Korean Dictionary
How to say "Cliff" in Korean
“Cliff” in Korean is 절벽 (pronounced "Jeolbyeok").
절벽
Jeolbyeok
Usage & Context
A steep rock face. Jeju's Jusangjeolli Cliff (주상절리) with its hexagonal basalt columns and the Oedolgae Rock (외돌개) are famous natural landmarks. The east coast features dramatic sea cliffs. 백두대간 (Baekdudaegan) mountain range has numerous impressive cliff formations beloved by hikers.
Example Sentence
주상절리는 제주도의 절벽 명소예요.
Jusangjeolli is a famous cliff attraction on Jeju Island.
How to use 절벽 naturally
Quick answer
The Korean word for “Cliff” is 절벽, romanized as Jeolbyeok.
Usage tip
Learn this word together with a complete Korean sentence. Meaning often depends on particles, politeness level, and word order.
Common mistake
Do not rely only on the English meaning. Read the Korean example sentence and notice the particles, word order, and politeness level around 절벽.
Pronunciation Guide
The first syllable, '절' (jeol), sounds like 'juhl' in 'journal,' with a soft 'j'. The second syllable, '벽' (byeok), sounds like 'byuk' (like 'book' but with a 'y' sound before 'oo'), ending with a crisp 'k'. The stress is typically on the second syllable.
More Example Sentences
Praising the natural beauty of a tourist spot.
제주도 해안 절벽은 정말 장관이에요.
Jeju Island's coastal cliffs are truly a magnificent sight.
Describing a dramatic scene or view.
그는 절벽 끝에 서서 바다를 내려다봤어요.
He stood at the edge of the cliff and looked down at the sea.
Discussing a recreational activity location.
이 절벽은 암벽 등반가들에게 인기 있는 장소예요.
This cliff is a popular spot for rock climbers.
Cultural Context
Korea's diverse geography includes many stunning '절벽' formations, particularly along its eastern and southern coasts, and on islands like Jeju and Ulleungdo. These cliffs are often popular tourist attractions, offering breathtaking views and sometimes challenging hiking trails. Iconic examples like Jeju's Jusangjeolli Cliff, with its unique hexagonal basalt columns, showcase the island's volcanic geology and are frequently featured in travel shows and photography, drawing many visitors.
Editorial note
We review entries like 절벽 for pronunciation, example sentence fit, and learner mistakes so the page answers more than a direct dictionary lookup.
Reviewed by Min-jung Park, Korean Language Teacher. Updated May 31, 2026. See our editorial standards.
Common Phrases
해안 절벽
coastal cliff
절벽 아래
below the cliff
절벽 등반
cliff climbing / rock climbing
Related Expressions
벼랑
byeorang
precipice, cliff (often implies danger)
낭떠러지
nangtteoreoji
precipice, abyss (stronger sense of danger)
바위
bawi
rock
산
san
mountain
More Nature Words
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