Korean Dictionary
How to say "Fate" in Korean
“Fate” in Korean is 운명 (pronounced "unmyeong").
운명
unmyeong
Usage & Context
The concept of destiny or fate. This philosophical theme is common in K-dramas where characters believe they are destined to meet or be together. It adds depth to romantic storylines.
Example Sentence
우리는 운명이야.
We are fate.
How to use 운명 naturally
Quick answer
The Korean word for “Fate” is 운명, romanized as unmyeong.
Usage tip
Drama lines are memorable, but some expressions are emotional or exaggerated compared with everyday Korean.
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 운명.
Pronunciation Guide
Pronounced 'OON-myeong' — two syllables. '운' rhymes with 'oon' (like 'noon'), and '명' is 'myeong' with the 'ya'-glide followed by a nasal 'ng'. Stress is slightly heavier on the first syllable.
More Example Sentences
Romantic comment after a chance encounter
이 만남은 운명 같아요.
This meeting feels like fate.
Philosophical question on a date
운명을 믿으세요?
Do you believe in fate?
Defiant statement in a drama-like moment
운명에 맞서 싸울 거예요.
I'll fight against fate.
Cultural Context
운명 has stronger romantic and philosophical weight in Korean than the English 'fate'. It's the go-to word for 'destined lovers' (운명의 상대) and underpins Korean pop culture's obsession with red-thread-of-fate storylines in K-dramas. A lighter counterpart is 인연 (a destined connection), often used for friendships or meaningful encounters. Traditional Korean '사주' (saju — the four pillars of destiny, a form of birth-time fortune-telling) is still widely consulted before marriages to check partner compatibility against one's 운명.
Editorial note
We review drama-style expressions like 운명 for tone, because lines that sound natural in a scene can feel too emotional or direct in everyday Korean.
Reviewed by Min-jung Park, Korean Language Teacher. Updated May 31, 2026. See our editorial standards.
Common Phrases
우리는 운명이에요.
We are destined / it's our fate.
운명을 바꿀 수 있어요.
You can change your fate.
운명의 장난이야.
It's a trick of fate.
Related Expressions
인연
Inyeon
A fated connection / destined meeting
팔자
Palja
One's fate / lot in life
사주
Saju
Birth-date-based fortune telling
숙명
Sungmyeong
Inescapable destiny (heavier than 운명)
More K-Drama Expressions Words
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