Korean Dictionary
How to say "Chemistry" in Korean
“Chemistry” in Korean is 케미 (pronounced "kemi").
케미
kemi
Usage & Context
A natural attraction and compatibility between people. Chemistry is highly valued in Korean dating and relationships.
Example Sentence
우리는 케미가 있어.
We have chemistry.
How to use 케미 naturally
Quick answer
The Korean word for “Chemistry” is 케미, romanized as kemi.
Usage tip
Relationship words can sound too direct if the social context is wrong. Check the age, closeness, and formality before using it.
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 케미.
Pronunciation Guide
케 (ke) sounds like 'keh' as in 'kettle'. 미 (mi) sounds like 'mee' as in 'me'. Put it together: 'Keh-mee'. The stress is on the first syllable. This is a loanword from English 'chemistry'.
More Example Sentences
A common compliment for on-screen pairings in K-dramas.
그 두 배우는 드라마에서 케미가 정말 좋았어.
Those two actors had really great chemistry in the drama.
Describing an immediate natural attraction between people.
우리는 처음 만났을 때부터 케미가 통했어.
We had chemistry from the moment we first met.
Applying the concept of chemistry to a professional or group setting.
팀워크에는 팀원들 간의 케미가 중요해.
Chemistry among team members is important for teamwork.
Cultural Context
'케미' (kemi) is a very popular Konglish term, widely used in modern Korean, especially in entertainment and dating contexts. It refers to the natural spark, compatibility, or good vibe between people, much like the English 'chemistry.' When people say '케미 터진다' (kemi teojinda, 'chemistry explodes'), it means the chemistry is incredibly strong and palpable, often used to praise K-drama couples or K-pop idol pairings. It's a casual and trendy word that reflects the importance of natural rapport in relationships.
Editorial note
We check relationship words like 케미 against age, closeness, and politeness rules, because a literal English match often misses the social meaning.
Reviewed by Min-jung Park, Korean Language Teacher. Updated May 31, 2026. See our editorial standards.
Common Phrases
케미가 좋다
To have good chemistry
케미가 터지다
For chemistry to explode (very strong chemistry)
케미를 기대하다
To anticipate chemistry (e.g., between actors)
Related Expressions
궁합
gunghap
Compatibility (traditional concept, often for marriage)
호흡
hoheup
Breath, synergy (often used for teamwork/performance)
잘 맞다
jal matda
To get along well, to be a good match
어색하다
eosaekhada
Awkward (antonym, implying lack of chemistry)
More Relationships Words
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