Korean Dictionary
How to say "Tree" in Korean
“Tree” in Korean is 나무 (pronounced "Namu").
나무
Namu
Usage & Context
Trees hold cultural significance in Korea. Ancient 당산나무 (village guardian trees) are revered in traditional villages. 소나무 (pine tree) is Korea's national tree, symbolizing resilience and longevity. The word 나무 is also part of 가구 (furniture, literally 'house wood') — reflecting the deep connection to wood in Korean culture.
Example Sentence
이 소나무는 수백 년이 된 나무예요.
This pine tree is hundreds of years old.
How to use 나무 naturally
Quick answer
The Korean word for “Tree” is 나무, romanized as Namu.
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 나무.
Pronunciation Guide
Pronounce 'Na' like 'nah' in 'nah-nah'. 'Mu' is like 'moo' in 'cow'. The stress is on the first syllable.
More Example Sentences
Enjoying a park.
공원에 큰 나무들이 많아서 그늘이 시원해요.
There are many big trees in the park, so the shade is cool.
Observing seasonal changes.
가을이 되면 나무들이 예쁜 색으로 변해요.
When autumn comes, the trees change into beautiful colors.
Pointing something out in nature.
저 나무에 새 둥지가 있어요.
There's a bird's nest in that tree.
Cultural Context
Trees, or '나무' (namu), are deeply embedded in Korean culture and symbolism. The '소나무' (sonamu), or pine tree, is particularly significant, serving as Korea's national tree and symbolizing resilience, longevity, and steadfastness, often seen in traditional art and architecture. Ancient '당산나무' (dangsan-namu), or village guardian trees, are revered in many traditional villages as spiritual protectors. The word '나무' also forms part of '가구' (gagu, furniture), literally 'house wood,' highlighting the historical importance of wood in daily life.
Editorial note
We review entries like 나무 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
나무를 심다
To plant a tree.
나무 그늘
Tree shade.
큰 나무
Big tree.
Related Expressions
숲
sup
Forest
꽃
kkot
Flower
잎
ip
Leaf
뿌리
ppuri
Root
More Nature Words
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