This page in your language

فارسی

العربية

Deutsch

Español

Français

日本語

한국어

Português

中文

हिन्दी

A1 noun #3,000 most common 12 min read

정장

jeongjang Top 3,000

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips 정장 in 30 Seconds

Explanation 정장 in your Level:

At the A1 level, learners encounter '정장' as a fundamental noun for 'suit' or 'formal clothes'. This is usually introduced in the context of basic clothing vocabulary alongside items like 'T-shirt' (티셔츠) and 'pants' (바지). At this stage, the focus is on simple identification and basic sentence construction using the verb '입다' (to wear). Students learn that '정장' is what people wear for work or special events. The primary goal is to recognize the word in a shopping context or when looking at pictures of people in different outfits. Exercises often involve matching the word to a picture of a businessman or woman. Sentences are kept simple, such as 'I wear a suit' or 'The suit is expensive.' Understanding the Hanja origin is not required at this level, but recognizing the 'ㅇ' ending sound is helpful for pronunciation practice.

At the A2 level, the use of '정장' expands into more practical, everyday scenarios. Learners start to use the word in the context of planning and reasons. For example, 'I am going to buy a suit because I have an interview' (면접이 있어서 정장을 살 거예요). The concept of '정장 차림' (being dressed in a suit) might be introduced. Students also begin to learn related vocabulary like '넥타이' (necktie), '와이셔츠' (dress shirt), and '구두' (formal shoes) to build a complete picture of formal attire. A2 learners are expected to use basic particles correctly, such as '정장을' (object) and '정장이' (subject). They also start to hear the word in simple dialogues about social plans, like weddings or company gatherings, where the question of what to wear arises frequently.

By the B1 level, learners can discuss the nuances of formal dress in Korean society. They move beyond just 'wearing' a suit to 'dressing up' (차려입다) and 'looking good in' (어울리다). B1 students can describe different types of suits, such as '여성 정장' (women's suit) or '여름 정장' (summer suit). They also encounter the word in more complex grammar structures, like '정장을 입은 사람' (the person wearing a suit) or '정장을 입어야 할 것 같아요' (I think I should wear a suit). At this stage, students are introduced to the cultural importance of '정장' in Korea, particularly for job interviews and the 'Salaryman' culture. They can participate in short discussions about whether a suit is necessary for certain occasions and express their opinions on the comfort or style of formal wear.

At the B2 level, learners are expected to understand the word '정장' within professional and academic contexts. They can understand news reports or articles that use '정장' to describe the professional image of politicians or business leaders. The distinction between '정장' and '양복' becomes clearer, and students can use terms like '맞춤 정장' (tailor-made suit) and '기성복 정장' (ready-to-wear suit). They can also use the word metaphorically or in more formal speech patterns (Hapsyo-che). B2 learners can explain the social etiquette of '정장' in Korea, such as the appropriate colors for funerals versus weddings. They are capable of discussing the 'business casual' trend and how it contrasts with the traditional '정장' culture in modern Korean companies, using a wider range of connectors and expressive vocabulary.

At the C1 level, the word '정장' is understood in its full cultural and historical depth. Learners can engage in sophisticated debates about the evolution of Korean dress codes and the social pressures associated with '정장' culture. They understand the word's presence in literature and high-level media, where it might be used to symbolize conformity, authority, or a character's transition into adulthood. C1 students are familiar with specialized terms like '정장 대여 서비스' (suit rental services) and their socioeconomic implications for the younger generation. They can use the word in idiomatic ways and understand subtle sarcasm or irony related to being 'overdressed' or 'underdressed'. Their vocabulary includes formal synonyms and related Hanja-based terms that provide a more academic or professional tone to their speech and writing.

At the C2 level, learners have a native-like grasp of '정장' and its various connotations. They can analyze the linguistic nuances between '정장', '양복', '예복', and '신사복' with ease, choosing the perfect word for any given register. They can appreciate the use of '정장' in classical Korean cinema or modern social commentary essays. C2 speakers can navigate the most formal environments in Korea—such as high-level diplomatic meetings or traditional family ceremonies—where the concept of '정장' (proper dress) is paramount. They understand how the word interacts with complex honorific systems and can use it in highly technical fashion industry contexts or sociological discussions about Korean corporate identity. At this level, the word is not just a vocabulary item but a key to understanding the fabric of Korean social hierarchy.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

정장 in 30 Seconds

정장 (Jeongjang) refers to formal suits or business attire used for professional and ceremonial occasions in Korea, signaling respect and social maturity.
It is a versatile term applicable to both men's and women's formal wear, encompassing jackets, trousers, skirts, and blouses designed for formality.
Commonly paired with the verb '입다' (to wear), it is essential for job interviews, weddings, funerals, and corporate environments in South Korean culture.
While similar to '양복' (Western suit), '정장' emphasizes the 'proper' and 'formal' nature of the dress code rather than just its Western origins.

The Korean word 정장 (Jeongjang) is a noun that translates most directly to "formal suit" or "business attire" in English. Derived from the Hanja characters 正 (jeong - correct/proper) and 裝 (jang - dress/ornament), the word literally signifies "proper dress." In Korean culture, wearing a suit is not just a fashion choice; it is a significant social signal that conveys respect for the occasion, the people you are meeting, and the institution you represent. Whether you are attending a high-stakes job interview, a wedding as a guest, or a somber funeral, the 정장 is the standard uniform of adulthood and social responsibility.

Professional Context: In the corporate world of Seoul, the 정장 remains the gold standard for daily wear in traditional industries like finance, law, and government. While many modern tech startups have moved toward 'business casual,' the full suit is still mandatory for major presentations and external client meetings.

내일 면접을 위해서 백화점에서 정장을 한 벌 샀어요. (I bought a suit at the department store for my interview tomorrow.)

Historically, the concept of Western-style formal wear entered Korea during the late 19th and early 20th centuries as the country began to modernize. Before this, traditional Hanbok served as the "proper dress." Today, while Hanbok is reserved for the most traditional holidays or ceremonies, 정장 has taken over as the primary formal attire for modern life. It typically consists of a matching jacket and trousers for men, often accompanied by a dress shirt and tie, while for women, it can include a skirt suit or a pant suit with a formal blouse.

Social Etiquette: When invited to a Korean wedding, wearing a 정장 is considered the most polite gesture toward the couple. For men, a dark navy or charcoal suit is preferred, while women often opt for elegant suits or dresses that are formal but not white, so as not to overshadow the bride.

결혼식에는 꼭 정장을 입고 가야 해요. (You must wear a suit to the wedding.)

Interestingly, the word is also used in the term 세미 정장 (Semi-jeongjang), which refers to business casual or a slightly less formal version of a suit, such as wearing a blazer with chinos. This reflects the evolving nature of Korean fashion where the rigid lines of traditional formal wear are beginning to soften in creative and tech-focused environments. However, even in these casual settings, the word 정장 remains the benchmark for what is considered "dressed up."

Terminology Nuance: While 양복 (Yangbok) specifically refers to Western-style clothes (Western suit), 정장 is a broader term for 'formal attire.' In modern conversation, they are often used interchangeably when referring to a suit, but 정장 carries a stronger nuance of the 'formality' of the occasion.

그는 정장이 아주 잘 어울리는 사람이에요. (He is someone who looks very good in a suit.)

장례식에 갈 때는 검은색 정장을 입는 것이 예의입니다. (It is polite to wear a black suit when going to a funeral.)

신입 사원들은 보통 첫 출근 날 정장을 차려입습니다. (New employees usually dress up in a suit on their first day of work.)

Summary: Jeongjang represents the social contract of looking one's best in formal environments, bridging the gap between personal style and societal expectations.

Using the word 정장 (Jeongjang) correctly in Korean involves understanding its common verb pairings and how it functions as a noun that describes both an object and a style. The most common verb used with 정장 is 입다 (ip-da), which means "to wear." However, to express the act of getting fully dressed up in a suit, Koreans often use the more descriptive verb 차려입다 (charyeo-ip-da), which implies putting effort into one's appearance.

Verb Pairings: Common verbs include 입다 (to wear), 맞추다 (to have a suit custom-made), 어울리다 (to look good in/suit someone), and 사다 (to buy).

오늘 파티의 드레스 코드는 정장입니다. (The dress code for today's party is formal attire.)

When you want to describe someone who looks particularly sharp or professional, you can use the phrase 정장 차림 (jeongjang charim), which means "suit-clad" or "dressed in a suit." This is often used in descriptive writing or news reports to set the scene. For example, "He appeared at the press conference in a neat suit-clad state" would use 정장 차림으로.

For those who are purchasing a suit, the verb 맞추다 (matchuda) is essential. In Korea, custom-tailored suits are highly valued, especially for grooms or high-level executives. Saying "정장을 맞췄어요" means "I had a suit custom-made," whereas "정장을 샀어요" simply means "I bought a (likely ready-made) suit." This distinction shows your level of investment in the clothing.

Adjective Modifiers: You can modify 정장 with adjectives like 깔끔한 (neat/clean), 멋진 (stylish/cool), or 불편한 (uncomfortable), reflecting how suits are often perceived as looking great but being physically restrictive.

그는 깔끔한 정장을 입고 나타났습니다. (He appeared wearing a neat suit.)

In a more informal or modern context, you might hear people talk about 캐주얼 정장 (Casual Jeongjang). This might seem like an oxymoron, but it refers to a suit worn without a tie, perhaps with a t-shirt or sneakers, which is a popular look among younger professionals in Seoul's Gangnam or Pangyo districts. Using 정장 in this way shows that the core elements of the suit are present, even if the formality is dialed down.

중요한 회의가 있어서 오늘은 정장을 입어야 해요. (I have an important meeting, so I have to wear a suit today.)

이 정장은 나에게 조금 작아요. (This suit is a bit small for me.)

Questions and Requests: When asking about dress codes, you can ask: "정장을 입어야 하나요?" (Do I have to wear a suit?). This is a very common question for job seekers or wedding guests.

졸업식 때 입을 정장을 골랐니? (Did you pick out a suit to wear for graduation?)

Mastering these sentence patterns will allow you to navigate formal situations in Korea with confidence, ensuring you use the right level of formality in both your language and your dress.

In your daily life in South Korea, you will encounter the word 정장 (Jeongjang) in several specific environments. The most prominent place is within the retail sector. If you walk into a large department store like Lotte, Shinsegae, or Hyundai, you will see entire floors dedicated to 남성 정장 (Menswear/Suits) and 여성 정장 (Womenswear/Suits). The clerks there will constantly use the word to describe different cuts, fabrics, and seasonal styles.

The Workplace and Media: News anchors on KBS, MBC, or SBS are the quintessential examples of 정장 culture. Their attire is often described as the perfect '정장 스타일'. You will also hear this word frequently in K-Dramas, particularly 'office dramas' where characters' status is often reflected in the quality and sharpness of their suits.

백화점 정장 매장에서 세일을 하고 있어요. (The suit department at the department store is having a sale.)

Another place you will hear this word is during the "Job Hunting Season" (취업 시즌). Universities often hold seminars on how to dress for interviews, frequently titled 면접 정장 가이드 (Interview Suit Guide). Students will discuss where to rent a suit (정장 대여) if they cannot afford to buy one, a common service in Korea for young job seekers. Hearing "정장 대여소" (suit rental shop) is very common near major university districts like Sinchon or Anam.

Social media platforms like Instagram are also full of this word, but often in the form of hashtags like #정장룩 (#JeongjangLook) or #오피스룩 (#OfficeLook). Influencers post photos of their "OOTD" (Outfit Of The Day) featuring tailored pieces, blending traditional formality with modern fashion trends. Here, the word takes on a more aspirational and aesthetic quality, moving beyond just 'work clothes' to 'power dressing'.

Formal Announcements: Invitations for high-end events, gala dinners, or traditional ceremonies will explicitly state the dress code using this word. For example: "복장은 정장을 원칙으로 합니다" (As a rule, attire should be formal suits).

그 영화배우는 시상식에서 멋진 정장을 선보였습니다. (The movie actor showcased a wonderful suit at the awards ceremony.)

Finally, you will hear it in the context of life milestones. When a young man reaches his 20th birthday (Coming of Age Day) or graduates from college, his parents might say, "이제 너도 정장 한 벌 있어야지" (Now you should have a suit of your own too). In this context, the word represents a rite of passage into adulthood and the beginning of a professional life.

아버지는 중요한 날에만 정장을 꺼내 입으십니다. (My father takes out and wears a suit only on important days.)

이 드라마의 주인공은 항상 완벽한 정장 차림이에요. (The protagonist of this drama is always perfectly dressed in a suit.)

From the halls of government to the fitting rooms of Gangnam, '정장' is a word that echoes throughout Korean public life, signaling the moments that truly matter.

One of the most frequent mistakes English speakers make when using the word 정장 (Jeongjang) is confusing it with the word 양복 (Yangbok). While they are often used as synonyms in modern Korean, there is a subtle historical and linguistic difference. Yangbok specifically refers to "Western-style clothes" (as opposed to Hanbok), and it is almost exclusively used for men's suits. Using Yangbok to describe a woman's business suit sounds slightly dated and incorrect; 정장 is the much safer and more inclusive term for both genders.

Mistaken Verbs: Learners often try to use 하다 (hada) or 쓰다 (sseuda) when they mean "to wear a suit." Remember that clothing that you step into or put on your body (like shirts, pants, and suits) always uses 입다 (ipda). Using 쓰다 (used for hats/glasses) or 끼다 (used for gloves/rings) with 정장 is a major grammatical error.

❌ 정장을 해요. (Incorrect)
✅ 정장을 입어요. (Correct)

Another common error is failing to distinguish between 정장 and 유니폼 (Uniform). While a suit can feel like a uniform for office workers, the word 유니폼 in Korean is reserved for specific functional gear, like what a police officer, a nurse, or a soccer player wears. If you call a businessman's suit a "uniform" in Korean, people will understand you, but it will sound like you are making a metaphorical joke rather than a factual statement.

There is also the issue of the object marker. Beginner students often say 정장이 입다, mistakenly using the subject marker -이. Because "wearing a suit" is an action performed on the suit, you must use the object marker -을. Also, avoid using 정장 to describe just a single item of formal clothing, like a dress shirt. A dress shirt is 와이셔츠; 정장 refers to the whole ensemble.

Contextual Misuse: Using 정장 to describe smart-casual wear like a polo shirt and nice jeans. In Korean, this is 깔끔한 옷 (neat clothes), not 정장. 정장 implies at least a jacket and formal trousers/skirt.

❌ 청바지에 정장을 입었어요. (I wore a suit with jeans - sounds unnatural)
✅ 정장 바지를 입었어요. (I wore suit trousers.)

Finally, watch out for the pronunciation of the double 'ng' sounds. Some learners tend to drop the nasal ending of the first syllable, making it sound like 저장 (jeojang - storage). Ensure that the 'ng' (ㅇ) is clearly voiced at the end of both Jeong and Jang to avoid telling someone you are wearing "storage" instead of a "suit"!

그는 정장을 입고 있어서 아주 전문가처럼 보입니다. (He looks very professional because he is wearing a suit.)

이곳은 정장 차림이 아니면 들어갈 수 없습니다. (You cannot enter this place if you are not in a suit.)

Avoiding these common pitfalls will help you sound more like a native speaker and ensure you are understood correctly in professional Korean settings.

While 정장 (Jeongjang) is the most common and versatile word for formal attire, Korean has several other words that describe similar concepts, each with its own specific nuance and context. Understanding these will help you choose the most precise word for the situation.

양복 (Yangbok): As mentioned before, 양복 literally means "Western clothes." In modern usage, it specifically refers to a men's suit. If you go to a tailor shop, you will often see the sign 양복점 (Yangbok-jeom). It feels slightly more traditional and gender-specific than 정장.

할아버지는 항상 멋진 양복을 입으십니다. (My grandfather always wears a stylish suit.)

Another important alternative is 예복 (Yebok). This word refers to "ceremonial dress" or "ritual attire." While a 정장 can be worn to work, an 예복 is specifically for major ceremonies like weddings (for the groom) or state functions. It implies a level of formality even higher than a standard business suit.

신사복 (Sinsabok) vs. 숙녀복 (Sungnyeobok): 신사복 means "gentleman's wear" and 숙녀복 means "lady's wear." These terms are frequently seen on floor directories in department stores. They are more formal and categorical than simply saying 남자 옷 (men's clothes).

5층에는 고급 신사복 매장이 많습니다. (There are many high-end gentlemen's wear shops on the 5th floor.)

For more modern, less rigid contexts, you might use 오피스룩 (Office Look) or 비즈니스 캐주얼 (Business Casual). These Konglish (Korean-English) terms are very popular among the younger generation and in the fashion industry. They describe the style of dressing for work that is professional but doesn't necessarily involve a full matching suit.

Quick Comparison Table

정장: The general term for a suit/formal attire (Neutral/Common).
양복: Specifically a Western suit, usually for men (Traditional).
예복: Ceremonial attire for special events (High Formality).
평상복: Casual/everyday clothes (The direct antonym).

요즘은 정장 대신 비즈니스 캐주얼을 입는 회사가 늘고 있어요. (These days, the number of companies where people wear business casual instead of suits is increasing.)

면접관들은 지원자의 정장 상태도 확인합니다. (Interviewers also check the state of the candidate's suit.)

그는 정장을 입으니 정말 딴사람 같아요. (He looks like a completely different person when he wears a suit.)

By understanding these alternatives, you gain a deeper insight into the nuances of Korean social hierarchy and the importance placed on appropriate dress for every occasion.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

In the early 1900s, '정장' would have referred to a formal Hanbok. It only shifted to mean a Western suit as Western culture became the dominant 'proper' standard for public life.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /tɕʌŋ.dʑaŋ/

US /tɕʌŋ.dʑaŋ/

Both syllables are pronounced with equal emphasis, typical of Korean's syllable-timed nature.

Rhymes With

성장 (Seongjang - Growth) 광장 (Gwangjang - Plaza) 공장 (Gongjang - Factory) 시장 (Sijang - Market) 등장 (Deungjang - Appearance) 현장 (Hyeonjang - Scene/Site) 긴장 (Ginjang - Tension) 연장 (Yeonjang - Extension)

Common Errors

Pronouncing 'Jeong' as 'Jung' (like the English name).
Dropping the 'ng' (ㅇ) sound at the end of the first syllable, making it 'Jeo-jang'.
Using a hard English 'J' sound instead of the softer Korean 'ㅈ'.
Over-emphasizing the second syllable.
Pronouncing the 'eo' (ㅓ) like 'oh' (ㅗ).

Difficulty Rating

Reading 1/5

The word is short and uses common characters, making it easy to recognize.

Writing 2/5

Requires remembering the 'eo' (ㅓ) vowel and the 'ng' (ㅇ) support.

Speaking 2/5

Nasal 'ng' sounds can be tricky for beginners to distinguish from 'n'.

Listening 1/5

Distinctive sound makes it easy to pick out in conversation.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

옷 (Clothes) 입다 (To wear) 바지 (Pants) 비싸다 (To be expensive)

Learn Next

넥타이 (Tie) 구두 (Formal shoes) 와이셔츠 (Dress shirt) 격식 (Formality)

Advanced

의관 (Attire - formal/archaic) 용모 (Appearance) 단정하다 (To be neat/tidy)

Grammar to Know

Clothing Counter '벌' (Beol)

정장 한 벌, 정장 두 벌

Object Marker '을/를'

정장을 입다 (Wear a suit)

Descriptive Adjectives

멋진 정장 (Cool suit), 비싼 정장 (Expensive suit)

The verb '어울리다' (To suit/match)

정장이 잘 어울려요 (The suit suits you well)

Purpose Particle '-(으)러'

정장을 사러 가요 (Go to buy a suit)

Examples by Level

저는 정장을 입어요.

I wear a suit.

Uses the basic verb '입다' (to wear).

이 정장은 비싸요.

This suit is expensive.

Uses the adjective '비싸다' (to be expensive).

정장이 멋있어요.

The suit is cool/stylish.

Uses the adjective '멋있다' (to be cool).

어제 정장을 샀어요.

I bought a suit yesterday.

Past tense of '사다' (to buy).

정장 바지가 어디에 있어요?

Where are the suit pants?

Compound noun '정장 바지'.

검은색 정장을 좋아해요.

I like black suits.

Uses the color '검은색' (black).

정장을 입으세요.

Please wear a suit.

Imperative form '-(으)세요'.

이것은 제 정장입니다.

This is my suit.

Formal sentence ending '-입니다'.

면접을 위해서 정장을 입어야 해요.

I have to wear a suit for the interview.

'-어야 하다' (must/have to).

백화점에서 정장을 구경하고 있어요.

I am looking at suits at the department store.

'-고 있다' (present progressive).

정장을 입으니까 아주 달라 보여요.

You look very different because you're wearing a suit.

'-(으)니까' (because/since).

결혼식에 갈 때 정장을 입을 거예요.

I will wear a suit when I go to the wedding.

Future tense '-(으)ㄹ 거예요'.

이 정장은 너무 작아서 못 입어요.

This suit is too small, so I can't wear it.

'못' (cannot).

파란색 정장이 잘 어울리네요.

The blue suit really suits you.

'-네(요)' (exclamatory ending).

정장을 입고 출근했습니다.

I went to work wearing a suit.

'-고' (and/while wearing).

어떤 정장을 사고 싶어요?

What kind of suit do you want to buy?

'-고 싶다' (want to).

격식을 차려야 하는 자리에는 정장이 필수입니다.

A suit is essential for occasions where formality is required.

'-는 자리' (an occasion where...).

정장을 차려입고 나가니 기분이 새로워요.

I feel refreshed after dressing up in a suit and going out.

'차려입다' (to dress up).

회사 규정상 월요일에는 정장을 입어야 합니다.

According to company regulations, we must wear suits on Mondays.

'-상' (according to/based on).

정장을 맞추러 양복점에 다녀왔어요.

I went to a tailor shop to have a suit custom-made.

'-(으)러 가다' (go to do something).

그는 정장 차림으로 파티에 나타났습니다.

He appeared at the party dressed in a suit.

'정장 차림' (being dressed in a suit).

여름용 정장은 소재가 얇아서 시원해요.

Summer suits are cool because the material is thin.

'-용' (for the use of).

정장을 입으면 왠지 더 자신감이 생겨요.

For some reason, I feel more confident when I wear a suit.

'-면' (if/when).

면접용 정장을 빌려주는 곳이 있다고 들었어요.

I heard there is a place that lends out suits for interviews.

'-다고 들었다' (heard that...).

요즘은 정장보다 비즈니스 캐주얼을 선호하는 추세입니다.

Lately, there is a trend of preferring business casual over suits.

'-는 추세이다' (to be a trend).

정장을 입고 장시간 근무하는 것은 꽤 고역이에요.

Working long hours in a suit is quite a hardship.

'-는 것은 고역이다' (doing... is a struggle).

그 배우는 어떤 정장도 완벽하게 소화해냅니다.

That actor can pull off any suit perfectly.

'소화해내다' (to pull off/handle well).

신입 사원에게 정장은 사회생활의 첫 단추와 같습니다.

For a new employee, a suit is like the first step of social life.

'첫 단추와 같다' (is like the first button/step).

중요한 비즈니스 미팅에서는 정장이 신뢰감을 줍니다.

In important business meetings, a suit gives a sense of reliability.

'신뢰감을 주다' (to give a sense of trust).

정장의 핏이 좋아서 맞춤 정장인 줄 알았어요.

The fit of the suit was so good I thought it was custom-made.

'-인 줄 알았다' (thought it was...).

그는 갑작스러운 부고를 듣고 검은 정장을 챙겼습니다.

Upon hearing the sudden news of a death, he packed a black suit.

'-고' (sequential action).

정장 차림의 남성들이 건물 앞에서 대기하고 있습니다.

Men dressed in suits are waiting in front of the building.

'-고 있다' (state of waiting).

정장은 단순한 의복을 넘어 사회적 지위와 예의를 상징합니다.

Beyond mere clothing, a suit symbolizes social status and etiquette.

'-을 넘어' (beyond...).

클래식한 정장 스타일은 유행을 타지 않는 장점이 있습니다.

Classic suit styles have the advantage of never going out of fashion.

'유행을 타지 않다' (not affected by trends).

그는 정장의 딱딱함을 줄이기 위해 넥타이를 매지 않았습니다.

He didn't wear a tie to reduce the stiffness of the suit.

'-기 위해' (in order to).

정장은 입는 사람의 태도와 마음가짐을 바로잡아 주기도 합니다.

A suit can also help correct the attitude and mindset of the wearer.

'-기도 하다' (also does...).

그 회사는 정장 착용을 강요하지 않는 자유로운 분위기입니다.

That company has a free atmosphere that doesn't force suit-wearing.

'착용을 강요하다' (to force the wearing of).

정장의 색상과 재질에 따라 전달되는 이미지가 천차만별입니다.

The image conveyed varies greatly depending on the color and material of the suit.

'천차만별이다' (to be infinitely various).

맞춤 정장은 입는 이의 체형을 고려한 최상의 결과물입니다.

A custom suit is the best outcome considering the wearer's body shape.

'-을 고려한' (considering...).

그는 화려한 정장으로 세간의 이목을 집중시켰습니다.

He drew public attention with his flamboyant suit.

'이목을 집중시키다' (to draw attention).

정장은 근대화의 산물로서 한국 사회의 의복 변천사를 대변합니다.

As a product of modernization, the suit represents the history of dress changes in Korean society.

'-로서' (as a/in the capacity of).

그의 정장은 흐트러짐 없는 그의 성격을 고스란히 드러내고 있었다.

His suit fully revealed his character, which was without any disarray.

'고스란히 드러내다' (to reveal entirely/just as it is).

정장이라는 구속복을 벗어던지고 그는 진정한 자유를 만끽했다.

Casting off the straitjacket that is the suit, he enjoyed true freedom.

Metaphorical use of '구속복' (straitjacket).

사회의 관습이 요구하는 정장 차림은 때로 개인의 개성을 억압한다.

The suit-wearing required by social customs sometimes suppresses individual personality.

'-을 억압하다' (to suppress).

완벽하게 재단된 정장은 마치 제2의 피부처럼 그의 몸에 밀착되었다.

The perfectly tailored suit clung to his body like a second skin.

'제2의 피부처럼' (like a second skin).

정장의 미학은 절제와 조화에서 비롯된다고 해도 과언이 아니다.

It is no exaggeration to say that the aesthetics of the suit stem from moderation and harmony.

'-고 해도 과언이 아니다' (no exaggeration to say).

그는 정장 한 벌에 자신의 전 재산을 털어 넣는 무모함을 보였다.

He showed the recklessness of pouring his entire fortune into a single suit.

'전 재산을 털어 넣다' (to pour in all one's assets).

정장은 서구 문명의 유입과 함께 권력과 권위의 상징으로 자리 잡았다.

With the influx of Western civilization, the suit established itself as a symbol of power and authority.

'자리 잡다' (to establish oneself).

Common Collocations

정장을 입다

정장을 맞추다

정장 차림

풀 정장

정장 대여

남성 정장

여성 정장

정장 구두

세미 정장

정장이 어울리다

Common Phrases

정장 한 벌

— One complete suit set. Used when counting or buying suits.

면접용으로 정장 한 벌을 장만했다.

정장을 차려입다

— To dress up formally in a suit. Implies effort and preparation.

그는 오늘따라 정장을 멋지게 차려입었다.

정장 스타일

— Suit style or formal look. Used in fashion discussions.

저는 클래식한 정장 스타일을 선호해요.

정장 매장

— A suit store or suit department in a mall.

정장 매장에서 넥타이도 같이 샀어요.

정장 바지

— Suit trousers or dress pants.

정장 바지에 주름이 잡혀 있어요.

정장 재킷

— A suit jacket or blazer.

날씨가 더워서 정장 재킷을 벗었어요.

면접 정장

— An interview suit. A specific category of modest, professional suits.

면접 정장은 보통 남색이나 검은색입니다.

정장 차림으로

— While dressed in a suit. Used as an adverbial phrase.

그는 정장 차림으로 등산을 갔다.

정장을 벗다

— To take off a suit. Often implies relaxing after work.

집에 오자마자 답답한 정장을 벗었다.

정장 차림의

— Suit-clad. Used to modify a noun.

정장 차림의 신사가 길을 물었다.

Often Confused With

정장 vs 양복 (Yangbok)

Specifically Western suits for men. Jeongjang is more general and gender-neutral.

정장 vs 저장 (Jeojang)

Means 'storage' or 'saving'. Often confused due to similar pronunciation.

정장 vs 정정 (Jeongjeong)

Means 'correction'. Sounds similar but used in editing/legal contexts.

Idioms & Expressions

"정장을 빼입다"

— To be decked out in a suit. Implies looking exceptionally sharp.

그는 오늘 아주 정장을 빼입고 왔네!

Colloquial

"정장으로 무장하다"

— To 'arm' oneself with a suit. Used metaphorically for preparing for a tough meeting.

그는 중요한 협상을 위해 정장으로 무장했다.

Metaphorical

"정장이 날개다"

— Clothes (specifically a suit) make the man. Similar to '옷이 날개다'.

역시 정장이 날개네요, 정말 멋있어요.

Proverbial/Idiomatic

"정장 차림이 무색하다"

— One's formal attire is made pointless or embarrassed by the situation.

비가 너무 와서 그의 멋진 정장 차림이 무색해졌다.

Literary

"정장 속에 감춰진"

— Hidden beneath the suit. Often refers to a person's true nature or hidden muscles.

그의 단정한 정장 속에는 근육질 몸매가 감춰져 있다.

Descriptive

"정장 한 벌의 무게"

— The weight of a single suit. Refers to the responsibility of being a professional adult.

그는 첫 출근을 하며 정장 한 벌의 무게를 느꼈다.

Philosophical

"정장을 입고 춤추다"

— To dance in a suit. Implies doing something joyful in a restricted or formal state.

그들은 정장을 입고 춤추며 승리를 자축했다.

Descriptive

"정장 차림으로 한숨 돌리다"

— To take a breather while still in formal attire. Implies a brief rest during a busy day.

그는 정장 차림으로 벤치에 앉아 한숨 돌렸다.

Narrative

"정장을 맞추듯"

— As if tailoring a suit. Used to describe something done with extreme precision.

그는 정장을 맞추듯 꼼꼼하게 계획을 세웠다.

Simile

"정장에 구두"

— Suit and formal shoes. A fixed image of a complete formal look.

정장에 구두까지 완벽하게 갖췄다.

Common

Easily Confused

정장 vs 양복

Both mean 'suit'.

Yangbok is older and masculine; Jeongjang is modern and inclusive.

아버지는 양복을, 어머니는 정장을 입으셨어요.

정장 vs 유니폼

Both are work clothes.

Uniform is for specific jobs like pilots; Jeongjang is for general professional/formal use.

간호사는 유니폼을, 변호사는 정장을 입습니다.

정장 vs 예복

Both are formal.

Yebok is for high ceremonies (tuxedos); Jeongjang is for general formal needs (business suits).

신랑은 예복을 입고, 하객은 정장을 입어요.

정장 vs 작업복

Both are clothes for work.

Jageopbok is for manual labor/factory work; Jeongjang is for office work.

공장에서는 작업복을 입고 사무실에서는 정장을 입어요.

정장 vs 상복

Both are formal sets.

Sangbok is specifically for mourning; Jeongjang can be used as Sangbok if it's black.

장례식에서 검은 정장을 상복으로 입었습니다.

Sentence Patterns

저는 [Noun]을/를 입어요.

저는 정장을 입어요.

[Event]을/를 위해 정장을 샀어요.

면접을 위해 정장을 샀어요.

[Person]은/는 정장이 잘 어울려요.

민수 씨는 정장이 잘 어울려요.

정장을 입으니까 [Impression] 보입니다.

정장을 입으니까 아주 전문가처럼 보입니다.

정장은 [Meaning]을/를 상징합니다.

정장은 사회적 예의를 상징합니다.

정장 차림의 [Subject]이/가 [Action].

정장 차림의 신사가 조용히 들어왔다.

Mixed

[Adjective] 정장을 입고 싶어요.

깔끔한 정장을 입고 싶어요.

Mixed

정장을 [Verb]기 위해 [Action].

정장을 맞추기 위해 백화점에 갔어요.

Word Family

Nouns

정장 (Suit)

정장복 (Formal clothing)

세미정장 (Semi-formal)

정장화 (Formal shoes)

Verbs

정장하다 (To dress formally - less common than 정장을 입다)

Adjectives

정장스럽다 (To be suit-like/formal - rare colloquialism)

양복 (Western suit)

예복 (Ceremonial dress)

의복 (Clothing)

복장 (Attire)

차림 (Appearance/Outfit)

How to Use It

frequency

Very high in professional and social contexts.

Common Mistakes

Using '정장을 하다' for wearing a suit. → 정장을 입다 / 정장을 차려입다
Clothing you put your body into always uses '입다'. '하다' is for accessories like earrings or scarves.
Calling a woman's suit '양복'. → 정장 / 여성 정장
Yangbok is traditionally masculine. Jeongjang is the correct term for women's formal attire.
Saying '정장이 입어요'. → 정장을 입어요
The person wears the suit, so the suit is the object (-을).
Confusing '정장' with '저장' (storage). → 정장 (Jeong-jang)
The 'ng' sound (ㅇ) must be present in both syllables. 'Jeo-jang' means storage.
Using '정장' for casual button-down shirts. → 셔츠 / 와이셔츠
Jeongjang refers to the whole suit set (jacket and pants). A shirt alone is not a '정장'.

Tips

Interview Etiquette

In Korea, your '정장' should be clean and well-pressed. First impressions are vital, and a messy suit can suggest a lack of discipline.

Pronunciation Practice

Ensure the 'ng' sound at the end of 'Jeong' and 'Jang' is resonant. It shouldn't sound like 'John-Jan'.

Semi-Jeongjang

If a dress code says '세미 정장', you can wear a blazer with neat trousers and no tie. It's very popular in modern Seoul.

Suit Rental

If you're in Korea for a short time and need a suit, search for '정장 대여'. It's much cheaper than buying one.

Using Markers

Always use '정장을' when you are the one wearing it. '정장이' is for when the suit itself is the subject, like '정장이 멋져요'.

Hanja Insight

Remember 'Jeong' (正) means 'Proper'. This will help you remember that 'Jeong-jang' is the 'Proper' dress.

Business Meetings

When meeting a high-level executive in Korea, always wear a '정장'. It shows you take the meeting and their time seriously.

The Salaryman Look

The classic 'Salaryman' look in Korea is a navy '정장' with a white shirt. It's the unofficial uniform of Seoul's business districts.

Dry Cleaning

In Korean, dry cleaning a suit is called '드라이클리닝' or just '드라이'. Most '정장' require professional cleaning.

Summer Suits

Look for '여름용 정장' made of breathable materials like linen or thin wool to survive Korea's humid summers.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'Jeong' as 'Judgment' and 'Jang' as 'Jacket'. You wear a suit when you are going to be judged (at an interview or a wedding) in your jacket.

Visual Association

Visualize a sharp 'J' shape forming the lapels of a suit jacket. The two 'ng' sounds at the end are like the two buttons on the front of the jacket.

Word Web

넥타이 (Tie) 와이셔츠 (Shirt) 구두 (Shoes) 면접 (Interview) 결혼식 (Wedding) 백화점 (Department Store) 격식 (Formality) 전문가 (Professional)

Challenge

Try to describe your own suit or a suit you saw in a movie using the word '정장' and three adjectives: '깔끔한' (neat), '비싼' (expensive), and '멋진' (stylish).

Word Origin

From the Hanja 正裝 (정장). '正' (jeong) means correct, proper, or right. '裝' (jang) means to dress, decorate, or outfit.

Original meaning: The term originally signified the 'correct' or 'proper' way to dress for a given social ritual or official function.

Sino-Korean (Hanja-derived).

Cultural Context

Always wear a dark suit (정장) to a Korean funeral. Avoid red or bright colors at all costs, as it is a grave insult.

While 'Suit' is common, English speakers often use 'Formal' or 'Business Attire' interchangeably. Korean uses '정장' as the primary umbrella term.

The movie 'The Man from Nowhere' features a famous suit-wearing protagonist. K-Drama 'Suits' (Korean remake) focuses entirely on the power dynamics of 'Jeongjang'. The song 'Gentleman' by PSY features a comedic take on formal 'Jeongjang' style.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Job Interview

면접 정장을 준비했어요.
정장을 단정하게 입으세요.
첫인상에는 정장이 중요해요.
어떤 색 정장이 좋을까요?

Wedding Guest

결혼식에 정장을 입고 가요.
정장이 너무 화려하지 않나요?
친구 결혼식용 정장을 샀어요.
정장에 넥타이를 매야 할까요?

At a Tailor Shop

정장을 한 벌 맞추고 싶어요.
이 정장 원단이 좋네요.
정장 수선이 가능한가요?
정장 핏을 잡아주세요.

Office Life

우리 회사는 정장이 의무예요.
금요일은 정장을 안 입어도 돼요.
정장이 조금 불편해요.
정장 재킷을 걸어두세요.

Funeral

검은색 정장을 입어야 해요.
급하게 정장을 빌렸어요.
정장 차림으로 조문했습니다.
단정한 정장이 예의예요.

Conversation Starters

"오늘 정장이 정말 잘 어울리시네요! 어디서 사셨어요? (You look great in that suit today! Where did you buy it?)"

"면접 때 어떤 정장을 입는 게 가장 좋을까요? (What kind of suit do you think is best for an interview?)"

"한국 결혼식에서는 보통 어떤 정장을 입나요? (What kind of suits do people usually wear to Korean weddings?)"

"요즘은 회사에서 정장을 잘 안 입는 것 같아요. 그렇죠? (It seems like people don't wear suits to work much these days. Right?)"

"정장을 맞춤으로 하셨나요, 아니면 기성복인가요? (Is your suit custom-made or ready-to-wear?)"

Journal Prompts

내가 처음으로 정장을 입었을 때의 기분을 써 보세요. (Write about how you felt when you wore a suit for the first time.)

정장을 입는 것이 업무 효율에 도움이 된다고 생각하나요? (Do you think wearing a suit helps with work efficiency?)

내가 가장 좋아하는 정장 스타일과 그 이유를 설명해 보세요. (Describe your favorite suit style and the reason why.)

특별한 날을 위해 정장을 골랐던 경험에 대해 써 보세요. (Write about your experience choosing a suit for a special day.)

미래의 직장에서 정장 드레스 코드가 있다면 어떨 것 같나요? (How would you feel if your future workplace had a suit dress code?)

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Yes, '정장' is the standard and most appropriate attire for guests at a Korean wedding. For men, a dark suit is best, and for women, a formal suit or dress is recommended. Avoid wearing white as a guest.

'양복' (Yangbok) literally means 'Western clothes' and is mostly used for men's suits. '정장' (Jeongjang) means 'formal dress' and is a broader, gender-neutral term used for any formal suit. In daily life, they are often used interchangeably for men's suits.

Generally, yes. A 'Full Jeongjang' (풀 정장) for men includes a suit jacket, matching pants, a dress shirt, and a necktie. However, in 'Business Casual' or 'Semi-Jeongjang' contexts, the tie might be omitted.

You use the native Korean numbers followed by the counter '벌' (beol). For example, one suit is '정장 한 벌' and two suits are '정장 두 벌'.

Absolutely. '여성 정장' (Yeoseong Jeongjang) refers to women's formal suits, which can consist of a jacket with either a skirt or trousers.

You can find them at department stores (백화점), specialized suit shops (양복점), or large outlet malls. For cheaper options, many shops near universities offer '면접 정장' (interview suits) for sale or rent.

The most common verb is '입다' (to wear). If you are getting a suit custom-made, use '맞추다'. If you are dressing up nicely, use '차려입다'.

In Korea, navy blue (남색) or charcoal grey (진회색) are considered the most professional and trustworthy colors for interview suits. Black is also common but sometimes reserved for more formal or somber occasions.

No, a tuxedo is specifically called '턱시도' or '예복'. While a tuxedo is a type of formal dress, '정장' usually refers to standard business-style suits.

Like in many cultures, '정장' is often seen as '불편한 옷' (uncomfortable clothes) because of its stiff structure. However, it is worn out of 'ye-ui' (etiquette) and professional necessity.