Definition
A promise or appointment; an agreement to do something at a specific time or place.
Example
내일 친구와 약속이 있어요.
Show translation
I have plans with a friend tomorrow.
Etymology
From Sino-Korean 約束 (약속): 約 (약, "to bind; to agree") + 束 (속, "to bundle; to tie"). The compound literally means "to bind together," reflecting the idea of two parties tying themselves to an agreement.
Cultural note
In Korean culture, keeping 약속 is taken very seriously — cancelling plans last-minute (바람 맞히다, "to stand someone up") is considered quite rude. The word covers both a formal promise and a casual hangout plan, so Koreans use it where English speakers might say "I have plans," "I made a promise," or "I have an appointment."