항의
hang'ui[ˈha̠(ː)ŋɰi]
The English word "protest" is translated into Korean as 항의 (hang'ui).
항의 refers to a collective gesture of disapproval or a demonstration. While it can describe a large-scale demonstration, it is also commonly used to express a formal or verbal complaint against a specific action or decision.
Meaning: collective gesture of disapproval: demonstration (noun)
Which one should you use?
While 항의 is a general term for protest or complaint, 시위 is the more common word when referring specifically to a physical street protest or a political rally involving a crowd. For a formal gathering specifically organized to voice opinions against an issue, you may use the term 시위 행사, which combines the words for protest and event.
How does it change in a sentence?
The noun 항의 can be turned into the verb "to protest" by adding the suffix –하다 to form 항의하다.
How do you pronounce it?
hang'ui
Did you know?
- Korean speakers often use the term 1인 시위 to describe a 'one-person protest', a common and legally protected tactic to avoid the strict permits required for larger group 시위.
- In South Korea, protests like 시위 often feature 'candlelight vigils', known as 촛불집회, which transformed from small gatherings into a powerful symbol of peaceful democratic protest.
- During a formal 항의, it is common to use a highly polite speech level called 존댓말, even when expressing deep anger, to maintain social standing and authority.
Examples in context
- 저는 사회적 문제에 대해 항의하고 싶어요.I want to protest against social issues.
- 오늘 도시 시위에 참여할 것입니다.I will participate in the city protest today.
- 우리는 정의를 위해 시위합니다.We protest for justice.
- 저는 여러분의 시위에 동참하고 싶습니다.I want to participate in your protest.
- 그들은 강력한 항의를 했습니다.geudeureun gangryeo-han hang-uireul haesseumnida.They made a strong protest.
- 항의를 하러 갈 예정이에요.hang-uireul ha-reo gal yejeong-ieyo.I plan to go to protest.
- 시민들의 항의가 이어졌어요.simindeul-ui hang-iga ieojyeosseoyo.The citizens' protest continued.
Example conversation
Ji-hoon and Seo-yeon are talking about a local news report.
- 지훈 Ji-hun뉴스 봤어? 사람들이 항의하고 있더라.nyuseu bwasseo? saramdeuri hang-uihago itdeora.Did you see the news? People are protesting.
- 서연 Seo-yeon응, 왜 그렇게 항의하는 거야?eung, wae geureoke hang-uihaneun geoya?Yes, why are they protesting like that?
- 지훈 Ji-hun세금이 너무 많이 올랐다고 하네.segeumi neomu mani ollatdago hane.They say taxes have increased too much.
- 서연 Seo-yeon충분히 항의할 만한 이유네.chungbunhi hang-uihal manhan iyune.That is a sufficient reason to protest.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry 항의, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
