Korean Dictionary
How to say "Work-Life Balance" in Korean
“Work-Life Balance” in Korean is 워라밸 (pronounced "worabal").
워라밸
worabal
Usage & Context
Abbreviation for work-life balance, an important concept for younger generations seeking better quality of life. Reflects changing attitudes toward work culture.
Example Sentence
나 워라밸 중요해.
Work-life balance is important to me.
How to use 워라밸 naturally
Quick answer
The Korean word for “Work-Life Balance” is 워라밸, romanized as worabal.
Usage tip
Use slang only with friends or people who already speak casually with you. It can sound rude in formal Korean.
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 워라밸.
Pronunciation Guide
The first syllable '워' sounds like 'woh' in 'woah'. '라' is like 'ra' in 'rap'. '밸' sounds similar to 'bell' but with a slightly more open 'a' sound, like 'bal' in 'balance'.
More Example Sentences
Discussing generational differences in work priorities.
요즘 젊은 세대는 워라밸을 중요하게 생각해요.
Younger generations these days value work-life balance.
A job seeker explaining their criteria for a new workplace.
워라밸이 잘 지켜지는 회사를 찾고 있어요.
I'm looking for a company where work-life balance is well-maintained.
Explaining a career move driven by personal well-being.
워라밸 때문에 이직했어요. 전 직장은 야근이 너무 많았거든요.
I changed jobs because of work-life balance. My previous company had too much overtime.
Cultural Context
워라밸 (worabal) is a widely used abbreviation of 'work-life balance' and reflects a significant cultural shift in South Korea. For older generations, working long hours and prioritizing company loyalty was the norm. However, the MZ generation (Millennials and Gen Z) increasingly values personal time, well-being, and a clear boundary between work and private life. This concept is often discussed in job interviews, company culture, and social media, highlighting a desire for a more fulfilling life beyond just work.
Editorial note
We flag slang like 워라밸 for register and audience, since Korean slang can shift quickly and may sound rude outside close friendships.
Reviewed by Min-jung Park, Korean Language Teacher. Updated May 31, 2026. See our editorial standards.
Common Phrases
워라밸 지키다
to maintain work-life balance
워라밸 좋다
to have good work-life balance
워라밸 포기
to give up on work-life balance
Related Expressions
칼퇴
kaltoe
Leaving work exactly on time (literally 'knife-like leave')
야근
yageun
Overtime work
주 52시간 근무제
ju osibisigan geunmuje
52-hour work week system
번아웃
beona-ut
Burnout
More Slang Words
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