Korean Dictionary
How to say "Meaning in Life" in Korean
“Meaning in Life” in Korean is 삶의 의미 (pronounced "salm-ui uimi").
삶의 의미
salm-ui uimi
Usage & Context
Finding meaning in life is central to psychological well-being according to positive psychology. Korean philosopher Kim Hyeong-seok and therapists explore 삶의 의미 as a pathway to resilience and happiness.
Example Sentence
삶의 의미를 발견하는 것이 행복의 핵심이다.
Finding meaning in life is the core of happiness.
How to use 삶의 의미 naturally
Quick answer
The Korean word for “Meaning in Life” is 삶의 의미, romanized as salm-ui uimi.
Usage tip
Learn this word together with a complete Korean sentence. Meaning often depends on particles, politeness level, and word order.
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 삶의 의미.
Pronunciation Guide
삶의 (salm-ui) sounds like 'sal-mee,' where 'salm' is like 'salm' in 'salmon' (without the 'o'), and 'ui' is often pronounced like 'ee' in casual speech. 의미 (uimi) sounds like 'ee-mee,' with the first 'ui' also often pronounced 'ee.'
More Example Sentences
A general observation about human nature or philosophical discussion.
많은 사람들이 삶의 의미를 찾기 위해 노력한다.
Many people strive to find meaning in life.
Sharing a personal revelation or experience.
봉사 활동을 통해 삶의 의미를 깨달았어요.
I realized the meaning of life through volunteer work.
A counselor or philosopher discussing individual perspectives.
삶의 의미는 사람마다 다를 수 있습니다.
The meaning of life can be different for each person.
Cultural Context
The concept of '삶의 의미' is deeply explored in Korean philosophy and literature, often linked to themes of purpose, contribution, and connection to community. It's a common topic in self-help books and lectures, especially as modern Korean society grapples with rapid changes and increasing individualism. While Western thought often emphasizes individual meaning, Korean perspectives might subtly weave in collective well-being or filial piety as sources of meaning.
Editorial note
We review entries like 삶의 의미 for pronunciation, example sentence fit, and learner mistakes so the page answers more than a direct dictionary lookup.
Reviewed by Min-jung Park, Korean Language Teacher. Updated May 31, 2026. See our editorial standards.
Common Phrases
삶의 의미를 찾다
to find meaning in life
삶의 의미를 부여하다
to give meaning to life
삶의 의미가 깊다
the meaning of life is deep/profound
Related Expressions
인생의 목적
insaeng-ui mokjeok
purpose of life
가치관
gachigwan
values, sense of value
존재 이유
jonjae iyu
reason for existence
행복
haengbok
happiness
More Mental Health & Wellness Words
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