Korean Dictionary
How to say "Always" in Korean
“Always” in Korean is 항상 (pronounced "hangsang").
항상
hangsang
Korean usage reviewed by Min-jung Park, Korean Language Teacher. Last reviewed June 4, 2026.
This page checks meaning, pronunciation, politeness level, and common learner mistakes.
Usage & Context
The word for always, indicating something happens all the time. This is commonly used in habits and routines.
Example Sentence
나는 항상 학교에 가요.
I always go to school.
How to use 항상 naturally
Quick answer
The Korean word for “Always” is 항상, romanized as hangsang.
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 항상.
Pronunciation Guide
"항상" (hangsang) sounds like "hahng-sahng". "Hang" is pronounced like "hang" in "hanger", and "sang" is like "sang" in "song". Both syllables carry a similar emphasis.
More Example Sentences
Describing a grandparent's consistent daily routine.
저희 할머니는 항상 일찍 일어나세요.
My grandmother always wakes up early.
Commenting on a friend's consistently cheerful personality.
그 친구는 항상 밝게 웃어요.
That friend always smiles brightly.
Stating a personal, daily habit or preference.
저는 항상 커피를 마셔요.
I always drink coffee.
Cultural Context
"항상" is a straightforward adverb for "always." It's frequently used in daily conversations to describe routines, habits, or consistent traits. You'll hear it often in K-dramas when characters talk about their daily lives or express unchanging feelings, like "항상 네 편이야" (I'm always on your side), showing unwavering support.
Editorial note
We review entries like 항상 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. Last reviewed June 4, 2026. See our editorial standards.
Common Phrases
항상 고마워요.
I'm always grateful.
항상 건강하세요.
Always be healthy. (A common well-wishing)
항상 응원할게요.
I'll always support you.
Related Expressions
늘
neul
always (slightly more casual/colloquial)
언제나
eon-je-na
always, anytime (can imply "whenever")
절대
jeol-dae
never (antonym)
가끔
ga-kkeum
sometimes (antonym)
More Numbers and Time Words
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