Korean Dictionary
How to say "Respect" in Korean
“Respect” in Korean is 존중 (pronounced "jongjung").
존중
jongjung
Usage & Context
Valuing someone's opinions, boundaries, and dignity. Respect is fundamental to all Korean relationships and social interactions.
Example Sentence
나는 너를 존중해.
I respect you.
How to use 존중 naturally
Quick answer
The Korean word for “Respect” is 존중, romanized as jongjung.
Usage tip
Relationship words can sound too direct if the social context is wrong. Check the age, closeness, and formality before using it.
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 존중.
Pronunciation Guide
The first syllable, "Jong," sounds like the "jong" in "jongle," with the 'o' similar to the 'o' in "song." The second syllable, "Jung," sounds like the "jung" in "jungle," with the 'u' similar to the 'oo' in "book." The stress is fairly even across both syllables.
More Example Sentences
Discussing healthy communication in a team meeting.
서로의 의견을 존중하는 것이 중요해요.
It's important to respect each other's opinions.
Observing someone's behavior at a family gathering.
그는 항상 어른들을 존중하는 태도를 보여요.
He always shows a respectful attitude towards elders.
A public service announcement or a request to a friend.
개인의 사생활을 존중해 주세요.
Please respect individual privacy.
Cultural Context
Respect (존중) is a cornerstone of Korean society, deeply embedded in language, social hierarchy, and etiquette. This is evident in the use of honorifics (존댓말) when speaking to elders or superiors, and the practice of bowing. Showing respect for one's elders (효도, hyodo) is a fundamental Confucian value. In K-dramas, you often see characters using formal language and bowing deeply to show deference and respect.
Editorial note
We check relationship words like 존중 against age, closeness, and politeness rules, because a literal English match often misses the social meaning.
Reviewed by Min-jung Park, Korean Language Teacher. Updated May 31, 2026. See our editorial standards.
Common Phrases
존중해 주세요.
Please respect me/it.
서로 존중하다
To respect each other.
개인의 존중
Individual respect.
Related Expressions
존경
jonggyeong
Admiration, reverence (a deeper, more reverent form of respect)
예의
yeui
Manners, courtesy
무례
murye
Rudeness, disrespect (antonym)
배려
baeryeo
Consideration, thoughtfulness
More Relationships Words
Related Guides
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