Korean Dictionary
How to say "Confess feelings" in Korean
“Confess feelings” in Korean is 고백 (pronounced "Gobaek").
고백
Gobaek
Usage & Context
Declaring romantic feelings to someone you like. 고백하다 (to confess). In Korean culture, 고백 is a deliberate, often carefully prepared moment. Receiving a confession (받다) means you either accept or decline. Rejecting someone's confession respectfully is equally important in Korean social norms.
Example Sentence
오늘 드디어 고백했어요. 긴장됐지만 잘 됐어요!
I finally confessed my feelings today. It was nerve-wracking but it went well!
How to use 고백 naturally
Quick answer
The Korean word for “Confess feelings” is 고백, romanized as Gobaek.
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 고백.
Pronunciation Guide
"Go" is like the English word "go." "Baek" sounds like the English word "back," but with a soft, unaspirated 'b' sound.
Formal & Casual Forms
Formal (존댓말)
고백합니다
Gobaekhamnida
Formal declarative form of 'to confess,' used when confessing in a very polite or serious manner.
Casual (반말)
고백해
Gobaekhae
Casual imperative or declarative form, used with close friends.
More Example Sentences
Expressing hesitation about confessing.
그 사람한테 고백할 용기가 안 나요.
I don't have the courage to confess my feelings to that person.
Sharing exciting news with a friend.
어제 드디어 좋아하는 사람에게 고백받았어요!
I finally received a confession from the person I like yesterday!
Planning a confession around a specific date.
고백데이에 고백할까 생각 중이에요.
I'm thinking of confessing on Confession Day.
Cultural Context
In Korean dating culture, '고백' is a distinct, often pivotal moment where one person formally declares their romantic interest. It's usually a carefully planned event, sometimes involving gifts or a special setting. The recipient is expected to give a clear 'yes' or 'no,' which then officially starts or ends the potential relationship. K-dramas frequently feature dramatic and memorable '고백' scenes.
Editorial note
We check relationship words like 고백 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
고백 성공!
Confession successful!
고백 공격
Confession attack (humorous term for a sudden confession)
고백데이
Confession Day (often October 26th, 100 days before Valentine's Day)
Related Expressions
고백하다
Gobaekhada
To confess (feelings)
고백받다
Gobaekbatda
To receive a confession
썸 타다
Sseom tada
To have 'something' going on (pre-relationship)
사귀다
Sagwida
To date/be in a relationship
More Relationships Words
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