Korean Dictionary
How to say "Belief" in Korean
“Belief” in Korean is 신념 (pronounced "Sinnyeom").
신념
Sinnyeom
Usage & Context
Belief refers to acceptance of religious or spiritual truths. In Korean culture, personal beliefs are respected and valued.
Example Sentence
종교적 신념을 존중합니다.
I respect religious beliefs.
How to use 신념 naturally
Quick answer
The Korean word for “Belief” is 신념, romanized as Sinnyeom.
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 신념.
Pronunciation Guide
The first syllable, 'Sin', sounds like 'sin' in 'sincere'. The second syllable, 'nyeom', sounds like 'nyeom' in 'canyon' but with a 'ny' sound, similar to 'nyum' in 'yum-yum' but with a slightly more closed 'eo' vowel (like 'uh' in 'butter'). The stress is fairly even.
More Example Sentences
Describing someone's steadfastness in their political views.
그는 자신의 정치적 신념을 굽히지 않았습니다.
He did not compromise his political beliefs.
Emphasizing the importance of respecting personal values in society.
개인의 신념은 존중되어야 합니다.
Individual beliefs should be respected.
Attributing success to a person's unwavering conviction.
강한 신념이 그를 성공으로 이끌었습니다.
Strong belief led him to success.
Cultural Context
While '믿음' (mideum) often carries connotations of trust or religious faith, '신념' (sinnyeom) leans more towards a firm conviction, principle, or ideology, whether religious, political, or personal. In Korean society, respecting individual '신념' is crucial, especially when discussing sensitive topics, as it reflects a person's core values and worldview.
Editorial note
We review entries like 신념 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
확고한 신념
Firm belief/conviction
신념을 지키다
To uphold one's beliefs
신념에 따라
According to one's beliefs
Related Expressions
사상
Sasang
Thought/Ideology
가치관
Gachigwan
Values
원칙
Wonchik
Principle
신앙
Sinang
Religious faith (can overlap, but more specifically religious)
More Religion Words
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