Korean Dictionary
How to say "Motel" in Korean
“Motel” in Korean is 모텔 (pronounced "motel").
모텔
motel
Usage & Context
Motels are common short-term accommodations in Korea, often used for overnight stays. They are affordable and conveniently located near highways.
Example Sentence
모텔에서 하룻밤을 묵었어요.
I stayed at a motel for one night.
How to use 모텔 naturally
Quick answer
The Korean word for “Motel” is 모텔, romanized as motel.
Usage tip
Pair this travel word with polite request endings like -요 so it works in hotels, stations, taxis, and shops.
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 모텔.
Pronunciation Guide
To pronounce '모텔' (motel), '모' sounds like 'mo' in 'more' or 'mow'. '텔' sounds like the English word 'tell'. Combine them for MOH-tell, with a slight emphasis on the first syllable.
More Example Sentences
Planning a weekend trip with friends or family.
우리 주말에 바닷가 근처 모텔에서 묵을까?
Shall we stay at a motel near the beach this weekend?
Recommending an accommodation to someone.
이 모텔은 방이 깨끗하고 가격도 저렴해요.
This motel's rooms are clean and the price is cheap.
Explaining a travel situation where options were limited.
늦은 시간이라 모텔밖에 선택지가 없었어요.
It was late, so there was no option but a motel.
Cultural Context
In Korea, '모텔' (motel) often refers to short-term accommodations, which can range from basic to quite luxurious, sometimes with themed rooms or unique amenities like large bathtubs. While they are commonly used for overnight stays by travelers, some also cater to couples seeking privacy. They are generally more affordable than hotels and are widely available, especially near transport hubs and highways, making them a convenient option for quick stays.
Editorial note
We review entries like 모텔 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
모텔 예약하다
To book a motel
모텔 찾기
To find a motel
모텔에서 자다
To sleep at a motel
Related Expressions
호텔
hotel
Hotel
여관
yeogwan
Traditional Korean inn (older term)
숙소
sukso
Accommodation
민박
minbak
Homestay/Guesthouse
More Travel Words
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