Korean Dictionary
How to say "Hug" in Korean
“Hug” in Korean is 포옹 (pronounced "poongyong").
포옹
poongyong
Usage & Context
A physical expression of affection and comfort. Hugs are important in Korean relationships for showing care and emotional support.
Example Sentence
나는 너를 포옹하고 싶어.
I want to hug you.
How to use 포옹 naturally
Quick answer
The Korean word for “Hug” is 포옹, romanized as poongyong.
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 포옹.
Pronunciation Guide
'Po' (포) sounds like 'poh' (as in 'poker' without the 'ker'). 'Ong' (옹) sounds like 'ohng' (as in 'song' but with an 'o' sound). The two 'o' sounds are distinct but flow together smoothly.
Formal & Casual Forms
Formal (존댓말)
포옹합니다 / 포옹해요
po-onghamnida / po-onghaeyo
These are the formal/polite forms of the verb '포옹하다' (to hug). '포옹합니다' is more formal, '포옹해요' is polite and common.
Casual (반말)
포옹해
po-onghae
This is the casual form of the verb '포옹하다' (to hug), used among close friends or to subordinates.
More Example Sentences
Recounting a happy reunion to another friend.
오랜만에 만난 친구와 따뜻한 포옹을 나눴어요.
I shared a warm hug with a friend I hadn't seen in a long time.
Describing a supportive family moment in a narrative.
아빠는 딸에게 위로의 포옹을 해주셨다.
Dad gave his daughter a comforting hug.
Describing a goodbye scene between two people.
그는 그녀에게 작별 포옹을 했다.
He gave her a farewell hug.
Cultural Context
While hugs are common in Western cultures, public displays of affection like hugging were traditionally less common in Korea, especially among adults. However, with increasing Western influence and K-pop/K-drama culture, hugging among friends (especially female friends) and couples is becoming more frequent and accepted, particularly among younger generations. Hugs are often reserved for emotional moments, greetings after a long absence, or comfort, rather than a standard greeting.
Editorial note
We check relationship words like 포옹 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
포옹하다
To hug (verb form)
따뜻한 포옹
A warm hug
위로의 포옹
A comforting hug
Related Expressions
안아주다
anajuda
To hug (verb, more common in daily speech)
껴안다
kkyeoanda
To embrace, hug tightly (verb)
악수
aksu
Handshake (related physical greeting)
입맞춤
immajchum
Kiss (another form of affection)
More Relationships Words
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