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사회 복지

B2 noun #3,000 most common 10 min read

사회 복지

sahoe bokji Top 3,000

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips 사회 복지 in 30 Seconds

Explanation 사회 복지 in your Level:

At the A1 level, '사회 복지' (sahoe bokji) is a big word, but you can understand it as 'helping people.' Think of it as the government or kind people giving food, money, or help to those who are sick, old, or don't have much money. You might see this word on signs of big buildings in Korea where people go to get help. It is made of two parts: '사회' (society/people together) and '복지' (being happy and healthy). So, it means 'people helping each other to be happy.' At this level, you don't need to use it in complex sentences, but you should recognize it as something good that helps the community. For example, 'I like social welfare' or 'Social welfare is important.'

At the A2 level, you can start to see '사회 복지' as a system of support. It is not just one person helping another, but a plan by the city or the country. You might hear about '사회 복지관' (social welfare center) where seniors go to eat or children go to study. When you talk about jobs, you might meet a '사회 복지사' (social worker). This person is a professional who helps families. You can use simple sentences like 'The government provides social welfare' (정부가 사회 복지를 제공해요) or 'I want to study social welfare' (저는 사회 복지를 공부하고 싶어요). It is a formal word, so you will mostly see it in news, books, or at government offices.

At the B1 level, you should understand '사회 복지' as a broader policy and field of study. You can distinguish it from personal charity. It involves '사회 보장' (social security) and '사회 서비스' (social services). You will encounter this word frequently in discussions about society, such as 'The aging population needs more social welfare' (고령화 사회에서는 사회 복지가 더 필요합니다). You should be able to understand common collocations like '사회 복지 혜택' (social welfare benefits) and '사회 복지 정책' (social welfare policy). At this level, you can express opinions about whether social welfare is sufficient in your country compared to Korea.

At the B2 level, '사회 복지' is a term you should use with precision in academic or professional discussions. You understand the nuances between 'universal welfare' (보편적 복지) and 'selective welfare' (선별적 복지). You can discuss the 'social safety net' (사회 안전망) and how '사회 복지' contributes to social cohesion and redistributive justice. You are familiar with the 'Social Welfare Act' (사회복지사업법) and the role of the 'Ministry of Health and Welfare' (보건복지부). You can write essays about the challenges of funding social welfare in a low-birthrate society and use advanced verbs like '확충하다' (expand), '개편하다' (reform), and '사각지대를 해소하다' (eliminate blind spots).

At the C1 level, you have a deep understanding of the philosophical and economic underpinnings of '사회 복지'. You can analyze different 'welfare state models' (복지 국가 모델), such as the Nordic vs. East Asian models, and discuss how '사회 복지' intersects with neoliberalism and globalization. You can use the term in complex legal or sociological contexts, discussing 'rights-based welfare' vs. 'discretionary welfare.' You understand how '사회 복지' acts as a 'built-in stabilizer' in the economy. Your vocabulary includes highly specific terms like '전달 체계' (delivery system), '수급권자' (eligible recipient), and '공공 부조' (public assistance). You can engage in high-level debates about the sustainability of the welfare system.

At the C2 level, you master '사회 복지' in all its complexities, including its historical evolution from post-war relief to a sophisticated modern system. You can critique the discourse surrounding 'welfare populism' vs. 'productive welfare.' You are capable of reading and producing professional policy papers, legislative proposals, or doctoral-level research regarding '사회 복지'. You understand the subtle cultural connotations of welfare in Korea, including the tension between traditional family support and modern state responsibility. You can effortlessly navigate the most formal registers of the language to discuss the ethical dimensions of social justice and the future of the welfare state in the era of artificial intelligence and basic income.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

사회 복지 in 30 Seconds

사회 복지 (Social Welfare) is the collective system of support for needy individuals and the promotion of general well-being in a society.
It covers government-funded programs like pensions and healthcare, as well as private non-profit services like counseling and community centers.
The term is highly formal and used in policy, academic, and administrative contexts to describe the social safety net of a country.
Key components include social insurance, public assistance, and social services, all working together to ensure a dignified life for all citizens.

The term 사회 복지 (Sahoe Bokji) is a cornerstone of modern Korean civic life, representing the collective effort of a society to ensure that all its members live with dignity and security. In its most literal sense, '사회' means society and '복지' means welfare or well-being. Together, they describe a comprehensive system of institutionalized support that includes financial aid, healthcare, housing, and social services. When Koreans discuss 사회 복지, they are often referring to the 'safety net' provided by the government or non-profit organizations to help those who are vulnerable—such as the elderly, the disabled, low-income families, or children in need. However, the concept has expanded in the 21st century to include 'universal welfare' (보편적 복지), which suggests that welfare is a right for every citizen to improve their quality of life, not just a charity for the poor.

Core Concept: The systematic implementation of policies and programs designed to promote social stability and individual happiness by mitigating risks like poverty and illness.

현대 사회에서 사회 복지는 국가의 핵심적인 의무 중 하나로 여겨집니다. (In modern society, social welfare is considered one of the core duties of the state.)

Historically, Korea's approach to 사회 복지 was family-centered, relying on Confucian values of filial piety and community mutual aid. Following the rapid economic development known as the 'Miracle on the Han River,' the focus shifted toward state-led social security systems. Today, you will hear this word in news reports about government budgets, in university course catalogs (social work is a popular major), and in political debates regarding the 'welfare state' (복지 국가). It is a word that carries a sense of compassion, structural justice, and public responsibility.

Common Contexts: Government policy discussions, non-profit fundraising, academic social sciences, and local community service centers (주민센터).

그녀는 대학에서 사회 복지를 전공하고 사회 복지사가 되었습니다. (She majored in social welfare at university and became a social worker.)

The terminology is also deeply linked to the concept of 'human rights' (인권). By providing 사회 복지, a nation ensures that basic human needs are met, allowing individuals to participate more fully in society. This includes everything from the 'National Basic Living Security Act' to local programs providing free meals for seniors. Understanding this term is essential for anyone wishing to engage in discussions about Korean politics, sociology, or public administration.

Social Impact: Reduces income inequality, provides a safety net during economic crises, and improves the overall mental and physical health of the population.

지방 자치 단체들은 지역 주민들을 위한 다양한 사회 복지 프로그램을 운영합니다. (Local governments operate various social welfare programs for local residents.)

저출산 고령화 시대에 사회 복지 예산의 효율적 배분이 중요해지고 있습니다. (In an era of low birth rates and aging population, the efficient allocation of the social welfare budget is becoming important.)

Using 사회 복지 correctly requires understanding its role as a noun that often acts as a modifier for other nouns or as the subject/object of a sentence. Because it is a formal and academic term, it is frequently paired with verbs like '확충하다' (to expand), '실현하다' (to realize/implement), or '지원하다' (to support). When you want to talk about the system as a whole, you use it as is. When talking about the professional field, you might use '사회 복지학' (Social Welfare Studies) or '사회 복지사' (Social Worker).

As a Subject: 사회 복지가 잘 되어 있는 나라는 국민들의 행복도가 높습니다. (Countries with good social welfare have high levels of citizen happiness.)

정부는 사회 복지 사각지대를 해소하기 위해 노력하고 있습니다. (The government is working to eliminate 'blind spots' in social welfare.)

In professional settings, you will often encounter '사회 복지 전달 체계' (social welfare delivery system). This refers to the network through which services reach the people. If you are describing a person's career path, you might say, '그는 평생을 사회 복지 분야에 헌신했다' (He dedicated his whole life to the field of social welfare). The word is rarely used in casual slang; it maintains its dignity as a term of policy and ethics.

As a Modifier: 사회 복지 시설 (social welfare facilities), 사회 복지 정책 (social welfare policy), 사회 복지 예산 (social welfare budget).

우리나라는 점진적으로 사회 복지 수준을 높여가고 있습니다. (Our country is gradually raising the level of social welfare.)

Another important usage is in the context of 'social welfare services' (사회 복지 서비스). This encompasses non-monetary support, such as counseling, rehabilitation, and home care. In recent years, the phrase '맞춤형 사회 복지' (customized social welfare) has become common, referring to services tailored to the specific needs of different demographic groups. For example, '노인 맞춤형 사회 복지' (customized social welfare for the elderly).

Formal Usage: 국가 경쟁력을 높이기 위해서는 탄탄한 사회 복지 기반이 필수적입니다. (A solid social welfare foundation is essential to increase national competitiveness.)

그 단체는 아동들을 위한 사회 복지 기금을 마련했습니다. (The organization raised a social welfare fund for children.)

많은 자원봉사자들이 사회 복지 현장에서 땀 흘리고 있습니다. (Many volunteers are working hard in the field of social welfare.)

In South Korea, 사회 복지 is a ubiquitous term in the media, especially during election cycles. Candidates for president or local office will frequently debate their '사회 복지 공약' (social welfare pledges), discussing how much of the budget should be allocated to child care, senior pensions, and unemployment insurance. If you watch the evening news (뉴스데스크), you will hear anchors report on '사회 복지 예산안' (social welfare budget bill) and its implications for the economy.

In the Media: Used to discuss national priorities, tax debates, and the effectiveness of the current social safety net.

이번 선거의 핵심 쟁점은 사회 복지 정책의 확대 여부였습니다. (The key issue of this election was whether to expand social welfare policies.)

You will also see this word prominently displayed on the signs of various public buildings. Every administrative district (Gu or Dong) has a '사회 복지과' (Social Welfare Department) or a '주민복지센터' (Community Welfare Center). These are the places where citizens go to apply for government assistance, register for health benefits, or find community classes. If you are walking through a neighborhood and see a sign that says '사회복지관' (Social Welfare Center), it usually indicates a facility that provides services like free lunches, daycare, and vocational training for the local community.

In Local Administration: Found on government department signs, application forms for subsidies, and community service announcements.

지역 사회 복지관에서는 매주 독거 노인들을 위한 도시락 배달 서비스를 제공합니다. (The local social welfare center provides lunch box delivery services for seniors living alone every week.)

In universities, '사회 복지학' (Social Welfare Studies) is a major that focuses on the theory and practice of helping people. Students in this field often talk about '사회 복지 실천론' (Social Welfare Practice Theory) and '사회 복지 법제론' (Social Welfare Law and Policy). In professional journals and academic seminars, the term is used with high precision to discuss the 'welfare paradigm' and the 'Nordic model' (북유럽식 복지 모델) as a benchmark for Korean development.

In Academia: Used in textbooks, research papers, and lectures to analyze social policy, ethics, and the role of the state.

그 교수는 사회 복지 제도의 역사적 발전에 대해 강연했습니다. (The professor lectured on the historical development of the social welfare system.)

기업들의 사회 복지 재단 설립이 늘어나고 있는 추세입니다. (There is a trend of increasing establishment of social welfare foundations by corporations.)

One of the most frequent mistakes learners make is confusing 사회 복지 (social welfare) with 사내 복지 (company/internal welfare). While both contain the word '복지' (welfare), their scope is entirely different. '사회 복지' refers to the public, societal systems provided by the state or NGOs for the general public, whereas '사내 복지' refers to the benefits an employee receives from their employer, such as gym memberships, lunch stipends, or childcare support within the office. Using '사회 복지' to describe your company's coffee machine would be a major semantic error.

Confusion with '사내 복지': Incorrect: 우리 회사는 사회 복지가 정말 좋아요. (Our company has great social welfare.)
Correct: 우리 회사는 사내 복지가 정말 좋아요. (Our company has great employee benefits.)

많은 사람들이 사회 복지와 자원봉사를 동일하게 생각하지만, 사회 복지는 훨씬 더 넓은 시스템을 의미합니다. (Many people think social welfare and volunteering are the same, but social welfare refers to a much broader system.)

Another mistake involves the distinction between 사회 복지 and 사회 보장 (social security). While they are related and often used interchangeably in casual speech, in policy terms, '사회 보장' is the overarching legal framework that includes social insurance (like national pension and health insurance), whereas '사회 복지' often emphasizes the actual services and support provided to specific groups. For a student of Korean, using '사회 복지' is generally safer and more common when talking about helping people in need, but '사회 보장' is more appropriate for technical discussions about insurance systems.

Misuse of '복지' vs '행복': Sometimes learners use '복지' to mean individual happiness (행복). While welfare promotes happiness, '복지' is the system or condition of well-being, not the emotion itself.

사회 복지 혜택을 받는 것은 부끄러운 일이 아니라 시민의 권리입니다. (Receiving social welfare benefits is not something to be ashamed of, but a right of a citizen.)

Lastly, be careful with the spelling. Some learners confuse '복지' (welfare) with '부지' (site/land) or '복직' (returning to work). Always ensure you are using '지' (祉 - happiness/blessing) to convey the correct meaning. In writing, ensure you don't accidentally write '사회 복치'—'복치' is a type of fish (sunfish)! Such a small typo can lead to a very humorous misunderstanding in a formal essay.

Spelling & Pronunciation: Ensure the 'j' sound in '복지' is clear. Avoid confusing it with '복식' (costume) or '복사' (copying).

정확한 용어 사용은 사회 복지 정책 토론의 질을 높여줍니다. (Using accurate terminology improves the quality of social welfare policy debates.)

전문적인 사회 복지 지식 없이 정책을 수립하는 것은 위험합니다. (It is dangerous to establish policies without professional knowledge of social welfare.)

While 사회 복지 is the standard term, there are several related words that you might use depending on the specific nuance you want to convey. Understanding these distinctions will help you sound more like a native speaker and improve your reading comprehension of complex texts.

사회 복지 vs 사회 보장 (Social Security): 사회 복지: Focuses on the well-being and services provided to improve life quality.
사회 보장: Focuses on the legal and financial systems that protect citizens from economic risks (insurance, pensions).
사회 복지 vs 공공 부조 (Public Assistance): 사회 복지: The broad field of welfare for all.
공공 부조: Specifically refers to financial aid given by the state to those who cannot support themselves (e.g., the 'Basic Living Security' program).
사회 복지 vs 사회 서비스 (Social Services): 사회 복지: The concept and the whole system.
사회 서비스: The actual activities and programs (counseling, caregiving, education) that are delivered to individuals.

북유럽 국가들은 사회 복지 모델의 선두주자로 꼽힙니다. (Nordic countries are considered leaders in social welfare models.)

In some contexts, you might also hear 복생 (well-being and life), though this is much less common and usually found in older texts. A more modern alternative often used in corporate social responsibility (CSR) is 사회 공헌 (social contribution). While '사회 복지' is what the government provides, '사회 공헌' is what companies do to give back to society. If you are talking about a community looking after each other without government intervention, you might use 상부상조 (mutual help), a traditional idiom.

우리는 사회 복지의 질적 향상을 도모해야 합니다. (We must strive for the qualitative improvement of social welfare.)

Finally, when discussing specific demographic groups, you can combine '복지' with the group name. For example: 아동 복지 (child welfare), 노인 복지 (elderly welfare), 장애인 복지 (welfare for the disabled). These are all sub-fields of the broader 사회 복지 umbrella. Using these specific terms shows a higher level of vocabulary proficiency.

Specific Sub-fields: 노인 복지 (Elderly), 아동 복지 (Child), 청소년 복지 (Youth), 여성 복지 (Women), 장애인 복지 (Disabled).

국가는 사회 복지 증진을 위해 조세를 징수합니다. (The state collects taxes to promote social welfare.)

모두가 행복한 세상을 만드는 것이 사회 복지의 궁극적 목표입니다. (Creating a world where everyone is happy is the ultimate goal of social welfare.)

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The character '祉' (ji) specifically refers to the happiness granted by the heavens or the state in ancient texts.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /sɐ.ɦwe̞ pok̚.t͈ɕi/

US /sɑ.hweɪ boʊk.dʒi/

In Korean, syllables generally have equal weight, but slight emphasis is placed on the first syllable of each word: SA-hoe BOK-ji.

Rhymes With

대회 (dae-hoe) 기회 (gi-hoe) 국회 (guk-hoe) 숙지 (suk-ji) 단지 (dan-ji) 공지 (gong-ji) 정지 (jeong-ji) 유지 (yu-ji)

Common Errors

Pronouncing 'hoe' as 'who'. It should be 'h-weh'.
Making the 'k' in 'bok' too loud. It should be a stop sound.
Confusing the 'j' in 'ji' with a 'ch' sound.
Merging the two words into one sound 'sa-hoe-bok-chi'.
Adding an extra vowel sound at the end of 'bok'.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 4/5

The word itself is easy, but it often appears in complex academic or legal texts.

Writing 4/5

Requires knowledge of formal particles and specific verbs like '확충' or '수립'.

Speaking 3/5

Common in news and debates, but less common in everyday casual chit-chat.

Listening 3/5

Clear pronunciation, but usually found in formal speech which might be fast.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

사회 (Society) 정부 (Government) 돕다 (To help) 행복 (Happiness) 국가 (Nation)

Learn Next

사회 보장 (Social security) 공공 부조 (Public assistance) 국민 연금 (National pension) 건강 보험 (Health insurance) 복지 국가 (Welfare state)

Advanced

소득 재분배 (Income redistribution) 사회 안전망 (Social safety net) 보편적 복지 (Universal welfare) 사각지대 (Blind spot) 수급권 (Right to receive benefits)

Grammar to Know

-를/을 위해 (For the sake of)

정부는 국민의 사회 복지를 위해 노력합니다.

-에 기여하다 (To contribute to)

그 기부금은 지역 사회 복지에 기여할 것입니다.

-에 대한 (About/Regarding)

사회 복지에 대한 관심이 높아지고 있습니다.

-(으)로 인해 (Due to)

경기 불황으로 인해 사회 복지 수요가 늘었습니다.

-ㄹ/을 권리 (Right to do)

모든 시민은 사회 복지 혜택을 누릴 권리가 있습니다.

Examples by Level

사회 복지는 중요합니다.

Social welfare is important.

Simple subject + adjective pattern.

사회 복지가 좋아요.

Social welfare is good.

Use of the subject particle -가.

사회 복지관에 가요.

I go to the social welfare center.

Noun + -에 가다 (to go to).

할머니가 사회 복지 혜택을 받아요.

Grandmother receives social welfare benefits.

Object particle -를/을 used with the verb '받다'.

사회 복지사가 도와줘요.

A social worker helps.

Agent + -가 + helping verb.

우리는 사회 복지를 공부해요.

We study social welfare.

Subject '우리' (we) with object '사회 복지'.

사회 복지는 모두를 위한 것이에요.

Social welfare is for everyone.

Topic particle -는 + 'for everyone' expression.

사회 복지가 필요해요.

Social welfare is needed.

Noun + -가 필요하다 (to need).

정부는 사회 복지 예산을 늘렸습니다.

The government increased the social welfare budget.

Formal ending -습니다 with past tense.

어려운 이웃을 위해 사회 복지가 필요합니다.

Social welfare is needed for neighbors in need.

-를/을 위해 (for the sake of).

사회 복지사가 되는 것이 제 꿈입니다.

Becoming a social worker is my dream.

-는 것 (nominalizing a verb).

이 도시는 사회 복지 시설이 잘 되어 있어요.

This city has well-equipped social welfare facilities.

Passive-like expression '잘 되어 있다'.

사회 복지 카드를 신청하고 싶어요.

I want to apply for a social welfare card.

-고 싶다 (want to).

사회 복지 서비스는 무료입니다.

Social welfare services are free.

Formal identification 'A는 B입니다'.

우리는 사회 복지관에서 봉사활동을 해요.

We do volunteer work at the social welfare center.

Location particle -에서.

사회 복지 정책이 바뀌었습니다.

The social welfare policy has changed.

Intransitive verb '바뀌다' in past tense.

사회 복지 제도를 개선해야 한다고 생각합니다.

I think we need to improve the social welfare system.

-어야 한다고 생각하다 (opinion with necessity).

사회 복지 혜택이 공정하게 나누어져야 합니다.

Social welfare benefits must be distributed fairly.

Adverb '공정하게' (fairly).

그 나라는 사회 복지 수준이 매우 높습니다.

That country's social welfare level is very high.

Double subject structure (그 나라는... 수준이...).

사회 복지 사각지대에 놓인 사람들을 찾아야 합니다.

We must find people in the blind spots of social welfare.

Relative clause '-에 놓인' (placed in).

사회 복지 전공자들은 다양한 분야에서 일합니다.

Social welfare majors work in various fields.

Noun + 전공자 (one who majors in).

노인들을 위한 사회 복지 프로그램이 많아지고 있습니다.

Social welfare programs for the elderly are increasing.

-아/어지고 있다 (progressive change).

사회 복지는 단순한 기부가 아니라 국가의 의무입니다.

Social welfare is not simple donation but a duty of the state.

A-이/가 아니라 B-이다 (Not A but B).

사회 복지 기금을 마련하기 위해 바자회를 열었습니다.

We held a bazaar to raise social welfare funds.

-기 위해 (in order to).

보편적 사회 복지와 선별적 사회 복지 사이의 논쟁이 치열합니다.

The debate between universal social welfare and selective social welfare is intense.

Noun + 사이의 (between).

경제 위기 상황에서 사회 복지 안전망의 역할이 더욱 강조됩니다.

In an economic crisis, the role of the social welfare safety net is emphasized more.

Passive voice '강조되다'.

사회 복지 전달 체계의 효율성을 높이는 것이 시급한 과제입니다.

Increasing the efficiency of the social welfare delivery system is an urgent task.

-는 것이 (nominalization) + 시급한 과제 (urgent task).

사회 복지 서비스의 질적 향상을 위해 전문 인력을 양성해야 합니다.

To improve the quality of social welfare services, we must train professional personnel.

Noun + 양성하다 (to cultivate/train).

지속 가능한 사회 복지를 위해서는 재원 마련이 필수적입니다.

To have sustainable social welfare, securing financial resources is essential.

Noun + 마련 (securing/preparing).

사회 복지는 사회 통합을 이루는 데 중요한 기여를 합니다.

Social welfare makes an important contribution to achieving social integration.

-는 데 (in doing something).

많은 기업들이 사회 공헌 활동의 일환으로 사회 복지 재단을 운영합니다.

Many companies operate social welfare foundations as part of their social contribution activities.

-의 일환으로 (as part of).

사회 복지 급여의 중복 수급 문제를 해결해야 합니다.

We must solve the problem of duplicate reception of social welfare benefits.

Compound noun '중복 수급' (duplicate reception).

사회 복지 패러다임이 시혜적 차원에서 권리적 차원으로 변화하고 있습니다.

The social welfare paradigm is shifting from a charitable level to a rights-based level.

From A-차원에서 to B-차원으로.

복지 국가의 위기는 사회 복지 제도의 근본적인 재설계를 요구합니다.

The crisis of the welfare state demands a fundamental redesign of the social welfare system.

Abstract subject + 요구하다 (to demand).

사회 복지 정책의 결정 과정에 시민들의 참여를 확대해야 합니다.

Citizen participation in the decision-making process of social welfare policy should be expanded.

Genitive particle -의 linking multiple nouns.

사회 복지는 소득 재분배를 통해 사회적 불평등을 완화하는 기능을 수행합니다.

Social welfare performs the function of alleviating social inequality through income redistribution.

-를 통해 (through) + 기능을 수행하다 (perform a function).

생산적 복지는 사회 복지와 경제 성장의 선순환 구조를 지향합니다.

Productive welfare aims for a virtuous cycle structure between social welfare and economic growth.

지향하다 (to aim for/be oriented toward).

사회 복지 현장의 윤리적 딜레마를 해결하기 위한 가이드라인이 필요합니다.

Guidelines are needed to resolve ethical dilemmas in the social welfare field.

Relative clause '-기 위한' (for the purpose of).

디지털 전환 시대에 부합하는 새로운 사회 복지 모델을 모색해야 합니다.

We must seek a new social welfare model that fits the era of digital transformation.

-에 부합하는 (corresponding to).

사회 복지 수급자의 낙인 효과를 방지하기 위한 세심한 배려가 요구됩니다.

Careful consideration is required to prevent the stigma effect on social welfare recipients.

낙인 효과 (stigma effect).

사회 복지 담론은 이제 단순한 물질적 지원을 넘어 자아실현의 영역으로 확장되고 있다.

Social welfare discourse is now expanding beyond simple material support into the realm of self-actualization.

-를 넘어 (beyond) + -로 확장되다 (expand to).

신자유주의 기조 하에서 사회 복지의 공공성이 위축될 우려가 제기되고 있다.

Concerns are being raised that the public nature of social welfare may shrink under the neoliberal trend.

-ㄹ 우려가 제기되다 (concerns are being raised).

사회 복지 법제의 정합성을 확보하는 것은 법치 국가의 당연한 책무이다.

Ensuring the consistency of social welfare legislation is a natural duty of a constitutional state.

정합성을 확보하다 (to ensure consistency/coherence).

커뮤니티 케어는 탈시설화를 지향하는 현대 사회 복지의 핵심적 흐름이다.

Community care is a key trend in modern social welfare aiming for deinstitutionalization.

탈시설화 (deinstitutionalization).

사회 복지 예산의 증가는 국가 재정 건전성에 대한 심도 있는 논의를 촉발한다.

The increase in the social welfare budget triggers an in-depth discussion on national fiscal health.

촉발하다 (to trigger/spark).

복지 사각지대 발굴을 위한 빅데이터 활용은 사회 복지 행정의 혁신을 상징한다.

The use of big data to discover welfare blind spots symbolizes innovation in social welfare administration.

Noun + 활용 (utilization).

사회 복지는 인간의 존엄성을 보장하기 위한 최소한의 사회적 기제이다.

Social welfare is a minimum social mechanism to guarantee human dignity.

기제 (mechanism).

사회 복지 제도의 경직성은 급변하는 사회적 위험에 대응하는 데 걸림돌이 될 수 있다.

The rigidity of the social welfare system can be an obstacle in responding to rapidly changing social risks.

걸림돌이 되다 (to be a stumbling block).

Synonyms

공공 복지 사회 보장 복지 제도

Antonyms

개인 책임

Common Collocations

사회 복지 정책

사회 복지 예산

사회 복지 시설

사회 복지 서비스

사회 복지 혜택

사회 복지 사각지대

사회 복지 전달 체계

사회 복지 전문 인력

사회 복지 기금

사회 복지 법인

Common Phrases

사회 복지를 실현하다

— To realize or implement social welfare in reality. It is used when a goal is achieved.

모두가 평등한 사회 복지를 실현합시다.

사회 복지를 확충하다

— To expand and strengthen social welfare systems or facilities.

정부는 노인들을 위한 사회 복지를 확충하기로 했습니다.

사회 복지에 기여하다

— To contribute to social welfare through work, money, or effort.

그는 퇴직 후 사회 복지에 기여하고 싶어 합니다.

사회 복지의 질을 높이다

— To improve the quality of social welfare services.

단순한 지원을 넘어 사회 복지의 질을 높여야 합니다.

사회 복지 분야에 종사하다

— To work in the field of social welfare.

제 누나는 10년째 사회 복지 분야에 종사하고 있어요.

사회 복지 혜택을 누리다

— To enjoy or receive the benefits of social welfare.

국민이라면 누구나 사회 복지 혜택을 누릴 권리가 있습니다.

사회 복지 사각지대를 해소하다

— To eliminate areas where welfare services do not reach.

정부의 최우선 과제는 사회 복지 사각지대를 해소하는 것입니다.

사회 복지 마인드

— A mindset focused on social welfare and helping others.

사회 복지사는 따뜻한 사회 복지 마인드를 가져야 합니다.

사회 복지 국가

— A welfare state; a country that prioritizes social welfare.

우리나라도 선진 사회 복지 국가로 나아가고 있습니다.

사회 복지 현장

— The actual place where social welfare services are delivered.

사회 복지 현장의 목소리를 정책에 반영해야 합니다.

Often Confused With

사회 복지 vs 사내 복지

Refers to employee benefits in a company, not societal support.

사회 복지 vs 사회 보장

More focused on the legal insurance/pension system.

사회 복지 vs 자선 사업

Refers to private charity, whereas 사회 복지 is systemic and institutional.

Idioms & Expressions

"요람에서 무덤까지"

— From the cradle to the grave. Refers to a complete social welfare system that covers a person's entire life.

북유럽 복지는 요람에서 무덤까지 책임지는 시스템입니다.

Formal/Literary

"사회 안전망을 짜다"

— To weave a social safety net. Refers to creating a comprehensive welfare system.

촘촘한 사회 안전망을 짜서 소외된 이웃이 없게 해야 합니다.

Metaphorical

"복지 사각지대"

— Blind spot of welfare. Refers to people who need help but fall outside the eligibility criteria.

복지 사각지대에 놓인 가정을 돕기 위해 조사를 시작했습니다.

Common/Policy

"퍼주기식 복지"

— Giveaway-style welfare. A derogatory term used to criticize welfare policies as being populist or wasteful.

일부에서는 이를 퍼주기식 복지라고 비판하기도 합니다.

Critical/Political

"생산적 복지"

— Productive welfare. A policy concept that links welfare to work and economic productivity.

정부는 단순 지원이 아닌 생산적 복지를 지향하고 있습니다.

Academic/Policy

"맞춤형 복지"

— Customized welfare. Services tailored to individual needs.

가구별 상황에 맞는 맞춤형 복지를 제공합니다.

Modern/Administrative

"복지병"

— Welfare disease. A term for social problems (like laziness) allegedly caused by excessive welfare.

과도한 복지가 복지병을 유발할 수 있다는 우려가 있습니다.

Critical/Sociological

"보편적 복지"

— Universal welfare. Welfare provided to all citizens regardless of income.

무상 급식은 보편적 복지의 대표적인 사례입니다.

Political/Academic

"선별적 복지"

— Selective welfare. Welfare provided only to those who meet specific criteria (usually low income).

한정된 예산으로 인해 선별적 복지를 선택할 수밖에 없습니다.

Political/Academic

"복지 사다리"

— Welfare ladder. A system that helps people climb out of poverty and move up in society.

사회 복지가 계층 이동을 돕는 복지 사다리 역할을 해야 합니다.

Metaphorical

Easily Confused

사회 복지 vs 복직

Similar sound (Bok-ji vs Bok-jik).

Bokji is welfare; Bokjik is returning to a job after a leave.

그는 육아휴직 후 복직했다.

사회 복지 vs 부지

Similar sound (Bok-ji vs Bu-ji).

Bokji is welfare; Buji is a site or plot of land.

여기는 공장 부지입니다.

사회 복지 vs 복사

Starts with 'Bok'.

Bokji is welfare; Boksa is copying/photocopying.

이 서류를 복사해 주세요.

사회 복지 vs 복식

Starts with 'Bok'.

Bokji is welfare; Boksik is attire/costume or doubles in sports.

테니스 복식 경기를 했다.

사회 복지 vs 행복

Related meaning.

Bokji is the system/state of well-being; Haengbok is the feeling of happiness.

우리는 행복을 찾고 싶어 한다.

Sentence Patterns

N은/는 중요합니다.

사회 복지는 중요합니다.

N을/를 공부하고 싶어요.

사회 복지를 공부하고 싶어요.

N을/를 위해 V-아야 합니다.

사회 복지를 위해 예산을 늘려야 합니다.

N에 대한 관심이 높아지고 있습니다.

사회 복지에 대한 관심이 높아지고 있습니다.

N은/는 V-는 데 중요한 역할을 합니다.

사회 복지는 빈곤을 해결하는 데 중요한 역할을 합니다.

N의 공공성을 확보하는 것이 시급합니다.

사회 복지의 공공성을 확보하는 것이 시급합니다.

N을/를 확충하는 것이 과제입니다.

사회 복지 시설을 확충하는 것이 과제입니다.

N의 사각지대를 해소해야 합니다.

사회 복지 사각지대를 해소해야 합니다.

Word Family

Nouns

사회 복지사 (Social worker)

사회 복지학 (Social welfare studies)

사회 복지관 (Social welfare center)

사회 복지법 (Social welfare law)

사회 복지계 (The social welfare world/circle)

Verbs

복지화하다 (To make into a welfare state/system)

사회 복지를 실천하다 (To practice social welfare)

사회 복지를 누리다 (To enjoy social welfare)

Adjectives

복지적인 (Welfare-oriented)

사회 복지 중심의 (Social welfare-centered)

사회 보장 (Social security)

공공 부조 (Public assistance)

사회 서비스 (Social services)

사회 보험 (Social insurance)

복지 국가 (Welfare state)

How to Use It

frequency

Extremely frequent in news, politics, and social sciences.

Common Mistakes

우리 회사는 사회 복지가 좋아요. → 우리 회사는 사내 복지가 좋아요.
Use '사내 복지' for company benefits. '사회 복지' is for the whole society.
사회 복지를 해요. → 사회 복지 활동을 해요 / 사회 복지 분야에서 일해요.
'사회 복지' is a noun, not a verb. You need to say you 'do activities' or 'work in the field'.
사회 복치 → 사회 복지
Spelling error. '복치' means sunfish.
사회 복지는 가난한 사람만 위한 것이에요. → 사회 복지는 모든 시민을 위한 것이에요.
Factually, modern social welfare includes universal services for everyone.
사회 복지가 행복해요. → 사회 복지 덕분에 행복해요.
Social welfare isn't 'happy' itself; it causes happiness or well-being.

Tips

Learn the Hanja

Learning that 'Bok' (福) means blessing and 'Ji' (祉) means happiness will help you remember many other related words.

Watch K-Dramas

Many K-dramas (like 'Our Blues' or 'Move to Heaven') show the reality of social welfare and the work of social workers in Korea.

Use with '확충'

When talking about building more centers or hiring more people, the verb '확충하다' (expand/supplement) is the most natural partner for '사회 복지'.

Formal Contexts

Remember that '사회 복지' is a formal term. In very casual settings with friends, you might talk about specific things like '연금' (pension) or '보험' (insurance) instead.

News Keywords

If you hear '사회 복지' on the news, listen for '증액' (increase) or '삭감' (cut) to understand if the budget is going up or down.

Compound Words

In professional writing, you can often remove the space between '사회' and '복지' to form '사회복지' as a single concept.

Check MoHW

Visit the website of the Ministry of Health and Welfare (보건복지부) to see how the term is used in real government documents.

The 'Social Blessing' Link

Associate 'Sahoe' with 'Social' and 'Bok' with 'Blessing'. It's a 'Social Blessing' for the people.

Don't Confuse with Charity

While charity is '기부' (donation), '사회 복지' is a rights-based system. Use it when discussing laws and rights.

The 'Ji' Sound

Make sure the 'ji' is a soft 'j' sound, not a hard 'ch'. 'Sahoe Bok-chi' sounds like a fish!

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'SAHOE' as 'Society' and 'BOKJI' as 'Blessing-Joy'. Social Welfare is the Society bringing Blessing and Joy to everyone.

Visual Association

Imagine a big, warm blanket (Bokji) covering a group of diverse people (Sahoe) standing in the cold.

Word Web

Government Pension Health Insurance Social Worker Poverty Equality System Happiness

Challenge

Try to find the '사회 복지' section on a Korean government website (like MoHW) and identify three services they offer.

Word Origin

The term is a Sino-Korean compound. '사회' (社會) comes from '社' (group/shrine) and '會' (gathering). '복지' (福祉) comes from '福' (fortune/blessing) and '祉' (happiness/blessedness).

Original meaning: A gathering of people for the purpose of mutual blessing and happiness.

Sino-Korean (Hanja)

Cultural Context

When discussing social welfare recipients, use respectful terms like '수급자' (recipient) or '취약 계층' (vulnerable class) rather than derogatory slang.

In the US, 'welfare' sometimes has a negative stigma (associated with 'being on welfare'), but in Korea, '사회 복지' is generally viewed as a positive, professional, and essential modern system.

The 'National Basic Living Security Act' (1999) - A landmark in Korean social welfare. Social Welfare Day (September 7th) in Korea. The 'Miracle on the Han River' often frames the transition from poverty to a welfare-focused society.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

News/Politics

사회 복지 공약
사회 복지 예산안
복지 포퓰리즘
사회 복지 확충

University/Education

사회 복지학 전공
사회 복지 실천론
사회 복지 정책론
사회 복지사 자격증

Local Government

사회 복지 서비스 신청
사회 복지관 이용
사회 복지 담당 공무원
지역 사회 복지

Non-Profit/NGO

사회 복지 재단
사회 복지 기금 마련
사회 복지 활동
민간 사회 복지

Job Market

사회 복지 시설 취업
사회 복지사 채용
사회 복지 분야 경력
사회 복지직 공무원

Conversation Starters

"당신의 나라에서는 사회 복지 제도가 어떻게 운영되고 있나요?"

"한국의 사회 복지 수준에 대해 어떻게 생각하세요?"

"사회 복지 예산을 늘리는 것에 대해 찬성하시나요, 반대하시나요?"

"가장 시급하게 해결해야 할 사회 복지 문제는 무엇이라고 생각합니까?"

"사회 복지사가 되기 위해 가장 중요한 자질은 무엇일까요?"

Journal Prompts

내가 만약 사회 복지 정책을 만든다면, 가장 먼저 무엇을 바꾸고 싶은지 써 보세요.

사회 복지가 단순히 돈을 주는 것 이상의 의미를 가지려면 어떤 노력이 필요할까요?

우리 동네의 사회 복지 시설을 방문해 본 경험이나 본 적이 있는 시설에 대해 적어 보세요.

미래 사회에서는 인공지능이 사회 복지에 어떤 역할을 할 수 있을지 상상해 보세요.

사회 복지 혜택을 받는 것이 '시민의 권리'라는 생각에 대해 자신의 견해를 서술하세요.

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

No. While it provides public assistance (공공 부조) for the poor, it also includes social insurance (사회 보험) like national health insurance and pensions that apply to almost everyone, as well as universal services like childcare.

사회 복지 is the actual system or state of welfare, while 사회 복지학 is the academic study of that system.

Yes, in casual conversation or when the context of 'society' is already clear, people often just say '복지'.

They are professionals who assess people's needs, provide counseling, and connect them with government or private welfare services.

Yes, the National Health Insurance (국민건강보험) is a major pillar of the social welfare system in Korea.

It is '복지 국가' (Bokji Gukga).

It refers to 'blind spots' where people who genuinely need help are not covered by existing laws or systems.

Yes, a significant portion of the national budget, funded by taxes, is allocated to social welfare.

It is 'universal welfare,' meaning benefits provided to all citizens (like free school lunches) regardless of their income level.

It acts as a safety net that maintains consumer spending during crises and helps develop human capital through health and education services.