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Chulipgeumji Meaning: What 출입금지 and 관계자외 출입금지 Mean

Chulipgeumji Meaning: What 출입금지 and 관계자외 출입금지 Mean

Quick Answer: The chulipgeumji meaning is simple: it means “No Entry.” If you see 출입금지, do not go past the sign. If you see 관계자외 출입금지, it means “Staff Only” or “Authorized Personnel Only.”
chulipgeumji meaning on a Korean no entry sign at a restricted building door

If you are new to Korea, the chulipgeumji meaning is one of the most useful sign meanings to know. It tells you that an area is closed to the public, and you should stop before entering.

Chulipgeumji Meaning: What You Need to Know

What chulipgeumji means

Chulipgeumji means a place is not open for entry. In simple English, it is the same as “No Entry,” “Do Not Enter,” or “Entry Prohibited.” You may see it on doors, gates, fences, hallways, or barriers.

Important: A sign is the rule, even if the door is open. If the area says 출입금지 or 관계자외 출입금지, do not enter unless staff clearly tell you to go in.
chulipgeumji meaning on a red 출입금지 sign at a closed public building door
chulipgeumji meaning on a red 출입금지 sign at a closed public building door

The difference between 출입금지 and 관계자외 출입금지

출입금지

This is the stricter warning. It means no entry at all for the public. You may see it near construction areas, utility rooms, dangerous equipment, or temporarily closed spaces.

관계자외 출입금지

This means only people with permission may enter. The closest English meaning is “Authorized Personnel Only” or “Staff Only.” Customers and visitors should stay outside unless a staff member escorts them.

In other words, 출입금지 is a general stop sign, while 관계자외 출입금지 means only approved staff or workers may go in.

Where you will see these signs

Subway and train stations

These signs often appear near staff corridors, control rooms, electrical areas, and platform back sections.

Shops, malls, and restaurants

Back rooms, storage areas, kitchens, and loading zones are often marked 관계자외 출입금지.

Construction and maintenance areas

These areas are frequently marked 출입금지 because they can be dangerous.

Hotels and public buildings

Maintenance rooms, service corridors, and office-only spaces are usually restricted.

관계자외 출입금지 staff only sign at a back entrance in Korea
관계자외 출입금지 staff only sign at a back entrance in Korea

Useful Korean phrases

출입금지
chulipgeumji
No Entry / Entry Prohibited
Do not cross into the area.
관계자외 출입금지
gwan-gye-ja-oe chulipgeumji
Authorized Personnel Only / Staff Only
Only approved staff or workers may enter.
관계자
gwan-gye-ja
Authorized person / staff member
담당자
dam-dang-ja
Person in charge
Useful when asking for the right staff member.
여기 들어가도 되나요?
yeogi deureogado doenayo?
May I enter here?
A polite question if you are unsure.
죄송합니다
joe-song-ham-ni-da
I’m sorry
Useful if you enter by mistake.

Common mistakes foreigners make

  • Thinking an open door means it is okay to enter.
  • Assuming the sign only applies to locals.
  • Believing the sign is decorative or old.
  • Walking in instead of asking staff first.

FAQ

Can foreigners enter areas marked 출입금지?

No. The chulipgeumji meaning applies to everyone. If the sign says no entry, do not go in.

Does 관계자외 출입금지 always mean customers cannot enter?

In normal situations, yes. Customers should stay out unless staff explicitly escort them for a specific reason.

What should I do if I am not sure about a door?

Stop, do not enter, and ask a staff member or reception desk for help.

Summary

The chulipgeumji meaning is straightforward: it means “No Entry.” 출입금지 is a full stop, and 관계자외 출입금지 means only authorized staff may enter.

When you see either sign in Korea, do not cross the boundary. If you are unsure, ask staff first. That simple habit will help you stay safe and respectful.