영기
yeonggi[jʌ̹ŋɡi]
The Korean word for aura is 영기 (yeonggi). Wiktionary also lists 분위기 (bunwigi) and 령기 (ryeonggi).
Meaning: the distinctive atmosphere or quality associated with someone or something (noun)
Ways to say it
| Korean | Romanization (Wiktionary) | IPA | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| 영기 | yeonggi | [jʌ̹ŋɡi] (SK Standard, Seoul, narrow) | |
| 분위기 | bunwigi | [punɥiɡi] (SK Standard, Seoul, narrow) [punyɡi] (SK Standard, Seoul, narrow) |
|
| 령기 | ryeonggi | North Korea |
The word 영기 refers to a distinctive atmosphere or quality, specifically one that is spiritual, mystical or supernatural in nature. For general contexts, such as the mood or ambiance of a room or environment, the word 분위기 is often used instead.
Which one should you use?
Use 영기 when you are describing a spiritual energy or a supernatural aura. In contrast, 분위기 is used to describe a general atmosphere or social vibe. Additionally, the loanword 아우라 is a direct adaptation of the English word 'aura' and is used in casual conversations.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In North Korea, the form 령기 is used instead of 영기.
How do you pronounce it?
yeonggi
Did you know?
- Depending on the Chinese characters used, the sound 영기 can refer to spiritual energy, a military banner or a heroic spirit. These distinct meanings are indistinguishable in spoken Korean without context.
- If you use the loanword 아우라 in Korea, you are likely describing a person's impressive fashion sense or star power rather than their spiritual energy.
- The term 분위기 is frequently used as a verb phrase 분위기를 타다, which describes the act of getting swept up in the mood of a place or situation.
Examples in context
- 그곳은 신비로운 분위기가 감돌아요.That place has a mysterious aura.
Example conversation
Minjun and Subin are watching a performance together.
- 민준 Min-jun수빈 씨, 저 무용수 영기가 대단하지 않아요?Subin ssi, jeo muyongsu yeonggiga daedanhaji anayo?Subin, isn't that dancer's aura amazing?
- 수빈 Su-bin네, 정말 신비로운 영기가 느껴져요.ne, jeongmal sinbiroun yeonggiga neukkyeojyeoyo.Yes, I feel a really mysterious aura.
- 민준 Min-jun무대 위에서 정말 빛이 나네요.mudae wieseo jeongmal bichi naneyo.They are really shining on stage.
- 수빈 Su-bin맞아요, 분위기가 정말 압도적이에요.majayo, bunwigiga jeongmal apdojeogieyo.I agree, the atmosphere is truly overwhelming.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “aura” translations and entries 영기, 분위기, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries 분위기, 영기, CC BY-SA 4.0.
