Objective : The anterior approach to the cervical spine now selves as the surgical across of choice for cervical spine disease. Vocal cord paryalysis(VCP) follow the procedure as a complication, and it is most common complication of this procedure. However, the frequency and etiology of this injury are not clearly defined. This study was performed to establish the clinical features of vocal cord paralysis in anterior cervical spine surgery(ACSS). Material and Method : Retrospectively, medical records of patients who underwent ACSS at Hallym university medical center, Hangang Sacred Heart Hospital between January 2000 and March 2006 were reviewed. Further detailed review of the patients with documented VCP after surgery was then performed. Results : 242 ACSSs were performed and 9 patients with VCP were identified (3.71%) In 9 patients with VCP, 8 patients had right-sided approaches (6.01%) and 1 patient had left-sided approach (0.91%). All 9 patients had VCP on ipsilateral side and 8 patients were recovered completely on follow up period. Duration of ACSS, multilevel exposure and low-level (below the C6 level) exposure have been found to be associated with higher risk. Conclusion : For avoiding the recurrent laryngeal nerve injury, surgeon have to understand the clinical features of VCP in ACSS. As right-sided approach has a greater risk of recurrent laryngeal nerve injury, we suggest that the left-sided approach be given more consideration.