This page in your language

فارسی

العربية

Deutsch

Español

Français

日本語

한국어

Português

中文

हिन्दी

Home
Learn
Korean
Vocabulary
은퇴하다

B2 verb 8 min read

은퇴하다

euntæhada

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips 은퇴하다 in 30 Seconds

Explanation 은퇴하다 in your Level:

At the A1 level, you just need to know that '은퇴하다' means 'to retire.' It is a verb used for older people, like grandfathers or grandmothers, who stop working because they are old. You can think of it as a special word for 'quitting a job forever.' You might use it in simple sentences like '할아버지는 은퇴해요' (Grandfather retires). Don't worry about the complex Hanja (Chinese characters) behind it yet; just focus on the idea of a long career coming to an end. It is a '하다' verb, so it conjugates just like '공부하다' or '일하다.' Since A1 learners focus on basic family and daily life, you might use this word when talking about your family members' jobs or lack thereof. Remember that in Korea, we respect elderly people, so we often add '시' to make it '은퇴하시다.' Even at this level, knowing this word helps you understand basic stories about families and the life cycle. It is a formal word, but it is very common in introductions.

At the A2 level, you should begin to understand the context in which '은퇴하다' is used compared to '그만두다' (to quit). While '그만두다' can be used for any situation, '은퇴하다' is specifically for the end of a long professional life. You should be able to use it with basic time markers and reasons. For example, '60살에 은퇴하고 싶어요' (I want to retire at 60). You will also start seeing it in simple reading passages about famous people or athletes. At this level, you should practice the past tense '은퇴했어요' and the honorific '은퇴하셨어요.' You might also learn the noun '은퇴' and how it combines with other words like '은퇴 후' (after retirement). Understanding that this word carries a sense of 'completion' is key. It's not just about stopping; it's about finishing a major part of your life. You might use it when describing your future plans or the history of your parents' careers in a simple paragraph.

At the B1 level, you are expected to use '은퇴하다' in more complex sentence structures, such as those involving reasons, conditions, and plans. You should understand the difference between '은퇴하다' and '퇴직하다.' While both can mean retirement, '퇴직하다' is more about the administrative act of leaving a specific job, whereas '은퇴하다' is about the social and personal transition out of a career. You will encounter this word in news articles, interviews, and social discussions about the aging population in Korea. You should be able to use patterns like '은퇴하기 위해' (in order to retire) or '은퇴한 후에' (after retiring). At this level, you should also be aware of related terms like '정년' (retirement age) and '연금' (pension). You might hear people discuss '은퇴 설계' (retirement planning) in a semi-formal context. Your ability to use this word correctly in a discussion about society or personal goals shows a maturing grasp of Korean vocabulary that goes beyond basic survival phrases.

At the B2 level, you should have a nuanced understanding of '은퇴하다' and its social implications in Korea. This includes knowing that retirement is a major cultural milestone. You should be comfortable using the word in formal debates or essays about labor, economics, or social welfare. You should understand phrases like '은퇴를 선언하다' (to declare retirement) and '은퇴를 번복하다' (to come out of retirement). At this level, you should also recognize the difference between '은퇴' and '사퇴' (resignation/stepping down, often due to a problem). You should be able to discuss the 'silver economy' and how '은퇴자' (retirees) are a significant demographic. You might also encounter the word in literature or high-level journalism where the 'second life' after retirement is explored. Your usage should reflect an understanding of the formal register, including the appropriate use of honorifics and the ability to distinguish between various synonyms depending on the professional field (e.g., sports vs. academia).

At the C1 level, you should be able to analyze the etymology of '은퇴하다' (隱 hide + 退 retreat) and how that reflects historical attitudes toward leaving public life. You should be able to use the word fluently in academic or professional discussions, perhaps comparing retirement systems in different countries. You should be familiar with idiomatic expressions or high-level collocations like '명예로운 은퇴' (honorable retirement) or '은퇴의 기로에 서다' (to stand at the crossroads of retirement). You should also understand the socioeconomic nuances, such as the 'voluntary' nature of some retirements in corporate Korea which might actually be 'forced' (명예퇴직). At this level, you can appreciate the subtle emotional weight the word carries in memoirs or deep-dive interviews with masters of their craft. You should be able to use the word in complex grammatical structures, such as passive-like constructions or as part of sophisticated noun phrases in professional reports.

At the C2 level, you possess a native-like command of '은퇴하다' and all its associated semantic fields. You can engage in deep philosophical discussions about the meaning of work and retirement in a post-industrial society. You understand the historical shift from '은퇴' as a withdrawal into nature (traditional literati style) to '은퇴' as a modern economic status. You are capable of identifying and using rare or highly specific synonyms used in legal, historical, or poetic contexts. You can interpret the subtext when a public figure uses '은퇴' versus '자숙' (self-reflection/hiatus). Your use of the word is perfectly calibrated for the audience, whether you are writing a formal policy recommendation regarding retirement age or a moving tribute for a retiring colleague. You are also aware of how the concept of '은퇴' is evolving with the rise of the 'N-job' era and lifelong learning, and you can discuss these trends using precise, sophisticated vocabulary.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

은퇴하다 in 30 Seconds

은퇴하다 means to permanently retire from a career or professional field.
It is more formal and final than simply quitting a job (그만두다).
Commonly used for athletes, public figures, and people reaching retirement age.
Often requires honorifics (은퇴하시다) when referring to elders or superiors.

The Korean verb 은퇴하다 (eunteuihada) is a formal and specific term that translates to 'to retire.' Derived from the Hanja 隱 (hide/withdraw) and 退 (retreat/back away), it carries a weight of finality and professional completion. Unlike general terms for leaving a job, such as 퇴사하다 (to leave a company) or 그만두다 (to quit), 은퇴하다 specifically refers to the act of permanently stepping away from one's career or professional field, typically due to reaching a certain age, finishing a long tenure, or achieving a specific milestone. In South Korean society, where professional identity is often deeply intertwined with personal worth, the act of 은퇴하다 is seen as a significant life transition, often celebrated with ceremonies or marked by a period of reflection. You will encounter this word most frequently in professional settings, news reports about public figures, and discussions regarding the 'silver generation' and pension systems. It is not used for minor job changes; if a 30-year-old leaves a marketing firm to join another, they are not 은퇴-ing; they are simply 이직-ing (changing jobs). The term implies that the person has completed their primary professional journey.

Professional Context: This term is used when a person finishes their lifelong career path entirely. It is commonly used for professors, high-ranking officials, and long-term office workers who reach the mandatory retirement age.

저희 아버지는 30년 동안 교직에 계시다가 지난달에 은퇴하셨습니다.

Sports and Arts: Athletes and performers use this word when they stop competing or performing professionally. It marks the end of their 'active' era.

그 축구 선수는 부상 때문에 일찍 은퇴하기로 결정했습니다.

Furthermore, the word is often associated with the '정년' (jeongnyeon), which is the legal retirement age. In Korea, this is a hot topic due to the aging population. People often talk about '은퇴 설계' (retirement planning) and '은퇴 후의 삶' (life after retirement). The word carries a sense of 'entering a second act' of life. It is not just about stopping work, but about changing one's social status from an active worker to a retiree. In news headlines, you might see '은퇴를 선언하다' (to announce retirement), which is common for celebrities or politicians. Understanding this word requires understanding the Korean work ethic; because people work so hard for so long, 은퇴 is often viewed with a mix of relief, anxiety about the future, and pride in one's past achievements.

Using 은퇴하다 correctly involves understanding its grammatical particles and the context of the 'from' and 'as' relationships. Usually, the place or profession one is retiring from is marked by the particle -에서 (from). For example, '현직에서 은퇴하다' means 'to retire from one's current position.' If you are describing the capacity in which someone retired, you might use -로 or -(으)로서, though this is less common than simply stating the field. The verb is a '하다' verb, meaning it follows standard conjugation patterns for both formal and informal speech. Because retirement is a significant event, it is frequently used in the past tense (은퇴했다) or the future/planned tense (은퇴할 예정이다).

Grammatical Pattern: [Field/Position] + 에서 은퇴하다: This is the most standard way to specify what career a person is leaving behind.

그는 정계에서 은퇴한 후 조용히 살고 있습니다.

Grammatical Pattern: [Age] + 에 은퇴하다: Used to specify the age at which the retirement occurs.

대부분의 사람들은 60세 전후에 은퇴하게 됩니다.

When discussing the reasons for retirement, you can use constructions like -기 위해 (in order to) or -어서/아서 (because). For instance, '건강상의 이유로 은퇴하다' (to retire for health reasons). It is also important to distinguish between 'voluntary retirement' (명예퇴직 - often used euphemistically) and 'mandatory retirement' (정년퇴직). While 은퇴하다 is the broad verb, these specific nouns are often used in administrative or legal contexts. In daily conversation, if you ask someone '언제 은퇴하고 싶으세요?' (When do you want to retire?), it sounds natural and polite. It implies a long-term goal of reaching a state of rest after a productive life.

You will encounter 은퇴하다 in several distinct environments. First and foremost is the world of professional sports. When a legendary baseball or soccer player decides to hang up their jersey, the media will use phrases like '은퇴 경기' (retirement match) or '은퇴식' (retirement ceremony). These events are highly emotional and widely broadcasted. Secondly, in the entertainment industry, when an actor or singer decides to stop their public activities permanently, they '은퇴를 발표하다' (announce retirement). This is often a major news story in Korea. Thirdly, you will hear it in financial and social discussions. Banks and insurance companies frequently use the word in advertisements for '은퇴 연금' (retirement pensions) or '은퇴 자금' (retirement funds), targeting middle-aged workers who are planning for their future.

News & Media: Headlines often use '은퇴' to summarize a public figure's career ending. It sounds more dignified than 'quitting.'

전설적인 가수가 오늘 마지막 콘서트를 끝으로 은퇴한다고 합니다.

Financial Planning: Used in the context of saving and preparing for the period after one stops earning a regular salary.

행복한 은퇴 생활을 위해 지금부터 저축을 시작하세요.

In a corporate setting, you might not hear 은퇴하다 as much as 퇴직하다 for everyday resignations. However, when a CEO or a senior partner leaves, 은퇴하다 is used to honor their legacy. In documentaries or talk shows featuring elderly citizens, they might discuss their '은퇴 소감' (feelings about retiring). It's a word that bridges the gap between a professional life and a private, personal life. If you are watching a Korean drama, a character might express a wish to '은퇴하고 시골에 가서 살고 싶다' (retire and want to go live in the countryside), reflecting a common urban dream. Overall, the word is pervasive in discussions about life stages, career longevity, and the societal shifts involving Korea's aging demographic.

One of the most frequent mistakes learners make is using 은퇴하다 for any instance of leaving a job. It is crucial to remember that 은퇴하다 implies the end of a career, not just an employer. If you say 'I retired from Starbucks' when you were just a part-time student worker, it sounds very strange and overly dramatic in Korean. In that case, you should use 그만두다 or 알바를 끝내다. Another common error is confusing it with 퇴직하다 (to resign/retire from a specific post) or 퇴사하다 (to leave a company). While 퇴직하다 can sometimes be a synonym for retirement, it is more administrative. 은퇴하다 is broader and more about the person's life stage.

Mistake: Using it for young people: Unless the young person is a professional athlete or a child star, '은퇴하다' is rarely applied to them.

Incorrect: 저는 25살에 편의점에서 은퇴했어요. (Correct: 그만두었어요)

Mistake: Confusing with '퇴직': '퇴직' is the act of leaving a specific job position, while '은퇴' is leaving the workforce or field entirely.

Note: You '퇴직' from a company, but you '은퇴' from a career as a 'journalist'.

Additionally, learners sometimes forget to use honorifics when talking about their parents' or teachers' retirement. Saying '우리 아버지는 은퇴했다' to a superior is rude; it must be '은퇴하셨습니다.' Also, watch out for the pronunciation. The '퇴' (toe) sound should be clear, and the 'ㅎ' in '하다' often blends slightly with the preceding 'ㄴ' sound from '은', but they remain distinct syllables. Finally, don't confuse 은퇴 with 사퇴 (resignation from a political or leadership post due to scandal or responsibility). 사퇴하다 has a negative or responsibility-driven nuance, whereas 은퇴하다 is generally neutral or positive.

To truly master Korean, you need to know the subtle differences between 은퇴하다 and its synonyms. While they all relate to leaving work, the nuances vary significantly based on the reason and the formality of the situation. The most common alternatives are 퇴직하다, 퇴사하다, 그만두다, and 물러나다. Choosing the right one depends on whether you are talking about a career end, a company departure, or a physical withdrawal from a position.

은퇴하다 vs. 퇴직하다: '은퇴하다' is leaving a career field forever. '퇴직하다' is specifically leaving a job position, often used in administrative contexts (e.g., receiving a '퇴직금' or severance pay).

은퇴하다 vs. 퇴사하다: '퇴사하다' is simply 'to leave the company.' You can '퇴사' today and start at a new company tomorrow. You cannot '은퇴' and start the same job elsewhere the next day without '번복' (reversing) your retirement.

은퇴하다 vs. 물러나다: '물러나다' (to step down) is more figurative. It is often used for leaders or politicians who leave their post, sometimes under pressure or to make way for the next generation.

Example: 사장님은 경영 일선에서 물러나셨지만, 아직 공식적으로 은퇴하신 것은 아닙니다.

There is also 폐업하다, which means to close down a business permanently (for business owners). If a restaurant owner stops working, they '폐업' their shop and then they '은퇴' from the industry. Another poetic term is 야인으로 돌아가다 (to return to being a commoner), often used for politicians leaving public life. Understanding these distinctions will help you avoid sounding like a textbook and more like a native speaker who understands the social weight of each term.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

In ancient times, '은퇴' often meant a scholar-official was literally going to live in the mountains to focus on poetry or philosophy, away from the corruption of politics.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /ɯn.tʰwe.ɦa.da/

US /ɯn.tʰwe.ɦa.da/

In Korean, syllables generally have equal length, but a slight emphasis may be heard on the second syllable '퇴'.

Rhymes With

쇠퇴하다 (to decline) 쇠퇴 (decline) 후퇴하다 (to retreat) 사퇴하다 (to resign) 탈퇴하다 (to withdraw/quit a group) 낙퇴 (outdated term for abortion) 개퇴 (to reform - rare) 진퇴 (advance and retreat)

Common Errors

Pronouncing '은' like 'un' in 'under' instead of the Korean 'eu' sound.
Failing to aspirate the 'ㅌ' in '퇴', making it sound like '되'.
Merging '은' and '퇴' so it sounds like '운퇴' (un-toe).
Pronouncing '퇴' as 'tue' (like Tuesday) instead of 't-weh'.
Dropping the 'h' sound in '하다' entirely.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 3/5

The word is common in news and adult-level texts, but the Hanja roots are helpful for advanced learners.

Writing 3/5

Requires knowledge of honorifics and proper particles like '-에서'.

Speaking 2/5

Pronunciation is relatively straightforward for English speakers.

Listening 3/5

Can be confused with '퇴직' or '사퇴' in fast speech.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

일하다 (to work) 회사 (company) 나이 (age) 끝내다 (to finish) 쉬다 (to rest)

Learn Next

연금 (pension) 노후 (old age) 복지 (welfare) 자원봉사 (volunteer work) 정년 (retirement age)

Advanced

명예퇴직 (voluntary/honorary retirement) 구조조정 (restructuring) 실업 (unemployment) 재취업 (re-employment)

Grammar to Know

Honorific '-시-'

아버지는 작년에 은퇴하셨습니다.

Resultative '-ㄴ/은 후에'

은퇴한 후에 세계 여행을 갈 거예요.

Intentional '-기로 하다'

그는 내년에 은퇴하기로 했어요.

Cause/Reason '-어서/아서'

몸이 아파서 일찍 은퇴했습니다.

Noun modifying form '-는'

은퇴하는 사람들을 위한 파티를 준비해요.

Examples by Level

우리 할아버지는 작년에 은퇴하셨어요.

My grandfather retired last year.

Uses the honorific past tense '-하셨어요'.

선생님은 언제 은퇴하세요?

When do you retire, teacher?

Uses the honorific present tense '-하세요' for a future meaning.

저는 은퇴하고 싶어요.

I want to retire.

Uses '-고 싶다' (want to).

그 가수는 은퇴했어요.

That singer retired.

Simple past tense '-했어요'.

은퇴는 슬퍼요?

Is retirement sad?

Noun form '은퇴' as a subject.

아버지는 은퇴 후에 여행을 가요.

Father goes on a trip after retirement.

Uses '은퇴 후' (after retirement).

할머니는 은퇴하고 집에서 쉬어요.

Grandmother retired and is resting at home.

Uses '-고' to connect two actions.

많은 사람들이 60세에 은퇴해요.

Many people retire at age 60.

Standard present tense.

그는 건강이 안 좋아서 일찍 은퇴하기로 했어요.

He decided to retire early because his health was not good.

Uses '-기로 하다' (to decide to).

은퇴하면 무엇을 하고 싶으세요?

What do you want to do if/when you retire?

Uses '-(으)면' (if/when).

축구 선수가 은퇴를 발표했어요.

The soccer player announced his retirement.

Uses '은퇴' as an object of '발표하다'.

우리 부모님은 은퇴 자금을 모으고 계세요.

My parents are saving retirement funds.

Uses '은퇴 자금' (retirement funds).

그녀는 은퇴한 뒤에 시골로 이사 갔어요.

After she retired, she moved to the countryside.

Uses '-ㄴ 뒤에' (after doing something).

은퇴식에서 꽃다발을 받았어요.

I received a bouquet of flowers at the retirement ceremony.

Uses '은퇴식' (retirement ceremony).

그 배우는 은퇴했지만 여전히 인기가 많아요.

That actor retired, but is still very popular.

Uses '-지만' (but).

은퇴하기 전에 세계 여행을 하고 싶어요.

I want to travel the world before I retire.

Uses '-기 전에' (before doing something).

정년이 되면 누구나 은퇴해야 합니다.

Everyone must retire when they reach the retirement age.

Uses '-어야 하다' (must/have to).

그는 갑작스러운 부상으로 인해 은퇴할 수밖에 없었습니다.

He had no choice but to retire due to a sudden injury.

Uses '-(으)ㄹ 수밖에 없다' (have no choice but to).

은퇴 생활을 즐기기 위해서는 미리 준비해야 해요.

In order to enjoy retirement life, you have to prepare in advance.

Uses '-기 위해서' (in order to).

그 교수는 은퇴 후에도 연구를 계속하고 있습니다.

The professor is continuing his research even after retirement.

Uses '-아/어/여도' (even if/even after).

많은 운동선수들이 은퇴 후에 지도자로 변신합니다.

Many athletes transform into coaches after retirement.

Uses '지도자' (leader/coach) and '변신하다' (transform).

그는 은퇴를 앞두고 마지막 프로젝트에 집중하고 있다.

He is focusing on his final project with retirement ahead.

Uses '-을 앞두고' (with ... ahead/approaching).

경제적인 문제 때문에 은퇴를 미루는 사람들이 많아요.

There are many people who postpone retirement because of economic problems.

Uses '미루다' (to postpone).

은퇴하고 나서 가장 하고 싶은 일이 뭐예요?

What is the thing you want to do most after you retire?

Uses '-고 나서' (after finishing something).

그 정치인은 실언에 책임을 지고 정계 은퇴를 선언했다.

The politician declared his retirement from politics, taking responsibility for his verbal slip.

Uses '정계 은퇴' (retirement from politics) and '선언하다' (to declare).

고령화 사회가 되면서 은퇴 연령을 높여야 한다는 목소리가 커지고 있다.

As society ages, voices calling for an increase in the retirement age are growing.

그는 30년간 몸담았던 직장에서 명예롭게 은퇴했습니다.

He retired honorably from the workplace he had been part of for 30 years.

Uses '몸담다' (to be part of/belong to).

은퇴 자산 관리는 노후 대비의 핵심적인 부분입니다.

Retirement asset management is a core part of preparing for old age.

그 가수는 팬들의 성원 덕분에 은퇴 결정을 번복했습니다.

The singer reversed their retirement decision thanks to the fans' support.

Uses '번복하다' (to reverse/overturn).

조기 은퇴를 꿈꾸는 '파이어족'이 젊은 층 사이에서 화제다.

The 'FIRE tribe,' who dream of early retirement, is a hot topic among the youth.

그는 은퇴 후의 공허함을 달래기 위해 봉사 활동을 시작했다.

He started volunteer work to soothe the emptiness after retirement.

Uses '공허함' (emptiness) and '달래다' (to soothe).

평생을 바친 무대에서 은퇴하는 소감이 어떠십니까?

How do you feel about retiring from the stage you dedicated your whole life to?

Uses '바치다' (to dedicate/devote).

그 원로 배우의 은퇴는 한국 영화계의 한 시대가 저물었음을 의미한다.

The retirement of that veteran actor signifies the end of an era in the Korean film industry.

Uses '원로' (veteran/elder) and '저물다' (to set/end).

베이비붐 세대의 본격적인 은퇴가 노동 시장에 미치는 영향은 지대하다.

The full-scale retirement of the baby boomer generation has a profound impact on the labor market.

Uses '지대하다' (immense/huge).

그는 명성보다는 평범한 삶을 택하며 화려했던 선수 생활을 은퇴로 마무리했다.

Choosing an ordinary life over fame, he concluded his brilliant athletic career with retirement.

Uses '마무리하다' (to wrap up/conclude).

정치적 압력에 못 이겨 은퇴를 강요받는 사례가 종종 발생한다.

Cases often occur where retirement is forced due to political pressure.

Uses '강요받다' (to be forced).

은퇴는 단순한 직업의 중단이 아니라 자아를 재발견하는 과정이어야 한다.

Retirement should not be a mere cessation of a job, but a process of rediscovering one's self.

Uses 'A이/가 아니라 B' (Not A but B).

그는 은퇴 이후에도 사회적 영향력을 행사하며 활발히 활동하고 있다.

He continues to be active, exercising social influence even after retirement.

적절한 은퇴 시기를 결정하는 것은 모든 전문가에게 어려운 숙제다.

Determining the appropriate time for retirement is a difficult task for all professionals.

그 기업가는 은퇴와 동시에 자신의 전 재산을 사회에 환원하기로 약속했다.

The entrepreneur promised to return his entire fortune to society upon his retirement.

Uses '-와/과 동시에' (at the same time as).

학계의 거두였던 그가 은퇴를 선언하자 후학들의 아쉬움 섞인 목소리가 줄을 이었다.

When he, a giant in academia, announced his retirement, a succession of regretful voices from his juniors followed.

Uses '거두' (great figure/giant) and '줄을 잇다' (to follow in succession).

은퇴라는 관문을 통해 비로소 진정한 자아 성찰의 기회를 얻게 되는 법이다.

It is through the gateway of retirement that one finally obtains the opportunity for true self-reflection.

Uses '-는 법이다' (it is natural that/it is the way it is).

그는 현직에서 은퇴하며 남긴 퇴임사에서 조직의 미래에 대한 깊은 우려를 표명했다.

In the retirement speech he left upon retiring from his post, he expressed deep concern for the future of the organization.

Uses '퇴임사' (retirement/farewell speech) and '표명하다' (to express/manifest).

은퇴가 사회적 소외로 이어지지 않도록 국가적 차원의 제도적 뒷받침이 절실하다.

Institutional support at the national level is desperately needed so that retirement does not lead to social alienation.

Uses '절실하다' (desperate/urgent) and '뒷받침' (support/backing).

그는 은퇴를 일종의 '사회적 죽음'으로 받아들이는 문화적 풍토를 비판했다.

He criticized the cultural climate that accepts retirement as a kind of 'social death.'

은퇴 이후의 삶을 능동적으로 개척해 나가는 '액티브 시니어'들이 늘고 있다.

The number of 'active seniors' who actively carve out their lives after retirement is increasing.

Uses '능동적으로' (actively) and '개척하다' (to carve out/pioneer).

그는 평생을 바친 연구실을 떠나며 은퇴의 변을 담담하게 써 내려갔다.

Leaving the laboratory he dedicated his life to, he calmly wrote down his thoughts on retirement.

Uses '은퇴의 변' (one's statement/excuse for retirement).

은퇴라는 단어가 주는 무게감은 시대와 문화에 따라 끊임없이 재정의되어 왔다.

The weight given by the word 'retirement' has been constantly redefined according to the era and culture.

Synonyms

퇴직하다 물러나다 사직하다

Antonyms

취업하다 복직하다

Common Collocations

정년 은퇴

은퇴를 선언하다

은퇴 후의 삶

조기 은퇴

은퇴 경기

은퇴 자금

은퇴 설계

은퇴식

은퇴 위기

은퇴를 번복하다

Common Phrases

제2의 인생

— The 'second life' or new chapter that begins after retirement. It implies starting something new.

은퇴는 제2의 인생의 시작입니다.

현직에서 물러나다

— To step down from one's current active position. A more formal way to say retire.

그는 오랜 공직 생활 끝에 현직에서 물러났다.

은퇴를 앞두다

— To have retirement approaching soon. Used to describe someone in their final months/years of work.

그는 은퇴를 앞두고 마음이 복잡했다.

명예로운 은퇴

— An honorable retirement, usually after a successful and long career.

그는 모두의 박수를 받으며 명예로운 은퇴를 했다.

은퇴 생활

— Retirement life; the lifestyle one leads after stopping work.

은퇴 생활을 여유롭게 보내고 싶어요.

정년퇴직

— Retirement upon reaching the mandatory retirement age. Very common in official contexts.

아버지는 이번 달에 정년퇴직을 하십니다.

조기 은퇴자

— An early retiree; someone who leaves the workforce before the standard age.

조기 은퇴자들이 늘어나고 있는 추세다.

은퇴 소감

— Retirement feelings or thoughts expressed in a speech or interview.

그는 은퇴 소감을 말하며 눈물을 흘렸다.

은퇴 준비

— Retirement preparation, usually referring to financial or lifestyle planning.

은퇴 준비는 빠를수록 좋습니다.

은퇴 연금

— A retirement pension paid out after one stops working.

은퇴 연금으로 생활비를 충당하고 있다.

Often Confused With

은퇴하다 vs 퇴직하다

퇴직 focuses on leaving a specific job or post, while 은퇴 focuses on ending a career.

은퇴하다 vs 퇴사하다

퇴사 is simply leaving a company. You can '퇴사' many times, but you usually '은퇴' only once.

은퇴하다 vs 사퇴하다

사퇴 implies stepping down from a leadership role, often due to a specific reason or responsibility.

Idioms & Expressions

"옷을 벗다"

— Literally 'to take off one's clothes,' but idiomatically means to resign or retire from a high-ranking position, especially in the military, police, or judiciary.

그 검사는 수사 도중 옷을 벗었다.

Formal/Idiomatic

"현역에서 물러나다"

— To withdraw from active duty or the 'front lines' of a career.

그는 이제 현역에서 물러나 후배들을 양성하고 있다.

Neutral

"펜을 놓다"

— To 'put down the pen,' meaning to retire from writing or journalism.

그 대작가는 이제 펜을 놓고 휴식을 취하고 있다.

Literary

"무대를 떠나다"

— To 'leave the stage,' meaning to retire from performing or being in the public eye.

그녀는 마지막 공연을 끝으로 무대를 떠났다.

Poetic

"유니폼을 벗다"

— To 'take off the uniform,' specifically used for athletes retiring.

그는 20년의 선수 생활을 마치고 유니폼을 벗었다.

Journalistic

"야인으로 돌아가다"

— To return to being a 'wild person' or commoner, usually used for politicians leaving public office.

선거에서 패배한 그는 야인으로 돌아갔다.

Formal

"뒷방 늙은이"

— A 'back-room old person,' a somewhat derogatory or self-deprecating term for a retiree who feels useless or sidelined.

은퇴하고 나니 내가 뒷방 늙은이가 된 기분이야.

Informal/Negative

"인생의 황혼"

— The 'twilight of life,' referring to the later years of life, including retirement.

그는 인생의 황혼을 고향에서 보내고 있다.

Poetic

"박수 칠 때 떠나다"

— To 'leave while people are clapping,' meaning to retire while at the peak of one's career or popularity.

그는 박수 칠 때 떠나고 싶어서 지금 은퇴를 결정했다.

Common Idiom

"말년을 보내다"

— To spend one's final years (usually after retirement).

그는 은퇴 후 조용한 시골 마을에서 말년을 보내고 있다.

Neutral

Easily Confused

은퇴하다 vs 퇴학하다

Both start with '퇴' and relate to leaving.

퇴학하다 is specifically for leaving/dropping out of school, not work.

그는 학교가 싫어서 퇴학했다.

은퇴하다 vs 퇴원하다

Both start with '퇴'.

퇴원하다 means to be discharged from a hospital.

수술이 잘 끝나서 어제 퇴원했다.

은퇴하다 vs 퇴근하다

Both start with '퇴' and relate to work.

퇴근하다 is leaving work at the end of the day, not the end of a career.

6시에 퇴근해서 집에 갈 거예요.

은퇴하다 vs 해고하다

Both involve leaving a job.

해고하다 means to be fired by the employer, whereas 은퇴 is usually a natural or voluntary ending.

회사가 어려워져서 많은 직원을 해고했다.

은퇴하다 vs 이직하다

Both involve leaving a job.

이직하다 is changing jobs or moving to a new company to continue one's career.

그는 연봉을 높이기 위해 이직했다.

Sentence Patterns

[Person]은/는 은퇴해요.

할아버지는 은퇴해요.

[Age]에 은퇴하고 싶어요.

65세에 은퇴하고 싶어요.

[Reason] 때문에 은퇴하게 됐어요.

건강 때문에 은퇴하게 됐어요.

은퇴한 후에 [Action].

은퇴한 후에 등산을 자주 해요.

[Field]에서 은퇴를 선언하다.

그는 정계에서 은퇴를 선언했다.

은퇴를 앞두고 [Feeling].

은퇴를 앞두고 시원섭섭한 마음이다.

은퇴가 [Impact]에 미치는 영향.

은퇴가 가계 경제에 미치는 영향은 크다.

은퇴의 변을 통해 [Expression].

그는 은퇴의 변을 통해 지난날을 회고했다.

Word Family

Nouns

은퇴 (retirement)

은퇴자 (retiree)

은퇴식 (retirement ceremony)

은퇴금 (retirement money/pension - rare, usually 퇴직금)

Verbs

은퇴시키다 (to force someone to retire)

은퇴하다 (to retire)

퇴직 (resignation/retirement from a post)

정년 (retirement age)

연금 (pension)

노후 (old age)

백수 (unemployed/jobless - informal)

How to Use It

frequency

High, especially in media and discussions about aging.

Common Mistakes

Using '은퇴하다' for a student leaving school. → 자퇴하다 (drop out) or 졸업하다 (graduate).
은퇴 is strictly for professional careers. Students do not have careers in the sense of '은퇴'.
Saying '저는 은퇴하셨어요' about yourself. → 저는 은퇴했어요.
You should never use the honorific marker '-시-' for your own actions.
Using '은퇴' when you are just changing companies. → 이직하다 or 퇴사하다.
은퇴 means you are leaving the entire field or workforce, not just one employer.
Confusing '은퇴' with '퇴근'. → 퇴근하다 (leaving work for the day).
Learners often mix these up because they both start with '퇴' and involve leaving work.
Using '은퇴' for a temporary break. → 휴식하다 or 활동을 중단하다.
은퇴 implies a permanent end. If you plan to return, it is not retirement.

Tips

Use with '에서'

Always use the particle '에서' when mentioning the field or place you are retiring from. For example, '야구계에서 은퇴하다' (to retire from the baseball world).

Respect the Elders

In Korea, retirement is a sensitive age-related topic. Always use honorifics (은퇴하시다) when discussing the retirement of someone older than you.

Learn '은퇴 자금'

This is a very common term in adult conversations. It refers to the money saved for life after retirement. Knowing it helps in social and financial discussions.

The 'Second Life'

Koreans often call retirement the '제2의 인생' (second life). Mentioning this in conversation shows a deep understanding of Korean cultural attitudes toward aging.

Distinguish from '사퇴'

Be careful not to confuse '은퇴' (retirement) with '사퇴' (resignation). '사퇴' often has a more political or negative connotation.

Formal Register

Keep '은퇴하다' for formal writing. In a diary or a casual text about yourself quitting a job, '그만두다' is usually more appropriate.

Hanja Roots

Remembering that '퇴' means 'to retreat' (like in '후퇴' - retreat) will help you remember many other Korean words related to leaving or moving back.

Sports News

If you follow Korean sports, you'll see this word constantly. It's a great way to see the word used in emotional, real-world contexts.

Pension Talk

The word '연금' (pension) almost always appears with '은퇴'. Learning them together is very efficient.

Emotional Nuance

Retirement in Korea can be '시원섭섭하다' (a mix of feeling relieved and sad). Use this adjective to describe someone's feelings about 은퇴.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Imagine a professional worker who is 'DONE' (은 - sounds like 'end') and wants to 'TOE' (퇴) the line between work and rest. They are 'DONE-TOEING' the line of work.

Visual Association

Visualize an old pair of work boots (퇴) being put away in a hidden (은) closet forever.

Word Web

은퇴 (Retirement) 돈 (Money/Pension) 나이 (Age) 자유 (Freedom) 휴식 (Rest) 취미 (Hobby) 가족 (Family) 끝 (End)

Challenge

Try to write three sentences about what you will do when you 은퇴하다. Use the grammar '은퇴하면 ... 하고 싶어요'.

Word Origin

Derived from Sino-Korean roots (Hanja). '은' (隱) means 'to hide, conceal, or withdraw,' and '퇴' (退) means 'to retreat, back away, or decline.' Together, they signify withdrawing into a private life away from public or professional view.

Original meaning: To withdraw from public life and live in seclusion, historically referring to scholars or officials leaving the royal court.

Sino-Korean (Hanja: 隱退)

Cultural Context

Be careful when asking someone if they have retired; if they were laid off or are struggling to find work, the term might be sensitive. Use '요즘 어떻게 지내세요?' (How are you doing these days?) first.

In English-speaking cultures, retirement is often seen as a 'reward' for hard work, focusing on travel and hobbies. In Korea, it can carry a heavier sense of loss of identity, but this is changing with the 'Active Senior' movement.

Kim Yuna (Figure Skater) - Her retirement (은퇴) was a national event in Korea. Park Ji-sung (Soccer Player) - Famous for his '은퇴 경기' (retirement match). The movie 'Late Blossom' (그대를 사랑합니다) - Explores the lives of those who have long since 은퇴-ed.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Professional Sports

은퇴 경기 (Retirement match)
은퇴식 (Retirement ceremony)
영구 결번 (Retired number/jersey)
은퇴를 선언하다 (Declare retirement)

Financial Planning

은퇴 자금 (Retirement funds)
은퇴 설계 (Retirement planning)
개인 연금 (Personal pension)
노후 대비 (Preparing for old age)

Politics/News

정계 은퇴 (Retirement from politics)
은퇴를 번복하다 (Reverse retirement)
불출마 선언 (Declaration not to run for office)
야인으로 돌아가다 (Return to private life)

Family/Personal

은퇴 후의 삶 (Life after retirement)
은퇴 여행 (Retirement trip)
제2의 인생 (Second life)
여유로운 은퇴 (Leisurely retirement)

Corporate Environment

정년퇴직 (Mandatory retirement)
명예퇴직 (Voluntary retirement)
퇴직금 (Severance pay)
공로패 (Plaque of appreciation)

Conversation Starters

"은퇴하면 가장 먼저 무엇을 하고 싶으세요?"

"한국에서는 보통 몇 살에 은퇴하나요?"

"부모님이 은퇴하신 후에 어떻게 지내고 계세요?"

"조기 은퇴(파이어족)에 대해 어떻게 생각하세요?"

"은퇴 후에 시골에서 사는 것이 꿈인가요?"

Journal Prompts

나의 완벽한 은퇴 생활은 어떤 모습일지 묘사해 보세요.

은퇴를 앞둔 사람에게 해주고 싶은 조언은 무엇인가요?

평생 한 가지 일만 하다가 은퇴하는 것의 장단점은 무엇일까요?

내가 은퇴할 때 사람들이 나를 어떻게 기억해주길 바라나요?

은퇴 연령을 늦추는 정책에 대해 찬성하시나요, 반대하시나요?

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Generally, no. '은퇴하다' is reserved for long-term professional careers. For a part-time job, use '그만두다' (to quit) or '알바를 끝내다' (to finish a part-time job). Using '은퇴하다' for a part-time job sounds like a joke or very dramatic.

'은퇴' is the social concept of finishing a career life. '퇴직' is the administrative act of leaving a specific workplace. You receive '퇴직금' (severance pay) when you '퇴직', but you might say you are '은퇴' to your friends and family to describe your new life stage.

You can say '조기 은퇴를 하고 싶어요' or '일찍 은퇴하고 싶어요.' The term '조기 은퇴' (early retirement) is very common in Korea these days.

No. Students '졸업하다' (graduate) or '퇴학하다' (drop out). '은퇴' is only for those who have had a professional career.

It is generally neutral but can be positive (honorary, restful) or negative (forced, feeling old) depending on the context. In most cases, it is seen as a natural milestone.

Technically, no, but in the media, if an athlete comes back after retiring, it's called '은퇴 번복' (reversing retirement) or '복귀' (return).

There isn't a single direct opposite, but '데뷔하다' (to debut) or '취직하다' (to get a job) are the starting points of the journey that ends in '은퇴'.

No. Never use honorifics for yourself. Say '저는 은퇴합니다.' Use '하시다' only for others you respect.

'정년' (jeong-nyeon) is the age limit or mandatory retirement age set by law or company policy. When you reach that age, you '정년퇴직' or '은퇴'.

It is '은퇴식' (eun-toe-sik). '식' means ceremony or ritual.