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체류하다

B1 verb #4,000 most common 10 min read

체류하다

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Practice it Examples Notes & Tips 체류하다 in 30 Seconds

Explanation 체류하다 in your Level:

At the A1 level, you usually learn simple words like '있다' (to be/stay). '체류하다' is a bit too difficult for a beginner. However, you might see it at the airport in Korea. Think of it as a special word for 'staying in a country.' You don't need to use it in your daily speaking yet, but if you see it on a form, just remember it means 'stay.' For example, if a paper asks '체류 기간' (Stay Period), you should write how many days you will be in Korea, like '7일' (7 days). It is a formal word used for travel. Just try to recognize the '류' sound, which is often related to 'remaining' or 'staying.' You can stick to '있어요' for now, but keep '체류' in your mind for when you travel to Seoul!

At the A2 level, you are starting to learn more specific verbs. While '머무르다' is a good word for 'staying,' '체류하다' is the version you use for more 'official' things. If you are talking about your holiday in Korea, you can say '저는 한국에 2주 동안 체류해요.' This sounds a bit more grown-up than just saying '있어요.' You will hear this word if you go to a bank or a government office in Korea. It is always used with the place + '에'. So, '서울에 체류하다,' '미국에 체류하다.' Remember, it's for a temporary stay. If you are living there forever, use '살아요.' This word helps you sound more like a traveler and less like a student just starting out. You might also see '체류지' which means the place where you are staying, like your hotel address.

At the B1 level, '체류하다' becomes a core part of your vocabulary, especially for discussing travel, work, and life abroad. You should distinguish it from '머무르다' (which is more general) and '거주하다' (which is permanent). At this level, you are expected to use '체류하다' in formal settings, such as during a job interview or when explaining your visa situation. You should be comfortable using it with duration markers like '장기' (long-term) and '단기' (short-term). For example, '저는 단기 체류 비자로 왔습니다' (I came on a short-term stay visa). You should also notice how it combines with other nouns to form phrases like '체류 목적' (purpose of stay). This word is essential for passing the TOPIK II exam and for navigating professional environments in Korea.

At the B2 level, you should be able to use '체류하다' and its related forms fluently in complex sentences. You will encounter this word in news articles about immigration policy, international business, and social issues. You should understand the nuance of '불법 체류' (illegal stay) and '체류 자격' (status of stay). You can use it to describe not just physical presence, but also administrative periods. For instance, '체류 기간이 만료되기 전에 비자를 갱신해야 합니다' (You must renew your visa before your period of stay expires). You should also be able to use the noun form '체류' in compound nouns effortlessly. At this level, your usage should reflect an understanding that '체류하다' is the standard term for any stay that has a legal or official duration attached to it.

At the C1 level, '체류하다' is a basic tool in your high-level academic or professional discourse. You should be able to analyze the socio-economic impacts of '외국인 체류자' (foreign residents/sojourners) on Korean society. You will see this word in literature to describe a character's temporary displacement or in legal documents detailing the rights of those 'staying' within a jurisdiction. You might also encounter it in more abstract or metaphorical contexts in high-level essays, though its primary use remains physical. You should be able to contrast '체류' with '정주' (settlement) in a sociological discussion. Your mastery of this word involves knowing all its collocations and being able to switch between '체류', '머무름', and '거주' to precisely match the intended register and legal nuance of your statement.

At the C2 level, '체류하다' is used with total precision within the broader landscape of Korean synonyms. You understand the historical Hanja roots (滯留) and how they influence the word's formal 'weight.' You can use it in diplomatic writing, legal briefs, or high-level journalism. You might use it to discuss '체류형 관광' (stay-over tourism) versus '당일 관광' (day-trip tourism) in a policy proposal. You are aware of the subtle differences between '체류' and '유숙', and you can identify when a writer uses '체류하다' to intentionally create a sense of clinical or administrative distance. At this level, the word is not just a vocabulary item but a building block for nuanced arguments about migration, globalism, and the legal definitions of 'presence' in the modern world.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

체류하다 in 30 Seconds

A formal verb meaning 'to stay' or 'to sojourn' temporarily, usually in a foreign country or away from home.
Commonly used in immigration, business, and travel contexts to describe a stay with a specific duration.
Distinguishable from '살다' (live permanently) and '머무르다' (general/poetic stay).
Often appears in phrases like '체류 기간' (stay period) and '체류 자격' (stay status).

The Korean verb 체류하다 (滯留--) is a formal and precise term that translates to 'to stay' or 'to sojourn' in English. While the native Korean word '머무르다' also means to stay, 체류하다 is specifically used in contexts involving official, legal, or temporary residency, especially when one is in a foreign country or a location away from their permanent home for a specific purpose like travel, business, or study. It carries a nuance of 'remaining in a place for a duration,' often tied to administrative records like visas or immigration status.

Formal Context: Used by immigration officers, in news reports, or when discussing official travel plans. You wouldn't typically use it when telling a friend you are staying at their house for the night; that would be too stiff.

그는 사업차 유럽에 한 달간 체류하다가 어제 귀국했다. (He stayed in Europe for a month for business and returned yesterday.)

The term is composed of two Hanja: 滯 (체), meaning to stagnate or stay, and 留 (류), meaning to keep or remain. Together, they describe the act of staying in a specific spot for a period. This word is essential for anyone navigating the Korean legal system, applying for a visa extension (체류 연장), or filling out arrival cards at Incheon Airport. It implies a temporary nature—you are there for a while, but it is not your permanent 'habitation' (거주). Understanding this distinction is key for B1 learners moving into professional or academic Korean.

Duration Nuance: It usually refers to stays longer than a few hours but shorter than permanent residency. It captures the 'middle ground' of existence in a foreign space.

관광객들은 보통 제주도에 3~4일 정도 체류합니다. (Tourists usually stay in Jeju Island for about 3 to 4 days.)

In modern Korean society, with the rise of global mobility, you will hear this word frequently in discussions about 'digital nomads' (디지털 노마드) or 'long-term travelers' (장기 체류자). It emphasizes the location and the time spent there as a measurable unit. For instance, '체류 기간' (period of stay) is a standard phrase found on almost every entry form. When you use this word, you sound more sophisticated and precise than if you were to use the general '있다' (to be/stay) or '머무르다'. It shows an awareness of the administrative or formal nature of the visit.

외국인이 한국에 체류하려면 적절한 비자가 필요합니다. (To stay in Korea, a foreigner needs an appropriate visa.)

Geographic Scope: While often used for foreign countries, it can also apply to staying in a different city or a specific facility (like a hotel or a research center) for a set duration.

Finally, '체류하다' is often paired with adverbs that describe the length or the purpose of the stay, such as '잠시' (briefly), '장기' (long-term), or '불법' (illegally). The term '불법 체류' (illegal stay/overstay) is a common social issue discussed in Korean media. By mastering this word, you gain access to more complex discussions about travel, international relations, and legal status in Korea.

Using 체류하다 effectively requires understanding its grammatical environment. Since it is a verb of action/state regarding location, it is almost always used with the location particle -에 (in/at). Unlike '살다' (to live), which often uses -에서 for the place of activity, '체류하다' focuses on the 'arrival and remaining' at a point, making -에 the standard choice.

저는 이번 여름에 일본에 2주간 체류할 예정입니다. (I plan to stay in Japan for two weeks this summer.)

Grammar Pattern: [Place] + 에 + [Duration] + 동안 + 체류하다: This is the most common structural template. It clearly defines where, for how long, and the nature of the stay.

When discussing the purpose of the stay, you can use the -기 위해(서) pattern or the noun form -차 (for the purpose of). For example, '관광차 체류하다' means 'to stay for the purpose of sightseeing.' This adds a layer of professional polish to your speech or writing.

그는 연구를 목적으로 미국에 1년 동안 체류했습니다. (He stayed in the US for one year for research purposes.)

Another important usage is in the passive or noun-derived forms. '체류 중이다' (to be in the middle of a stay) is very common in status updates or professional emails. '체류지' refers to the 'place of stay' or 'accommodation address' during a trip. If you are filling out a form, you might see '체류 목적' (purpose of stay).

현재 서울에 체류 중인 외국인 관광객 수가 증가하고 있습니다. (The number of foreign tourists currently staying in Seoul is increasing.)

Administrative Usage: '체류 기간 연장 신청' (Application for extension of stay) is a phrase every long-term expat in Korea must know.

In more literary or journalistic contexts, '체류하다' can be used metaphorically to describe a state of being or a thought lingering in a place, though this is rare compared to its physical usage. Most often, you will see it in the past tense (체류했다) to describe completed trips, or the future tense (체류할 것이다) for upcoming travel plans. Remember to keep the tone consistent; don't mix this high-level word with very casual slang unless you are aiming for a humorous effect.

공항에서 비행기를 기다리며 몇 시간 동안 체류해야 했다. (I had to stay at the airport for several hours waiting for the plane.)

Common Collocations: 단기 체류 (short-term stay), 장기 체류 (long-term stay), 합법 체류 (legal stay).

When you use '체류하다', you are signaling that you are talking about the 'stay' as a defined event with a start and an end. It is less about 'living' your life and more about 'being present' in a location for a specific window of time.

In South Korea, 체류하다 is a staple of the news, government offices, and travel industries. If you turn on the evening news (뉴스), you might hear about the number of foreign workers 'staying' (체류하는) in industrial zones. It is the language of statistics and policy. For example, a reporter might say, '국내에 체류하는 외국인이 200만 명을 넘어섰습니다' (The number of foreigners staying in the country has exceeded 2 million).

출입국 관리소 직원: "한국에 얼마나 체류하실 예정입니까?" (Immigration Officer: "How long do you plan to stay in Korea?")

At the Airport: This is perhaps the first place a learner will encounter the word. Arrival cards ask for your 'Duration of Stay' (체류 기간) and 'Place of Stay' (체류지).

In the business world, '체류하다' is used when employees are sent on business trips (출장). A company memo might state that a team will be '체류' in a partner's city for a project duration. It sounds more professional than saying they are 'living' there. It implies the company is covering the costs of the temporary stay.

해외 지사 근무를 위해 런던에 6개월간 체류하게 되었습니다. (I have come to stay in London for 6 months to work at the overseas branch.)

You will also hear it in academic settings. Professors or researchers who go abroad for a sabbatical or a fellowship are described as '체류' in their host institution. It highlights the scholarly and temporary nature of their visit. Furthermore, in historical dramas (사극), you might hear it when an envoy from another kingdom 'stays' at the palace.

사신 일행은 한양에 머무는 동안 객관에 체류했다. (The envoy's party stayed at the guest house while they were in Hanyang.)

News & Media: Headlines often use '체류' as a noun to save space: '관광객 체류 시간 늘려야' (Need to increase the stay time of tourists).

Lastly, in the context of global crises or travel warnings, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (외교부) uses '체류하다' to refer to citizens currently in high-risk zones. Messages sent to citizens abroad often begin with '해외 체류 국민 여러분...' (To our citizens staying abroad...). It is a word that carries the weight of official communication and safety.

One of the most frequent mistakes learners make is using 체류하다 in overly casual settings. For example, if you are staying at a friend's house for a sleepover, saying '너의 집에서 체류할게' sounds bizarrely robotic, like you are an immigration officer processing yourself. In these cases, use '자고 가다' (sleep and go) or '머무르다' (stay).

Mistake 1: Confusing it with '살다' (Live): '살다' implies making a home, having a routine, and long-term residency. '체류하다' is for a visit with a defined end date. Don't say you '체류' in your hometown where you've lived for 20 years.

❌ 저는 한국에서 평생 체류할 거예요. (I will stay in Korea for my whole life.)
✅ 저는 한국에서 평생 살 거예요. (I will live in Korea for my whole life.)

Another common error is the choice of particles. As mentioned, '체류하다' prefers -에. While -에서 is sometimes used to emphasize the actions happening within that stay, -에 is the standard for the state of staying. Using '을/를' with '체류하다' is also incorrect as it is an intransitive verb in this context.

Mistake 2: Using it for very short durations: If you are just stopping at a cafe for 10 minutes, '체류하다' is too heavy. Use '잠깐 있다' or '들르다' (drop by) instead.

Learners also sometimes confuse '체류하다' with '숙박하다' (to lodge/stay overnight). '숙박하다' is specifically about the sleeping arrangements (hotels, motels), whereas '체류하다' covers the entire duration of being in the city or country, including the time you are awake and moving around. If you are talking about your visa, use '체류'; if you are talking about your hotel booking, use '숙박'.

❌ 호텔에서 3일 동안 체류했어요. (Technically okay but '숙박했어요' is much more natural for a hotel.)

Finally, watch out for the spelling. Because of the pronunciation rules, some might accidentally write '체류' as '제류' or '채류'. Remember the '체' (滯) from '정체' (traffic jam/stagnation) and '류' (留) from '보류' (reservation/holding). Keeping the Hanja roots in mind helps avoid these spelling pitfalls.

To truly master 체류하다, you must see how it sits alongside its synonyms. The most common alternative is 머무르다. While they share the core meaning of 'staying,' their registers and specific use-cases differ significantly.

체류하다 vs. 머무르다: 체류하다: Formal, administrative, focuses on duration and legal status. (e.g., visa, business trip).
머무르다: Neutral/Poetic, focuses on the act of stopping or resting. (e.g., staying at a friend's, a bird staying on a branch).

시선이 그곳에 머물렀다. (The gaze lingered there. - Poetic, cannot use 체류하다 here.)

Another similar word is 거주하다 (to reside). This is even more permanent than '체류하다'. If '체류' is for travelers and expats, '거주' is for residents and citizens. You '거주' at your home address, but you '체류' in a foreign country during a vacation.

Comparison: 거주하다 (Reside): Use '거주하다' for your permanent legal address. Use '체류하다' for your temporary location abroad.

For staying overnight specifically in an accommodation, use 숙박하다 (to lodge) or 묵다 (to stay/lodge - native). '묵다' is the most common way to say you are staying at a hotel in daily conversation. '어느 호텔에서 묵으세요?' is a very natural question, whereas '어느 호텔에서 체류하세요?' sounds like a police interrogation.

저는 신라 호텔에서 묵고 있어요. (I am staying at the Shilla Hotel.)

Lastly, in very formal or old-fashioned contexts, you might encounter 유숙하다 (to stay overnight at someone's house) or 기거하다 (to live and eat in a place). These are rare in modern daily life but appear in literature. By choosing '체류하다', you are hitting the perfect 'business-formal' note for travel and legal contexts.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The character 滯 (체) is the same one used in '소화불량' (indigestion - food 'stagnating' in the stomach) and '교통 정체' (traffic jam). It implies a lack of movement away from a spot.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /tɕʰe.ɾju.ɦa.da/

US /tɕʰeɪ.rju.hɑ.dɑ/

Stress is usually even across syllables in Korean, but a slight emphasis may fall on the first syllable '체'.

Rhymes With

보류하다 (bo-ryu-ha-da) 서류하다 (seo-ryu-ha-da) 교류하다 (gyo-ryu-ha-da) 합류하다 (hap-ryu-ha-da) 잔류하다 (jan-ryu-ha-da) 분류하다 (bun-ryu-ha-da) 표류하다 (pyo-ryu-ha-da) 전류하다 (jeon-ryu-ha-da)

Common Errors

Pronouncing 'ryu' as 'lee-oo' instead of a single fluid syllable.
Confusing 'che' with 'jae' (재류하다 is different).
Missing the aspiration on 'che'.
Pronouncing 'ha' too heavily; it should be light.
Merging 'ryu' and 'ha' into 'rywa' in fast speech.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 3/5

Common in news and forms, easy to recognize once learned.

Writing 4/5

Requires knowledge of Hanja-based spelling and formal particles.

Speaking 3/5

Easy to pronounce but requires knowing when the register is appropriate.

Listening 3/5

Frequently heard in news and announcements.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

있다 살다 머무르다 기간 외국

Learn Next

거주하다 연장하다 신청하다 출입국 비자

Advanced

정주하다 망명하다 귀화하다 소재하다

Grammar to Know

-는 동안 (While/During)

한국에 체류하는 동안 많은 친구를 사귀었다.

-(으)ㄹ 예정 (Plan to)

내년에 프랑스에 체류할 예정입니다.

-기 위해 (In order to)

공부를 하기 위해 일본에 체류하고 있다.

-아/어서 (Reason)

비자가 없어서 더 이상 체류할 수 없다.

-(으)ㄴ 적이 있다 (Have done)

영국에 체류한 적이 있습니까?

Examples by Level

저는 한국에 7일 동안 체류합니다.

I am staying in Korea for 7 days.

Uses -에 for location and -동안 for duration.

공항에서 체류 기간을 물어봤어요.

They asked about the stay period at the airport.

체류 기간 is a common noun phrase.

서울에 잠시 체류해요.

I am staying in Seoul for a little while.

잠시 means 'for a short time'.

호텔에 체류하고 있어요.

I am staying at the hotel.

Uses -고 있다 for continuous action.

어디에 체류하세요?

Where are you staying?

Honorific -시- is used.

미국에 체류할 거예요.

I will stay in the US.

Future tense -(으)ㄹ 거예요.

체류지가 어디예요?

Where is your place of stay?

체류지 means 'place of stay'.

부산에 3일 체류했어요.

I stayed in Busan for 3 days.

Past tense -았/었-.

외국에 체류할 때는 여권이 중요해요.

When staying abroad, your passport is important.

-(으)ㄹ 때 means 'when'.

그는 일본에 한 달 동안 체류했습니다.

He stayed in Japan for one month.

Formal ending -습니다.

관광객들은 제주도에 체류하는 것을 좋아해요.

Tourists like staying on Jeju Island.

-는 것 turns the verb into a noun phrase.

비자 때문에 한국에 더 체류할 수 없어요.

I can't stay in Korea longer because of my visa.

-(으)ㄹ 수 없다 means 'cannot'.

친구는 지금 영국에 체류 중이에요.

My friend is currently staying in the UK.

-중이다 means 'in the middle of'.

여기에 며칠 더 체류하고 싶어요.

I want to stay here for a few more days.

-고 싶다 means 'want to'.

체류 기간을 연장하고 싶습니다.

I want to extend my stay period.

연장하다 means 'to extend'.

그는 업무차 독일에 체류했습니다.

He stayed in Germany for business.

-차 implies purpose.

비자 만료일이 다가와서 체류 기간 연장을 신청했다.

As the visa expiry date approached, I applied for an extension of stay.

-아/어서 indicates reason.

그는 학술 회의에 참석하기 위해 프랑스에 체류했다.

He stayed in France to attend an academic conference.

-기 위해 means 'in order to'.

외국인이 국내에 체류하려면 외국인 등록을 해야 한다.

If a foreigner wants to stay in the country, they must register as a foreigner.

-(으)려면 means 'if one intends to'.

이번 출장 기간 동안 싱가포르에 체류할 예정입니다.

I plan to stay in Singapore during this business trip.

-ㄹ 예정입니다 means 'plan to'.

그녀는 작년에 교환 학생으로 한국에 체류한 적이 있다.

She has stayed in Korea as an exchange student before.

-(으)ㄴ 적이 있다 means 'have done before'.

체류하는 동안 불편한 점은 없으셨나요?

Were there any inconveniences during your stay?

-는 동안 means 'while'.

많은 관광객들이 서울에 장기 체류하고 있다.

Many tourists are staying in Seoul for a long term.

장기 means 'long-term'.

그는 불법 체류 문제로 조사를 받았다.

He was investigated due to issues with staying illegally.

불법 means 'illegal'.

정부는 외국인 전문 인력의 국내 체류를 장려하고 있다.

The government is encouraging the stay of foreign professional talent in the country.

장려하다 means 'to encourage'.

체류 자격에 따라 할 수 있는 경제 활동이 제한됩니다.

Economic activities you can perform are restricted depending on your stay status.

-에 따라 means 'depending on'.

그는 망명객 신분으로 타국에 수년간 체류해야 했다.

He had to stay in another country for several years as an asylum seeker.

-어야 했다 means 'had to'.

이 도시는 관광객들의 체류 시간을 늘리기 위해 노력 중이다.

This city is working to increase the duration of stay for tourists.

-기 위해 means 'to/for the purpose of'.

그는 런던에 체류하면서 많은 예술가들과 교류했다.

While staying in London, he interacted with many artists.

-(으)면서 means 'while doing'.

외국인 체류자가 급증함에 따라 관련 법규도 정비되었다.

As the number of foreign residents/sojourners rapidly increased, related regulations were also revised.

-(으)ㅁ에 따라 means 'as a result of / following'.

그는 비자 문제로 인해 체류 허가를 받지 못했다.

He failed to receive a stay permit due to visa issues.

-로 인해 means 'due to'.

단기 체류 비자로는 취업 활동을 할 수 없습니다.

You cannot engage in employment activities with a short-term stay visa.

-로는 indicates a standard or condition.

체류 국가의 법률과 관습을 존중하는 것은 기본이다.

It is fundamental to respect the laws and customs of the country where you are staying.

-는 것 turns the clause into a subject.

그는 외교관으로서 험지에 체류하며 국익을 위해 헌신했다.

As a diplomat, he stayed in a hardship post and dedicated himself to the national interest.

-며 is a connective for simultaneous actions.

해외 체류 국민의 안전을 확보하기 위한 대책이 시급하다.

Measures to ensure the safety of citizens staying abroad are urgent.

시급하다 means 'to be urgent'.

체류형 관광 상품은 지역 경제 활성화에 큰 도움이 된다.

Stay-over tourism products are a great help in revitalizing the local economy.

체류형 means 'stay-over type'.

그는 망명 생활 중에도 조국에 체류하던 시절을 그리워했다.

Even during his life in exile, he missed the days when he stayed in his motherland.

-던 is a retrospective modifier.

디지털 노마드의 증가는 체류의 개념을 변화시키고 있다.

The increase in digital nomads is changing the concept of 'staying'.

-고 있다 expresses a current trend.

그의 논문은 외국인 근로자의 체류 실태를 심층 분석했다.

His thesis deeply analyzed the actual conditions of foreign workers' stay.

실태 means 'actual condition'.

장기 체류 외국인을 위한 한국어 교육 프로그램이 운영 중이다.

Korean language education programs for long-term foreign residents are in operation.

-를 위한 means 'for'.

국가 간의 체류 협정은 인적 교류의 근간을 이룬다.

Stay agreements between nations form the basis of human exchange.

근간을 이루다 means 'to form the basis'.

그는 역사적 격변기에 유럽에 체류하며 시대의 증인이 되었다.

Staying in Europe during a period of historical upheaval, he became a witness to the era.

격변기 means 'period of upheaval'.

체류 자격의 엄격한 관리는 국가 안보와 직결되는 사안이다.

Strict management of stay status is an issue directly linked to national security.

직결되다 means 'to be directly linked'.

해외 체류 시 발생할 수 있는 법적 분쟁에 대비해야 한다.

One must prepare for legal disputes that may arise during a stay abroad.

-에 대비해야 한다 means 'must prepare for'.

그의 문학 세계는 이국땅에 체류하며 겪은 고독에서 기인한다.

His literary world originates from the loneliness he experienced while staying in a foreign land.

기인하다 means 'to originate from'.

정부는 우수 인재의 영주권 취득 전 단계로 체류 편의를 제공한다.

The government provides stay convenience as a step prior to high-quality talent acquiring permanent residency.

편의 means 'convenience/facilities'.

불법 체류자의 인권 보호와 법 집행 사이의 균형이 필요하다.

A balance is needed between protecting the human rights of illegal stayers and enforcing the law.

균형 means 'balance'.

체류지 변경 신고를 태만히 할 경우 과태료가 부과될 수 있다.

If you neglect to report a change in your place of stay, a fine may be imposed.

태만히 하다 means 'to neglect'.

Synonyms

머무르다 묵다 거주하다 유숙하다

Antonyms

떠나다 출국하다

Common Collocations

체류 기간

불법 체류

장기 체류

단기 체류

체류 자격

체류지

체류 허가

해외 체류

국내 체류

체류 연장

Common Phrases

체류 중이다

— To be currently staying in a place. Used to describe current status.

그는 현재 일본에 체류 중입니다.

체류를 마치다

— To finish one's stay. Used when leaving after a visit.

그는 3년간의 체류를 마치고 돌아왔다.

체류를 허가하다

— To permit a stay. Used by authorities or government bodies.

정부는 그의 체류를 허가했다.

체류를 연장하다

— To extend a stay. Common in visa contexts.

비자 만료 전 체류를 연장해야 한다.

체류를 거부당하다

— To be denied a stay. Used in immigration contexts.

그는 입국 심사에서 체류를 거부당했다.

체류 비용

— The cost of staying (accommodation, food, etc.).

체류 비용이 생각보다 많이 들었다.

체류 일수

— The number of days stayed.

총 체류 일수는 15일입니다.

체류 목적

— The reason for staying (e.g., tourism, business).

체류 목적을 분명히 밝혀야 합니다.

체류 가능

— Able to stay. Often followed by '기간' or '여부'.

무비자로 90일간 체류 가능합니다.

체류 실태

— The actual conditions or status of stay.

외국인 근로자의 체류 실태를 조사했다.

Often Confused With

체류하다 vs 머무르다

머무르다 is more general and poetic; 체류하다 is specifically formal and duration-focused.

체류하다 vs 거주하다

거주하다 implies permanent living; 체류하다 implies a temporary visit.

체류하다 vs 숙박하다

숙박하다 is specifically about sleeping in a hotel; 체류하다 is about the entire duration in a place.

Idioms & Expressions

"발을 붙이다"

— To get a foothold or settle in a place (related to starting a stay).

그는 낯선 땅에 발을 붙이고 체류하기 시작했다.

Idiomatic

"둥지를 틀다"

— To build a nest; to settle down for a stay.

그는 파리에 둥지를 틀고 1년간 체류했다.

Metaphorical

"몸을 담다"

— To belong to or be staying in a certain organization or place.

그는 연구소에 몸을 담고 6개월간 체류했다.

Formal

"뿌리를 내리다"

— To take root; to stay long enough to settle (often contrasted with temporary 체류).

그는 체류를 넘어 그곳에 뿌리를 내렸다.

Metaphorical

"지나가는 길에"

— On the way; stopping briefly (contrasts with longer 체류).

체류하는 게 아니라 그냥 지나가는 길에 들렀어.

Casual

"한솥밥을 먹다"

— To eat from the same pot; to stay/live together as a family or team.

그들은 체류하는 동안 한솥밥을 먹으며 친해졌다.

Idiomatic

"객지 생활"

— Living/staying in a strange land away from home.

오랜 체류로 객지 생활에 익숙해졌다.

Common

"짐을 풀다"

— To unpack; to begin a stay.

호텔에 도착하자마자 짐을 풀고 체류를 시작했다.

Common

"머리를 식히다"

— To cool one's head; to stay somewhere for a mental break.

그는 머리를 식히기 위해 시골에 체류했다.

Common

"뜬구름 잡다"

— To chase clouds; to stay in a place with no real plan (sometimes used for aimless stayers).

그는 계획 없이 해외에 체류하며 뜬구름만 잡고 있다.

Colloquial

Easily Confused

체류하다 vs 유숙하다

Both mean staying.

유숙하다 is specifically staying overnight at someone's home, often formal or old-fashioned.

그는 선배의 집에서 하룻밤 유숙했다.

체류하다 vs 기거하다

Both involve staying in a place.

기거하다 emphasizes the daily life aspect (eating/sleeping) in a specific facility like a temple or dormitory.

그는 고시원에서 1년째 기거하고 있다.

체류하다 vs 재류하다

Almost identical meaning.

재류하다 is a technical legal term often found in older documents or specific administrative codes; 체류하다 is much more common.

재류 외국인 관리법.

체류하다 vs 정주하다

Opposite of temporary stay.

정주하다 means to settle down permanently, the opposite of the temporary nature of 체류.

그는 방랑 생활을 끝내고 고향에 정주했다.

체류하다 vs 체납하다

Similar pronunciation (Che-nap).

체납하다 means to be in arrears or fail to pay taxes; nothing to do with staying.

세금을 체납하면 불이익을 당한다.

Sentence Patterns

[Place]에 [Time] 동안 체류하다

일본에 3일 동안 체류해요.

[Purpose]차 [Place]에 체류하다

사업차 홍콩에 체류했다.

체류 기간을 연장하다

체류 기간을 연장하고 싶어요.

[Place]에 체류 중인 [Noun]

한국에 체류 중인 외국인.

체류 자격을 얻다/변경하다

체류 자격을 변경해야 합니다.

체류의 실태를 파악하다

해외 체류자의 실태를 파악하고 있다.

체류형 [Noun]

체류형 관광 상품이 인기다.

체류에 관한 협정을 체결하다

양국은 체류에 관한 협정을 체결했다.

Word Family

Nouns

체류 (stay/sojourn)

체류자 (stayer/sojourner)

체류지 (place of stay)

체류권 (right of stay)

Verbs

체류시키다 (to make someone stay)

비자 (visa)

출입국 (immigration)

거주 (residence)

방문 (visit)

여행 (travel)

How to Use It

frequency

High in travel, legal, and news domains; low in daily casual conversation.

Common Mistakes

Using '체류하다' for permanent living. → 살다 or 거주하다
If you intend to stay forever, '체류하다' is inappropriate because it implies a temporary sojourn.
Writing '채류하다' or '제류하다'. → 체류하다
The correct Hanja-derived spelling is '체' (滯) and '류' (留).
Using '을/를' with '체류하다'. → 에 체류하다
It is an intransitive verb indicating a state in a location, so it doesn't take a direct object.
Using it for a 5-minute stop at a shop. → 들르다 or 있다
'체류하다' is too 'heavy' for very short, casual durations.
Confusing '체류' with '체납'. → 체류 (stay), 체납 (non-payment)
These sound similar but have completely different meanings. Don't tell an officer you are '체납' in Korea!

Tips

Particle Choice

Always use '에' for the location. While '에서' is for actions, '체류' is seen as a state of being in a location, so '에' is the standard.

Hanja Roots

Learning that '류' (留) means 'to remain' will help you learn other words like '보류' (hold) and '잔류' (residual).

Context Matters

Use '체류하다' in business meetings or when talking to officials. Use '머무르다' when talking to your Korean language exchange partner about your vacation.

TOPIK Tip

This word often appears in the TOPIK II reading section, especially in articles about social issues or immigration. Practice the noun form '체류자'.

Airport Forms

When you see '체류 목적', common answers are '관광' (sightseeing), '업무' (business), or '방문' (visiting).

Conciseness

In professional emails, use '체류 중' instead of '체류하고 있는 중' to sound more natural and efficient.

Visa Status

If you are in Korea on a visa, your '체류 자격' is your visa type (e.g., E-2, D-2, F-4). Knowing this term is vital for legal clarity.

Digital Nomads

With the new 'Workation' visa, '체류하다' is being used more in lifestyle blogs. It adds a professional touch to the idea of 'working from anywhere'.

Soft 'R'

The 'ㄹ' in '류' is between an 'L' and an 'R'. Don't roll it too hard; keep it light and fluid.

Duration Markers

Pair it with '장기' (long) or '단기' (short) to immediately clarify the nature of your trip.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'Che' as 'Check-in' and 'Ryu' as 'Remain'. You Check-in and Remain: Che-ryu-ha-da.

Visual Association

Imagine a passport with a big 'STAY' stamp on it. The stamp says '체류'.

Word Web

Visa Airport Hotel Duration Foreigner Business Trip Immigration Passport

Challenge

Try to use '체류하다' instead of '있어요' the next time you talk about your trip to Korea in a formal practice session.

Word Origin

Derived from Hanja (Chinese characters). 滯 (체) + 留 (류) + 하다 (Korean verb suffix).

Original meaning: 滯 (Stagnate/Stay) + 留 (Remain/Keep). It literally means 'to remain and stay'.

Sino-Korean

Cultural Context

Be careful when using '불법 체류' (illegal stay). It is a sensitive political and human rights issue in Korea regarding migrant workers.

English speakers might use 'stay' for everything from a 5-minute wait to a 5-year residency. Korean is much more specific; '체류' is the formal/official 'stay'.

The movie 'The Terminal' depicts a man who has to '체류' in an airport. Immigration forms at Incheon International Airport (ICN). News reports on 'Digital Nomad Visas' (워케이션 비자).

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Immigration/Airport

체류 목적이 무엇입니까?
체류 기간은 며칠입니까?
체류지 주소를 적어주세요.
비자 없이 체류 가능합니까?

Business Trip

해외 지사에 체류 중입니다.
체류 비용은 회사에서 부담합니다.
업무차 단기 체류하고 있습니다.
체류 일정을 조절해야 합니다.

News/Statistics

불법 체류자 단속.
국내 체류 외국인 통계.
장기 체류 비자 발급 증가.
체류 자격 변경 안내.

Academic/Study Abroad

교환 학생으로 체류하다.
연구를 위해 1년간 체류했다.
체류 기간 동안 논문을 썼다.
현지에 체류하며 자료를 모았다.

Travel Planning

유럽 체류 일정 짜기.
한 도시에 오래 체류하고 싶다.
체류형 관광 상품 추천.
숙박비가 체류 비용의 절반이다.

Conversation Starters

"한국에 얼마나 체류하실 계획인가요? (How long do you plan to stay in Korea?)"

"해외에 체류하면서 가장 힘들었던 점이 뭐예요? (What was the hardest thing while staying abroad?)"

"비자 연장 때문에 출입국 사무소에 가본 적 있어요? (Have you ever been to the immigration office for a visa extension?)"

"가장 오래 체류해 본 외국 도시는 어디예요? (Which foreign city have you stayed in the longest?)"

"체류 기간 동안 꼭 해보고 싶은 일이 있나요? (Is there something you definitely want to do during your stay?)"

Journal Prompts

만약 외국에 1년 동안 체류할 수 있다면, 어느 나라에 가고 싶나요? 그 이유는 무엇인가요? (If you could stay in a foreign country for a year, which country would you go to and why?)

한국에 체류하는 동안 가장 인상 깊었던 장소나 경험에 대해 써 보세요. (Write about the most impressive place or experience during your stay in Korea.)

체류와 거주의 차이점은 무엇이라고 생각하나요? 자신의 경험을 바탕으로 적어 보세요. (What do you think is the difference between staying and residing? Write based on your experience.)

장기 체류를 할 때 가장 필요한 준비물 세 가지는 무엇일까요? (What are the three most necessary items when staying long-term?)

불법 체류 문제에 대한 자신의 생각을 논리적으로 정리해 보세요. (Organize your thoughts logically on the issue of illegal stays.)

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Technically you can, but it sounds very formal. It's like saying 'I am currently sojourning at my comrade's residence.' It's better to use '머무르다' or '자고 가다'.

No, Koreans also '체류' when they go abroad. '해외 체류 중인 한국인' (Koreans staying abroad) is a common phrase. It applies to anyone staying away from their permanent home.

It means 'illegal stay'. It happens when someone stays in a country after their visa has expired or without a valid visa. It is a very common term in Korean news.

You say '체류 기간' (Che-ryu Gi-gan). You will see this on almost every immigration form.

Usually, '체류하다' implies a longer stay, like a few days or months. For a 1-hour stop, '경유하다' (to stop over/transfer) or '잠시 머물다' is better.

'주소' is your permanent address. '체류지' is where you are staying right now (like a hotel or a temporary dorm) during your trip.

No, it is a Sino-Korean word (Hanja-based). The native equivalent is '머무르다'.

Yes! It is very common as a noun. For example, '장기 체류' (long-term stay). Adding '-하다' turns it into a verb.

Yes, usually it implies you are residing there for at least one night. If you don't sleep there, you are just '방문하다' (visiting).

You should say '체류 기간을 연장하고 싶어요' (Che-ryu gi-gan-eul yeon-jang-ha-go sip-eo-yo).