Level 4

이민

No base JSON record found for this token.

Meaning and Usage

The Korean word '이민' specifically refers to the act of emigrating, that is, moving from one's home country to live in another country permanently or long-term. It is commonly used in contexts involving legal, social, or personal reasons for relocation abroad.

Common Collocations

  • 이민 가다: to emigrate (literally 'go immigrate')
  • 이민 절차: immigration/emigration procedures
  • 이민자: immigrant (person who has emigrated)
  • 이민 신청: immigration application

These collocations are frequently used in news, official documents, and everyday conversations about moving abroad.

Register and Nuance

'이민' is a neutral term used in both formal and informal contexts. It is not slang or overly technical, so it fits well in news reports, government documents, and casual discussions.

Common Confusion

Learners sometimes confuse '이민' with '입국' (entry into a country) or '출국' (departure from a country). '이민' implies a permanent or long-term move, not just temporary travel or visits.

Practical Tips

When talking about moving abroad, use '이민 가다' to express 'to emigrate.' To talk about the people who have moved, use '이민자.' When discussing the process, '이민 절차' is the standard phrase.

Example Sentences

그는 더 나은 삶을 위해 미국으로 이민을 갔다.

Geuneun deo nareun salmeul wihae Migug-euro imin-eul gatda.

He emigrated to the United States for a better life.

이민 절차가 복잡해서 시간이 오래 걸린다.

Imin jeolcha-ga bokjaphaeseo sigani orae geollinda.

The immigration process is complicated and takes a long time.

한국에서는 최근 몇 년간 이민자가 많이 늘었다.

Hangugeseoneun choegun myeot nyeongan imin-jaga mani neureotda.

In Korea, the number of immigrants has increased a lot in recent years.