The number 4 is considered taboo in Korea primarily because its pronunciation is identical to the Korean word for "death."
The Phonetic Connection to Death
In South Korea, the number 4 is pronounced as 사 (sa). Coincidentally, the Korean word for death is also pronounced 사 (sa). This phonetic similarity stems from Hanja (한자, 漢字), which are Chinese characters incorporated into the Korean language. Although Korean does not use tones like Chinese, the identical pronunciation creates a strong association with misfortune and death.
This association leads to tetraphobia, the aversion or fear of the number four, similar to triskaidekaphobia (fear of the number 13) in some Western cultures.
Comparison of Pronunciation
To illustrate the phonetic link, consider the following:
| Character | Korean Pronunciation | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 四 | 사 (sa) | Four |
| 死 | 사 (sa) | Death |
Where "Four" is Avoided
Due to this deeply ingrained cultural superstition, the number 4 is frequently skipped or replaced in various public and private settings across South Korea to avoid any negative connotations or bad luck.
Common examples include:
- Hospitals and Funeral Halls: The most prominent places where the number 4 is almost always omitted. You will rarely find a 4th floor, room 4, or ward 4 in these establishments.
- Elevators: Many elevators in apartment buildings, hotels, and office complexes will skip the 4th floor. Instead of 4F, you might see "F" (for fourth or floor), "3A," or the numbers might jump directly from 3 to 5.
- Apartment Numbers: While not universally enforced, some apartment units or blocks might avoid using the number 4.
- Building Floors: In general public buildings, it's common for the 4th floor to be omitted in numbering.
Cultural Nuances and Severity
It is important to note that while the aversion to the number 4 is widespread, tetraphobia in South Korea is generally less extreme compared to some other East Asian cultures. While the number is avoided in sensitive environments like hospitals or in building floor numbering, it doesn't typically impact everyday life or decision-making to the same degree. It's more of a cultural superstition and a practice of avoiding potential bad luck, rather than a pervasive fear that dictates personal actions.
For instance, people might still have phones or addresses containing the number 4 without significant concern, but businesses will actively avoid it in official numbering systems where it could be seen as ominous or disrespectful.
