Korean Dictionary
How to say "Gold Spoon" in Korean
“Gold Spoon” in Korean is 금수저 (pronounced "geumsuseo").
금수저
geumsuseo
Usage & Context
Slang for someone born into wealth and privilege. Part of Korean spoon class system that categorizes people by wealth and social status.
Example Sentence
그 사람 금수저야.
That person is from a rich background.
How to use 금수저 naturally
Quick answer
The Korean word for “Gold Spoon” is 금수저, romanized as geumsuseo.
Usage tip
Use slang only with friends or people who already speak casually with you. It can sound rude in formal Korean.
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 금수저.
Pronunciation Guide
'Geum' sounds like 'goom' or 'gum'. 'Su' is like 'soo'. 'Jeo' is pronounced like 'juh' or 'jur' as in 'jury', with the 'eo' sound similar to the 'uh' in 'butter'.
More Example Sentences
Describing someone's privileged upbringing and easy life.
그는 금수저로 태어나서 부족함 없이 자랐어.
He was born with a gold spoon and grew up without any lack.
Expressing a perception of unfair advantage or ease of success for the wealthy.
금수저들은 뭘 해도 쉽게 성공하는 것 같아.
It seems like gold spoons succeed easily no matter what they do.
Referring to public criticism or scandal involving privileged individuals.
금수저 논란이 또 터졌네.
Another 'gold spoon' controversy has erupted.
Cultural Context
금수저 (geumsuseo) is the counterpart to 흙수저 (huksuseo) in the '수저 계급론' (spoon class theory). It refers to individuals born into wealthy and influential families, implying that their success and opportunities are largely predetermined by their family background rather than their own efforts. This term is frequently used in media and online discussions to highlight social inequality and the perceived unfairness of a society where inherited wealth plays a significant role in determining life outcomes. It often sparks public debate, especially when '금수저' individuals are involved in scandals or controversies, fueling resentment among those who feel disadvantaged.
Editorial note
We flag slang like 금수저 for register and audience, since Korean slang can shift quickly and may sound rude outside close friendships.
Reviewed by Min-jung Park, Korean Language Teacher. Updated May 31, 2026. See our editorial standards.
Common Phrases
금수저 집안
gold spoon family
금수저 특혜
gold spoon privilege
금수저 논란
gold spoon controversy
Related Expressions
흙수저
huksuseo
dirt spoon (antonym)
재벌
jaebeol
chaebol (a type of 'gold spoon' family)
낙하산 인사
nakhasan insa
parachute appointment (a term for someone getting a job through connections, often associated with 'gold spoons')
금수저 물고 태어나다
geumsuseo mulgo taeeonada
to be born biting a gold spoon (common idiom)
More Slang Words
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