Korean Dictionary
How to say "Cliffhanger Ending" in Korean
“Cliffhanger Ending” in Korean is 열린 결말 (pronounced "Yeollin Gyeolmal").
열린 결말
Yeollin Gyeolmal
Usage & Context
열린 결말 describes an open or unresolved ending that leaves viewers in suspense which is common in Korean dramas. Cliffhanger episode endings keep audiences returning for the next episode. Viewers passionately debate 열린 결말 episodes on Korean online communities.
Example Sentence
이 드라마의 열린 결말 때문에 다음 화가 너무 기다려져요.
Because of this drama open ending I cannot wait for the next episode.
How to use 열린 결말 naturally
Quick answer
The Korean word for “Cliffhanger Ending” is 열린 결말, romanized as Yeollin Gyeolmal.
Usage tip
Drama lines are memorable, but some expressions are emotional or exaggerated compared with everyday Korean.
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 열린 결말.
Pronunciation Guide
'열린' (yeollin) sounds like 'yol-leen,' similar to 'doll-lean.' '결말' (gyeolmal) is pronounced 'gyol-mahl,' like 'goal-mall.' The 'l' sound is a light 'l' or 'r' sound.
More Example Sentences
Expressing a personal preference to a friend after watching a show.
나는 열린 결말을 좋아하지 않아. 답답해.
I don't like open endings. They're frustrating.
Discussing a film's ambiguous ending in an online forum.
이 영화는 열린 결말이라 해석이 분분해요.
This movie has an open ending, so interpretations vary.
Wondering about a drama's creative decision with a friend.
작가님은 왜 열린 결말을 선택했을까요?
Why did the writer choose an open ending?
Cultural Context
An 'open ending' (열린 결말) is a common narrative device in K-dramas, often used to create suspense or leave a lasting impression. While some viewers appreciate the room for interpretation and discussion it provides, many K-drama fans prefer clear, definitive endings, especially happy ones. An 열린 결말 can spark passionate debates on online communities, with viewers creating their own theories and even demanding alternative endings from production teams, showcasing the deep engagement of Korean audiences.
Editorial note
We review drama-style expressions like 열린 결말 for tone, because lines that sound natural in a scene can feel too emotional or direct in everyday Korean.
Reviewed by Min-jung Park, Korean Language Teacher. Updated May 31, 2026. See our editorial standards.
Common Phrases
열린 결말이라니!
An open ending, really!
열린 결말은 싫어.
I hate open endings.
열린 결말도 나쁘지 않네.
An open ending isn't bad either.
Related Expressions
새드 엔딩
saedeu ending
sad ending
해피 엔딩
haepi ending
happy ending
반전 결말
banjeon gyeolmal
twist ending
결말
gyeolmal
ending
More K-Drama Expressions Words
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