How to decode Korean home appliance keypads in Korea (when all buttons are Korean)

Quick Answer: Common Korean Appliance Buttons

If Korean appliance buttons look confusing, here’s a quick guide you can use immediately:

• 전원 = Power
• 시작 / 작동 = Start
• 예약 = Timer
• 취소 = Cancel
• 강 / 중 / 약 = Strong / Medium / Weak
• 헹굼 = Rinse

These buttons appear on most Korean washing machines, air conditioners, and microwaves.
Scroll down for appliance-specific button explanations.

When Every Button Is in Korean

You stand in front of your boiler.
You press a button. Nothing happens.
You try again. Still nothing.
The washer beeps. The door lock flashes red.
And for a moment, it feels like the appliance might be winning.

This is a shared experience for nearly every foreigner in Korea — beginners and long-term residents alike.

Korean Appliance Buttons You’ll See Everywhere

Korean Button	Meaning	Where You’ll See It
전원	Power	All appliances
시작 / 작동	Start	Washer, Microwave
예약	Timer	Washer, AC
취소	Cancel	All appliances
강 / 중 / 약	Power level	Washer, AC

Microwave & Oven Buttons Explained

• 데우기 = Reheat
• 해동 = Defrost
• 출력 = Power level
• 시작 = Start

Korean Air Conditioner Buttons Explained

If you’re using a Korean air conditioner, these buttons are key:

• 냉방 = Cooling
• 난방 = Heating
• 제습 = Dehumidifier
• 풍량 = Fan speed
• 자동 = Auto mode

Korean Washing Machine Buttons Explained

These are the most common washing machine buttons in Korean homes:

• 세탁 = Wash
• 헹굼 = Rinse
• 탈수 = Spin
• 표준 = Standard
• 쾌속 = Quick wash
• 울 = Delicate / Wool

Most Korean washing machines use the same terms regardless of brand.

Why This Happens

Korean home appliances are primarily designed for local users.
Manufacturers assume people already recognize the standard functions, so translations are rarely added. English labels are almost never included, and symbols are minimal.

The appliance isn’t overly complex — it’s simply communicating in a language you don’t yet read.

Practical Solutions That Actually Work

1. Use quick translation tools

A simple and reliable method. Appliance buttons rarely change, so once you translate them, you’re set.

• Take a clear photo of the control panel
• Use Google Lens or Papago for instant translation
• Save the image on your phone for reference
• Check it anytime the beeping begins again

2. Learn the 10 most common Korean appliance words

You don’t need to study Korean deeply. A small set of words appears across almost all keypads.

• Start / Stop
• Power
• Mode
• Heating
• Laundry types
• Open / Close
• Lock
• Water temperature
• Dry
• Timer

Recognizing just these makes most appliances feel instantly more intuitive.

3. Use preset shortcuts

Korean appliances rely heavily on presets, which can simplify daily use.

• Ask your landlord or a Korean friend to set your preferred modes
• Take photos of the final settings
• Use the same button sequence every time

This approach is especially popular for boilers and washing machines.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a universal Korean appliance button guide?
Yes. Most Korean appliances use the same words for power, start, timer, and modes.

Do Korean appliance button labels change by brand?
Not much. Samsung, LG, and smaller brands mostly use identical button terms.

A Little Guidance for Daily Life

Life in Korea becomes much smoother when you build small habits like these. Before long, these keypads won’t feel confusing at all.

If you want to make everyday living easier, explore more simple tips about navigating life in Korea.

If you’re new to daily life in Korea, you may also find these guides helpful:

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