Korean Dictionary
How to say "Heels" in Korean
“Heels” in Korean is 하이힐 (pronounced "haiil").
하이힐
haiil
Usage & Context
High-heeled shoes worn by women for formal and casual occasions in Korea. Popular for adding height and elegance.
Example Sentence
하이힐을 신으면 키가 커 보여요.
Wearing heels makes you look taller.
How to use 하이힐 naturally
Quick answer
The Korean word for “Heels” is 하이힐, romanized as haiil.
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 하이힐.
Pronunciation Guide
The first syllable 'ha' (하) sounds like 'ha' in 'haha'. 'i' (이) sounds like 'ee' in 'see'. 'hil' (힐) is exactly like the English word 'hill'. Put it together as 'HA-ee-hill', with emphasis on 'HA'.
More Example Sentences
Discussing wedding etiquette.
결혼식에는 하이힐을 신어야 예의예요.
It's polite to wear high heels to a wedding.
Expressing discomfort after wearing heels.
하이힐을 신고 오래 걸으면 발이 아파요.
My feet hurt if I walk for a long time in high heels.
Giving fashion advice for an outfit.
이 드레스에는 하이힐이 잘 어울려요.
High heels go well with this dress.
Cultural Context
'하이힐' are a staple in Korean women's fashion, especially for formal events, office wear, or when aiming for a more elegant look. Despite their potential discomfort, many women wear them regularly for work or social gatherings. It's common to see women carrying a pair of flats or sneakers to change into after work or events. The term '킬힐' (kilhil, 'kill heel') is sometimes used for extremely high or uncomfortable heels, reflecting their challenging nature.
Editorial note
We review entries like 하이힐 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
하이힐 신다
To wear high heels
하이힐 벗다
To take off high heels
킬힐
"Kill heels" (very high/uncomfortable heels)
Related Expressions
구두
gudu
Dress shoes (can include heels, but also flats)
플랫슈즈
peullaet-syujeu
Flat shoes
샌들
saendeul
Sandals (can be flat or heeled)
펌프스
peompeuseu
Pumps (a type of high heel)
More Clothing Words
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