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개봉하다

A2 verb 10 min read

개봉하다

gaebonghada

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips 개봉하다 in 30 Seconds

Explanation 개봉하다 in your Level:

At the A1 level, you should learn '개봉하다' primarily as a word related to movies. Think of it as 'the movie starts.' While A1 learners usually focus on simple verbs like '보다' (to watch), knowing '개봉하다' helps you understand movie posters and basic announcements. You might see it in simple sentences like '영화가 개봉해요' (The movie opens). It is helpful to associate it with the word '영화' (movie). At this stage, don't worry about the literal meaning of opening boxes; just focus on it as the 'birthday' of a movie in the theater. It's a key word for social planning, even at a basic level, because it answers the question of 'when' you can go see a specific film. You will often see it with dates, like '5월 개봉' (May release). This is a great word to expand your vocabulary beyond the most basic daily actions into the world of hobbies and entertainment.

For A2 learners, '개봉하다' becomes a functional part of your vocabulary for making plans and discussing interests. You should be able to use it in the past tense ('개봉했어요') and future tense ('개봉할 거예요'). At this level, you start to distinguish between '개봉하다' (to release) and '상영하다' (to screen). You should understand that '개봉' is a one-time event (the start), while '상영' is what happens every day after that. You might also encounter the noun form '개봉' in compound words like '개봉일' (release date). You can now use it to ask questions like '그 영화 언제 개봉해요?' (When does that movie release?). You should also be aware of its literal meaning—opening a sealed package or letter—though the movie context remains the most common. Understanding this word helps you engage in more natural conversations about popular culture in Korea, which is a major part of social life.

At the B1 level, you should understand the Hanja roots (開 Open + 封 Seal) to help you remember the word's nuanced meaning of 'unsealing.' You can now use more complex grammar patterns like '개봉할 예정이다' (scheduled to be released) or '개봉하자마자' (as soon as it's released). You should also be comfortable with the passive form '개봉되다' and know when it's more appropriate to use it (such as in news articles or formal reports). B1 learners should start noticing the word in media contexts, such as entertainment news headlines or movie reviews. You can also handle the literal usage in retail contexts, such as understanding warning labels like '개봉 후 교환 불가' (No exchange after opening). This level requires you to distinguish '개봉하다' from similar verbs like '출시하다' (for products) and '발매하다' (for music), ensuring you use the precise term for the specific medium you are discussing.

By B2, you should be able to use '개봉하다' in professional or academic discussions about the film industry. You should understand collocations like '개봉관을 확보하다' (to secure screening theaters) or '개봉 성적이 좋다' (to have good box office results upon release). You can discuss the strategic timing of a '개봉', such as why a film might choose a '동시 개봉' (simultaneous release) in multiple countries. Your usage should reflect an understanding of the business side of cinema. You should also be able to use the word metaphorically in advanced conversation, such as '비밀을 개봉하다' (to reveal/unseal a secret), although this is less common than '공개하다'. At this level, you should be able to read and summarize news articles about movie industry trends that heavily feature this word and its derivatives, like '미개봉' (unreleased) or '재개봉' (re-release).

At the C1 level, you should have a nuanced command of '개봉하다' and its related industry jargon. You can discuss the '개봉 전략' (release strategy) of major studios, including '와이드 릴리즈' (wide release) versus '제한적 개봉' (limited release). You should understand the historical evolution of the term from physical film reels to digital distribution and how the term '공개' is competing with '개봉' in the age of OTT platforms like Netflix and Disney+. You can analyze the cultural impact of a film's '개봉' on Korean society and use the word in sophisticated writing, such as film criticism or industry analysis. Your understanding should include the subtle differences in register between '개봉하다', '선보이다', and '출시하다' in various professional contexts. You should also be familiar with idioms or set phrases like '개봉 박두' and use them naturally in appropriate settings.

At the C2 level, your mastery of '개봉하다' is indistinguishable from a native speaker's. You can navigate the most technical legal or business documents regarding '개봉권' (release rights) and distribution contracts. You can appreciate the word's use in high-level literature where it might be used with profound metaphorical weight to describe the 'unsealing' of a heart, a past, or a forgotten era. You can debate the linguistic shifts in the Korean language as '개봉' adapts to new technologies and globalized media environments. You are fully aware of the socio-economic implications of '개봉' dates in the Korean market and can provide deep insights into how these dates are manipulated by '배급사' (distributors). Your ability to use the word spans from the casual 'unboxing' of a package to the complex analysis of international cinematic premieres, all with perfect accuracy and contextual sensitivity.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

개봉하다 in 30 Seconds

Primarily used for the theatrical release or premiere of a movie.
Literally means to 'unseal' or 'open' a sealed container or envelope.
Commonly seen in contexts like 'Now Showing' or 'Coming Soon' (개봉 박두).
Used for movies and packages, but not for doors, windows, or music/books.

The Korean verb 개봉하다 (gaebong-hada) is a specialized term primarily used in the entertainment and film industry. At its most basic level, it translates to 'to release' or 'to premiere' a movie. However, understanding its nuance requires looking at its Hanja roots: 開 (개) meaning 'to open' and 封 (봉) meaning 'to seal' or 'an envelope.' Historically, this referred to the literal unsealing of a film reel container before it was projected in a theater. Today, it encapsulates the entire event of a film becoming available to the public for the first time in cinemas. This word is indispensable for anyone discussing cinema, entertainment news, or weekend plans in Korea.

Core Usage: Used when a film officially starts its run in theaters. It focuses on the 'opening' event rather than the ongoing screening process.

드디어 기다리던 영화가 이번 주말에 개봉하다.

Beyond the cinema, 개봉하다 can also be used in its literal sense: to open a sealed package, a letter, or a bottle. For instance, if you receive a top-secret document, you would '개봉' the envelope. However, in 90% of modern conversational contexts, if you hear this word without a specific object like '택배' (package) or '편지' (letter), it is almost certainly referring to a movie release. It is a transitive verb, meaning you can say '영화관이 영화를 개봉하다' (The theater releases the movie), but it is also very frequently used in the form 개봉되다 (to be released) or simply as the active verb where the movie is the subject in casual speech.

Contextual Nuance: In the business world, '개봉' represents a massive financial milestone. It is the moment marketing efforts culminate and public reaction is finally measured.

그 영화는 전국 500개 상영관에서 동시에 개봉했습니다.

In a broader cultural context, Korea has one of the highest per-capita movie-going rates in the world. Consequently, '개봉' dates are highly anticipated. Major blockbusters often target 'holiday seasons' like Chuseok or Seollal for their '개봉'. When a movie is '개봉'ed, it becomes the center of social conversation, leading to 'N-차 관람' (multiple viewings) culture. Understanding this word helps you navigate Korean social media where tags like #개봉일 (release date) or #개봉사수 (must-watch on release) are prevalent. It signifies the transition of a creative work from a private project to a public cultural artifact.

Literal vs. Figurative: Literal: Unsealing a box. Figurative: Launching a cinematic masterpiece. Both share the theme of revealing something hidden.

새로 산 화장품을 드디어 개봉했다.

그 감독의 신작은 다음 달에 개봉할 예정이다.

Using 개봉하다 correctly involves understanding its grammatical flexibility. As a '하다' verb, it can take direct objects or function in a passive sense when conjugated as '개봉되다'. For A2 learners, the most common pattern is [Movie Title] + 이/가 + [Date] + 에 + 개봉하다. This describes the event of the movie coming out. For more advanced usage, you might use it to describe the act of a distributor releasing the film: [Distributor] + 이/가 + [Movie] + 를 + 개봉하다. The word is strictly formal to neutral; you won't find a 'slang' version of the verb itself, although the excitement surrounding a release might be expressed in slang.

Grammar Pattern 1: [Subject: Movie] + 이/가 + 개봉하다. (The movie releases/opens.)

어벤져스 영화가 내일 개봉해요.

When discussing future plans, we often use the pattern ~ㄹ 예정이다 (is scheduled to). For example, '이 영화는 12월에 개봉할 예정입니다' (This movie is scheduled to be released in December). This is the standard phrasing you will see on news sites like Naver Movies or in cinema apps like CGV. Another vital pattern is using 개봉 as a noun followed by 관 (theater), as in '개봉관', which refers to a cinema that is currently showing a newly released film. If you are asking a friend if they want to see a new movie, you might say, '그 영화 개봉했어?' (Has that movie been released?).

Grammar Pattern 2: [Subject: Person/Company] + 이/가 + [Object: Movie] + 를 + 개봉하다. (Someone releases a movie.)

제작사는 영화를 전 세계에서 동시에 개봉하기로 결정했습니다.

In more descriptive or literary contexts, you might see 개봉 combined with other verbs. For instance, '개봉을 앞두다' (to have a release ahead/to be about to be released). This is a very common journalistic expression. '개봉을 앞둔 소감이 어떠신가요?' (How do you feel with the release ahead of you?) is a classic interview question for actors. Furthermore, the word can be modified to describe the state of the film, such as '미개봉' (unreleased). If you see '미개봉 신작', it means a new movie that hasn't been released yet. Understanding these variations allows you to transition from simple sentences to complex professional discourse.

Grammar Pattern 3: [Noun] + 개봉 + [Time/Status]. (Using 개봉 as a noun modifier.)

이것은 개봉 첫날의 성적입니다.

우리는 개봉 예정 영화를 미리 확인했다.

To truly master 개봉하다, you must recognize it in its natural habitats. The most frequent place is the movie theater lobby. Large digital screens will flash the words '절찬 개봉 중' (now screening to great acclaim) or '개봉 예정' (coming soon). If you listen to Korean entertainment news or variety shows like 'Running Man' or 'Knowing Bros', guests who are actors often appear specifically because their movie is 개봉하다-ing. They will say, '저희 영화가 이번에 개봉하게 되었습니다' (Our movie is being released this time). This is the standard way to announce a project's completion and public launch.

News & Media: Journalists use '개봉' to discuss box office numbers, competition between films, and international film festival entries.

이번 추석 연휴에는 대작 영화들이 줄지어 개봉할 것으로 보입니다.

In daily life, you will hear this word when making plans with friends. A common conversation starter is: '요즘 개봉한 영화 중에 재미있는 거 있어?' (Is there anything interesting among the movies released lately?). Here, '개봉한' acts as an adjective modifying '영화'. In the world of online shopping and 'unboxing' culture, you will also see this word. While '언박싱' (unboxing) is popular slang, the formal term on return policies often states: '제품 개봉 시 반품 불가' (No returns once the product is opened/unsealed). This literal use is crucial for consumers to understand to avoid issues with electronics or cosmetics.

Retail & Shopping: Refers to breaking the seal of a product. Important for warranty and hygiene-sensitive items.

스티커를 제거하고 박스를 개봉해 주세요.

Lastly, you might hear it in historical or political contexts regarding the 'opening' of archives or secret documents. When a government decides to make previously classified information public, they '개봉' the records. This aligns with the 'unsealing' root of the word. However, for a learner, focusing on the cinematic and retail contexts will cover the vast majority of encounters. Whether you are reading a movie poster on a bus stop or checking the seal on a new iPhone, 개봉하다 is the key verb that signals the transition from hidden to revealed, from sealed to accessible.

Professional Settings: Used in legal or administrative terms when opening bids (입찰 개봉) or official envelopes.

투표함은 내일 오전 9시에 개봉될 예정입니다.

그 영화는 칸 영화제에서 처음으로 개봉되었습니다.

One of the most frequent errors English speakers make when using 개봉하다 is over-extending its 'release' meaning to other media. In English, we 'release' a movie, 'release' a song, and 'release' a book. In Korean, these are distinct actions. If you say '노래를 개봉했다' (I released a song), a Korean speaker will understand you but it will sound very strange, as if the song was a physical object in a sealed box or a feature-length film. For music, you must use 발매하다 (to release/sell) or 공개하다 (to reveal/make public). For books, 출판하다 (to publish) is the correct term.

Mistake 1: Media Confusion: Using '개봉' for anything other than movies or literal sealed containers. Songs are '발매', books are '출판'.

❌ 가수가 새 앨범을 개봉했다. (Wrong)
✅ 가수가 새 앨범을 발매했다. (Correct)

Another common pitfall is confusing 개봉하다 with 상영하다. While both relate to movies, they have different focuses. 개봉하다 is about the start or the event of the release. Once a movie has been out for two weeks, you wouldn't say it is '개봉하다'-ing; you would say it is 상영 중이다 (currently screening). If you ask '이 영화 언제 개봉해요?' you are asking for the release date. If you ask '이 영화 어디서 상영해요?' you are asking which theaters are currently playing it. Confusing these can lead to misunderstandings about whether you are talking about a premiere or a general viewing.

Mistake 2: Duration vs. Event: Using '개봉' to describe a movie that has been in theaters for a long time. Use '상영' for the ongoing state.

❌ 그 영화는 3주째 개봉하고 있어요. (Awkward)
✅ 그 영화는 3주째 상영하고 있어요. (Natural)

Finally, watch out for the literal usage. While you can '개봉' a box or a letter, you cannot '개봉' a door or a window. For those, you must use the simple verb 열다. 개봉하다 implies a seal is being broken. If there is no seal, wrap, or envelope involved, 개봉하다 is likely the wrong choice. Additionally, in the passive form, beginners sometimes forget the difference between 개봉되다 (to be released) and 개봉시키다 (to make something be released). Stick to 개봉하다 for both actors and movies in casual speech, and 개봉되다 for formal news reports.

Mistake 3: Literal 'Open' Confusion: Using '개봉' for simple physical openings like windows, doors, or eyes. These do not have 'seals'.

❌ 창문을 개봉하세요. (Wrong)
✅ 창문을 여세요. (Correct)

❌ 편지를 열었어요. (Understandable but less precise)
✅ 편지를 개봉했어요. (Better for sealed mail)

Understanding the synonyms and related terms for 개봉하다 will help you sound more like a native speaker and choose the right word for the right medium. While 개봉하다 is king for movies, other verbs rule their own domains. 상영하다 (sang-yeong-hada) is the most closely related, but it focuses on the act of projecting the film on a screen. If a theater '상영's a movie, they are currently playing it. 출시하다 (chul-si-hada) is used for products, such as a new smartphone or a video game. If a company '출시's something, they are launching it into the market.

Comparison: Movie vs. Product: 개봉하다: Movies, sealed letters, boxes.
출시하다: Electronics, cars, software, games.

삼성은 신형 갤럭시를 다음 달에 출시할 예정입니다.

Another important alternative is 공개하다 (gong-gae-hada), which means 'to make public' or 'to reveal'. This is a broader term. You can '공개' a movie trailer, '공개' the cast of a film, or '공개' a secret. While a movie is '개봉'ed in a theater, a Netflix original movie is often described as being '공개'ed on the platform because there is no physical 'unsealing' of a theater reel involved. For music, as mentioned, 발매하다 (bal-mae-hada) is the standard. It literally means 'to start selling'. If a singer drops a new track, it is '발매'.

Comparison: Public Reveal: 개봉하다: Specifically for theaters and unboxing.
공개하다: General reveal, used for streaming services (Netflix, etc.).

넷플릭스 오리지널 영화가 오늘 공개되었습니다.

Lastly, consider 선보이다 (seon-bo-ida), which means 'to present' or 'to show for the first time'. This is a more elegant, often used in marketing to say a creator is 'presenting' their new work to the world. It carries a sense of pride and debut. While '개봉' is the technical event, '선보이다' describes the artistic debut. For instance, '감독은 이번 영화에서 새로운 연출 기법을 선보였다' (The director presented a new directing technique in this movie). By choosing between these terms, you can specify whether you are talking about the business release (개봉), the public reveal (공개), or the artistic debut (선보이다).

Comparison Table

개봉: Movie Theater / Unboxing
발매: Music / Album
출시: Product / Tech / Game
출판: Book / Magazine
공개: Information / Streaming / General Reveal

이 소설은 작년 가을에 출판되었습니다.

새로운 게임이 드디어 시장에 출시되었습니다.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

Before digital projectors, movie theaters received physical metal cans containing film reels. These cans were sealed for transport. The '개봉' was the moment the projectionist broke the seal to start the show.

Pronunciation Guide

UK ɡɛ.boŋ.ɦa.da

US ɡeɪ.boʊŋ.hɑː.dɑː

The primary stress is on the second syllable '봉' (bong).

Rhymes With

성공하다 (seong-gong-hada - to succeed) 전공하다 (jeon-gong-hada - to major in) 제공하다 (je-gong-hada - to provide) 가공하다 (ga-gong-hada - to process) 시공하다 (si-gong-hada - to construct) 천공하다 (cheon-gong-hada - to perforate) 준공하다 (jun-gong-hada - to complete construction) 수공하다 (su-gong-hada - to work by hand)

Common Errors

Pronouncing 'Gae' as 'Guy'. It should be like 'Get' without the 't'.
Over-aspirating the 'h' in 'hada'. In fast speech, it becomes very subtle.
Pronouncing 'Bong' like 'Bang'. Ensure the 'o' sound is rounded.
Stressing the first syllable. Korean is generally more even, but the second syllable carries the root meaning.
Confusing the 'ng' sound with a simple 'n'.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 2/5

Common on posters and news; easy to recognize once the 'movie' context is known.

Writing 3/5

Requires distinguishing from '발매' or '출시' to use accurately.

Speaking 2/5

Frequently used in social planning; clear pronunciation.

Listening 2/5

Clear 'bong' sound makes it easy to pick out in entertainment news.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

영화 (Movie) 극장 (Theater) 보다 (To watch) 날짜 (Date) 열다 (To open)

Learn Next

상영하다 (To screen) 관객 (Audience) 흥행 (Box office success) 예매하다 (To book a ticket) 평점 (Rating)

Advanced

배급사 (Distributor) 제작사 (Production company) 시사회 (Preview) 박스오피스 (Box office)

Grammar to Know

~ㄹ 예정이다 (Scheduled to...)

영화는 내일 개봉할 예정입니다.

~자마자 (As soon as...)

개봉하자마자 영화를 봤어요.

~기 전에 (Before doing...)

개봉하기 전에 예매하세요.

~ㄴ 후에 (After doing...)

박스를 개봉한 후에 확인하세요.

~ㄴ 지 [Time] 되다 (It's been [Time] since...)

개봉한 지 한 달이 넘었어요.

Examples by Level

영화가 오늘 개봉해요.

The movie releases today.

Present tense of 개봉하다.

무슨 영화가 개봉해요?

What movie is being released?

Question form using '무슨' (what kind of).

내일 영화가 개봉합니다.

The movie will be released tomorrow.

Formal present tense (honorific).

이 영화는 언제 개봉해요?

When does this movie release?

Using '언제' (when) to ask about the date.

그 영화는 어제 개봉했어요.

That movie was released yesterday.

Past tense form.

공포 영화가 개봉해요.

A horror movie is being released.

Subject-verb agreement with a specific genre.

우리 영화 개봉하면 봐요.

Let's watch the movie when it's released.

Using '~면' (if/when).

개봉하는 영화가 많아요.

There are many movies being released.

Noun modifying form (~는).

새 영화가 이번 주말에 개봉할 거예요.

A new movie will be released this weekend.

Future tense (~ㄹ 거예요).

저는 개봉한 영화를 다 봤어요.

I watched all the released movies.

Past noun modifying form (~ㄴ).

이 영화는 한국에서 처음 개봉해요.

This movie is being released for the first time in Korea.

Use of '처음' (first/for the first time).

박스를 개봉하지 마세요.

Please do not open the box.

Negative command (~지 마세요).

편지를 개봉해도 될까요?

May I open the letter?

Asking permission (~어도 되다).

어떤 영화가 새로 개봉했나요?

Which movie has been newly released?

Polite question form (~나요).

개봉일이 언제인지 알아요?

Do you know when the release date is?

Noun '개봉일' (release date).

그 영화는 다음 달에 개봉해요.

That movie releases next month.

Time expression '다음 달' (next month).

이 영화는 전 세계에서 동시에 개봉될 예정입니다.

This movie is scheduled to be released simultaneously worldwide.

Passive form '개봉되다' + '~ㄹ 예정이다'.

상자를 개봉한 후에는 환불이 불가능합니다.

Refunds are not possible after opening the box.

Using '~ㄴ 후에' (after doing).

많은 사람들이 그 영화의 개봉을 기다리고 있어요.

Many people are waiting for the release of that movie.

Continuous form (~고 있다) with the noun form '개봉'.

영화가 개봉하자마자 보러 갈 거예요.

I will go see the movie as soon as it is released.

Using '~자마자' (as soon as).

그 감독의 신작이 드디어 개봉했습니다.

The director's new work has finally been released.

Use of '신작' (new work) and '드디어' (finally).

개봉한 지 일주일 만에 백만 명을 돌파했어요.

It surpassed one million viewers just a week after release.

Using '~ㄴ 지 [Time] 만에' (in just [Time] after).

이 약은 개봉 후에 냉장 보관해야 합니다.

This medicine must be kept refrigerated after opening.

Literal usage in a medical context.

비밀 편지를 개봉하는 기분이었어요.

It felt like opening a secret letter.

Metaphorical/Descriptive usage.

제작사는 개봉 시기를 놓고 고민 중입니다.

The production company is debating over the release timing.

Using '개봉 시기' (release timing) and '~고 고민 중이다'.

영화가 개봉되기도 전에 큰 화제가 되었습니다.

The movie became a hot topic even before it was released.

Using '~기도 전에' (even before).

개봉관 수가 적어서 영화를 보기가 힘들어요.

It's hard to see the movie because the number of screening theaters is small.

Noun '개봉관' (screening theater).

이번 영화는 온라인과 극장에서 동시에 개봉합니다.

This movie will be released simultaneously online and in theaters.

Discussing distribution methods.

그는 봉인된 문서를 개봉하여 진실을 밝혔다.

He opened the sealed document and revealed the truth.

Literal usage with '봉인된' (sealed).

개봉 첫 주말 박스오피스 1위를 차지했습니다.

It took first place at the box office in its opening weekend.

Industry terminology '박스오피스' (box office).

팬들의 성원에 힘입어 영화가 재개봉되었습니다.

Thanks to the fans' support, the movie was re-released.

Using '재개봉' (re-release).

제품을 개봉하면 가치가 떨어질 수 있습니다.

Opening the product may decrease its value.

Literal usage in a value/collector context.

해당 영화는 배급 문제로 인해 개봉이 무기한 연기되었습니다.

The release of the movie has been postponed indefinitely due to distribution issues.

Advanced vocabulary '무기한' (indefinitely) and '연기' (postponement).

개봉 당시에는 혹평을 받았으나 나중에 재평가되었습니다.

It received harsh reviews at the time of release but was re-evaluated later.

Using '개봉 당시' (at the time of release).

독립 영화들은 개봉관 확보에 큰 어려움을 겪고 있습니다.

Independent films are having great difficulty securing screening theaters.

Discussing industry challenges.

이 작품은 칸 영화제에서 개봉되어 전 세계의 주목을 받았다.

This work was premiered at the Cannes Film Festival and received worldwide attention.

Using '개봉되어' as a connecting clause.

검찰은 압수된 상자를 변호인 입회하에 개봉했다.

The prosecution opened the seized box in the presence of the defense counsel.

Legal/Formal context.

그 영화의 개봉은 한국 영화사에 한 획을 그었다.

The release of that movie marked a significant milestone in Korean film history.

Idiomatic expression '한 획을 긋다' (to make a mark).

개봉 전 시사회를 통해 평단의 반응을 살폈다.

They gauged the reaction of critics through a pre-release screening.

Industry term '시사회' (preview/screening).

디지털 플랫폼의 성장으로 극장 개봉의 의미가 변하고 있다.

With the growth of digital platforms, the meaning of a theatrical release is changing.

Sociolinguistic analysis.

영화의 개봉은 단순한 상업적 행위를 넘어 문화적 현상으로 자리 잡았다.

The release of the film has gone beyond a simple commercial act to become a cultural phenomenon.

Complex philosophical/sociological structure.

심의 결과에 따라 개봉 여부가 불투명해진 상황입니다.

The possibility of release has become uncertain depending on the deliberation results.

Formal terminology '심의' (deliberation) and '불투명' (opaque/uncertain).

그는 수십 년간 비공개였던 일기를 개봉하며 과거를 회상했다.

He opened the diary, which had been private for decades, and reminisced about the past.

Literary metaphorical usage.

동시 개봉 전략은 불법 유통을 막기 위한 고육지책이었다.

The simultaneous release strategy was a desperate measure to prevent illegal distribution.

Using the four-character idiom '고육지책' (desperate measure).

개봉을 앞둔 감독의 심경은 기대와 두려움이 교차하는 지점에 있었다.

The director's feelings ahead of the release were at a point where expectation and fear intersected.

Sophisticated emotional description.

해당 문건의 개봉은 정계에 큰 파장을 불러일으킬 것으로 예상된다.

The opening of the document in question is expected to cause a huge stir in political circles.

Political/Journalistic register.

영화계는 극장 개봉 사수와 OTT 공개 사이에서 딜레마에 빠져 있다.

The film industry is in a dilemma between sticking to theatrical releases and OTT reveals.

Discussing current industry shifts.

천만 관객 돌파는 개봉 초기 입소문이 결정적인 역할을 했다.

Word of mouth in the early stages of release played a decisive role in surpassing ten million viewers.

Causal analysis of market success.

Synonyms

상영하다 공개하다 출시하다 발매하다 선보이다 출판하다 배급하다 시작하다

Antonyms

종영하다 봉인하다 폐쇄하다 감추다

Common Collocations

영화를 개봉하다

개봉 박두

동시 개봉

개봉일

미개봉 신작

개봉관

전국 개봉

개봉 연기

박스를 개봉하다

개봉 첫 주

Common Phrases

절찬 개봉 중

— Currently screening to great acclaim/popularity.

그 영화는 지금 절찬 개봉 중이에요.

개봉 예정작

— A movie that is scheduled to be released soon.

올해의 개봉 예정작 리스트를 확인하세요.

개봉 사수

— Slang for making sure to watch a movie on its release day.

이번 마블 영화는 무조건 개봉 사수다!

개봉 성적

— The box office performance during the opening period.

개봉 성적이 예상보다 저조합니다.

개봉 기념 이벤트

— A promotional event held to celebrate a movie's release.

개봉 기념 이벤트로 팝콘을 무료로 줍니다.

개봉 전 시사회

— A screening held before the official release date.

개봉 전 시사회에 초대받았어요.

개봉관을 잡다

— To secure theaters for a movie's release.

작은 영화들은 개봉관을 잡기가 힘들어요.

개봉을 앞두고

— With the release coming up soon.

개봉을 앞두고 배우들이 인터뷰를 했다.

개봉 후기

— Reviews or thoughts shared after a movie's release.

개봉 후기를 읽고 영화를 골랐어요.

개봉 첫날

— The very first day a movie is shown to the public.

개봉 첫날에 매진이 되었습니다.

Often Confused With

개봉하다 vs 상영하다

상영 focuses on the ongoing showing/projection; 개봉 is the release event.

개봉하다 vs 열다

열다 is for general opening (doors); 개봉 is for unsealing (boxes/movies).

개봉하다 vs 출시하다

출시 is for products/tech; 개봉 is for movies.

Idioms & Expressions

"개봉 박두"

— Literally 'Opening Imminent'; used as 'Coming Soon'.

새로운 프로젝트, 개봉 박두!

Common

"뚜껑을 열다"

— To open the lid; to see the actual result of something highly anticipated (often used for movie releases).

개봉 후 뚜껑을 열어보니 기대 이상이었다.

Metaphorical

"베일을 벗다"

— To take off the veil; to be revealed to the public.

드디어 그 영화가 베일을 벗고 개봉했다.

Literary

"얼굴을 내밀다"

— To show one's face; to debut or appear.

오랜만에 신작으로 얼굴을 내밀며 개봉을 알렸다.

Casual

"첫선을 보이다"

— To show for the first time; to premiere.

영화제에서 작품이 첫선을 보이며 개봉했다.

Formal

"문호를 개방하다"

— To open the doors (related Hanja '개'); often used for opening markets.

영화 시장의 문호를 개방하다.

Political/Formal

"봉인을 해제하다"

— To break the seal; to reveal something hidden for a long time.

오랫동안 미뤄온 개봉, 봉인을 해제했다.

Dramatic

"판도라의 상자를 열다"

— To open Pandora's box (metaphorical opening).

그 영화의 개봉은 판도라의 상자를 여는 격이었다.

Literary

"세상 밖으로 나오다"

— To come out to the world.

드디어 영화가 개봉하며 세상 밖으로 나왔다.

Emotional

"첫 단추를 꿰다"

— To button the first button; to start a project well (opening day success).

개봉 첫날 흥행으로 첫 단추를 잘 꿰었다.

Idiomatic

Easily Confused

개봉하다 vs 발매하다

Both mean 'release'.

발매 is for music/albums; 개봉 is for movies. You sell (매) music, you unseal (봉) a film canister.

가수는 앨범을 발매했고, 영화는 내일 개봉한다.

개봉하다 vs 출판하다

Both mean 'release'.

출판 is specifically for printed books and magazines.

작가는 책을 출판하고, 감독은 영화를 개봉한다.

개봉하다 vs 공개하다

Both mean 'reveal/release'.

공개 is broader (info, trailers, Netflix); 개봉 is specific to theaters or sealed boxes.

넷플릭스 영화는 공개되고, 극장 영화는 개봉된다.

개봉하다 vs 선보이다

Both mean 'show for the first time'.

선보이다 is an artistic debut/presentation; 개봉 is the commercial release event.

새로운 기술을 선보이다 vs 영화를 개봉하다.

개봉하다 vs 시작하다

Both mean 'start'.

시작하다 is generic; 개봉하다 is professional cinema terminology.

영화가 시작해요 vs 영화가 오늘 개봉해요.

Sentence Patterns

영화가 [Date]에 개봉해요.

영화가 내일 개봉해요.

[Movie] 개봉했어요?

스파이더맨 개봉했어요?

개봉하자마자 [Action]

개봉하자마자 보러 갔어요.

개봉할 예정입니다.

다음 달에 개봉할 예정입니다.

개봉을 앞두고 [Status]

개봉을 앞두고 기대를 모으고 있다.

개봉관 확보가 [Status]

개봉관 확보가 쉽지 않다.

[Noun] 개봉 시 [Condition]

박스 개봉 시 반품 불가.

개봉 성적이 [Status]

개봉 성적이 향후 흥행의 척도가 된다.

Word Family

Nouns

개봉 (Release/Opening)

개봉일 (Release date)

개봉관 (Screening theater)

재개봉 (Re-release)

미개봉 (Unreleased)

Verbs

개봉하다 (To release)

개봉되다 (To be released)

개봉시키다 (To cause to be released)

Adjectives

개봉된 (Released)

개봉할 (To be released)

영화 (Movie)

극장 (Theater)

상영 (Screening)

관객 (Audience)

배급 (Distribution)

How to Use It

frequency

Extremely high in entertainment and retail contexts.

Common Mistakes

Using '개봉' for songs. → 발매 (Balmae)
Songs are sold/distributed, not 'unsealed' like a film reel. Use 발매하다.
Using '개봉' for doors. → 열다 (Yeolda)
Doors don't have seals in the way '개봉' implies. Use the simple verb '열다'.
Confusing '개봉' and '상영'. → Use '개봉' for the release date, '상영' for the showing.
If a movie has been out for a month, it is '상영 중' (screening), not '개봉 중'.
Using '개봉' for books. → 출판 (Chulpan)
Books are published. Use '출판하다'.
Saying '개봉하는 중이에요' for a screening. → 상영 중이에요.
개봉 is an event, not a continuous action of showing the film.

Tips

Movie Master

Always pair 개봉하다 with 영화 (movie). It's the most natural combination.

Unboxing Tip

When buying electronics, look for the '개봉 주의' (Caution upon opening) sticker.

Active vs Passive

In daily talk, '영화가 개봉해요' (active) is perfectly fine and very common.

Social Talk

Asking '최근에 개봉한 영화 봤어?' is a great icebreaker in Korea.

News Style

Use '개봉될 예정이다' for professional-sounding future plans.

Hanja Power

Remember 봉 (Bong) = Seal. This helps you distinguish it from other 'open' words.

Adjective Form

Listen for '개봉한' (released) before '영화' to identify already-out movies.

Natural Flow

Don't over-pronounce the 'H' in 'hada'. Let it flow naturally from the 'ng' in 'bong'.

Precise Media

Group 개봉 (movie), 발매 (music), and 출시 (product) together to learn media releases.

No Doors!

Never use 개봉 for doors. It sounds like you are breaking a seal on the door.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of a 'Gae' (Gay) 'Bong' (Bongo drum) being played at a movie premiere. You 'open' the 'seal' of the drum to hear the sound, just like you open the film reel.

Visual Association

Imagine a giant red ribbon being cut in front of a movie screen, and as the ribbon falls, a sealed envelope (Bong) is opened (Gae) to reveal the movie.

Word Web

Movie Theater Seal Envelope Premiere Package Unboxing Release

Challenge

Try to find three movie posters online and identify the '개봉' date for each. Say them out loud: '[Movie Name]은 [Date]에 개봉해요'.

Word Origin

Derived from the Hanja words 開 (개) meaning 'open' and 封 (봉) meaning 'seal' or 'envelope'.

Original meaning: To open a sealed letter or a container. In the early days of cinema, it referred to the literal unsealing of the film canisters.

Sino-Korean (Hanja-based vocabulary).

Cultural Context

No specific sensitivities, but in business, ensure you don't confuse '개봉' with '공개' when discussing confidential information.

While English uses 'release' for movies, music, and books, Korean is more specific. '개봉' is strictly for movies or physical unsealing.

Parasite (기생충) 개봉: The historic release that changed Korean cinema's global standing. 개봉 박두 (Coming Soon): A phrase every Korean child knows from movie trailers. Cine21: A famous Korean movie magazine that focuses on '개봉작' (released works).

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

At the Cinema

이 영화 언제 개봉했어요?
개봉 예정작 포스터예요.
개봉관이 어디예요?
개봉 첫날이라 사람이 많아요.

Online Shopping

박스를 개봉해 보세요.
개봉 후에는 반품이 안 돼요.
제품을 개봉하셨나요?
미개봉 새 제품입니다.

Entertainment News

신작 영화가 오늘 개봉했습니다.
개봉 성적이 아주 좋습니다.
전 세계 동시 개봉입니다.
개봉이 한 달 연기되었습니다.

Social Planning

그 영화 개봉하면 같이 봐요.
개봉하자마자 보러 갈래?
요즘 개봉한 영화 뭐 있어?
개봉일 맞춰서 예매하자.

Legal/Official

봉인된 서류를 개봉하다.
투표함을 개봉하다.
비밀 문서를 개봉했습니다.
입찰 서류 개봉 일시입니다.

Conversation Starters

"최근에 개봉한 영화 중에 추천할 만한 거 있어요?"

"기다리던 영화가 드디어 내일 개봉한대요!"

"그 영화 개봉일에 맞춰서 예매할까요?"

"혹시 그 영화 벌써 개봉했는지 알아요?"

"어벤져스 영화 개봉했을 때 극장 가셨어요?"

Journal Prompts

가장 최근에 개봉하자마자 본 영화는 무엇인가요? 왜 그렇게 기다렸나요?

영화가 개봉하기를 기다리는 동안의 설렘에 대해 써 보세요.

택배 박스를 개봉할 때의 기분을 묘사해 보세요.

한국 영화 중에서 개봉했을 때 가장 화제가 되었던 영화는 무엇인가요?

만약 당신이 영화 감독이라면, 어떤 날에 영화를 개봉하고 싶나요?

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Technically, '공개하다' is more common for streaming because there's no theatrical 'unsealing'. However, people still use '개봉' loosely in conversation.

개봉 is the release (the start date). 상영 is the screening (the act of showing the movie). You ask 'When is the 개봉?' but 'Where is the 상영?'.

No. Use '열다' for doors and windows. 개봉 requires a seal or a wrap to be broken.

No. Use '출판하다' for books. If you '개봉' a book, it means you are opening the plastic wrap around a new book.

It means 'Opening Imminent' or 'Coming Soon'. You see it on movie posters all the time.

Yes, '개봉되다'. It is used in formal news reports like 'The movie was released' (영화가 개봉되었다).

No. Use '발매하다' for music albums and digital releases.

You can use the slang '언박싱' or the formal '개봉'. '박스 개봉 영상' means an unboxing video.

It is a theater that is currently showing a newly released film.

It is a standard word used in both casual conversation and formal news. It is not slang.