Korean Dictionary
How to say "Refrain" in Korean
“Refrain” in Korean is 반복 (pronounced "Banbok").
반복
Banbok
Usage & Context
A repeated line or section in a song that emphasizes the main message. Common in both traditional and modern Korean music.
Example Sentence
반복 부분이 강해요.
The refrain is strong.
How to use 반복 naturally
Quick answer
The Korean word for “Refrain” is 반복, romanized as Banbok.
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 반복.
Pronunciation Guide
반 (ban) sounds like 'bahn' in 'banjo'. 복 (bok) sounds like 'bok' in 'bok choy'. Together, it's 'Bahn-bok', with fairly even stress on both syllables.
More Example Sentences
Commenting on the pleasantness of a song's repeated section.
이 노래의 반복 부분이 듣기 편안하고 좋아요.
This song's refrain is comfortable and nice to listen to.
Analyzing the function of repetition in music.
가요에서 반복은 곡의 메시지를 강조하는 중요한 역할을 해요.
In popular songs, the refrain plays an important role in emphasizing the song's message.
Discussing the learnability of K-pop dance routines.
아이돌 그룹의 안무는 반복되는 동작이 많아서 따라하기 쉬워요.
Idol group choreography often has many repeated movements, making it easy to follow.
Cultural Context
반복 (banbok) literally means 'repetition' and is a general term used across various contexts, not just music. While it can refer to a musical refrain, the term 후렴 (huryeom) is more commonly used specifically for the 'chorus' or main 'refrain' of a song in Korean music. However, '반복' is perfectly understandable in a musical context to describe any repeated section or element, including lyrics or dance moves, highlighting its broader applicability in daily Korean life.
Editorial note
We review entries like 반복 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
반복하다
To repeat
반복되는 가사
Repeated lyrics
반복 학습
Repetitive learning (general use)
Related Expressions
후렴
huryeom
Chorus/Refrain (more specific musical term)
되풀이
doepuri
Repetition (synonym, more colloquial)
강조
gangjo
Emphasis
변화
byeonhwa
Change/Variation (antonym)
More Music Words
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