Korean Dictionary
How to say "Loyalty" in Korean
“Loyalty” in Korean is 의리 (pronounced "Uiri").
의리
Uiri
Usage & Context
A profound sense of loyalty and obligation to those you are close to. 의리 is one of the most important values in Korean friendships and group relationships. 의리 있는 사람 (a person of loyalty) is deeply respected. Betraying 의리 is considered one of the worst social transgressions.
Example Sentence
의리 있는 친구가 최고예요. 힘들 때 옆에 있어 주잖아요.
A loyal friend is the best. They're there for you when times are hard.
How to use 의리 naturally
Quick answer
The Korean word for “Loyalty” is 의리, romanized as Uiri.
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 의리.
Pronunciation Guide
Pronounce '의' like 'wee' in 'week' but with your lips slightly wider and flatter, then '리' like 'ree' in 'tree'. The stress is fairly even across both syllables.
More Example Sentences
A team leader motivating their members.
우리 팀은 의리로 똘똘 뭉쳐서 어떤 어려움도 이겨낼 수 있어요.
Our team is united by loyalty, so we can overcome any difficulty.
Describing someone's strong moral character.
그는 친구와의 의리를 지키기 위해 자신의 이익을 포기했어요.
He gave up his own interests to keep his loyalty to his friend.
A friend expressing disappointment about someone.
의리 없는 사람은 믿을 수 없어요. 약속을 쉽게 어기죠.
You can't trust a disloyal person. They break promises easily.
Cultural Context
의리 (uiri) is a deeply ingrained concept in Korean culture, representing a profound sense of loyalty, obligation, and solidarity, especially among friends, colleagues, or within a group. It's often portrayed in K-dramas, particularly in 'bromance' or gangster genres, highlighting unbreakable bonds. Betraying 의리 is considered a severe social transgression, while demonstrating it earns immense respect and trust.
Editorial note
We check relationship words like 의리 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
의리 있다
To be loyal/have loyalty
의리를 지키다
To keep one's loyalty/be loyal
의리 없는 사람
A disloyal person
Related Expressions
충성
Chungseong
Loyalty (often to a nation, organization, or leader)
신의
Sinui
Faith, trust, fidelity
배신
Baesin
Betrayal (antonym)
정
Jeong
Affection, attachment, deep emotional bond
More Relationships Words
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