Korean Dictionary
How to say "OCD" in Korean
“OCD” in Korean is 강박 장애 (pronounced "gangbak jangae").
강박 장애
gangbak jangae
Usage & Context
OCD (Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder) involves unwanted repetitive thoughts and behaviors. In Korea, 강박 장애 is increasingly recognized and treated with therapy and medication.
Example Sentence
강박 장애는 반복적인 행동과 생각이 특징이다.
OCD is characterized by repetitive behaviors and thoughts.
How to use 강박 장애 naturally
Quick answer
The Korean word for “OCD” is 강박 장애, romanized as gangbak jangae.
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 강박 장애.
Pronunciation Guide
강박 (gangbak) sounds like 'gang' as in 'gangster', followed by 'bak' which rhymes with 'park'. 장애 (jangae) sounds like 'jang' as in 'jahng', then 'ae' like the 'eh' in 'bed'. The stress is fairly even, with a slight emphasis on the first syllable of each word.
More Example Sentences
Describing a specific symptom of OCD.
그녀는 강박 장애 때문에 손을 계속 씻는 습관이 있어요.
She has a habit of constantly washing her hands due to OCD.
Providing a hopeful outlook on treatment.
강박 장애는 치료를 통해 충분히 극복할 수 있습니다.
OCD can be overcome sufficiently through treatment.
Giving advice to someone concerned about their symptoms.
혹시 강박 장애가 의심된다면 전문가와 상담해보세요.
If you suspect OCD, try consulting a professional.
Cultural Context
While mental health awareness is growing in Korea, conditions like OCD (강박 장애) are still sometimes misunderstood. The term '강박' (gangbak) alone can refer to general obsession or compulsion, not necessarily a disorder. In K-dramas or webtoons, OCD-like behaviors might occasionally be portrayed for comedic effect, though there's an increasing trend towards more sensitive and accurate depictions as public understanding evolves.
Editorial note
We review entries like 강박 장애 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
강박 장애 증상
OCD symptoms
강박 장애 치료
OCD treatment
강박적인
Obsessive/compulsive (adjective form)
Related Expressions
강박 사고
gangbak sago
Obsessive thoughts
강박 행동
gangbak haengdong
Compulsive behaviors
불안 장애
buran jangae
Anxiety disorder
정신 질환
jeongsin jilhwan
Mental illness
More Mental Health & Wellness Words
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