Korean Dictionary

How to say "Prayer" in Korean

Prayer” in Korean is 기도 (pronounced "Gido").

기도

Gido

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Usage & Context

Prayer is a fundamental practice in Korean religions. Koreans pray for health, success, and family well-being in temples, churches, and at home.

Example Sentence

매일 아침 기도합니다.

I pray every morning.

How to use 기도 naturally

Quick answer

The Korean word for “Prayer” is 기도, romanized as Gido.

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 기도.

Pronunciation Guide

Pronounced 'gi-do'. Two short syllables: 'gi' (like 'gee'), 'do' (like 'doh'). Very simple and smooth.

More Example Sentences

family religious routine

엄마가 매일 밤 기도를 드려요.

Mom prays every night.

test anxiety

시험 전에 기도했어요.

I prayed before the exam.

asking for support

저를 위해 기도해 주세요.

Please pray for me.

Cultural Context

기도 is used across religions — Christian, Catholic, Buddhist, or personal. The verb pairs with 하다 (to do) casually or 드리다 (formal/respectful, literally 'to offer'). Shamanic Korean culture also uses 기도 — traditional 기도 at shrines, mountains, or waters to wish for children, health, or success (especially before major exams like 수능). 새벽 기도 (dawn prayer) is famous in Korean Protestant culture.

Editorial note

We review entries like 기도 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

기도할게요.

I'll pray (for you).

기도 부탁드려요.

Please pray for me.

기도가 응답받았어요.

My prayer was answered.

Related Expressions

기도하다

gidohada

to pray

소원

sowon

wish

신앙

sinang

faith

묵상

mukssang

meditation / silent prayer

More Religion Words

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