미술
misul[ˈmi(ː)sʰuɭ]
In Korean, the phrase for art is 미술 (misul).
The term 미술 is used to refer specifically to the visual arts, such as painting, sculpture or drawing.
Which one should you use?
While 미술 refers specifically to visual arts, the term 예술 is a broader term for art in all its forms, including music, literature and the performing arts. Additionally, the loanword 아트 is sometimes used to refer to art, particularly when discussing modern or contemporary forms.
How do you pronounce it?
misul
Did you know?
- The character 術 in 미술 is also found in the word for 'magic' or 'sorcery', 술수, suggesting an ancient link between artistic skill and mystical prowess.
- There is a unique cultural overlap where calligraphy, or 서예, is treated as both a visual 'art' 미술 and a spiritual 'discipline' or 'way' 도.
- In Korean schools, 미술 is not just a subject but often refers to the specific physical space, the 'art room', which is traditionally kept as a more flexible, less rigid environment than a standard classroom.
Examples in context
- 예술은 인류의 창조적 표현입니다.Art is a creative expression of humanity.
- 그림 그리는 거 예술이야!Drawing is art!
- 오늘 아트 전시회에 갈래?Do you want to go to an art exhibition today?
- 그는 미술을 전공해요.geuneun misureul jeon-gong-hae-yo.He majors in art.
- 이곳은 미술 전시회가 열려요.igoseun misul jeonsihwaga yeollyeoyo.An art exhibition is held here.
- 저는 미술에 관심이 많아요.jeoneun misure gwansimi manayo.I have a lot of interest in art.
Example conversation
Two friends are talking about a weekend plan at a gallery.
- 지훈 Ji-hun지은 씨, 미술 전시회 보러 갈래요?jieun ssi, misul jeonsihwe boreo gallaeyo?Jieun, do you want to go see an art exhibition?
- 지은 Ji-eun좋아요, 지훈 씨. 같이 가요.joayo, jihun ssi. gachi gayo.That sounds good, Jihoon. Let's go together.
- 지훈 Ji-hun이번 미술 작품이 정말 멋지대요.ibeon misul jakpumi jeongmal meotjidaeyo.I heard this art piece is really wonderful.
- 지은 Ji-eun정말 기대돼요!jeongmal gidaedwaeyo!I'm really looking forward to it!
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry 미술, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
