약속
yakssok
/jak.s͈ok̚/
Definition
A plan or agreement to meet someone or do something at a specific time.
Example
내일 친구와 약속이 있어요.
Show translation
I have plans with a friend tomorrow.
Etymology
Sino-Korean: 約束 (약속). 約 (약) means "to bind/agree," and 束 (속) means "to bundle/tie." Together they convey the idea of tying two people to an agreed-upon arrangement.
Cultural note
In Korean culture, keeping 약속 is taken seriously — cancelling last-minute can be seen as disrespectful. The word covers both casual plans ("meeting a friend") and solemn promises or commitments, unlike English which separates the two concepts.