금지 사이의 관계에 대해 자신의 생각을 정리해보세요. (Organize your thoughts on the relationship between freedom and prohibition.)

내가 스스로에게 만든 '금지 규칙'이 있다면 무엇인가요? (What are some 'prohibition rules' you've made for yourself?)

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Technically yes, but it sounds very formal or like a joke. For example, '내 케이크 먹기 금지!' sounds like you're playing 'boss.' In real life, it's better to say '먹지 마' or '먹으면 안 돼.'

'금지하다' is active: 'The school prohibits phones.' '금지되다' is passive: 'Phones are prohibited at school.' Use the passive form when you want to state a general rule.

Yes. A banned book is called '금서' (금 + 서/book), and a banned song is '금지곡.' The general term for the action is still '금지.'

Signs in Korea (like in English) prioritize brevity. Noun + Noun compounds are the fastest way to convey information to drivers and pedestrians.

Not always. It could be a store policy (No outside food) or a social rule. However, in public spaces, it often implies that a fine or penalty could follow if the rule is broken.

The word itself is formal, but to be polite in speech, use the form '금지되어 있습니다' or '하시면 안 됩니다.' This sounds much softer than just shouting '금지!'

This became very famous during COVID-19. It means 'prohibition of gatherings.' It was used to tell people not to meet in large groups.

Yes, the phrase is '금단의 열매.' '금단' is a related word meaning 'forbidden/prohibited area or thing.'

You use the verb '해제되다' (to be lifted/released). So, '금지가 해제되었습니다.'

In Hanja, the 'Geum' in 'Gold' (金) and the 'Geum' in 'Prohibition' (禁) are different characters, though they sound identical in Korean. Context will always tell you which is which.