Korean Dictionary
How to say "A Friend in Need is a Friend Indeed" in Korean
“A Friend in Need is a Friend Indeed” in Korean is 어려울 때 친구가 진정한 친구다 (pronounced "Eoryeoul Ttae Chinguga Jinjeonhan Chinguda").
어려울 때 친구가 진정한 친구다
Eoryeoul Ttae Chinguga Jinjeonhan Chinguda
Usage & Context
This proverb exists in Korean culture to emphasize the value of true friendship that stands through difficult times.
Example Sentence
어려울 때 도와준 친구가 진정한 친구라는 것을 깨달았어요.
I realized that a friend who helps in difficult times is a true friend.
How to use 어려울 때 친구가 진정한 친구다 naturally
Quick answer
The Korean word for “A Friend in Need is a Friend Indeed” is 어려울 때 친구가 진정한 친구다, romanized as Eoryeoul Ttae Chinguga Jinjeonhan Chinguda.
Usage tip
Learn this word together with a complete Korean sentence. Meaning often depends on particles, politeness level, and word order.
Common mistake
Do not rely only on the English meaning. Read the Korean example sentence and notice the particles, word order, and politeness level around 어려울 때 친구가 진정한 친구다.
Pronunciation Guide
The phrase "어려울 때 친구가 진정한 친구다" is pronounced: "Eo-ryeo-ul" sounds like "uh-ryuh-ool". "Ttae" is "ttae" (like 'tie' but with a tense 't'). "Chin-gu-ga" is "chin-goo-gah". "Jin-jeong-han" is "jin-jung-hahn". "Chin-gu-da" is "chin-goo-dah". The phrase has a clear, declarative tone, with emphasis on "eo-ryeo-ul ttae" (when it's difficult) and "jin-jeong-han chin-gu" (a true friend).
More Example Sentences
Expressing gratitude to a supportive friend.
내가 힘들 때 옆에 있어준 너야말로 어려울 때 친구가 진정한 친구라는 걸 보여줬어.
You, who stood by me when I was struggling, truly showed that a friend in need is a friend indeed.
Realizing the truth of the proverb after a difficult experience.
어려울 때 친구가 진정한 친구라는 말을 이제야 이해하겠어.
Now I understand the saying that a friend in need is a friend indeed.
Praising someone for their loyalty during a tough time.
그는 어려울 때 친구가 진정한 친구라는 것을 증명했다.
He proved that a friend in need is a friend indeed.
Cultural Context
Friendship ('친구', chingu) holds immense importance in Korean culture, often seen as a lifelong bond. This proverb deeply resonates with the value placed on loyalty, support, and reliability in relationships. It's a common sentiment expressed in K-dramas, songs, and everyday conversations when people reflect on who their true companions are, especially during challenging times. The concept of '의리' (eui-ri), meaning loyalty or fidelity, is closely tied to this proverb, emphasizing the importance of standing by your friends.
Editorial note
We review entries like 어려울 때 친구가 진정한 친구다 for pronunciation, example sentence fit, and learner mistakes so the page answers more than a direct dictionary lookup.
Reviewed by Min-jung Park, Korean Language Teacher. Updated May 31, 2026. See our editorial standards.
Common Phrases
어려울 때 친구가 진정한 친구지.
A friend in need is a true friend, you know.
어려울 때 친구가 진정한 친구라는 걸 깨달았어.
I realized that a friend in need is a true friend.
진정한 친구는 어려울 때 나타나는 법이야.
True friends appear when you're in need.
Related Expressions
지란지교 (芝蘭之交)
Jiranjigyo
A friendship as fragrant as orchids (a deep, noble friendship).
죽마고우 (竹馬故友)
Jungmagou
Childhood friends (literally 'bamboo horse old friends').
믿을 만한 친구
Mideul manhan chingu
A trustworthy friend.
배신하다
Baesinhada
To betray (antonym concept).
More Idioms & Proverbs Words
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