Korean Dictionary
How to say "Intimacy" in Korean
“Intimacy” in Korean is 친밀한 관계 (pronounced "chinmilhan gwangye").
친밀한 관계
chinmilhan gwangye
Usage & Context
Deep emotional and physical connection between partners. Intimacy is an important aspect of romantic relationships in Korean culture.
Example Sentence
우리의 친밀한 관계는 소중해.
Our intimacy is precious.
How to use 친밀한 관계 naturally
Quick answer
The Korean word for “Intimacy” is 친밀한 관계, romanized as chinmilhan gwangye.
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 친밀한 관계.
Pronunciation Guide
친 (chin) sounds like the English word 'chin'. 밀 (mil) sounds like 'mill'. 한 (han) is like 'hahn' in 'Han Solo'. 관 (gwan) is like 'gwan' (as in 'Gwangju'). 계 (gye) sounds like 'gye' (similar to 'gay' but with a softer 'g' and 'y' sound). Put it together: 'Chin-mil-hahn Gwan-gye'.
More Example Sentences
Describing a couple's profound connection.
그들은 서로에게 깊은 친밀한 관계를 맺고 있었다.
They had a deep intimate relationship with each other.
Emphasizing emotional closeness in a long-standing friendship.
오랜 친구 사이에도 친밀한 관계는 중요해요.
Intimacy is important even between old friends.
Discussing the process of building deep personal connections.
친밀한 관계를 형성하는 데는 시간이 필요해요.
It takes time to form an intimate relationship.
Cultural Context
While '친밀한 관계' (chinmilhan gwangye) directly translates to 'intimate relationship,' it often implies a deep emotional and psychological closeness rather than just physical intimacy. In Korean culture, building trust and understanding over time is crucial for such relationships. Public displays of affection might be more reserved compared to some Western cultures, but the emotional bond is highly valued. K-dramas often explore the slow, careful development of '친밀한 관계' between characters.
Editorial note
We check relationship words like 친밀한 관계 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
친밀한 관계를 맺다
To form an intimate relationship
친밀한 관계를 유지하다
To maintain an intimate relationship
친밀한 관계가 되다
To become intimate (with someone)
Related Expressions
가까운 사이
gakkaun sai
Close relationship/acquaintance
깊은 유대
gipeun yudae
Deep bond
소원한 관계
sowonhan gwangye
Estranged relationship (antonym)
사랑
sarang
Love
More Relationships Words
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