Korean Dictionary
How to say "Shoes" in Korean
“Shoes” in Korean is 신발 (pronounced "sinbal").
신발
sinbal
Usage & Context
Footwear worn for protection and style in Korea. Essential for daily activities and available in countless styles.
Example Sentence
새 신발을 샀어요.
I bought new shoes.
How to use 신발 naturally
Quick answer
The Korean word for “Shoes” is 신발, romanized as sinbal.
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 신발.
Pronunciation Guide
The first syllable 'sin' (신) sounds like 'shin' in 'shinbone'. The second syllable 'bal' (발) sounds like 'bal' in 'ball' but with a shorter 'a' sound, similar to 'balm' without the 'm'. Combine them as 'SHIN-bal', with emphasis on 'SHIN'.
More Example Sentences
Suggesting an outing with new shoes.
새 신발을 신고 나들이 갈까요?
Shall we go out wearing new shoes?
Instructing someone to enter a Korean home or establishment.
신발을 벗고 들어오세요.
Please take off your shoes and come in.
Complaining about uncomfortable footwear.
이 신발은 너무 불편해요.
These shoes are too uncomfortable.
Cultural Context
Taking off shoes (신발 벗다) before entering a home, some restaurants, or traditional spaces is a fundamental Korean custom. It's considered rude not to, and you'll often see shoe racks (신발장) at entrances. Koreans embrace a wide variety of shoe styles, from fashionable sneakers to elegant heels, reflecting global trends while maintaining this unique cultural practice.
Editorial note
We review entries like 신발 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
신발 신다
To wear/put on shoes
신발 벗다
To take off shoes
신발장
Shoe rack/cabinet
Related Expressions
구두
gudu
Dress shoes/formal shoes
운동화
undong-hwa
Sneakers/athletic shoes
슬리퍼
seullipeo
Slippers (for indoor or casual wear)
샌들
saendeul
Sandals
More Clothing Words
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