Korean Dictionary
How to say "Real" in Korean
“Real” in Korean is 레알 (pronounced "real").
레알
real
Usage & Context
Borrowed English word meaning real or truly. Used to emphasize sincerity or confirm something is genuine.
Example Sentence
그거 레알이야?
Is that really true?
How to use 레알 naturally
Quick answer
The Korean word for “Real” is 레알, romanized as real.
Usage tip
Use slang only with friends or people who already speak casually with you. It can sound rude in formal Korean.
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 레알.
Pronunciation Guide
"레" (re) sounds like "reh," similar to the "re" in "red." "알" (al) sounds like "ahl," similar to "all" but with a lighter 'l' sound. The stress is on the first syllable, "레." It's pronounced very close to the English word "real."
More Example Sentences
Recommending a genuinely good restaurant to a friend.
이거 레알 맛집이야. 꼭 가봐!
This is a real/truly good restaurant. You must go!
Expressing disbelief or surprise about a piece of news.
그 소식 레알이야? 믿기지가 않네.
Is that news real? I can't believe it.
Sincerely praising someone for an achievement or talent.
와, 너 레알 대박이다!
Wow, you're really awesome/amazing!
Cultural Context
"레알" is a direct transliteration of the English word "real," widely used as slang, especially among younger Koreans. It functions as an intensifier, similar to "really," "truly," or "genuinely." It can be used to express surprise, emphasize a statement, or confirm authenticity. You'll often hear it in casual conversations, online comments, and even in K-pop lyrics or variety shows when someone wants to add a touch of informal emphasis. It's more common in spoken language than formal writing.
Editorial note
We flag slang like 레알 for register and audience, since Korean slang can shift quickly and may sound rude outside close friendships.
Reviewed by Min-jung Park, Korean Language Teacher. Updated May 31, 2026. See our editorial standards.
Common Phrases
레알 대박
Really awesome/amazing
레알 꿀잼
Really fun/hilarious
레알 실화냐?
Is that a real story? / Is that for real?
Related Expressions
진짜
jinjja
really, truly (most common equivalent)
정말
jeongmal
really, truly (slightly more formal than 진짜)
완전
wanjeon
completely, totally (often used as an intensifier)
사실
sasil
fact, truth (as in "in fact")
More Slang Words
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