Korean · Daily Life
열쇠
yeolsoe
Key
Beginnernoun
Definition
A small metal object used to open locks.
Example
집 열쇠가 어디 있지?
Where is the house key?
Etymology
'열쇠' (yeolsoe) is derived from the classical Chinese '钥匙' (yuèzhǐ), meaning key. It has been part of the Korean vocabulary since the adoption of Sino-Korean terms.
How & Where It’s Used
This term appears both in formal and informal settings, frequently in spoken language when discussing security or access. It is commonly understood throughout Korea.