피부과
pibugwa
The English word dermatology is translated into Korean as 피부과 (pibugwa).
In everyday conversation, 피부과 is used to refer both to the medical study of dermatology and to the dermatology clinic itself. If you wish to specify the medical professional, you can use the term 피부과 의사 (dermatologist).
Meaning: the study of the skin and its diseases (noun)
What does it mean word for word?
The word 피부과 is composed of 피부, meaning skin and 과, meaning department or subject.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In some regions, people might use 피부병원 instead of 피부과 to refer to dermatology clinics.
How do you pronounce it?
pibugwa
Did you know?
- In Korea, dermatology is often closely linked with plastic surgery. It is common for a single clinic to operate as both a 피부과 and a 성형외과 (plastic surgery clinic).
- While 피부과 refers to the medical department, the term 피부관리 is often used for non-medical skin care or aesthetic treatments. This distinction is important to avoid implying a medical procedure when booking a spa treatment.
- If you are looking for a dermatologist, you might see the term 피부 전문의 on a sign. This specifically indicates a doctor who has completed specialized residency training in dermatology.
Examples in context
- 피부과에 가야 해요.pibugwa-e gaya haeyo.I need to go to the dermatology clinic.
- 피부과 전문의를 만나고 싶어요.pibugwa jeonmuni-reul mannago sipeoyo.I want to see a dermatologist.
- 그분은 피부과 의사예요.geubun-un pibugwa uisa-ye-yo.He is a dermatologist.
Example conversation
Minjun and Subin are discussing skin care at a cafe.
- 민준 Min-jun얼굴에 여드름이 많이 났어.eolgure yeodeureumi mani nasseo.I have a lot of acne on my face.
- 수빈 Su-bin피부과에 한번 가 봐.pibugwa-e hanbeon ga bwa.Try going to a dermatology clinic.
- 민준 Min-jun어느 피부과가 좋아?eoneu pibugwa-ga joa?Which dermatology clinic is good?
- 수빈 Su-bin집 근처 피부과가 친절해.jip geuncheo pibugwa-ga chinjeolhae.The dermatology clinic near my house is kind.
