Korean Dictionary
How to say "Customs" in Korean
“Customs” in Korean is 세관 (pronounced "segwan").
세관
segwan
Usage & Context
세관 is the customs authority at Korean airports and ports controlling the import and export of goods. Travelers entering Korea must declare items exceeding duty-free allowances at 세관. Korean 세관 uses advanced scanning technology and K-9 units to detect prohibited items and undeclared goods.
Example Sentence
세관에서 가방 검사를 받았어요.
I had my bag inspected at customs.
How to use 세관 naturally
Quick answer
The Korean word for “Customs” is 세관, romanized as segwan.
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 세관.
Pronunciation Guide
Pronounce '세관' as "Seh-gwan." '세' (seh) sounds like the beginning of "set" without the 't' sound. '관' (gwan) rhymes with "gwaan" in "iguana," emphasizing the 'w' sound.
More Example Sentences
A customs officer asking a traveler at the airport.
세관 신고할 물건 있으세요?
Do you have anything to declare at customs?
Giving advice to someone traveling internationally.
면세 한도를 넘으면 세관에 신고해야 해요.
If you exceed the duty-free limit, you must declare it at customs.
Complaining about a delayed online order.
해외 직구 물품이 세관에 묶여 있어요.
My overseas direct purchase item is held up at customs.
Cultural Context
Korean customs (세관) are known for their efficiency and strictness, especially regarding certain items like food, alcohol, and tobacco. Travelers often see K-9 units at major airports like Incheon, which are used to detect prohibited items. It's crucial to be aware of duty-free allowances and declare items accurately to avoid fines or confiscation.
Editorial note
We review entries like 세관 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
세관 통과
passing customs
세관 직원
customs officer
세관에 신고하다
to declare at customs
Related Expressions
세관 검사
segwan geomsa
customs inspection
세관 신고
segwan singo
customs declaration
관세
gwanse
customs duty / tariff
출입국
churipguk
immigration / entry and exit
More Transportation Words
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