Discussing relationship challenges and seeking professional help requires specific vocabulary. This guide introduces essential Korean terms and phrases related to “부부상담” (bu-bu-sang-dam), or couples counseling, enabling you to navigate these sensitive conversations in Korean. You’ll learn how to express the need for counseling, discuss issues, make appointments, and understand cultural nuances.
Table Of Content
Core Expression
- Expression: 부부상담
Pronunciation: bu-bu-sang-dam
Meaning: Couples counseling / Marriage counseling (Literally: husband-wife consultation)
Seeking Counseling
This section covers basic phrases used when considering or suggesting couples counseling.
- Expression: 우리 부부상담 받아보는 거 어때요?
Pronunciation: u-ri bu-bu-sang-dam bad-a-bo-neun geo eo-ttae-yo?
Meaning: How about we try couples counseling? - Expression: 부부상담이 필요할 것 같아요.
Pronunciation: bu-bu-sang-dam-i pil-yo-hal geot gat-a-yo.
Meaning: I think we might need couples counseling. - Expression: 전문적인 도움이 필요해요.
Pronunciation: jeon-mun-jeok-in do-um-i pil-yo-hae-yo.
Meaning: We need professional help. - Expression: 관계 개선을 위해 상담을 받고 싶어요.
Pronunciation: gwan-gye gae-seon-eul wi-hae sang-dam-eul bat-go sip-eo-yo.
Meaning: I want to receive counseling to improve our relationship. - Expression: 상담 센터를 찾아봅시다.
Pronunciation: sang-dam sen-teo-reul chaj-a-bop-si-da.
Meaning: Let’s look for a counseling center. - Expression: 요즘 우리 사이에 문제가 좀 있어요.
Pronunciation: yo-jeum u-ri sa-i-e mun-je-ga jom iss-eo-yo.
Meaning: We’ve been having some problems between us lately. - Expression: 대화로 해결이 잘 안 돼요.
Pronunciation: dae-hwa-ro hae-gyeol-i jal an dwae-yo.
Meaning: We can’t resolve things well through conversation alone. - Expression: 상담사 추천해 줄 수 있나요?
Pronunciation: sang-dam-sa chu-cheon-hae jul su iss-na-yo?
Meaning: Can you recommend a counselor? - Expression: 부부상담 비용은 얼마인가요?
Pronunciation: bu-bu-sang-dam bi-yong-eun eol-ma-in-ga-yo?
Meaning: How much does couples counseling cost? - Expression: 상담 효과가 있을까요?
Pronunciation: sang-dam hyo-gwa-ga iss-eul-kka-yo?
Meaning: Will counseling be effective? - Expression: 같이 노력해 봐요.
Pronunciation: gat-i no-ryeok-hae bwa-yo.
Meaning: Let’s try to work on it together. - Expression: 우리의 미래를 위해 중요해요.
Pronunciation: u-ri-e mi-rae-reul wi-hae jung-yo-hae-yo.
Meaning: It’s important for our future.
Discussing Relationship Issues
Here are phrases to help articulate common problems encountered in relationships.
- Expression: 우리는 소통에 어려움을 겪고 있어요.
Pronunciation: u-ri-neun so-tong-e eo-ryeo-um-eul gyeokk-go iss-eo-yo.
Meaning: We are having difficulties with communication. - Expression: 서로 오해가 많은 것 같아요.
Pronunciation: seo-ro o-hae-ga man-eun geot gat-a-yo.
Meaning: I think there are many misunderstandings between us. - Expression: 자주 다투게 돼요.
Pronunciation: ja-ju da-tu-ge dwae-yo.
Meaning: We end up arguing often. - Expression: 감정적으로 거리가 느껴져요.
Pronunciation: gam-jeong-jeok-eu-ro geo-ri-ga neu-kkyeo-jyeo-yo.
Meaning: I feel emotionally distant. - Expression: 신뢰 문제가 있어요.
Pronunciation: sil-loe mun-je-ga iss-eo-yo.
Meaning: There are trust issues. - Expression: 가치관 차이가 커요.
Pronunciation: ga-chi-gwan cha-i-ga keo-yo.
Meaning: Our values differ significantly. - Expression: 양육 방식에 대해 의견이 달라요.
Pronunciation: yang-yuk bang-sik-e dae-hae ui-gyeon-i dal-la-yo.
Meaning: We have different opinions on parenting styles. - Expression: 재정적인 문제로 스트레스를 받아요.
Pronunciation: jae-jeong-jeok-in mun-je-ro seu-teu-re-seu-reul bad-a-yo.
Meaning: We are stressed because of financial problems. - Expression: 서로에게 상처 주는 말을 해요.
Pronunciation: seo-ro-e-ge sang-cheo ju-neun mal-eul hae-yo.
Meaning: We say hurtful things to each other. - Expression: 예전 같지 않아요.
Pronunciation: ye-jeon gat-ji an-a-yo.
Meaning: It’s not like it used to be. - Expression: 이 문제를 어떻게 해결해야 할지 모르겠어요.
Pronunciation: i mun-je-reul eo-tteok-ke hae-gyeol-hae-ya hal-ji mo-reu-gess-eo-yo.
Meaning: I don’t know how we should solve this problem. - Expression: 당신의 기분을 이해하고 싶어요.
Pronunciation: dang-sin-e gi-bun-eul i-hae-ha-go sip-eo-yo.
Meaning: I want to understand how you feel.
Making an Appointment
These expressions are useful when contacting a counseling center to schedule a session.
- Expression: 부부상담 예약을 하고 싶습니다.
Pronunciation: bu-bu-sang-dam ye-yak-eul ha-go sip-seum-ni-da.
Meaning: I would like to make an appointment for couples counseling. - Expression: 상담 가능한 시간을 알려주세요.
Pronunciation: sang-dam ga-neung-han si-gan-eul al-lyeo-ju-se-yo.
Meaning: Please let me know the available times for counseling. - Expression: 첫 상담은 보통 얼마나 걸리나요?
Pronunciation: cheot sang-dam-eun bo-tong eol-ma-na geol-li-na-yo?
Meaning: How long does the first session usually take? - Expression: 상담 비용은 어떻게 되나요?
Pronunciation: sang-dam bi-yong-eun eo-tteo-ke doe-na-yo?
Meaning: What are the counseling fees? - Expression: 보험 적용이 가능한가요?
Pronunciation: bo-heom jeok-yong-i ga-neung-han-ga-yo?
Meaning: Is insurance applicable? - Expression: 어떤 상담사 분들이 계신가요?
Pronunciation: eo-tteon sang-dam-sa bun-deul-i gye-sin-ga-yo?
Meaning: What kind of counselors do you have? - Expression: 온라인 상담도 가능한가요?
Pronunciation: on-la-in sang-dam-do ga-neung-han-ga-yo?
Meaning: Is online counseling also available? - Expression: 예약 변경/취소는 어떻게 하나요?
Pronunciation: ye-yak byeon-gyeong/chwi-so-neun eo-tteo-ke ha-na-yo?
Meaning: How can I change/cancel my appointment? - Expression: 가장 빠른 예약 가능일이 언제인가요?
Pronunciation: ga-jang ppa-reun ye-yak ga-neung-il-i eon-je-in-ga-yo?
Meaning: When is the earliest possible appointment date? - Expression: 부부가 함께 가야 하나요?
Pronunciation: bu-bu-ga ham-kke ga-ya ha-na-yo?
Meaning: Do we have to go together as a couple? - Expression: 상담 전에 준비해야 할 것이 있나요?
Pronunciation: sang-dam jeon-e jun-bi-hae-ya hal geos-i iss-na-yo?
Meaning: Is there anything we need to prepare before the session? - Expression: 주소와 오시는 길을 알려주세요.
Pronunciation: ju-so-wa o-si-neun gil-eul al-lyeo-ju-se-yo.
Meaning: Please tell me the address and directions.
During the Counseling Session
Phrases that might be used by participants or the counselor during a session.
- Expression: 제 생각에는…
Pronunciation: je saeng-gak-e-neun…
Meaning: In my opinion… / I think that… - Expression: 저는 …라고 느껴요.
Pronunciation: jeo-neun …ra-go neu-kkyeo-yo.
Meaning: I feel that… - Expression: 당신이 그렇게 말할 때 기분이 안 좋아요.
Pronunciation: dang-sin-i geu-reok-ke mal-hal ttae gi-bun-i an jo-a-yo.
Meaning: I don’t feel good when you say that. - Expression: 좀 더 자세히 설명해 주시겠어요?
Pronunciation: jom deo ja-se-hi seol-myeong-hae ju-si-gess-eo-yo?
Meaning: Could you explain that in more detail? - Expression: 그 부분에 대해서는 동의하기 어려워요.
Pronunciation: geu bu-bun-e dae-hae-seo-neun dong-ui-ha-gi eo-ryeo-wo-yo.
Meaning: It’s difficult for me to agree on that point. - Expression: 앞으로 어떻게 하면 좋을까요?
Pronunciation: ap-eu-ro eo-tteo-ke ha-myeon jo-eul-kka-yo?
Meaning: What should we do going forward? - Expression: 상담사님의 의견은 어떠신가요?
Pronunciation: sang-dam-sa-nim-e ui-gyeon-eun eo-tteo-sin-ga-yo?
Meaning: What is your opinion, counselor? - Expression: 저희는 이 문제를 해결하고 싶어요.
Pronunciation: jeo-hui-neun i mun-je-reul hae-gyeol-ha-go sip-eo-yo.
Meaning: We want to resolve this issue. - Expression: 당신의 입장을 이해하려고 노력할게요.
Pronunciation: dang-sin-e ip-jang-eul i-hae-ha-ryeo-go no-ryeok-hal-ge-yo.
Meaning: I will try to understand your position. - Expression: 다음 상담은 언제인가요?
Pronunciation: da-eum sang-dam-eun eon-je-in-ga-yo?
Meaning: When is the next session? - Expression: 오늘 상담 감사합니다.
Pronunciation: o-neul sang-dam gam-sa-ham-ni-da.
Meaning: Thank you for the session today. - Expression: 숙제가 있나요? (Referring to tasks assigned by the counselor)
Pronunciation: suk-je-ga iss-na-yo?
Meaning: Is there any homework?
Korean Culture Notes
Understanding cultural context is crucial when discussing sensitive topics like couples counseling.
- Changing Perceptions: While traditionally there might have been some stigma associated with seeking psychological help, attitudes towards counseling (상담 – sang-dam) in Korea are evolving, especially among younger generations. It’s becoming more accepted as a proactive way to address relationship issues.
- Emphasis on “Uri” (We): Korean culture often emphasizes collectivism (“우리” – u-ri, meaning “we” or “us”). This can influence relationship dynamics, sometimes making individual needs secondary to the harmony of the couple or family unit. Counseling might focus on restoring this harmony.
- Communication Styles: Indirect communication can be common. Couples might find it challenging to express negative feelings or disagreements directly. A counselor can help facilitate more open and direct communication.
- Family Influence: Family opinions, particularly from parents or in-laws, can significantly impact a marriage. These external pressures might be a topic discussed during counseling.
- Privacy Concerns: Confidentiality (비밀 보장 – bi-mil bo-jang) is important, but some individuals might still worry about social judgment if others find out they are receiving counseling. Choosing a reputable center is key.
Real Conversation Example
Situation: A married couple, Minji and Jihoon, are discussing their recent arguments and the possibility of seeking help.
Roles: A: Minji (Wife), B: Jihoon (Husband)
- Expression: A: 여보, 요즘 우리 너무 자주 다투는 것 같아요.
Pronunciation: yeo-bo, yo-jeum u-ri neo-mu ja-ju da-tu-neun geot gat-a-yo.
Meaning: Honey, I feel like we’ve been arguing too much lately. - Expression: B: 맞아요. 대화로 해결이 잘 안 되는 느낌이에요.
Pronunciation: maj-a-yo. dae-hwa-ro hae-gyeol-i jal an doe-neun neu-kkim-i-e-yo.
Meaning: You’re right. I feel like we can’t resolve things well through conversation. - Expression: A: 우리 관계 개선을 위해서… 혹시 부부상담 받아보는 거 어때요?
Pronunciation: u-ri gwan-gye gae-seon-eul wi-hae-seo… hok-si bu-bu-sang-dam bad-a-bo-neun geo eo-ttae-yo?
Meaning: To improve our relationship… how about we maybe try couples counseling? - Expression: B: 부부상담이요? 음… 솔직히 조금 망설여지네요. 효과가 있을까요?
Pronunciation: bu-bu-sang-dam-i-yo? eum… sol-jik-hi jo-geum mang-seol-yeo-ji-ne-yo. hyo-gwa-ga iss-eul-kka-yo?
Meaning: Couples counseling? Hmm… honestly, I’m a bit hesitant. Will it be effective? - Expression: A: 저도 확실히는 모르지만, 전문적인 도움이 필요할 것 같아요. 이대로는 힘들잖아요.
Pronunciation: jeo-do hwak-sil-hi-neun mo-reu-ji-man, jeon-mun-jeok-in do-um-i pil-yo-hal geot gat-a-yo. i-dae-ro-neun him-deul-jan-a-yo.
Meaning: I’m not sure either, but I think we might need professional help. It’s difficult like this. - Expression: B: 하긴… 우리 미래를 위해 중요할 수도 있겠네요. 그럼 한번 알아볼까요? 상담 센터를 찾아봅시다.
Pronunciation: ha-gin… u-ri mi-rae-reul wi-hae jung-yo-hal su-do iss-gess-ne-yo. geu-reom han-beon ar-a-bol-kka-yo? sang-dam sen-teo-reul chaj-a-bop-si-da.
Meaning: True… it could be important for our future. Then shall we look into it? Let’s look for a counseling center. - Expression: A: 좋아요. 같이 노력해 봐요.
Pronunciation: jo-a-yo. gat-i no-ryeok-hae bwa-yo.
Meaning: Okay. Let’s try to work on it together.
Practice Tips
Navigating relationship issues can be tough, but knowing the right words helps! Try practicing these phrases with a language partner or even by yourself~ Role-playing scenarios like suggesting counseling or discussing a hypothetical issue can make you feel more comfortable. Remember, using terms like 부부상담 (bu-bu-sang-dam) shows you understand specific concepts in Korean culture. Keep practicing, and you’ll be able to handle these conversations more confidently! 화이팅! (hwa-i-ting! – Fighting! / You can do it!)
