When you reach a restroom in a Seoul café, station or shopping building, the useful clue may be a small label rather than the room name. Read the words together with the lock indicator and any temporary notice. Four expressions can help you understand the situation without trying every door. They are reading aids, not a promise that a particular facility is available.
사용중: in use
사용중 means “in use.” On a restroom indicator, it usually tells you that the space is occupied. Give the person inside privacy rather than repeatedly testing the handle. The expression also appears on other equipment, so first check which room or device the label describes. A disconnected sign elsewhere is not evidence about this door.
비어있음: vacant
비어있음 means “vacant” or “empty.” An indicator may use this wording for an unoccupied space. That is different from confirming that the room is functioning or open to visitors. A separate closure notice, a barrier or staff instructions can still apply. Do not force a stuck or locked door because one word appears to say it is empty.
청소중: cleaning in progress
청소중 means that cleaning is in progress. Look for instructions about waiting or using another facility. Keep clear of staff and equipment instead of stepping around a barrier. If there is no clear alternative, ask 다른 화장실이 어디예요? — “Where is another restroom?” The notice alone does not tell you how many minutes the work will take.
고장: a fault or breakdown
고장 signals a fault or breakdown. Read the rest of the notice to see what it applies to: one fixture, an automatic door or the entire facility may be involved. Do not assume that another part is usable simply because it looks normal. Ask staff which alternative visitors should use.
Match the label to the place
Before telling a friend that a restroom is available, confirm which doorway you mean and whether the current notice applies to it. Share directions without photographing people or occupied stalls. In an unfamiliar building, asking 직원에게 물어봐도 돼요? — “May I ask a staff member?” is better than treating a translated label as permission to enter. Follow the actual signs and current staff directions.