Korean Dictionary
How to say "Naturalization" in Korean
“Naturalization” in Korean is 귀화 (pronounced "Gwihwa").
귀화
Gwihwa
Usage & Context
Process of acquiring citizenship of a country. Naturalization in South Korea requires meeting specific requirements.
Example Sentence
귀화는 법적 절차입니다.
Naturalization is a legal process.
How to use 귀화 naturally
Quick answer
The Korean word for “Naturalization” is 귀화, romanized as Gwihwa.
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 귀화.
Pronunciation Guide
The first syllable, 귀 (Gwi), sounds like 'gwee' in 'Gwen'. The second syllable, 화 (hwa), sounds like 'hwa' in 'Hawaii'. Combine them to say 'Gwee-hwa'.
More Example Sentences
Someone sharing their personal experience with the naturalization process.
한국으로 귀화 신청을 했어요.
I applied for naturalization to Korea.
Expressing frustration or surprise about the complexity of naturalization.
귀화 절차가 생각보다 복잡해요.
The naturalization process is more complicated than I thought.
Stating a fact about someone's change in nationality.
그는 귀화를 통해 한국인이 되었습니다.
He became a Korean through naturalization.
Cultural Context
Naturalization in Korea is a significant step, often requiring a long period of residency, language proficiency, and an understanding of Korean culture and history. There are different types of naturalization (general, simplified, special), each with specific requirements. Successful naturalized citizens are often seen as having made a deep commitment to Korean society.
Editorial note
We review entries like 귀화 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
귀화 신청
naturalization application
귀화 시험
naturalization test
귀화 허가
naturalization approval
Related Expressions
국적 취득
Gukjeok chwideuk
acquisition of citizenship (broader term)
영주권
Yeongjugwon
permanent residency (often a prerequisite)
국적법
Gukjeokbeop
Nationality Act
이민
Imin
immigration
More Law & Government Words
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