Korean Dictionary
How to say "Gray" in Korean
“Gray” in Korean is 회색 (pronounced "Hoesaek").
회색
Hoesaek
Usage & Context
Hoesaek is the Korean word for gray. Gray is often associated with neutrality and sophistication. It is a popular choice in modern Korean interior design and fashion.
Example Sentence
회색 벽이 깔끔해요.
The gray wall is clean.
How to use 회색 naturally
Quick answer
The Korean word for “Gray” is 회색, romanized as Hoesaek.
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 회색.
Pronunciation Guide
For 회색 (hoe-saek), 'hoe' sounds like 'hway' (as in 'highway' without the 'g' sound), and 'saek' sounds like 'sack'. The overall pronunciation is 'hway-sack'.
More Example Sentences
Complimenting someone's outfit choice.
회색 코트가 정말 잘 어울리네요.
That gray coat really suits you.
Describing home interior decor.
우리 집 거실은 회색 소파가 있어요.
Our living room has a gray sofa.
Describing an urban landscape in a poetic way.
회색 도시의 풍경이 아름다웠어요.
The scenery of the gray city was beautiful.
Cultural Context
회색 (hoesaek) is a highly popular color in modern Korean aesthetics, particularly in fashion, interior design, and architecture. It's often associated with minimalism, sophistication, and a calm, neutral elegance. Unlike some cultures where gray might symbolize dullness or sadness, in Korea, it's frequently chosen for its chic and versatile qualities, reflecting a preference for clean lines and understated style. It's a staple in many contemporary K-fashion brands and home decor trends, embodying a modern and refined sensibility.
Editorial note
We review entries like 회색 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
회색 옷
gray clothes
회색빛
grayish light/hue
회색 머리
gray hair (often referring to natural aging)
Related Expressions
흰색
huinsaek
white color
검은색
geomeunsaek
black color
무채색
muchaesek
achromatic color (grayscale)
칙칙하다
chikchikada
to be dull, drab (often used for colors or atmosphere)
More Colors and Shapes Words
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