korea

word

/ˈkɹiə/, /ˌkɔˈɹiə/, /kɝˈɹiə/
kuh-REE-uh, kaw-REE-uh
/ˈkɹiə/, /ˌkɔˈɹiə/, /kəˈɹiə/
kuh-REE-uh, kaw-REE-uh

Definition

Korea is the name used for the Korean peninsula in East Asia, and in everyday use it often refers to either South Korea or, less commonly, North Korea depending on context.

Usage & Nuances

Usually capitalized as 'Korea'. In many contexts, people mean South Korea, but this can be unclear, so 'South Korea' or 'North Korea' is often better. Common phrases include 'Korean food', 'Korean culture', and 'the Korean peninsula'.

Example Sentences

I’ve been really into Korean dramas lately, so now Korea feels more familiar to me.

natural

My friend is from Korea.

basic

She wants to visit Korea next year.

basic

Korea is in East Asia.

basic

When people say they’re going to Korea, they usually mean South Korea.

natural

We tried a new restaurant downtown, and the owner is from Korea.

natural