Korean Dictionary
How to say "Support" in Korean
“Support” in Korean is 지지하다 (pronounced "Jijihada").
지지하다
Jijihada
Usage & Context
Standing behind and encouraging someone. 응원하다 (to cheer on) is the more casual form. Being a source of emotional support (정서적 지지) is a key role in Korean relationships. Public displays of supporting each other's dreams and ambitions are valued expressions of love.
Example Sentence
어떤 결정을 하든 항상 응원하고 지지할게요.
Whatever decision you make, I'll always cheer for and support you.
How to use 지지하다 naturally
Quick answer
The Korean word for “Support” is 지지하다, romanized as Jijihada.
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 지지하다.
Pronunciation Guide
The first '지' sounds like 'jee' in 'jeep'. The second '지' is identical. '하' is like 'ha' in 'haha'. '다' is like 'da' in 'dad'. The stress is fairly even across syllables.
Formal & Casual Forms
Formal (존댓말)
지지합니다
Jijihamnida
Formal polite ending for verbs, used in respectful or public settings.
Casual (반말)
지지해
Jijihae
Casual form, typically used with close friends, family, or those younger than you.
More Example Sentences
Reassuring a friend or partner about their aspirations.
저는 항상 당신의 꿈을 지지할 거예요.
I will always support your dreams.
Describing fan culture or public opinion for an idol/celebrity.
많은 팬들이 그 가수를 열렬히 지지하고 있어요.
Many fans are passionately supporting that singer.
Discussing political or social issues in a formal context.
정부의 새로운 정책을 지지하는 사람들이 많습니다.
There are many people who support the government's new policy.
Cultural Context
While '지지하다' means 'to support,' it often carries a slightly more formal or public connotation, like supporting a policy, a candidate, or a public figure. For personal, emotional encouragement or cheering someone on, '응원하다' (eungwonhada) is more commonly used and feels warmer. In Korean relationships, showing '지지' for a partner's career or family is highly valued, often seen as a sign of commitment and respect.
Editorial note
We check relationship words like 지지하다 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
전적으로 지지합니다.
I fully support you.
지지해 줘서 고마워.
Thank you for your support.
지지율이 높다/낮다.
The approval rating is high/low.
Related Expressions
응원하다
Eungwonhada
To cheer on, to encourage (more personal/emotional)
찬성하다
Chanseonghada
To agree, to approve (more about opinions/decisions)
후원하다
Huwonhada
To sponsor, to provide financial support
반대하다
Bandaehada
To oppose, to object (antonym)
More Relationships Words
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