Korean Dictionary
How to say "Toxic Relationship" in Korean
“Toxic Relationship” in Korean is 독성 관계 (pronounced "dokseong gwangye").
독성 관계
dokseong gwangye
Usage & Context
A toxic relationship is one that is harmful to one's well-being. Korean counselors address 독성 관계 as a major source of mental health issues, helping people establish healthier boundaries.
Example Sentence
독성 관계는 자존감을 갉아먹고 정신 건강을 해친다.
Toxic relationships erode self-esteem and harm mental health.
How to use 독성 관계 naturally
Quick answer
The Korean word for “Toxic Relationship” is 독성 관계, romanized as dokseong gwangye.
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 독성 관계.
Pronunciation Guide
The first part, '독성' (dokseong), sounds like 'dok-sung'. 'Dok' is like 'dock', and 'seong' is like 'sung' in 'song'. The second part, '관계' (gwangye), sounds like 'gwahng-gye'. 'Gwang' is like 'gwahng' (imagine 'gong' with a 'w' sound), and 'gye' is like 'gye' in 'get-yeah'.
More Example Sentences
A friend discussing someone's past relationship struggles.
그는 독성 관계에서 벗어나기 위해 많은 노력을 했어요.
He made a lot of effort to escape from a toxic relationship.
A therapist or counselor advising a client.
독성 관계는 당신의 정신 건강에 매우 해로울 수 있습니다.
A toxic relationship can be very harmful to your mental health.
Someone expressing their desire for a healthier future.
더 이상 독성 관계에 얽매이지 않고 싶어요.
I don't want to be tied down by a toxic relationship anymore.
Cultural Context
The term '독성 관계' has gained significant traction in Korean society, especially among younger generations and in mental health discourse. It's frequently discussed in online communities, self-help books, and even K-dramas, reflecting a growing awareness of emotional well-being and the importance of healthy boundaries. The concept often extends beyond romantic relationships to include friendships, family dynamics, and even workplace interactions.
Editorial note
We review entries like 독성 관계 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
독성 관계에서 벗어나다
to escape a toxic relationship
독성 관계를 끊다
to cut off a toxic relationship
독성 관계의 징후
signs of a toxic relationship
Related Expressions
불건강한 관계
bulgeon-ganghan gwangye
unhealthy relationship
가스라이팅
gaseuraiting
gaslighting
자존감
jajongam
self-esteem
이별
ibyeol
breakup, separation
More Mental Health & Wellness Words
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