Korean Dictionary
How to say "Addiction" in Korean
“Addiction” in Korean is 중독 (pronounced "jungdok").
중독
jungdok
Usage & Context
Addiction is a compulsive dependence on a substance or behavior. Korea has recognized gaming addiction, alcohol addiction, and smartphone addiction as significant public health concerns.
Example Sentence
스마트폰 중독은 현대 사회의 심각한 문제다.
Smartphone addiction is a serious issue in modern society.
How to use 중독 naturally
Quick answer
The Korean word for “Addiction” is 중독, romanized as jungdok.
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 중독.
Pronunciation Guide
중 (jung) sounds like 'joong' in 'moon' but with a 'j' sound at the beginning, similar to 'jung' in 'jungle'. 독 (dok) sounds like 'dock'. The stress is on the first syllable, 'jung'.
More Example Sentences
Describing negative consequences.
그는 게임 중독 때문에 학업을 소홀히 하기 시작했어요.
He started neglecting his studies because of gaming addiction.
Highlighting broader impact.
알코올 중독은 가족 전체에 영향을 미칩니다.
Alcohol addiction affects the entire family.
Discussing a modern societal issue.
요즘 젊은 세대 사이에서 스마트폰 중독이 심각한 문제로 떠오르고 있어요.
Smartphone addiction is emerging as a serious problem among the younger generation these days.
Cultural Context
Korea has a strong focus on work and academic achievement, which can sometimes lead to escapism through gaming or alcohol. Internet and gaming addiction, in particular, are recognized as significant public health concerns, with government-funded centers and programs dedicated to treatment. 'PC방' (PC rooms) culture, while popular, also contributes to the environment where gaming addiction can develop.
Editorial note
We review entries like 중독 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
~에 중독되다
to be addicted to ~
중독에서 벗어나다
to break free from addiction
인터넷 중독
internet addiction
Related Expressions
의존
uijon
dependence
탐닉
tamnik
indulgence, obsession
금단 증상
geumdan jeungsang
withdrawal symptoms
재활 치료
jaehwal chiryo
rehabilitation treatment
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