Korean Dictionary
How to say "Makeup (Reconciliation)" in Korean
“Makeup (Reconciliation)” in Korean is 화해 (pronounced "hwahae").
화해
hwahae
Usage & Context
The process of resolving a conflict and restoring harmony. Making up after an argument is an important part of maintaining healthy relationships in Korea.
Example Sentence
우리는 화해했어.
We made up.
How to use 화해 naturally
Quick answer
The Korean word for “Makeup (Reconciliation)” is 화해, romanized as hwahae.
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 화해.
Pronunciation Guide
The first syllable, '화' (hwa), sounds like 'hwah' as in 'hwah-sah'. The second syllable, '해' (hae), sounds like 'heh' as in 'heck' but without the 'ck' and a softer 'h' sound. The 'a' in 'hwa' is like 'ah'.
More Example Sentences
Describing the resolution of a prolonged conflict between people.
오랜 싸움 끝에 그들은 드디어 화해했다.
After a long fight, they finally reconciled.
Taking initiative to reconcile with a friend.
친구와 화해하고 싶어서 먼저 연락했어.
I wanted to make up with my friend, so I contacted them first.
Quoting a Korean proverb about marital disputes and reconciliation.
부부 싸움은 칼로 물 베기, 결국 화해하게 되어 있어.
A couple's fight is like cutting water with a knife; they're bound to make up eventually.
Cultural Context
화해 (hwahae) is a vital step in maintaining long-term relationships in Korea, especially after a conflict. It often involves an apology (사과, sagwa), understanding, and a mutual effort to move past the disagreement. In K-dramas, the 'making up' scene after a dramatic argument is a common trope, often sealed with a heartfelt conversation, a shared meal, or a symbolic gesture, reinforcing the importance of harmony and connection.
Editorial note
We check relationship words like 화해 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
화해하자.
Let's make up.
화해했어요.
We made up.
화해의 손길.
A gesture of reconciliation.
Related Expressions
화해하다
hwahaehada
To reconcile/make up (verb form)
화해시키다
hwahaesikida
To reconcile (someone else)
화합
hwahap
Harmony/Concord (broader term for peaceful coexistence)
화목
hwamok
Harmony/Amity (often used for family harmony)
More Relationships Words
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