Korean Dictionary
How to say "Column" in Korean
“Column” in Korean is 기둥 (pronounced "Gidung").
기둥
Gidung
Usage & Context
Vertical structural element supporting a building. Essential for load-bearing.
Example Sentence
이 건물의 기둥은 매우 튼튼해요.
This building's columns are very strong.
How to use 기둥 naturally
Quick answer
The Korean word for “Column” is 기둥, romanized as Gidung.
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 기둥.
Pronunciation Guide
Pronounce 'Gi' like the 'gee' in 'geese', and 'dung' like the 'doong' sound in a drum beat. The 'G' at the beginning is soft, almost like a 'K'.
More Example Sentences
Describing the structure of a bridge.
이 다리는 거대한 기둥들로 지탱되고 있어요.
This bridge is supported by giant columns.
Praising someone's importance in an organization.
우리 회사의 기둥 같은 존재예요.
He's like a pillar of our company.
Talking about historical architectural sites.
고대 로마 유적지에는 웅장한 기둥들이 남아있어요.
Magnificent columns remain at the ancient Roman ruins.
Cultural Context
기둥 (gidung) primarily refers to a physical column in architecture, essential for supporting structures. However, it's very commonly used metaphorically in Korean culture to describe a person who is a 'pillar' or 'main support' of a family, company, or community. For example, a father might be called '집안의 기둥' (jibanui gidung), meaning 'the pillar of the family,' highlighting their crucial role and responsibility.
Editorial note
We review entries like 기둥 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
집안의 기둥
pillar of the family
건물의 기둥
column of a building
기둥을 세우다
to erect a column
Related Expressions
보
bo
beam (related architectural element)
벽
byeok
wall
주춧돌
juchutdol
cornerstone, foundation stone
버팀목
beotimmok
prop, support (often metaphorical)
More Architecture Words
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