Korean Dictionary
How to say "Vow" in Korean
“Vow” in Korean is 서약 (pronounced "seoyak").
서약
seoyak
Usage & Context
A solemn promise or commitment, especially in marriage. Vows are central to Korean wedding ceremonies and represent lifelong commitment.
Example Sentence
우리는 서약을 했어.
We made vows.
How to use 서약 naturally
Quick answer
The Korean word for “Vow” is 서약, romanized as seoyak.
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 서약.
Pronunciation Guide
서 (seo) sounds like 'suh' in 'sugar' (but with a slightly more open 'o' sound). 약 (yak) is like 'yak' in the animal 'yak'. Pronounce both syllables clearly and with even emphasis.
More Example Sentences
Describing a part of a wedding ceremony.
결혼 서약을 낭독했어요.
We recited our marriage vows.
Talking about a solemn commitment, perhaps religious or humanitarian.
그는 평생 봉사하겠다는 서약을 했다.
He made a vow to serve for life.
Referring to a formal document requiring a signature for a commitment.
서약서에 서명해야 합니다.
You must sign the pledge/vow document.
Cultural Context
서약 (seoyak) is a more formal and solemn term than 약속 (yaksok), often associated with significant life events like marriage or religious commitments. In traditional and modern Korean weddings, couples exchange '결혼 서약' (gyeollon seoyak), which are sacred promises of lifelong fidelity and love. It signifies a deep, unwavering commitment, often made publicly or before a higher authority, carrying a much stronger sense of permanence and gravity.
Editorial note
We check relationship words like 서약 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
결혼 서약
marriage vows
서약을 하다
to make a vow
서약을 지키다
to keep a vow
Related Expressions
맹세
maengse
oath, solemn promise (very close synonym)
선서
seonseo
oath (often in legal or official contexts)
공약
gongyak
public pledge, election promise
약속
yaksok
promise (less formal, broader term)
More Relationships Words
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