약속
yakssok
/jak̚.s͈ok̚/
Definition
A promise or appointment made between two or more people.
Example
내일 친구와 약속이 있어요.
Show translation
I have plans with a friend tomorrow.
Etymology
Sino-Korean compound: 約 (약, yak) meaning "to bind/pledge" + 束 (속, sok) meaning "to bundle/tie." Together they convey the idea of tying oneself to an agreement — a binding commitment.
Cultural note
In Korean culture, keeping 약속 (yakssok) is taken very seriously — cancelling last-minute is considered quite rude. The word covers both a casual meetup ("I have plans") and a solemn promise, so context determines the weight. When someone says "약속해요?" they're asking for your word on something.