What it means
가슴 literally means chest but in emotional contexts means "heart" — the seat of emotions in Korean. 가슴이 아파요 = my heart hurts. Distinct from 마음 (mind/heart) and 심장 (physical heart organ).
Nuance & when to use
가슴이 뭉클하다 = to feel deeply moved / a lump in the chest. 가슴이 두근두근해요 = my heart is pounding (excitement or nervousness). 가슴이 찡해요 = my heart is touched/moved. 가슴이 아파요 = my heart hurts. Very emotional vocabulary used in K-drama tearful moments.
⚠ Common mistake
가슴 (chest/emotional heart) ≠ 심장 (physical heart organ) ≠ 마음 (mind/heart/feelings). All translate to "heart" but mean different things.
Example sentences
See also
FAQ
When is this used?
가슴이 뭉클하다 = to feel deeply moved / a lump in the chest. 가슴이 두근두근해요 = my heart is pounding (excitement or nervousness). 가슴이 찡해요 = my heart is touched/moved. 가슴이 아파요 = my heart hurts. Very emotional vocabulary used in K-drama tearful moments.
What's a common mistake?
가슴 (chest/emotional heart) ≠ 심장 (physical heart organ) ≠ 마음 (mind/heart/feelings). All translate to "heart" but mean different things.
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