축복
chukbok[t͡ɕʰuk̚p͈o̞k̚]
The English phrase 'blessing' is translated into Korean as 축복 (chukbok).
축복 is the most common and generic term for a blessing in Korean. It refers to the act of declaring, seeking or bestowing favor. You can use the phrase 축복을 받다 to say one 'receives a blessing', or 축복을 빌다 to express the act of seeking or wishing for a blessing upon someone.
Meaning: act of declaring, seeking or bestowing favor (noun)
Which one should you use?
While 축복 refers to the formal act of bestowing a blessing, the shorter word 복 is more commonly used in daily life to refer to general good fortune, luck or a blessing. Additionally, 축하 primarily means 'congratulations' but can be used to express blessings in certain contexts and 행운 refers specifically to 'good luck' or 'fortune'.
How does it change in a sentence?
You can turn the noun 축복 into the verb 'to bless' by adding the suffix –하다 to create 축복하다.
How do you pronounce it?
chukbok
When do people say it?
To express the sentiment of 'receive many blessings', you can say 복 많이 받아.
Did you know?
- While 축복 is the standard word for 'blessing', the shorter word 복 is often associated with the 'bok-jumeoni', a traditional lucky pouch carried during the New Year to physically hold one's good fortune.
- In traditional Korean culture, the concept of 복 is not just about divine favor but can be earned through filial piety and virtuous living, making it a reward for behavior rather than just a gift.
- In many Korean contexts, the concept of 'blessing' is tied to the word 복, which is also the root for many words related to 'wealth' and 'fortune'.
Examples in context
- 축복 받으시기를 기원합니다.I wish you to receive blessings.
- 생일 축하해! 행운이 항상 함께하기를 바라.Happy birthday! I hope luck is always with you.
- 그것은 정말 큰 축복이에요.geugeoseun jeongmal keun chukbokieyo.That is a truly great blessing.
- 신의 축복이 함께하기를 바랍니다.sinui chukbogi hamkkehagireul baramnida.I hope God's blessing be with you.
- 우리는 축복을 나누었습니다.urineun chukbogeul nanueotseumnida.We shared a blessing.
Example conversation
Jihoon and Jieun are talking about a new baby in the family.
- 지훈 Ji-hun새로운 생명은 축복이에요.saeroun saengmyeongeun chukbokieyo.A new life is a blessing.
- 지은 Ji-eun맞아요, 정말 행복해요.majayo, jeongmal haengbokhaeyo.That's right, I'm so happy.
- 지훈 Ji-hun지은 씨도 축복을 받길 바라요.jieun ssido chukbogeul batgil barayo.I hope you receive blessings too, Jieun.
- 지은 Ji-eun고마워요, 지훈 씨.gomawoyo, jihoon ssi.Thank you, Jihoon.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry 축복, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
