Korean Dictionary
How to say "Tunnel" in Korean
“Tunnel” in Korean is 터널 (pronounced "teonel").
터널
teonel
Usage & Context
터널 are extensively used in Korea where mountainous terrain makes them essential for road and rail infrastructure. Many Korean 터널 on expressways pass through major mountain ranges. The Seoraksan 터널 and the Guryongpo 터널 are examples of Korea's civil engineering achievements in challenging landscapes.
Example Sentence
이 터널을 지나면 바로 목적지예요.
Once you pass through this tunnel the destination is right there.
How to use 터널 naturally
Quick answer
The Korean word for “Tunnel” is 터널, romanized as teonel.
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 터널.
Pronunciation Guide
The first syllable, "Teo," sounds like "tuh" in "tough." The second syllable, "nel," rhymes with "nell" in "bell." Combine them as "tuh-nell," with a slight emphasis on the first syllable.
More Example Sentences
Driving safety instructions.
터널 안에서는 전조등을 켜야 해요.
You need to turn on your headlights inside the tunnel.
Commenting on a long drive.
이 터널은 길이가 정말 길어요.
This tunnel is really long.
Explaining a traffic delay.
터널 공사 때문에 길이 막혔어요.
The road is blocked due to tunnel construction.
Cultural Context
Korea's mountainous terrain means tunnels are extremely common, especially on expressways and railways. You'll frequently encounter them when traveling outside major cities. Many are quite long and well-lit, often with emergency exits and safety features. Some even have artistic lighting or sound effects inside to make the drive more interesting.
Editorial note
We review entries like 터널 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
터널을 지나다
to pass through a tunnel
터널 공사 중
tunnel under construction
터널 안
inside the tunnel
Related Expressions
지하도
jihado
underpass (for pedestrians/vehicles)
굴
gul
cave, mine (more general term for a hole/passage)
터널 굴착
teonel gulchak
tunnel excavation
터널 통과
teonel tonggwa
tunnel passage
More Transportation Words
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