Korean Dictionary
How to say "Arm" in Korean
“Arm” in Korean is 팔 (pronounced "pal").
팔
pal
Usage & Context
The limb extending from the shoulder. One of the most fundamental body parts in Korean. Used in countless everyday expressions.
Example Sentence
팔이 아파요.
My arm hurts.
How to use 팔 naturally
Quick answer
The Korean word for “Arm” is 팔, romanized as pal.
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 팔.
Pronunciation Guide
This word sounds very much like the English word 'pal,' but with a slightly softer 'p' sound and a clear 'l' at the end. It's a single, short syllable.
More Example Sentences
A tender family moment.
아기가 엄마 팔에 안겨 잠들었어요.
The baby fell asleep in its mother's arms.
Describing hard work or determination.
팔을 걷어붙이고 일했어요.
I rolled up my sleeves and worked.
Asking for help from someone who is idle.
팔짱 끼고 서 있지 말고 도와줘.
Don't just stand there with your arms crossed, help me.
Cultural Context
'팔' is used in many idiomatic expressions. '팔짱 끼다' (to cross one's arms) can imply being idle or uncooperative, while '팔 걷어붙이다' (to roll up one's sleeves) means to get ready to work hard. In K-pop choreography, arm movements are often very precise and expressive, forming a key part of the visual appeal.
Editorial note
We review entries like 팔 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
팔이 저려요.
My arm is numb.
팔을 쭉 뻗어 보세요.
Try stretching your arm out.
팔이 길다.
To have long arms.
Related Expressions
팔짱 끼다
paljjang kkida
to cross one's arms
팔을 걷어붙이다
pareul geodeobuchida
to roll up one's sleeves (to get ready to work)
팔다리
paldari
limbs (arms and legs)
팔씨름
palssireum
arm wrestling
More Body Parts Words
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