Korean Dictionary
How to say "Yearning" in Korean
“Yearning” in Korean is 갈망하다 (pronounced "Galmanghada").
갈망하다
Galmanghada
Usage & Context
Expresses a powerful, deep desire for something beyond reach — freedom, connection, or an unfulfilled dream. More intense than 그리워하다 (longing). Common in Korean literature and emotional ballads about unattainable desires.
Example Sentence
자유를 갈망하는 마음이 너무 커요.
The yearning for freedom in my heart is so strong.
How to use 갈망하다 naturally
Quick answer
The Korean word for “Yearning” is 갈망하다, romanized as Galmanghada.
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 갈망하다.
Pronunciation Guide
Pronounced "Gahl-mang-hah-dah." "Gahl" sounds like "gallop." "Mang" sounds like "mango." "Hah" sounds like "haha," and "Dah" like "dah-ling."
Formal & Casual Forms
Formal (존댓말)
갈망합니다
Galmanghamnida
This is the formal declarative form, used in polite and respectful situations.
Casual (반말)
갈망해
Galmanghae
This is the casual declarative form, used with close friends or subordinates.
More Example Sentences
Describing a character's lifelong pursuit.
그는 평생 자유를 갈망하며 살았다.
He lived his whole life yearning for freedom.
Observing societal aspirations.
성공을 갈망하는 젊은이들이 많다.
There are many young people yearning for success.
Expressing homesickness and longing.
고향을 떠나온 지 오래되어 가족을 갈망하고 있어요.
It's been a long time since I left home, and I'm yearning for my family.
Cultural Context
"갈망하다" expresses a powerful, almost desperate, desire for something deeply important or unattainable. It's a stronger emotion than simple "그리워하다" (to miss/long for). In Korean culture, where collective harmony often takes precedence, individual "갈망" for personal freedom, unique identity, or breaking societal norms can be a significant theme in art, literature, and even K-pop lyrics, reflecting a deeper human struggle or aspiration.
Editorial note
We review entries like 갈망하다 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
자유를 갈망하다
To yearn for freedom
성공을 갈망하다
To yearn for success
사랑을 갈망하다
To yearn for love
Related Expressions
열망하다
yeolmanghada
To ardently desire, to aspire (similar intensity, often for goals)
염원하다
yeomwonhada
To earnestly wish, to pray for (often for a deep, heartfelt wish)
그리워하다
geuriwohada
To miss, to long for (softer, more nostalgic longing)
만족하다
manjokhada
To be satisfied, to be content (antonym)
More Emotions Words
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