Korean Dictionary
How to say "Joke" in Korean
“Joke” in Korean is 농담 (pronounced "nongdam").
농담
nongdam
Usage & Context
Something said or done to make people laugh. Sharing jokes is a way to create happiness and bonding in Korean relationships.
Example Sentence
나는 너를 웃기는 농담을 하고 싶어.
I want to tell you a funny joke.
How to use 농담 naturally
Quick answer
The Korean word for “Joke” is 농담, romanized as nongdam.
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 농담.
Pronunciation Guide
The first syllable, 'nong', sounds like 'song' but with an 'n' at the beginning. The second syllable, 'dam', is pronounced like 'dom' in 'domino'. The stress is fairly even.
More Example Sentences
Clarifying a misunderstanding after telling a joke.
그건 그냥 농담이었어, 너무 심각하게 받아들이지 마.
That was just a joke, don't take it too seriously.
Describing a family's reaction to 'dad jokes'.
아빠가 항상 아재개그 농담을 하셔서 가족들이 웃어요.
Dad always tells 'dad jokes' so the family laughs.
Using humor to ease tension in a social situation.
분위기를 풀기 위해 농담을 던졌다.
I threw out a joke to lighten the mood.
Cultural Context
Humor is a significant part of Korean social interactions. '아재개그' (ajae-gaegue), or 'dad jokes', are a popular form of wordplay often used by middle-aged men, known for being cheesy but endearing. Sharing jokes is a common way to bond and create a friendly atmosphere, especially in informal settings.
Editorial note
We check relationship words like 농담 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
농담이야
It's a joke.
농담을 하다
To tell a joke.
재미있는 농담
A funny joke.
Related Expressions
농담하다
nongdamhada
To joke
장난
jangnan
Prank, mischief
진담
jindam
Serious talk, truth (antonym)
유머
yumeo
Humor
More Relationships Words
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