Korean Dictionary
How to say "Bullying" in Korean
“Bullying” in Korean is 따돌림 (pronounced "ttadorim").
따돌림
ttadorim
Usage & Context
Repeated harassment or mistreatment of a student. Bullying is a serious problem in Korean schools. Schools work to prevent bullying.
Example Sentence
따돌림을 당했다.
I was bullied.
How to use 따돌림 naturally
Quick answer
The Korean word for “Bullying” is 따돌림, romanized as ttadorim.
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 따돌림.
Pronunciation Guide
The first syllable, '따' (tta), sounds like 'tah' in 'taco' but with a strong, aspirated 't' sound. '돌' (dol) is similar to 'doll' but with a slightly softer 'd'. '림' (lim) rhymes with 'limb'. The stress is fairly even across the syllables.
More Example Sentences
Discussing social problems in schools.
학교폭력으로 따돌림 문제가 심각해요.
The bullying issue due to school violence is serious.
Advice for students.
따돌림을 당하는 친구를 보면 도와줘야 해요.
If you see a friend being bullied, you should help them.
Reacting to a TV show.
드라마에서 따돌림 장면이 나올 때마다 마음이 아파요.
My heart aches every time a bullying scene appears in a drama.
Cultural Context
Bullying (따돌림) is a highly sensitive and frequently discussed topic in South Korea, often featured prominently in news reports and K-dramas. It encompasses not only physical aggression but also social exclusion, known by the slang term '왕따' (wang-tta), which refers to being ostracized by a group. Korean schools and the government have implemented various programs to combat this issue, reflecting a high level of public awareness and concern.
Editorial note
We review entries like 따돌림 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
따돌림을 당하다
to be bullied/ostracized
따돌림 문제
bullying problem/issue
따돌림 예방
bullying prevention
Related Expressions
왕따
wang-tta
ostracism, social exclusion
학교폭력
hakgyopoknyeok
school violence (broader term)
괴롭힘
goeroepim
harassment, torment
집단 따돌림
jipdan ttadorim
group bullying/ostracism
More School Life Words
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