Korean Dictionary
How to say "Birthday" in Korean
“Birthday” in Korean is 생일 (pronounced "saengil").
생일
saengil
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 birthday, the anniversary of one's birth. This is commonly used in celebrations and age references.
Example Sentence
내 생일은 5월이에요.
My birthday is in May.
How to use 생일 naturally
Quick answer
The Korean word for “Birthday” is 생일, romanized as saengil.
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 생일.
Pronunciation Guide
"생일" (saengil) is pronounced like "sa-eng-eel". "생" (saeng) sounds like "sa-eng" or "sang" in "sang a song". "일" (il) is like "eel" in "feel". The 'ng' sound in "saeng" is like the 'ng' in "sing".
More Example Sentences
Talking about an event.
친구 생일 파티에 초대받았어요.
I was invited to my friend's birthday party.
Asking about gifts.
생일 선물로 뭘 받고 싶어요?
What do you want for your birthday present?
Using the honorific form for an elder's birthday.
할머니 생신 축하드려요!
Happy birthday, Grandma!
Cultural Context
For elders, especially parents and grandparents, "생신" (saengsin) is the honorific term for birthday, showing respect. "미역국" (miyeokguk, seaweed soup) is traditionally eaten on birthdays in Korea, symbolizing health and remembrance of a mother's labor. Children's first birthdays, called "돌잔치" (doljanchi), are significant celebrations with a special ritual called "돌잡이" (doljabi) where the child picks an item predicting their future.
Editorial note
We review entries like 생일 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
생일 축하해요!
Happy birthday!
생일 케이크
birthday cake
생일 파티
birthday party
Related Expressions
생신
saengsin
Birthday (honorific)
축하하다
chukahada
To congratulate
선물
seonmul
Gift
기념일
ginyeomil
Anniversary
More Numbers and Time Words
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