Korean Dictionary
How to say "Secret" in Korean
“Secret” in Korean is 비밀 (pronounced "bimil").
비밀
bimil
Usage & Context
Something kept hidden or confidential. Sharing secrets is a sign of trust and intimacy in Korean relationships.
Example Sentence
나는 너에게 비밀을 말하고 싶어.
I want to tell you a secret.
How to use 비밀 naturally
Quick answer
The Korean word for “Secret” is 비밀, romanized as bimil.
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 비밀.
Pronunciation Guide
비 (bi) sounds like 'bee' in 'bee-hive'. 밀 (mil) is like 'mill' in 'windmill'. The two syllables are pronounced smoothly and evenly.
More Example Sentences
Emphasizing confidentiality to a close friend.
이건 우리 둘만의 비밀이야.
This is a secret just between the two of us.
Talking about a computer or phone password.
비밀번호를 잊어버렸어요.
I forgot my password.
Discussing a general life principle.
성공의 비밀은 꾸준함에 있다.
The secret to success lies in consistency.
Cultural Context
In Korean culture, sharing a '비밀' (bimil) with someone is a significant sign of trust and can deepen a relationship, especially among friends or romantic partners. It's common in K-dramas for characters to confide their deepest secrets in each other, often leading to dramatic plot developments. Keeping a secret (비밀을 지키다) for someone is also seen as a crucial act of loyalty.
Editorial note
We check relationship words like 비밀 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
비밀을 지키다
to keep a secret
비밀을 말하다
to tell a secret
비밀이야!
It's a secret! (often said playfully)
Related Expressions
기밀
gimil
confidential (often used in business/government)
숨기다
sumgida
to hide (verb related to secrets)
공개
gonggae
public disclosure, open (antonym)
사생활
sasaenghwal
private life
More Relationships Words
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