Korean Dictionary
How to say "Asthma" in Korean
“Asthma” in Korean is 천식 (pronounced "cheonsik").
천식
cheonsik
Usage & Context
천식 is a chronic respiratory condition affecting many Koreans particularly those living in urban areas with high air pollution. Yellow dust (황사) from China significantly worsens 천식 symptoms in spring. Korean asthma patients are advised to check daily air quality indexes and use inhalers as prescribed.
Example Sentence
황사가 심한 날에는 천식이 더 심해져요.
On days when yellow dust is bad my asthma gets worse.
How to use 천식 naturally
Quick answer
The Korean word for “Asthma” is 천식, romanized as cheonsik.
Usage tip
When describing symptoms, combine the word with where it hurts, when it started, and how severe it is.
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 천식.
Pronunciation Guide
'천' (cheon) sounds like 'chun' in 'chunk', with a soft 'ch' sound. '식' (sik) sounds exactly like the English word 'sick'. The two syllables are pronounced clearly and distinctly, with a slight emphasis on the first syllable.
More Example Sentences
A person explaining their long-term health condition.
어릴 때부터 천식이 있어서 항상 흡입기를 가지고 다녀요.
I've had asthma since I was little, so I always carry my inhaler.
A public health announcement or news report.
미세먼지가 심한 날에는 천식 환자들의 증상이 악화될 수 있습니다.
On days with severe fine dust, asthma patients' symptoms can worsen.
A doctor explaining the nature of asthma to a patient.
천식은 꾸준한 관리가 필요한 만성 질환이에요.
Asthma is a chronic disease that requires consistent management.
Cultural Context
'천식' is a significant health concern in Korea, particularly in urban areas affected by air pollution. The term '황사' (yellow dust) and '미세먼지' (fine dust) are frequently linked to '천식' symptoms, especially during spring. It's common for Koreans with '천식' to monitor daily air quality reports and take precautions like wearing masks or staying indoors. Discussions about '천식' often involve advice on managing environmental triggers and the importance of carrying inhalers.
Editorial note
We review entries like 천식 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
천식 발작
asthma attack
천식 환자
asthma patient
천식에 좋다
good for asthma
Related Expressions
호흡기
hoheupgi
respiratory organ/system
기관지
gigwanji
bronchus
미세먼지
misaemeonji
fine dust
알레르기
allereugi
allergy
More Health & Medical Words
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