Korean Dictionary
How to say "Revenge" in Korean
“Revenge” in Korean is 복수 (pronounced "boksu").
복수
boksu
Usage & Context
The act of seeking vengeance against someone. This is a major theme in many K-dramas, driving character motivations and plot development. It often leads to moral dilemmas.
Example Sentence
난 복수하고 싶어.
I want revenge.
How to use 복수 naturally
Quick answer
The Korean word for “Revenge” is 복수, romanized as boksu.
Usage tip
Drama lines are memorable, but some expressions are emotional or exaggerated compared with everyday 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 복수.
Pronunciation Guide
Pronounced 'bohk-soo' — two crisp syllables. 'Bohk' rhymes with 'bock' as in bock beer, and 'soo' rhymes with 'zoo'. The 'k' is quick, almost swallowed.
More Example Sentences
warning someone about a vendetta
복수는 복수를 낳을 뿐이야.
Revenge only breeds more revenge.
recommending a K-drama to a friend
이 드라마는 복수극이라 마지막 회가 제일 재밌어요.
This drama is a revenge story, so the finale is the most fun part.
a villain's monologue in a drama
언젠가 반드시 복수할 거야.
Someday I'll definitely get my revenge.
Cultural Context
복수 is the engine of an entire K-drama subgenre called 복수극 (revenge drama) — think 'The Glory,' 'Vincenzo,' and 'My Name.' The appeal often lies in slow-burn 사이다 (soda-like satisfaction) when the protagonist finally strikes back. In everyday life, Koreans more often use the softer 앙갚음 for petty payback, while 복수 carries heavier, almost cinematic weight.
Editorial note
We review drama-style expressions like 복수 for tone, because lines that sound natural in a scene can feel too emotional or direct in everyday Korean.
Reviewed by Min-jung Park, Korean Language Teacher. Updated May 31, 2026. See our editorial standards.
Common Phrases
복수할 거야.
I'll get my revenge.
복수의 칼을 갈다.
To sharpen the blade of revenge (idiom).
복수극
Revenge drama / vengeance story
Related Expressions
앙갚음
anggapeum
getting back at someone (lighter nuance)
원수
wonsu
sworn enemy / nemesis
사이다
saida
cathartic satisfaction (literally 'cider')
용서
yongseo
forgiveness (antonym)
More K-Drama Expressions Words
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