Korean Dictionary
How to say "Salute" in Korean
“Salute” in Korean is 경례 (pronounced "Gyeongryae").
경례
Gyeongryae
Usage & Context
Military term related to salute. Important vocabulary for understanding Korean military culture and defense terminology.
Example Sentence
이것은 경례에 대한 예문입니다.
This is an example sentence about salute.
How to use 경례 naturally
Quick answer
The Korean word for “Salute” is 경례, romanized as Gyeongryae.
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 경례.
Pronunciation Guide
경 (gyeong) sounds like 'gyung', where 'gyu' is like 'gu' in 'gut' with a 'y' sound before it, and 'ng' as in 'sing'. 례 (ryae) sounds like 'ryay' as in 'ray' but with a subtle 'y' sound before it. Combine as 'Gyung-ryay'.
More Example Sentences
Describing a flag ceremony
군인들은 국기에 대한 경례를 했다.
The soldiers saluted the national flag.
Explaining military protocol
상관에게 경례하는 것은 기본 예절이다.
Saluting a superior is basic etiquette.
Describing a formal military event
그는 경례를 받으며 단상에 올랐다.
He ascended the platform, receiving salutes.
Cultural Context
'경례' is a fundamental gesture in Korean military culture, deeply ingrained due to mandatory conscription. It signifies respect, discipline, and hierarchy. You'll frequently see it in K-dramas with military themes or in news reports. The accompanying verbal command or response is often '충성!' (Chungseong!), meaning 'Loyalty!', which is a core value in the Korean military.
Editorial note
We review entries like 경례 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
경례하다
to salute (verb form)
국기에 대한 경례
salute to the national flag
받들어 총!
Present arms! (command before saluting with a rifle)
Related Expressions
충성
chungseong
loyalty (often said with a salute)
예의
yeui
etiquette/courtesy
인사
insa
greeting (general, bowing)
거수경례
geosugyeongrye
hand salute (more specific)
More Military Words
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