Korean Dictionary
How to say "Affection" in Korean
“Affection” in Korean is 애정 (pronounced "aejeong").
애정
aejeong
Usage & Context
Tender feelings of love and fondness toward someone. Affection is expressed openly in Korean relationships through words and actions.
Example Sentence
나는 너에게 애정이 있어.
I have affection for you.
How to use 애정 naturally
Quick answer
The Korean word for “Affection” is 애정, romanized as aejeong.
Usage tip
Relationship words can sound too direct if the social context is wrong. Check the age, closeness, and formality before using it.
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 애정.
Pronunciation Guide
The first syllable, "Ae," sounds like the 'a' in "cat" but slightly more open, or like "eh" in "bed." The second syllable, "Jeong," sounds like the "jong" in "jongle," with the 'eo' similar to the 'aw' in "saw." The stress is fairly even.
More Example Sentences
Describing someone's love for pets.
그녀는 동물들에게 깊은 애정을 가지고 있어요.
She has deep affection for animals.
Reflecting on a long-standing friendship.
오랜 친구 사이에는 특별한 애정이 있죠.
There's a special affection between old friends, isn't there?
Expressing gratitude to parents.
부모님의 애정 어린 보살핌 덕분에 잘 자랐어요.
I grew up well thanks to my parents' affectionate care.
Cultural Context
While Koreans might seem reserved in public displays of affection compared to some Western cultures, "애정" (aejeong) is deeply felt and expressed, often through actions rather than just words. In K-dramas, you'll see couples holding hands, sharing food, or performing small acts of service as expressions of affection. Among close friends, same-sex physical affection like linking arms is common and not necessarily romantic.
Editorial note
We check relationship words like 애정 against age, closeness, and politeness rules, because a literal English match often misses the social meaning.
Reviewed by Min-jung Park, Korean Language Teacher. Updated May 31, 2026. See our editorial standards.
Common Phrases
애정을 표현하다
To express affection.
애정이 넘치다
To overflow with affection.
애정 어린 눈빛
Affectionate gaze.
Related Expressions
사랑
sarang
Love (stronger, broader than 애정)
정
jeong
Deep emotional attachment, bond, affection (a unique Korean concept)
애착
aechak
Attachment, fondness (often for objects or specific people)
미움
mium
Hatred, dislike (antonym)
More Relationships Words
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