4 in Korean = 사 (sa) / 넷 (net)

The number 4 in Korean is 사 (sa) pronounced "sah" (Sino-Korean) or 넷 (net) pronounced "net" (Native Korean). It's unlucky because 사 sounds like "death".

Quick Answer

Pronunciation

Sa (사): "sah" - Sino-Korean Net (넷): "net" - Native Korean

• 넷 becomes 네 (ne) before counters

Cultural Significance: Unlucky Number

Why 4 is unlucky:

• 사 (sa) sounds like 사 (死 - death)
• Deeply avoided in Korean culture
• Similar to Chinese and Japanese tetraphobia

Real-world impact:

• Buildings skip 4th floor (often labeled "F")
• No room 4 in hotels/hospitals
• Elevators may use "F" instead of "4"
• NEVER give gifts in sets of 4
• Phone numbers with 4 are avoided
• Very strong superstition

When to Use Each

사 (sa): dates, money, phone numbers (but avoided) 넷 (net): counting objects, hours

Practical Usage

Phone numbers: 4 = 사 (sa) - but avoided Times: 4:00 = 네 시 (ne si) Counting: 네 개 (ne gae) = 4 items

Quick Takeaways

• 4 = 사 (sa) or 넷 (net)
• 넷 → 네 (ne) before counters
• UNLUCKY - sounds like death
• Buildings skip 4th floor
• Never give gifts in sets of 4

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TravelNum shows Korean pronunciation.