📖 Words B1

분위기

bunwigi

atmosphere / vibe / mood of a place

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What it means

분위기 refers to the atmosphere, vibe, or ambient mood of a place or situation. One of the most nuanced words in Korean social vocabulary.

Nuance & when to use

분위기가 좋아요 = the vibe is good. 분위기 있다 = has atmosphere (stylish, sophisticated). 분위기 파악 = reading the room. 분위기 메이커 = the person who creates a fun atmosphere. Connected to 눈치 — reading 분위기 is key to Korean social success.

⚠ Common mistake

분위기 ≠ 기분. 분위기 = the atmosphere of a PLACE or SITUATION. 기분 = your personal mood/feeling.

Example sentences

이 카페 분위기 좋아요. I kape bunwigi joayo. This café has a nice atmosphere.
분위기 좀 파악하세요. Bunwigi jom pawakhaseyo. Read the room a bit.
분위기가 어색해요. Bunwiga eosaekaeyo. The atmosphere is awkward.

See also

눈치 기분 느낌
References Naver Korean Dictionary ↗ 국립국어원 표준국어대사전 ↗
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FAQ

When is this used?

분위기가 좋아요 = the vibe is good. 분위기 있다 = has atmosphere (stylish, sophisticated). 분위기 파악 = reading the room. 분위기 메이커 = the person who creates a fun atmosphere. Connected to 눈치 — reading 분위기 is key to Korean social success.

What's a common mistake?

분위기 ≠ 기분. 분위기 = the atmosphere of a PLACE or SITUATION. 기분 = your personal mood/feeling.

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