Sebeolsik Keyboard in Korean
Sebeolsik is written 세벌식. It is built from 세 (se, "three"), 벌 (beol, a counter for sets, as in a set of clothes) and 식 (sik, "style" or "system"). The two-set layout you probably already use is 두벌식 (dubeolsik), with 두 (du, "two").
The idea is simple. A Korean syllable block has up to three slots: an initial consonant, a vowel and a final consonant (초성, 중성, 종성; see initial, vowel and final slots). In sebeolsik there is a key for each slot. The consonant ㄴ has one key for when it opens a block and a different key for when it closes one. The same is true of the other consonants that can be finals.
In 2-beolsik, one ㄴ key covers both jobs. The Korean IME decides from the next keystroke where the letter belongs. That is fast to learn, but it sometimes regroups blocks in surprising ways. Sebeolsik avoids that, because the key already says which slot the letter fills.
Sebeolsik 390 and Sebeolsik Final are the two versions most often named. Their key positions differ, so a person who learns one cannot assume the other.
Sebeolsik vs 2-Beolsik
Sebeolsik and 2-beolsik differ mainly in how many key sets they have and in how the final consonant is typed. The standard Korean layout is 2-beolsik (KS X 5002), and it is the default on Windows, Mac, Android and iPhone.
| Feature | 2-beolsik (두벌식) | Sebeolsik (세벌식) |
|---|---|---|
| Key sets | 2: consonants and vowels | 3: initials, vowels, finals |
| Final consonant | Same key as the initial | Its own key |
| Double finals such as ㄺ | Two key presses merged by the IME | Entered with final-letter keys; the method differs by version |
| Learning cost | Low; used by nearly everyone | Higher; a new map to memorise |
| Availability | Built into every device | Needs a setting, an add-on or a keyboard that supports it |
Both layouts rely on an input method to build blocks. For the standard map, see the 2-beolsik keyboard layout.
What Are Examples of Sebeolsik?
Take the word 한 (han). On 2-beolsik, you press three keys: G for ㅎ, K for ㅏ and S for ㄴ. On a three-set layout, you press an initial-ㅎ key, a vowel-ㅏ key and a final-ㄴ key. It is also three presses, but the third key can only be a final, so no regrouping occurs when you type further letters.
Another example is the word 값 (gap, price). In 2-beolsik you type R, K, Q, T and the IME merges Q and T into the cluster ㅄ. In a three-set layout, the cluster is entered with final-letter keys, so the software never has to guess whether the ㅅ opens a new block. How clusters are entered differs by version. The point of the layout is that finals are never mistaken for initials.
These examples show the principle, not exact keys. This page does not list key positions, because they differ between versions. If you want to try it, use the settings of your system for the three-set option, which depends on the operating system. On a Mac the Korean input sources include a 3-Set layout and a 390 layout, as described in how to type Korean on a Mac.
What Do Learners Get Wrong about Sebeolsik?
Learners usually get three things wrong.
- They think it is the modern standard. It is not. The standard is 2-beolsik, and most guides, classes and typing tests assume it.
- They think they must learn it for Korean. They do not. You can type Korean perfectly with 2-beolsik.
- They think it needs no software. It still needs an input method that assembles blocks. See the Korean IME.
Beginners can ignore sebeolsik; it matters mostly to experienced typists who want more speed or comfort and are willing to learn a second map.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Sebeolsik Better than 2-Beolsik?
It is not better for learners. Sebeolsik can reduce regrouping surprises and some typists find it comfortable, but it requires learning a new key map. Standard guides, tests and shared computers use 2-beolsik, so beginners are better off learning that first. They can consider sebeolsik later.
What Does Sebeolsik Mean?
Sebeolsik, written 세벌식, means "three-set style". The three sets are keys for initial consonants, vowels and final consonants. It contrasts with 두벌식 (dubeolsik), "two-set style", the standard layout, in which one consonant key serves for both initial and final position.
Can I Install a Sebeolsik Keyboard?
Often yes, but the route depends on the operating system and the version. Some systems list a 3-set option in their Korean keyboard settings, and others need an add-on. Check your system's input settings, and see the device setup guides on this site before changing the default.
Do I Need Sebeolsik to Pass a Korean Typing Test?
No. Typing tests and courses normally use 2-beolsik. If a test allows a choice, check its rules first, but you should assume the standard layout and practise with it. For practice, use the 2-beolsik trainer in the Korean typing practice tool.
Related Terms and Lessons
- 2-beolsik keyboard layout: the standard map used almost everywhere.
- Korean IME: the software that turns key presses into blocks.
- Korean keyboard install: how to add a keyboard on your device.
- Korean keyboard layout: the whole section.
