Korean Dictionary
How to say "Swimming" in Korean
“Swimming” in Korean is 수영 (pronounced "Suyeong").
수영
Suyeong
Usage & Context
Swimming is a popular leisure and exercise activity in Korea. Public swimming pools and indoor pools are widely accessible across the country.
Example Sentence
수영은 전신 운동이라 건강에 좋아요.
Swimming is good for health as it is a full-body exercise.
How to use 수영 naturally
Quick answer
The Korean word for “Swimming” is 수영, romanized as Suyeong.
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 수영.
Pronunciation Guide
For "수영" (suyeong), it sounds like "soo-young." "Soo" as in "soup" without the 'p', and "young" as in a young person. The 'eo' is like the 'uh' in "butter," but here it's followed by 'ng' so it sounds more like "uhng."
More Example Sentences
Discussing favorite summer activities.
여름에는 시원하게 수영하는 게 최고죠.
In summer, swimming coolly is the best.
Talking about regular exercise routines.
건강을 위해 매주 수영 강습을 받고 있어요.
I'm taking swimming lessons every week for my health.
Describing family outings to the pool.
아이들이 물놀이 좋아해서 수영장에 자주 가요.
The kids love playing in the water, so we often go to the swimming pool.
Cultural Context
Swimming, or "수영," is a widely popular activity in Korea, both as a recreational hobby and a serious sport. Public swimming pools are common, and many apartment complexes have their own facilities. It's a popular choice for children's extracurricular activities, and adults often take swimming lessons for fitness or to enjoy water sports during vacations. It's seen as a great full-body workout and a refreshing way to beat the summer heat.
Editorial note
We review entries like 수영 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
수영할 줄 알아요?
Do you know how to swim?
수영 배우고 싶어요.
I want to learn swimming.
같이 수영하러 갈래?
Want to go swimming together?
Related Expressions
수영하다
suyeonghada
to swim (verb)
수영장
suyeongjang
swimming pool
물놀이
mulnori
water play
수영복
suyeongbok
swimsuit
More Hobbies & Leisure Words
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