Korean Dictionary
How to say "Surgery" in Korean
“Surgery” in Korean is 수술 (pronounced "susul").
수술
susul
Usage & Context
수술 refers to any surgical operation and is a word that carries significant weight in Korean culture where serious illness is viewed as a family matter. Korean families typically rally together when a member needs 수술, with relatives often taking shifts at the hospital. Korea is renowned globally for its high standard of medical 수술.
Example Sentence
내일 수술이 있어서 오늘 밤 금식해야 해요.
I have surgery tomorrow so I need to fast tonight.
How to use 수술 naturally
Quick answer
The Korean word for “Surgery” is 수술, romanized as susul.
Usage tip
When describing symptoms, combine the word with where it hurts, when it started, and how severe it is.
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 수술.
Pronunciation Guide
The word '수술' is pronounced 'soo-sool'. '수' sounds like 'soo' in 'soon'. '술' sounds like 'sool', similar to 'pool' but with an 'uh' vowel sound, like the 'u' in 'but'. The 's' sound is soft, like the 's' in 'sip'.
More Example Sentences
Updating on someone's health status to a friend or colleague.
그는 무릎 수술을 받고 회복 중입니다.
He is recovering after knee surgery.
A doctor explaining a medical procedure to a patient.
이 수술은 위험 부담이 좀 있어요.
This surgery carries some risks.
A patient asking for confirmation about pre-surgery instructions.
수술 전에 금식해야 한다고 들었어요.
I heard I need to fast before surgery.
Cultural Context
In Korea, '수술' (surgery) is a word that carries significant weight, as serious illness is often viewed as a family matter. When a family member needs surgery, relatives typically rally together, often taking shifts at the hospital to provide support and care. Korea is globally renowned for its high standard of medical '수술', particularly in fields like cosmetic surgery and advanced procedures, which are frequently featured in K-dramas and news.
Editorial note
We review entries like 수술 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
수술 받다
to undergo/receive surgery
수술하다
to perform surgery (doctor's perspective)
수술실
operating room
Related Expressions
입원
ibwon
hospitalization
퇴원
toewon
discharge from hospital
치료
chiryo
treatment
회복
hoebok
recovery
More Health & Medical Words
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