Korean Dictionary
How to say "Regretful" in Korean
“Regretful” in Korean is 후회하다 (pronounced "Huhoehada").
후회하다
Huhoehada
Usage & Context
Expresses remorse over past actions or decisions. A reflective emotion associated with deep self-examination in Korean culture. 후회 없이 살자 (let's live without regret) is a popular motivational phrase.
Example Sentence
그때 더 열심히 공부하지 않은 걸 지금도 후회해요.
I still regret not studying harder back then.
How to use 후회하다 naturally
Quick answer
The Korean word for “Regretful” is 후회하다, romanized as Huhoehada.
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 후회하다.
Pronunciation Guide
후회 (hu-hoe) sounds like 'hoo' in 'hoot' followed by 'hway' as in 'highway'. 하다 (ha-da) is 'ha' like 'hah' and 'da' like 'dah'. The 'hoe' sound can be a bit tricky, almost like 'hweh'.
Formal & Casual Forms
Formal (존댓말)
후회합니다
Huhoehapnida
Standard formal ending for verbs.
Casual (반말)
후회해
Huhoehhae
Casual '아/어' ending.
More Example Sentences
Reflecting on a missed chance.
그때 그 기회를 놓친 것을 아직도 후회해요.
I still regret missing that opportunity back then.
Regretting words spoken in haste.
충동적으로 말한 것을 나중에 후회했다.
I regretted what I said impulsively later.
Expressing regret over past study habits.
시험 공부를 더 열심히 할 걸 후회돼요.
I regret not studying harder for the exam.
Cultural Context
후회하다 is a strong verb for expressing regret. The phrase '후회 없이 살자' (Let's live without regret) is a popular motivational saying in Korea, often seen in self-help contexts or as a personal motto, reflecting a desire to live life to the fullest. It's common to hear people reflect on past decisions, especially regarding career, relationships, or education, using this word.
Editorial note
We review entries like 후회하다 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
후회하지 않아.
I don't regret it.
나중에 후회할 거야.
You'll regret it later.
후회 없는 선택
A choice without regret
Related Expressions
아쉽다
Aswipda
Regrettable, a pity (softer than 후회하다)
반성하다
Banseonghada
To reflect on one's past actions, to self-reflect
뉘우치다
Nwiuchida
To repent, to be remorseful (stronger, often for moral wrongs)
미련이 남다
Miryeoni namda
To have lingering attachment/regret
More Emotions Words
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