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위반하다

B1 verb #4,000 most common 10 min read

위반하다

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Practice it Examples Notes & Tips 위반하다 in 30 Seconds

Explanation 위반하다 in your Level:

At the A1 level, you don't need to use the word '위반하다' yourself very often, but it is good to recognize it in very simple contexts like signs. Think of it as the 'No' word for official rules. In Korea, you might see it on signs that say '주차 위반' which means 'Parking Violation.' At this level, you should focus on the fact that '위반' means you did something wrong according to a rule. You can think of it like the word 'wrong' or 'broken' but only for rules. For example, if you see a red light and a sign, it might be talking about '신호 위반' (Signal Violation). You don't need to worry about the complex grammar yet. Just remember: 위반 = Rule Broken. If you want to say you broke a rule at this level, it is actually better to use the easier word '어기다' (eogida), but learning to recognize '위반' on signs will help you avoid getting in trouble in Korea. Imagine you are in a park and see a sign with '위반' on it—it probably means there is a fine for doing something like littering or smoking. This word helps you stay safe and follow the most basic laws of the street.

At the A2 level, you can start to understand how '위반하다' is used in basic sentences about daily life. You might hear it in conversations about driving or school rules. For example, '속도를 위반했어요' (I violated the speed limit/I was speeding). At this stage, you are learning that Korean has different words for 'breaking' things. You use '깨다' for a window, but you use '위반하다' for a traffic light. You should practice connecting this word with common nouns like '교통' (traffic), '속도' (speed), and '주차' (parking). You might also hear it in a classroom when a teacher talks about '교칙' (school rules). A typical A2 sentence would be: '규칙을 위반하면 안 돼요' (You must not violate the rules). Notice how the particle '을' is used with the rule. This is the first step in building formal sentences. You are moving beyond just 'No' and starting to describe the action of not following a rule. It is also helpful to know the opposite, '지키다' (to keep/follow), so you can say '규칙을 지키세요' (Follow the rules) instead of '위반하지 마세요' (Don't violate the rules).

As a B1 learner, '위반하다' is a key vocabulary item for you. This is the level where you start to handle more 'adult' situations in Korean, such as reading basic news articles, understanding workplace policies, or dealing with administrative tasks. You should be able to use '위반하다' to describe a variety of situations. For instance, if you are discussing a news story about a company, you might say, '그 회사는 환경법을 위반했습니다' (That company violated environmental laws). You should also understand the difference between '위반하다' and '어기다'. While '어기다' is fine for a promise with a friend, '위반하다' is much better when you are talking about a contract (계약) or a formal regulation (규정). At B1, you should also be comfortable with the noun form '위반' and how it combines with other nouns to form specific terms like '선거법 위반' (election law violation) or '인권 위반' (human rights violation). You are now using the word to express complex ideas about social responsibility and legal boundaries. You should also start noticing the word in passive forms or in formal announcements on public transport or in office buildings.

At the B2 level, you should have a nuanced understanding of '위반하다' and be able to use it in professional or academic contexts. You can discuss the implications of violating certain laws or the ethical dimensions of '위반'. For example, you might engage in a debate about whether '속도 위반' (speeding) should always result in a fine, or discuss '계약 위반' (breach of contract) in a business setting. You should be able to use the word in complex sentence structures, such as: '계약 내용을 위반할 경우 발생하는 모든 책임은 귀하에게 있습니다' (In the event of violating the contract contents, all resulting responsibility lies with you). You should also be familiar with related legal terminology like '과태료' (fine), '적발되다' (to be caught), and '처벌' (punishment) which often appear alongside '위반하다'. At this level, you can distinguish between '위반' (a general violation) and '저촉' (being in conflict with a law). Your usage should be precise, and you should rarely confuse '위반하다' with '어기다' in formal writing. You are expected to understand the word when it appears in editorials or legal summaries where the tone is high-level and authoritative.

For C1 learners, '위반하다' is a foundational word that you use as a springboard for even more specific legal and philosophical terms. You should be able to analyze the word's Hanja roots (違 - to deviate, 反 - to oppose) to understand why it is used in certain contexts and not others. You will encounter this word in high-level academic texts, legal precedents, and political discourse. You should be able to discuss '헌법 위반' (violation of the constitution) or '국제법 위반' (violation of international law) with a deep understanding of the legal consequences involved. Furthermore, you should be able to use the word metaphorically or in abstract discussions about '도덕적 위반' (moral violation), though you would also know when '위배되다' (to be contrary to) is a more sophisticated choice. At this level, you are not just using the word; you are using it to build arguments. You might say, '이러한 정책은 국민의 기본권을 위반할 소지가 다분합니다' (There is a high possibility that such a policy violates the basic rights of the citizens). You should also be adept at using the word in various grammatical forms, including nominalized clauses and complex conditional structures, ensuring that your tone matches the formal nature of the vocabulary.

At the C2 level, you have complete mastery over '위반하다' and its entire semantic field. You can use it with the precision of a legal professional or a native academic. You understand the subtle differences between '위반' (violation), '위배' (contradiction), '침해' (infringement), and '유린' (violation/trampling, often used for rights). You can read a supreme court ruling and identify exactly how '위반' is defined in a specific legal context. Your speaking and writing use the word with perfect register—never using it too casually, and never failing to use it when the situation demands formal weight. You can also identify and use archaic or highly specialized variations of the word found in historical documents or specific legal codes. For a C2 learner, '위반하다' is not just a verb; it is a tool for precise legal and ethical categorization. You can discuss the nuances of '의무 위반' (violation of duty) versus '직무 유기' (neglect of duty) and explain why one might be used over the other in a professional misconduct case. Your ability to use '위반하다' reflects a deep integration into the linguistic and legal culture of Korea, allowing you to navigate the most complex social and professional landscapes with ease.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

위반하다 in 30 Seconds

A formal verb meaning to violate or break a law, regulation, or contract.
Commonly used in contexts like traffic violations (speeding, parking) and legal breaches.
Derived from Hanja, carrying more weight and formality than the common verb '어기다'.
Essential for understanding Korean news, legal documents, and official announcements.

The Korean verb 위반하다 (wiban-hada) is a formal and precise term used to describe the act of breaking a law, regulation, rule, or contract. Derived from Hanja (Chinese characters), it carries a weight of officiality that simpler verbs like '어기다' (to break/disobey) do not possess. When you use 위반하다, you are usually talking about a situation where there are documented rules or legal frameworks involved. It is the standard term found in legal documents, news reports, and official notices regarding traffic violations, human rights breaches, or contract defaults.

Legal Context: This word is most frequently paired with terms like '법' (law), '규정' (regulation), or '조례' (ordinance). It implies a formal transgression that often carries a penalty or consequence.

운전자가 교통 법규를 위반하다가 경찰에게 적발되었습니다. (The driver was caught by the police while violating traffic regulations.)

Understanding the Hanja behind this word is crucial for grasping its nuance. The character 위 (違) means to deviate or go against, and 반 (反) means to oppose or reverse. Together, they create a meaning of 'acting in opposition to' established norms. While you might use '어기다' for breaking a promise with a friend, you would almost always use 위반하다 when discussing a corporate breach of contract or a citizen's failure to follow municipal waste disposal laws. It signifies a structural or societal rupture rather than a purely personal one.

Social Etiquette vs. Law: While 위반하다 is formal, it can be used for strict institutional rules, such as school regulations (교칙) or company policies (사규). It is rarely used for minor social faux pas unless they are framed as a violation of a specific code of conduct.

그 회사는 환경 보호법을 위반하다가 거액의 과징금을 물게 되었습니다. (That company ended up paying a huge fine for violating environmental protection laws.)

In daily life, you will encounter this word most often in the context of '교통 위반' (traffic violation). Whether it is speeding (속도 위반), illegal parking (주차 위반), or running a red light (신호 위반), the word serves as the linguistic anchor for all types of regulatory non-compliance. It is a B1 level word because while it is formal, it is essential for navigating adulthood in Korea, dealing with administrative tasks, and understanding the news. It bridges the gap between basic communication and professional or civic literacy.

Contractual Use: In business, '계약 위반' (breach of contract) is a critical term. If one party fails to deliver on their promise in a signed document, they are said to have '위반'ed the agreement, leading to legal liabilities.

계약 내용을 위반하다면 손해 배상을 청구할 수 있습니다. (If you violate the contents of the contract, I can claim damages.)

Using 위반하다 correctly requires understanding its role as an active transitive verb. It typically takes an object marked by the particles 을 or 를. The object is almost always an abstract noun representing a rule or law. Unlike the English word 'break,' which can be used for physical objects like 'breaking a glass,' 위반하다 is strictly for breaking rules. If you use it for a physical object, it will be nonsensical in Korean.

Grammatical Structure: [Noun/Rule] + 을/를 + 위반하다. For example: 규칙을 위반하다 (To violate a rule), 법을 위반하다 (To violate a law).

학생들이 교칙을 위반하다가 선생님께 꾸중을 들었습니다. (The students were scolded by the teacher for violating school rules.)

One of the most common ways to see this word is in its noun form, '위반,' combined with specific prefixes. For instance, '속도 위반' (speeding) literally means 'speed violation.' When you turn this into a verb phrase, you can say '속도를 위반하다.' However, in many contexts, the noun form acts as a compound noun, and you might say '위반을 하다' or simply '위반하다' depending on whether the object is already specified. In passive contexts, you would use '위반되다' (to be violated), which is common when discussing human rights or laws being breached by actions.

Tense and Formality: Formal (Declarative): 위반합니다. Polite (Conversational): 위반해요. Past: 위반했습니다/위반했어요. Future/Intention: 위반할 것입니다/위반할 거예요.

정부는 그 기업이 공정거래법을 위반했는지 조사하고 있습니다. (The government is investigating whether that company violated the Fair Trade Act.)

In advanced usage, 위반하다 is often found in conditional sentences. For example, '만약 규정을 위반할 경우...' (In the event that you violate the regulations...). This is a staple of terms and conditions pages, user agreements, and legal warnings. It is also used in sports to describe fouls or rule-breaking, though '반칙하다' is more common for specific game-play fouls. If a player violates a broader league regulation, 위반하다 would be the appropriate term.

Passive vs Active: Use 위반하다 when a subject (person/entity) breaks a rule. Use 위반되다 when a situation or action is in conflict with a rule (e.g., '이 행위는 법에 위반됩니다' - This act is in violation of the law).

어떠한 경우에도 인권을 위반해서는 안 됩니다. (Under no circumstances should human rights be violated.)

You will encounter 위반하다 in various professional and public settings. The most common environment is on the road. If you are ever pulled over in Korea, the officer might say, '신호를 위반하셨습니다' (You violated the signal). Similarly, if you receive a letter in the mail regarding a parking fine, the word '위반' will be printed in bold at the top. It is the language of authority and administrative order.

News and Media: News anchors use this word daily to report on political scandals, corporate crimes, or international law breaches. Phrases like '국제법 위반' (violation of international law) or '선거법 위반' (violation of election law) are standard journalistic vocabulary.

오늘 뉴스에서는 한 정치인이 정치자금법을 위반한 혐의로 기소되었다는 소식을 전했습니다. (Today's news reported that a politician was indicted on charges of violating the Political Funds Act.)

In the workplace, HR departments and legal teams use 위반하다 to discuss policy adherence. When signing an employment contract, you might see a clause stating that '비밀 유지 조항을 위반할 경우 해고 사유가 될 수 있습니다' (Violating the non-disclosure clause can be grounds for dismissal). It is also heard in educational settings, where professors or administrators discuss academic integrity or '학칙 위반' (violation of school regulations) regarding plagiarism or misconduct.

Public Announcements: In subways or public parks, announcements regarding smoking bans or trash disposal often use this word. '금역 구역에서 흡연하는 것은 관련 법규를 위반하는 행위입니다' (Smoking in a non-smoking area is an act of violating related laws).

지하철 내에서 질서를 위반하는 승객에게는 과태료가 부과될 수 있습니다. (Passengers who violate order within the subway may be fined.)

Finally, you will hear this word in sports commentary, though usually in a more formal wrap-up rather than the heat of the moment. A commentator might say, '선수가 도핑 규정을 위반하여 출전 정지 처분을 받았습니다' (The athlete was suspended for violating doping regulations). In all these contexts, 위반하다 provides a clear, unambiguous statement that a boundary has been crossed and that there is a formal standard by which that boundary is measured.

Internet and Digital Rules: When using Korean websites, you might see notices about '이용 약관 위반' (violation of terms of use) if an account is suspended for spamming or inappropriate behavior.

커뮤니티 가이드라인을 위반하면 계정이 영구 정지될 수 있습니다. (If you violate the community guidelines, your account may be permanently suspended.)

The most common mistake English speakers make with 위반하다 is using it too broadly, similar to how 'break' is used in English. In English, you can break a rule, break a heart, break a glass, or break a habit. In Korean, 위반하다 is strictly limited to the first category: rules, laws, and formal agreements. Using it for physical objects or emotional states is a major error that will confuse native speakers.

Mistake: Physical Objects: Incorrect: '컵을 위반했어요' (I violated the cup). Correct: '컵을 깨뜨렸어요' (I broke the cup).

그는 약속을 위반했다 (Formal/Legal) vs 그는 약속을 어겼다 (Natural/Common).

Another mistake is overusing 위반하다 in casual conversation. While it is grammatically correct to say '약속을 위반하다' (to violate a promise), it sounds incredibly stiff and robotic in a friendship context. It makes it sound like you have a legal contract with your friend. For everyday promises or minor rules, the verb '어기다' is much more natural. Save 위반하다 for when the situation involves an authority figure, a written document, or a legal consequence.

Mistake: Confusing with '범죄를 저지르다': '위반하다' refers to the act of breaking a specific rule. '범죄를 저지르다' means 'to commit a crime.' While a crime is a violation of law, the focus of '위반하다' is the rule itself, whereas '저지르다' focuses on the action of doing the bad deed.

그는 교통법을 위반했습니다. (He violated traffic law - Correct focus on the law.)

Lastly, learners sometimes struggle with the particle usage. Because 위반하다 is a '하다' verb derived from a noun, some people try to say '위반에 하다' or other incorrect combinations. The standard is '를 위반하다.' Also, be careful not to confuse it with '위배되다' (to be contrary to). While similar, '위배되다' is often used when an idea or action is fundamentally inconsistent with a principle (e.g., '그의 행동은 도덕에 위배된다' - His actions are contrary to morality).

Mistake: Using for Habits: Incorrect: '다이어트 규칙을 위반했어요' (I violated my diet rules). Better: '다이어트 결심을 어겼어요' (I broke my diet resolution).

법규 위반 (Law violation) vs 규칙 어김 (Rule breaking - less formal).

Korean has several words for 'breaking' or 'violating,' and choosing the right one depends entirely on the context and level of formality. 위반하다 sits at the top of the formality scale for rules and laws. Below are the most common alternatives and how they differ from our target word.

어기다 (Eogida): This is the most common and versatile alternative. It can be used for laws, but it is also the standard word for breaking promises (약속), rules (규칙), or appointments (시간). It is less formal than 위반하다.

약속을 어기면 안 돼요. (You shouldn't break your promise.)

Another important word is 범하다 (Beomhada). This is often translated as 'to commit' or 'to perpetrate.' It is used with words like '죄' (sin/crime) or '실수' (mistake). While 위반하다 focuses on the rule being broken, 범하다 focuses on the act of committing the transgression. You '위반' a law, but you '범' a crime.

위배되다 (Wibaedoeda): This is a passive-leaning verb meaning 'to be in conflict with' or 'to run counter to.' It is used for abstract principles like 'logic,' 'morality,' or 'the spirit of the law.' It implies a fundamental mismatch rather than just a simple act of breaking a specific clause.

그의 주장은 논리에 위배됩니다. (His argument is contrary to logic.)

In a sports context, you will hear 반칙하다 (Banchikhada). This literally means 'to foul' or 'to break the rules of a game.' While a sports rule is technically a '규칙,' calling a foul '위반' would sound very strange during a live game; '반칙' is the specific term for competitive play. Finally, 파기하다 (Pagihada) is used for 'annulling' or 'tearing up' a contract or treaty. If you don't just break a clause but completely destroy the agreement, you '파기' it.

Summary Table: - 위반하다: Formal laws/regulations.
- 어기다: General/Casual promises/rules.
- 범하다: Committing errors/crimes.
- 위배되다: Conflict with principles.
- 파기하다: Total cancellation of contracts.

조약을 파기하다 (To scrap a treaty) vs 조약을 위반하다 (To violate a specific treaty clause).

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The character 違 (위) is the same 'wi' found in '위험' (danger) in some contexts, suggesting that deviating from the path or rules often leads to dangerous situations.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /wi.ban.ɦa.da/

US /wi.ban.ɦa.da/

In Korean, stress is generally even across syllables, but a slight emphasis may fall on the first syllable '위' (wi).

Rhymes With

준수하다 (junsu-hada) 통과하다 (tonggwa-hada) 도착하다 (dochak-hada) 시작하다 (sijak-hada) 공부하다 (gongbu-hada) 생각하다 (saenggak-hada) 결정하다 (gyeoljeong-hada) 약속하다 (yaksok-hada)

Common Errors

Pronouncing 'wi' as 'we' (like the English word). It should be a tighter 'wi'.
Making the 'b' in 'ban' too heavy like a 'p'. It is a soft 'b'.
Skipping the 'h' sound in 'hada', making it sound like 'wiban-ada'.
Pronouncing 'ban' like the English word 'ban' (as in 'to ban'). It should have a more open 'ah' sound.
Putting too much stress on the last syllable 'da'.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 3/5

Common in news and signs, but requires Hanja knowledge for deep understanding.

Writing 4/5

Requires correct object particles and formal context awareness.

Speaking 3/5

Easy to pronounce but should be used selectively based on formality.

Listening 3/5

Frequently heard in public announcements and news broadcasts.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

법 (Law) 규칙 (Rule) 하다 (To do) 어기다 (To break) 벌금 (Fine)

Learn Next

준수하다 (To comply) 처벌 (Punishment) 기소하다 (To indict) 위배되다 (To be contrary to) 침해 (Infringement)

Advanced

강행 규정 (Mandatory provision) 신의성실 (Good faith) 권리 침해 (Infringement of rights) 위헌 (Unconstitutionality)

Grammar to Know

을/를 위반하다

규칙을 위반하다. (The object marker is essential.)

위반 시 (ㄹ 시)

위반 시 벌금이 부과됩니다. (Used for 'in case of'.)

위반한 혐의 (Noun-modifying)

법을 위반한 혐의로 체포되었다. (Past tense modifier.)

위반으로 인해

계약 위반으로 인해 손해가 발생했다. (Expressing cause.)

위반하지 않도록

법을 위반하지 않도록 주의하세요. (Expressing purpose/prevention.)

Examples by Level

주차 위반 하지 마세요.

Please do not commit a parking violation.

주차 (parking) + 위반 (violation) + 하지 마세요 (please don't do).

신호 위반은 위험해요.

Violating traffic signals is dangerous.

신호 (signal) + 위반 (violation) + 은 (topic marker).

여기서 담배를 피우면 법 위반이에요.

Smoking here is a violation of the law.

법 (law) + 위반 (violation) + 이에요 (is).

규칙을 위반하지 마세요.

Please do not violate the rules.

규칙 (rule) + 을 (object marker) + 위반하다 (to violate).

속도 위반 조심하세요.

Be careful of speeding (speed violation).

속도 (speed) + 위반 (violation) + 조심하세요 (be careful).

이것은 위반입니까?

Is this a violation?

이것 (this) + 은 (topic) + 위반 (violation) + 입니까 (is it?).

위반하면 벌금을 내요.

If you violate [the rules], you pay a fine.

위반하면 (if you violate) + 벌금 (fine) + 을 내요 (pay).

그는 규칙을 위반했어요.

He violated the rules.

과거형 (past tense) - 위반했어요.

도로에서 속도를 위반하면 안 됩니다.

You must not violate the speed limit on the road.

면 안 되다 (must not).

학생은 학교 규칙을 위반해서는 안 돼요.

Students should not violate school rules.

해서는 안 되다 (should not - stronger than 면 안 되다).

어제 주차 위반 딱지를 받았어요.

I got a parking violation ticket yesterday.

딱지 (ticket/sticker) + 를 받다 (to receive).

신호를 위반하다가 사고가 났어요.

An accident happened while violating the signal.

다가 (while doing/intermediate action).

누가 규칙을 위반했는지 알아요?

Do you know who violated the rules?

는지 알다 (to know whether/who).

위반한 사람을 찾고 있어요.

We are looking for the person who violated [the rules].

위반한 (noun-modifying past form).

이 행동은 규정 위반입니다.

This behavior is a violation of regulations.

규정 (regulation) + 위반 (violation).

다시는 위반하지 않겠다고 약속했어요.

I promised not to violate [the rules] again.

지 않겠다 (will not) + 고 약속하다 (promise that).

계약 조건을 위반하면 계약이 해지될 수 있습니다.

If you violate the contract terms, the contract can be terminated.

계약 조건 (contract terms) + 해지되다 (to be terminated).

그 선수는 도핑 규정을 위반하여 자격이 정지되었습니다.

The athlete's eligibility was suspended for violating doping regulations.

자격 정지 (suspension of eligibility).

많은 사람들이 저작권을 위반하고 있다는 사실을 모릅니다.

Many people don't know the fact that they are violating copyright.

저작권 (copyright) + 고 있다 (progressive form).

공공장소에서 질서를 위반하는 행위는 삼가야 합니다.

One should refrain from acts that violate order in public places.

삼가다 (to refrain from) + 야 하다 (must/should).

그는 법을 위반한 혐의로 경찰 조사를 받고 있습니다.

He is under police investigation on charges of violating the law.

혐의 (suspicion/charge) + 조사를 받다 (to be investigated).

회사의 보안 규정을 위반하다가 적발되면 처벌을 받습니다.

If you are caught violating the company's security regulations, you will be punished.

적발되다 (to be caught/exposed).

어떠한 이유로도 인권을 위반해서는 안 됩니다.

Human rights must not be violated for any reason.

인권 (human rights) + 어떠한 이유로도 (for whatever reason).

선거법을 위반한 정치인들이 뉴스에 나왔습니다.

Politicians who violated election laws appeared on the news.

선거법 (election law).

이 행위는 공정거래법을 명백히 위반하는 것입니다.

This act clearly violates the Fair Trade Act.

명백히 (clearly/obviously).

정부는 환경 규제를 위반한 공장에 폐쇄 명령을 내렸습니다.

The government issued a closure order to the factory that violated environmental regulations.

폐쇄 명령 (closure order) + 을 내리다 (to issue).

개인정보 보호법 위반은 심각한 사회적 문제입니다.

Violation of the Personal Information Protection Act is a serious social issue.

개인정보 보호법 (Privacy law).

그는 자신의 신념을 위반하면서까지 성공하고 싶지는 않았습니다.

He didn't want to succeed to the point of violating his own beliefs.

면서까지 (even to the point of/while).

계약을 위반할 시 발생하는 모든 손해는 배상해야 합니다.

All damages occurring upon violating the contract must be compensated.

~ㄹ 시 (at the time of/in case of).

해당 조치는 국제 조약을 위반할 가능성이 큽니다.

There is a high possibility that the measure violates international treaties.

ㄹ 가능성이 크다 (highly likely that).

그는 고의로 법을 위반한 것이 아니라고 주장했습니다.

He claimed that he did not violate the law intentionally.

고의로 (intentionally) + ㄴ 것이 아니다 (it is not that).

식품 위생법을 위반한 식당들이 대거 적발되었습니다.

A large number of restaurants violating the Food Sanitation Act were caught.

대거 (in large numbers/massively).

해당 법안이 헌법의 기본 원리를 위반하는지 여부를 검토해야 합니다.

We must review whether the bill in question violates the basic principles of the Constitution.

여부 (whether or not) + 검토하다 (to review).

그들의 행위는 보편적 윤리 규범을 심각하게 위반하고 있습니다.

Their actions are seriously violating universal ethical norms.

보편적 (universal) + 윤리 규범 (ethical norms).

피고인은 업무상 비밀 유지 의무를 위반한 것으로 판단됩니다.

The defendant is judged to have violated the duty of professional confidentiality.

피고인 (defendant) + ㄴ 것으로 판단되다 (to be judged as).

국가는 어떠한 명분으로도 국민의 신체의 자유를 위반해서는 안 됩니다.

The state must not violate the physical liberty of its citizens under any pretext.

명분 (pretext/justification) + 신체의 자유 (physical liberty).

이 계약은 선량한 풍속 기타 사회질서에 위반되는 사항을 포함하고 있습니다.

This contract includes matters that violate good customs and other social orders.

선량한 풍속 (good customs) - a standard legal phrase in Korea.

그 기업은 독점 규제 및 공정거래에 관한 법률을 위반한 사실이 드러났습니다.

It was revealed that the company violated the Act on Monopoly Regulation and Fair Trade.

드러나다 (to be revealed/exposed).

법치주의 국가에서 법을 위반하는 행위는 정당화될 수 없습니다.

In a state governed by the rule of law, the act of violating the law cannot be justified.

법치주의 (rule of law) + 정당화되다 (to be justified).

그는 직무상 의무를 위반하여 공익에 막대한 손실을 끼쳤습니다.

He violated his professional duties and caused enormous loss to the public interest.

공익 (public interest) + 끼치다 (to cause/inflict).

본 조항은 국제 인도법의 핵심 원칙을 정면으로 위반하는 내용을 담고 있습니다.

This clause contains content that directly violates the core principles of international humanitarian law.

정면으로 (directly/head-on) + 담다 (to contain).

사법부는 해당 행정 명령이 법률 유보의 원칙을 위반했다고 판시했습니다.

The judiciary ruled that the executive order in question violated the principle of statutory reservation.

판시하다 (to rule/adjudge) - high-level legal term.

사적 자치의 원칙도 강행 법규를 위반하는 범위 내에서는 허용되지 않습니다.

The principle of private autonomy is also not permitted within the scope of violating mandatory provisions of law.

사적 자치 (private autonomy) + 강행 법규 (mandatory law).

그의 논문은 학문적 진실성이라는 기본 가치를 근본적으로 위반하고 있습니다.

His thesis fundamentally violates the basic value of academic integrity.

근본적으로 (fundamentally) + 진실성 (integrity/truthfulness).

조세 포탈은 단순한 납세 의무 위반을 넘어 국가 재정의 근간을 흔드는 범죄입니다.

Tax evasion is a crime that goes beyond a simple violation of tax duty and shakes the foundation of national finance.

조세 포탈 (tax evasion) + 근간을 흔들다 (to shake the foundation).

국제 사회는 해당 국가가 정전 협정을 상습적으로 위반하고 있음을 규탄했습니다.

The international community condemned the country for habitually violating the armistice agreement.

정전 협정 (armistice agreement) + 규탄하다 (to condemn).

피고의 행위는 신의성실의 원칙에 위반되어 법적 보호를 받을 수 없습니다.

The defendant's actions violate the principle of good faith and cannot receive legal protection.

신의성실의 원칙 (principle of good faith/bona fides).

환경 영향 평가 절차를 위반하여 진행된 사업은 무효라고 볼 수 있습니다.

A project carried out in violation of environmental impact assessment procedures can be considered void.

무효 (null/void) + ㄹ 수 있다 (can be).

Synonyms

어기다 범하다 거스르다

Antonyms

준수하다 지키다

Common Collocations

법을 위반하다

규정을 위반하다

신호를 위반하다

속도를 위반하다

계약을 위반하다

인권을 위반하다

학칙을 위반하다

조약을 위반하다

보안 규정을 위반하다

선거법을 위반하다

Common Phrases

위반 딱지

— A violation ticket (usually for parking or traffic). It refers to the physical paper given by the police.

차 유리에 위반 딱지가 붙어 있었어요.

위반 행위

— An act of violation. Used to describe the specific action that broke the rule.

그것은 명백한 위반 행위입니다.

위반 혐의

— Suspicion of violation. Frequently used in legal and news contexts before a person is proven guilty.

그는 뇌물죄 위반 혐의를 받고 있습니다.

위반 사례

— A case or instance of violation. Often used in reports or educational materials.

과거의 위반 사례를 분석해 봅시다.

위반 시

— In case of violation. Common in contracts and warning signs.

규정 위반 시 퇴실 조치됩니다.

위반 여부

— Whether or not a violation occurred. Used during investigations or reviews.

법 위반 여부를 확인하고 있습니다.

상습 위반

— Habitual or repeated violation. Used for people who break rules frequently.

그는 상습 위반자로 등록되었습니다.

고의 위반

— Intentional violation. Used to distinguish from accidental mistakes.

고의 위반으로 판명될 경우 처벌이 무겁습니다.

위반 신고

— Reporting a violation. Used when a citizen informs authorities about rule-breaking.

불법 주차 위반 신고를 했습니다.

위반 벌금

— Violation fine. The monetary penalty for breaking a rule.

위반 벌금이 생각보다 많이 나왔어요.

Often Confused With

위반하다 vs 어기다

English speakers use 'break' for everything. '어기다' is general, while '위반하다' is formal/legal.

위반하다 vs 깨다

Both mean 'break', but '깨다' is for physical objects (glass) or records (sports), never for laws.

위반하다 vs 범하다

'위반하다' is breaking a rule; '범하다' is committing an act like a crime or mistake.

Idioms & Expressions

"법망을 피하다"

— To evade the net of the law. While not using the word 'violation' directly, it describes someone who violates the law but escapes punishment.

그는 교묘하게 법망을 피했습니다.

Neutral

"선을 넘다"

— To cross the line. Used when someone violates social norms or boundaries of behavior.

그의 농담은 이번에 선을 넘었어요.

Informal

"찬물을 끼얹다"

— To throw cold water on. Used when someone violates the mood or ruins an atmosphere by doing something wrong.

축제 분위기에 찬물을 끼얹는 행위를 하지 마세요.

Neutral

"바늘 도둑이 소 도둑 된다"

— A needle thief becomes a cow thief. Describes how small violations lead to bigger crimes.

작은 규칙 위반을 우습게 보지 마세요. 바늘 도둑이 소 도둑 됩니다.

Neutral

"눈 가리고 아웅"

— Covering one's eyes and saying 'meow'. Used when someone tries to hide a violation with a shallow, obvious trick.

그 조치는 눈 가리고 아웅 식의 위반 은폐일 뿐입니다.

Neutral

"도둑이 제 발 저리다"

— A thief's feet go numb (from guilt). Used when someone who violated a rule acts suspiciously because of their conscience.

위반한 사실을 묻지도 않았는데 혼자 변명하는 걸 보니 도둑이 제 발 저린 모양이네요.

Neutral

"울며 겨자 먹기"

— Eating mustard while crying. Used when someone follows a rule they hate, or pays a violation fine they find unfair but unavoidable.

벌금이 너무 비싸지만 울며 겨자 먹기로 낼 수밖에 없었어요.

Neutral

"꼬리가 길면 밟힌다"

— If your tail is long, it will be stepped on. Used to say that if you keep violating rules, you will eventually get caught.

계속 법을 위반하더니 결국 잡혔군요. 꼬리가 길면 밟히는 법이죠.

Neutral

"밑 빠진 독에 물 붓기"

— Pouring water into a bottomless jar. Used when trying to fix a situation where rules are constantly being violated without success.

규정 위반을 막으려는 노력이 밑 빠진 독에 물 붓기처럼 느껴져요.

Neutral

"쇠귀에 경 읽기"

— Reading scriptures to a cow's ear. Used when someone keeps violating rules despite being told repeatedly not to.

그에게 규칙을 지키라고 말하는 건 쇠귀에 경 읽기예요.

Neutral

Easily Confused

위반하다 vs 위배되다

Both translate to 'violate' or 'be against'.

위반하다 is an action (breaking a rule). 위배되다 is a state of being in conflict with abstract principles like logic or morality.

규칙을 위반하다 vs 논리에 위배되다.

위반하다 vs 침해하다

Both involve doing something wrong against a standard.

위반하다 is about rules. 침해하다 is about rights, privacy, or space (infringing/invading).

법을 위반하다 vs 사생활을 침해하다.

위반하다 vs 어기다

Direct synonyms for 'to break'.

어기다 is natural for promises and casual rules. 위반하다 is for formal laws and documents.

약속을 어기다 vs 선거법을 위반하다.

위반하다 vs 반칙하다

Both mean breaking rules.

반칙하다 is specific to sports and games. 위반하다 is for societal laws and regulations.

경기에서 반칙하다 vs 도로교통법을 위반하다.

위반하다 vs 저촉되다

Both appear in legal contexts.

저촉되다 means a specific clause or action 'bumps into' or conflicts with a law. It's more technical than 위반하다.

현행법에 저촉되는 사항.

Sentence Patterns

N을/를 위반하면 안 돼요

규칙을 위반하면 안 돼요.

N을/를 위반해서 V-았/었다

신호를 위반해서 벌금을 냈어요.

N 위반 혐의로 조사받다

그는 법 위반 혐의로 조사받고 있다.

만약 N을/를 위반할 경우, ...

만약 계약을 위반할 경우, 배상해야 합니다.

N 위반 여부를 확인하다

정부는 법 위반 여부를 확인하고 있습니다.

N은 N에 위반되는 행위이다

이것은 헌법에 위반되는 행위입니다.

N을/를 위반하면서까지 V

규칙을 위반하면서까지 이기고 싶지는 않다.

N 위반에 따른 법적 책임

계약 위반에 따른 법적 책임을 져야 합니다.

Word Family

Nouns

위반 Violation / Infringement

위반자 Violator / Offender

위반 행위 Act of violation

Verbs

위반하다 To violate (active)

위반되다 To be violated (passive)

법규 (regulations)

범죄 (crime)

어기다 (to break)

준수 (compliance)

벌금 (fine)

How to Use It

frequency

High in news, legal documents, and traffic contexts. Moderate in daily casual speech.

Common Mistakes

Using 위반하다 for physical objects. → 깨뜨리다 or 부수다.
You cannot 'violate' a glass or a chair. You can only 'violate' an abstract rule or law.
Using 위반하다 for casual promises. → 어기다.
Saying '너 약속 위반했어' to a friend sounds like you are a robot or a lawyer. Use '약속 어겼어' for a natural feel.
Confusing 위반하다 with 범하다. → 법을 위반하다 vs 죄를 범하다.
While similar, 위반하다 focuses on the rule, and 범하다 focuses on the act of committing a crime or mistake.
Using the wrong particle (e.g., 법에 위반하다). → 법을 위반하다.
위반하다 is a transitive verb that takes an object with 을/를. Only '위배되다' takes '에'.
Using 위반하다 for sports fouls. → 반칙하다.
In the middle of a soccer game, you '반칙' (foul). '위반' is too formal for the flow of a game.

Tips

Formal vs Informal

Always remember that 위반하다 is the 'Suit and Tie' version of 'breaking a rule.' If you are at a government office or writing an email to a boss, use 위반하다. If you are talking to your younger sibling, use 어기다.

Object Particles

Don't forget the 을/를. Because 위반 is a noun, some learners forget that '위반하다' acts as a single verb. '규칙을 위반하다' is the standard gold pattern.

Compound Nouns

Learn '신호 위반', '주차 위반', and '속도 위반' as set phrases. You will see these on signs everywhere in Korea, and they are easier to remember as single units of meaning.

Speeding Slang

Remember the 'shotgun wedding' meaning of '속도 위반'. If someone says a couple '속도 위반 했어', they probably aren't talking about driving!

Fine Types

When you 위반하다 something, you might pay a '벌금' (criminal fine) or '과태료' (non-criminal fine). Knowing the difference helps you understand the severity of the violation.

Noun Form

In news headlines, the '하다' is often dropped. You will just see '선거법 위반' (Election Law Violation). This is the standard way to name a crime or infraction.

Public Announcements

Listen for the word '위반' in Korean subways when they talk about '질서' (order). It's a great way to hear the word in a natural, authoritative context.

위반 vs 침해

If you break a law, it's 위반. If you step on someone's rights, it's 침해. Thinking of it this way helps you avoid using the wrong word in human rights contexts.

The 'H' Sound

In '위반하다', the 'h' in 'ha' is often softened in fast speech, but in formal settings, it should be clearly pronounced to maintain the professional tone of the word.

The Van Mnemonic

Use the story of 'Mr. Wi and his Van' to remember the word. It links the sound (Wi-ban) with the most common context (traffic violations).

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'Wi' as 'Wicked' and 'Ban' as 'Banned'. If you do something 'Wicked' that is 'Banned', you are committing a 'Wi-Ban' (Violation).

Visual Association

Imagine a red 'STOP' sign with a big 'X' over it. Underneath, the word '위반' is written in bold, black letters. This associates the word with traffic and rules.

Word Web

Traffic Law (교통법) Fine (벌금) Police (경찰) Contract (계약) Rule (규칙) Broken (어기다) Court (법원) Safety (안전)

Challenge

Try to find three signs in a Korean neighborhood that use the word '위반'. Usually, you can find them near parking areas or trash disposal spots. Take a photo and translate the rule being violated.

Word Origin

Derived from the Hanja characters 違 (위) and 反 (반). 違 means 'to go against' or 'to deviate,' and 反 means 'to oppose' or 'to return/reverse.' Combined with the suffix 하다 (to do), it literally means 'to do an act that goes against [the rules].'

Original meaning: To act in a way that is contrary to established orders or laws.

Sino-Korean (Hanja-based)

Cultural Context

Be careful when accusing someone of '위반하다' in a personal setting. It can sound very accusatory and harsh, as if you are acting like a police officer. Use '어기다' for personal disappointments.

In English-speaking cultures, 'breaking a rule' can sound casual. In Korea, using '위반하다' immediately makes the conversation serious and legalistic.

Traffic violation notices (교통위반 고지서) are a common 'dreaded' mail item for Korean drivers. The 'Fair Trade Commission' (공정거래위원회) frequently uses this word in news reports about big conglomerates (Chaebols). Korean dramas often feature scenes where a contract is dramatically torn up after a '계약 위반' (breach of contract).

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Driving / Traffic

속도 위반
신호 위반
음주 운전 위반
위반 딱지를 떼다

Legal / Contracts

계약 위반
법률 위반
조항 위반
위반 시 배상

School / Workplace

사규 위반
교칙 위반
보안 위반
규정 위반 징계

Human Rights / International

인권 위반
조약 위반
국제법 위반
위반 사례 보고

Internet / Technology

이용 약관 위반
저작권 위반
개인정보 보호법 위반
커뮤니티 가이드라인 위반

Conversation Starters

"운전하다가 신호 위반을 한 적이 있나요?"

"회사나 학교 규칙을 위반하면 어떤 처벌을 받나요?"

"계약 위반 때문에 곤란한 상황에 처한 적이 있나요?"

"뉴스에서 본 가장 심각한 법 위반 사건은 무엇인가요?"

"인터넷에서 저작권을 위반하지 않으려면 어떻게 해야 할까요?"

Journal Prompts

살면서 사소한 규칙이라도 위반했던 경험에 대해 써 보세요. 그때 기분이 어땠나요?

법을 위반하는 사람들에게 어떤 사회적 처벌이 가장 적절하다고 생각하는지 논하세요.

만약 당신이 새로운 법을 만든다면, 그 법을 위반했을 때 어떤 벌을 줄 것인지 상상해 보세요.

사회 질서를 위해 규칙을 위반하지 않는 것이 왜 중요한지 자신의 생각을 정리해 보세요.

계약 위반으로 인해 신뢰가 깨졌던 경험이나 그런 상황을 본 적이 있다면 적어 보세요.

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Yes, but it sounds very formal, like you have a legal contract with the person. In 99% of social situations, you should use '어기다' (eogida) instead. Use '위반하다' only if the promise is part of a written agreement.

위반 (violation) is the act of breaking a rule. 범죄 (crime) is the category of the act itself. For example, speeding is a 'traffic violation' (교통 위반), and theft is a 'crime' (범죄). All crimes are violations of the law, but not all violations (like a small parking error) are considered 'crimes' in a heavy sense.

No, that is completely incorrect. To break a heart, use '마음을 아프게 하다' (to make a heart hurt) or '상처를 주다' (to give a wound). 위반하다 is only for rules and laws.

You say '위반 딱지를 받았어요' (I received a violation sticker) or '딱지를 뗐어요' (A ticket was taken - meaning you were caught).

Yes, but usually only for administrative rules (like doping or eligibility). For actual gameplay fouls (like tripping someone), use '반칙하다' (banchikhada).

The most common objects are '법' (law), '규정' (regulation), '신호' (traffic signal), and '속도' (speed).

No. If a computer breaks or malfunctions, use '고장 나다' (gojang nada). 위반하다 is only for human actions against rules.

Interestingly, '속도 위반' (speeding) is a common slang term for a 'shotgun wedding' or getting pregnant before marriage in Korea. It implies doing things 'too fast' before the official 'rule' of marriage.

It is used with '를' (object particle). For example: '법을 위반하다'. However, with '위배되다', you use '에': '법에 위배되다'.

Depending on the severity, you might pay a '벌금' (fine), a '과태료' (administrative fine), or face '처벌' (punishment) like license suspension or even jail time for serious offenses.