At the A1 level, you can think of 홍보 (Hong-bo) as a way to 'tell everyone' about something you like or something you made. It is like saying 'Look at this!' to a lot of people. For example, if you have a new YouTube channel and you tell your friends to watch it, you are doing a very simple kind of 홍보. You will mostly see this word in simple sentences with 하다 (to do), making it 홍보하다. Even if you are a beginner, knowing this word is useful because you will see it on posters and on the internet. Just remember: 홍보 = telling many people about something to make it popular. It's a noun, but usually, we use it with '해요' to say 'I promote.' For example: '저는 제 블로그를 홍보해요' (I promote my blog). It is a very helpful word when you want to share something with the world!
At the A2 level, you should understand that 홍보 is more than just telling friends; it is a professional way of 'making something known.' You might see this word in the context of '홍보 영상' (promotional video) or '홍보 포스터' (promotional poster). In Korea, if a new shop opens, they might give out flyers to 홍보 the shop. You can use the pattern [Object] + 을/를 + 홍보하다. For example, '가게를 홍보해요' (I promote the shop). You might also hear the word 광고 (advertising) and wonder about the difference. At this level, just remember that 홍보 is a bit broader—it's about the general act of letting people know about something. If you see a celebrity on a poster for a city, they are the '홍보 대사' (PR Ambassador). This is a very common phrase you will see in news headlines or on banners in the street.
At the B1 level, you should be able to distinguish 홍보 (PR/Promotion) from its synonyms like 광고 (Advertising) and 선전 (Propaganda). 홍보 is specifically about managing a 'public image' and building a relationship with an audience. You should be able to use it in professional contexts, such as discussing a '홍보 전략' (PR strategy) or '홍보 효과' (PR effect). At this level, you can also use the passive form 홍보되다 (to be promoted). For example, '이 제품은 SNS를 통해 널리 홍보되었습니다' (This product was widely promoted through SNS). You are likely to encounter this word in business meetings, news articles about company marketing, or when discussing how to increase the visibility of a project. It is an essential word for anyone planning to work in a Korean office or study business-related topics.
At the B2 level, you should understand 홍보 as a strategic communication tool. It's not just about 'making things known' but about 'reputation management.' You should be familiar with related terms like '언론 홍보' (media relations/press PR), '공익 홍보' (public interest PR), and '위기 홍보' (crisis PR). You can discuss the nuances of how 홍보 impacts a company's brand value. For instance, you might analyze how a company uses 홍보 to recover from a scandal. You should also be comfortable using it in complex sentence structures, such as '홍보의 중요성을 간과해서는 안 됩니다' (The importance of PR should not be overlooked). At this level, you are expected to understand that 홍보 involves a target audience (타겟 대상) and a specific message (메시지) designed to influence public perception over the long term, rather than just immediate sales.
At the C1 level, your understanding of 홍보 should encompass its ethical and societal implications. You should be able to discuss the 'ethical responsibility' (윤리적 책임) of 홍보 and the dangers of '과대 홍보' (exaggerated promotion) or '허위 홍보' (false promotion). You can use the word in academic or high-level professional discussions, such as '홍보 채널의 다변화' (diversification of PR channels) or '쌍방향 홍보' (two-way PR/interactive PR). You should be able to critique different 홍보 methodologies, such as '노이즈 마케팅' (noise marketing) versus '진정성 있는 홍보' (authentic PR). Furthermore, you should understand how 홍보 intersects with cultural diplomacy, such as how the Korean government uses 'K-Culture' for '국가 홍보' (national PR/nation branding). Your vocabulary should include advanced collocations like '홍보 역량을 강화하다' (to strengthen PR capabilities) or '홍보 매체를 선정하다' (to select PR media).
At the C2 level, you have a masterly grasp of 홍보 as a complex discipline within the broader field of communication science. You can engage in deep philosophical debates about the role of 홍보 in a democratic society—whether it serves as a bridge for transparency or a tool for manufacturing consent. You can fluently discuss '통합적 마케팅 커뮤니케이션' (Integrated Marketing Communications - IMC) and how 홍보 integrates with advertising, digital media, and stakeholder management. You are capable of drafting professional-grade '보도 자료' (press releases) and '홍보 기획서' (PR proposals) that utilize sophisticated rhetorical strategies. You understand the historical evolution of 홍보 in Korea, from its early stages of simple '선전' to the modern, data-driven '디지털 홍보.' Your usage of the word is indistinguishable from that of a native professional, and you can navigate the subtle linguistic differences between '홍보,' '공보' (public information), and '대외 협력' (external relations) with absolute precision.

홍보 in 30 Sekunden

  • 홍보 (Hong-bo) means Public Relations or Promotion, focusing on building a positive public image and awareness for products, companies, or individuals.
  • It is a B1-level noun derived from Hanja, meaning 'to inform widely,' and is commonly used with '하다' to form the verb 'to promote.'
  • While similar to advertising (광고), 홍보 covers a broader range of communication activities aimed at reputation management and earned media attention.
  • Key phrases include 홍보팀 (PR team), 홍보 대사 (PR ambassador), and 홍보 전략 (PR strategy), which are essential in business and media contexts.

The Korean word 홍보 (Hong-bo) is a fundamental term in the realms of business, media, and social interaction. At its core, it refers to the act of widely informing the public about a specific subject—be it a product, a person, an organization, or an idea—with the ultimate goal of creating a positive image or increasing awareness. Derived from Hanja (Chinese characters), the word consists of 弘 (홍), meaning 'wide' or 'great,' and 報 (알릴 보), meaning 'to inform' or 'to report.' Thus, the literal translation is 'to inform widely.' In a modern context, it most closely aligns with the English concepts of Public Relations (PR), promotion, or publicity.

Corporate Context
In a business setting, 홍보 refers to the strategic communication process that builds mutually beneficial relationships between organizations and their publics. It is not just about selling a product (which is more specifically '광고' or advertising) but about managing the overall reputation of the brand.
Personal and Social Media Context
With the rise of social media, individuals now engage in 'self-홍보' (self-promotion). Whether you are sharing your portfolio on LinkedIn or posting about your new YouTube channel on Instagram, you are engaging in 홍보.
Government and Public Service
Governments use 홍보 to inform citizens about new laws, public safety measures, or national events. This type of 홍보 is focused on the public interest rather than commercial gain.

저희 회사는 이번에 신제품 홍보를 위해 대대적인 캠페인을 준비하고 있습니다.

— "Our company is preparing a massive campaign to promote our new product this time."

You will encounter this word in job titles (홍보팀 - PR Team), in entertainment (홍보 대사 - PR Ambassador/Honorary Ambassador), and in daily conversation when someone asks you to spread the word about something. It is a versatile noun that becomes a verb when combined with '하다' (홍보하다 - to promote). Understanding the nuance of 홍보 is key to navigating professional environments in Korea, as the 'image' (이미지) and 'reputation' (명성) of an entity are highly valued in Korean culture.

이 영화는 입소문을 통한 홍보 효과가 아주 컸습니다.

— "This movie had a very large promotion effect through word-of-mouth."

Using 홍보 correctly requires understanding its role as a noun and how it functions as a verb. Because it is a B1-level word, you should focus on using it in both formal business contexts and informal social contexts. The most common grammatical construction is [Object] + [을/를] + 홍보하다.

Active Promotion (Subject does the PR)
When a person or company is actively spreading information: "유튜버들이 제품을 홍보하고 있어요" (YouTubers are promoting products).
Passive Promotion (Being promoted)
When something is being promoted by an external force: "그 도시는 관광지로 널리 홍보되고 있습니다" (That city is being widely promoted as a tourist destination).
The 'Effect' of PR
Often used with words like '효과' (effect) or '부족' (lack): "홍보 부족으로 관객이 적었습니다" (The audience was small due to a lack of promotion).

지자체에서는 지역 특산물을 홍보하기 위해 축제를 개최했습니다.

— "The local government held a festival to promote local specialties."

In professional Korean, you will often see 홍보 paired with specific nouns to create compound terms. For example, 홍보 전략 (PR strategy), 홍보 영상 (promotional video), and 홍보 자료 (promotional materials/press kit). When you are asking someone for a favor to spread the word, you might say, "제 채널 좀 홍보해 주세요!" (Please promote my channel!).

SNS는 현대 사회에서 가장 강력한 홍보 수단 중 하나입니다.

— "SNS is one of the most powerful means of promotion in modern society."

If you live in Korea or consume Korean media, 홍보 is inescapable. It is used in everything from high-stakes corporate announcements to the casual banter of variety shows. Understanding the context helps you grasp the weight of the word.

In K-Pop and Entertainment
Whenever a new idol group debuts or a movie is released, the stars go on '홍보 활동' (promotional activities). You will hear hosts say, "오늘 홍보하러 오셨나요?" (Did you come here to promote today?). Famous celebrities are also often appointed as '홍보 대사' (Honorary Ambassadors) for cities like Seoul or for major events like the Olympics.
In the Workplace
The '홍보팀' (PR Team) is a standard department in almost every medium-to-large Korean company. They handle '보도 자료' (press releases) and manage '위기 관리' (crisis management) to protect the company's image. In meetings, you might hear, "홍보 방안을 검토해 봅시다" (Let's review the promotion plans).
In Public Spaces
Subway stations and bus stops are filled with '홍보물' (promotional materials). These aren't just ads for products; they often include '공익 홍보' (public interest PR), such as campaigns for energy conservation or blood donation.

이번 드라마 홍보를 위해 주연 배우들이 예능 프로그램에 출연했습니다.

— "The lead actors appeared on variety shows to promote this drama."

You might also hear the term 홍보관 (promotion hall/center) at exhibitions or fairs. This is a dedicated space where a company or organization showcases its history and future vision. Whether it's a digital billboard in Gangnam or a flyer handed out at a university, the goal of 홍보 remains the same: to make something known and liked by as many people as possible.

While 홍보 is a common word, learners often confuse it with similar terms or use it in grammatically awkward ways. Avoiding these pitfalls will make your Korean sound much more natural and professional.

Confusing 홍보 with 광고 (Advertising)
This is the most frequent mistake. 광고 is a specific, paid advertisement (like a TV commercial). 홍보 is the broader act of promotion or PR. If you are talking about the general effort to make something famous, use 홍보. If you are talking about the 30-second video during a break, use 광고.
Overusing '선전' (Propaganda/Promotion)
The word 선전 (Sun-jeon) also means promotion, but in modern South Korea, it can carry a nuance of 'propaganda' or 'exaggerated claims.' While it's still used in some contexts (like '허위 선전' - false advertising), 홍보 is the much safer, more neutral, and professional choice for 'PR' or 'promotion.'
Incorrect Particle Usage
Learners sometimes say "홍보에 해요" instead of "홍보를 해요." Since 홍보 is the object of the action, it must take the object marker . For example: "가게를 홍보해요" (I promote the shop).

이것은 거짓 선전입니다. (Too strong/political)
→ 이것은 과대 홍보입니다. (More natural for exaggerated PR)

— "This is exaggerated promotion."

Finally, remember that 홍보 is almost always positive or neutral. If you are talking about 'spreading a rumor' (especially a bad one), use 퍼뜨리다 (to spread) or 유포하다 (to circulate) instead. Using 홍보 for a negative rumor sounds like you are trying to help the rumor become famous!

To truly master the concept of 홍보, it's helpful to compare it with its synonyms and related terms. Each word has a specific 'flavor' and is used in different contexts.

광고 (Gwang-go) - Advertising
The most common alternative. While 홍보 is about public relations and overall image, 광고 is the specific, paid act of showing a product to consumers.
Example: "TV 광고를 보고 물건을 샀어요." (I saw a TV ad and bought the item.)
마케팅 (Ma-ke-ting) - Marketing
A loanword from English. It covers the entire process from product development to sales. 홍보 is a tool used within marketing.
Example: "마케팅 전략이 중요합니다." (Marketing strategy is important.)
알림 (Al-lim) - Notification / Announcement
A pure Korean word meaning 'making something known.' It is simpler and less professional than 홍보. Used for things like phone notifications or school announcements.
Example: "새로운 알림이 왔어요." (A new notification has arrived.)
선전 (Seon-jeon) - Promotion / Propaganda
Historically meant 'to spread widely' but now often implies 'boasting' or 'political propaganda.' Use with caution.
Example: "그 팀은 승리를 선전했습니다." (That team proclaimed their victory.)

단순한 광고보다는 진정성 있는 홍보가 더 효과적일 때가 많습니다.

— "Oftentimes, sincere PR is more effective than simple advertising."

When choosing between these words, ask yourself: Is it paid? (광고). Is it about the general image? (홍보). Is it just a simple notice? (알림). Is it a grand, possibly exaggerated claim? (선전). By distinguishing these, you will sound like a much more sophisticated Korean speaker.

How Formal Is It?

Wusstest du?

In the past, 홍보 was used more literally for any wide announcement, but in modern Korean, it has specifically adopted the nuances of Western 'Public Relations' (PR).

Aussprachehilfe

UK /hɒŋ.boʊ/
US /hɔːŋ.boʊ/
The stress is balanced, but the first syllable '홍' is slightly more emphasized.
Reimt sich auf
정보 (Jeong-bo - Information) 공보 (Gong-bo - Public info) 보도 (Bo-do - News report) 양보 (Yang-bo - Concession) 행보 (Haeng-bo - Steps) 속보 (Sok-bo - Breaking news) 화보 (Hwa-bo - Pictorial) 계보 (Gye-bo - Genealogy)
Häufige Fehler
  • Pronouncing '홍' like 'hung' (it should be an 'o' sound).
  • Pronouncing '보' like 'voh' (there is no 'v' sound in Korean).
  • Making the 'h' too silent.
  • Stressing only the last syllable.
  • Mixing it up with '행보' (haeng-bo), which means 'steps' or 'movements'.

Schwierigkeitsgrad

Lesen 3/5

Common in news and business texts.

Schreiben 4/5

Requires understanding of Hanja-based compounds.

Sprechen 3/5

Frequently used in daily life and work.

Hören 3/5

Clear pronunciation, often heard in media.

Was du als Nächstes lernen solltest

Voraussetzungen

알리다 (To inform) 사람들 (People) 회사 (Company) 제품 (Product) 뉴스 (News)

Als Nächstes lernen

광고 (Advertising) 마케팅 (Marketing) 소통 (Communication) 인지도 (Awareness) 평판 (Reputation)

Fortgeschritten

언론 플레이 (Media play) 브랜딩 (Branding) 대외 협력 (External relations) 공익 캠페인 (Public campaign)

Wichtige Grammatik

Noun + 하다 (Verbalizing Nouns)

홍보 + 하다 = 홍보하다 (To promote)

Noun + 되다 (Passive Voice)

홍보 + 되다 = 홍보되다 (To be promoted)

-(으)ㄹ 위해 (For the sake of)

홍보를 위해 돈을 썼어요.

-을/를 통해 (Through/Via)

인터넷을 통해 홍보해요.

-용 (For the use of)

이것은 홍보용 선물입니다.

Beispiele nach Niveau

1

저는 제 유튜브를 홍보해요.

I promote my YouTube.

Simple present tense with '해요'.

2

이 노래 홍보해 주세요.

Please promote this song.

Request form '-해 주세요'.

3

가게 홍보가 필요해요.

We need shop promotion.

Noun + 가 필요해요 (Need something).

4

친구가 책을 홍보해요.

My friend promotes a book.

Subject '친구' with '홍보해요'.

5

학교 홍보 포스터예요.

It is a school promotion poster.

Noun + 예요 (It is...).

6

그는 자기 홍보를 잘해요.

He is good at self-promotion.

잘해요 (Good at something).

7

이것은 홍보용이에요.

This is for promotion use.

-용 (for use of...).

8

홍보를 많이 하세요.

Do a lot of promotion.

Honorific command '-세요'.

1

우리 동네를 홍보하고 싶어요.

I want to promote our neighborhood.

-고 싶어요 (Want to...).

2

이 영상은 홍보 영상이에요.

This video is a promotional video.

홍보 영상 is a common compound noun.

3

새로운 앱을 홍보하러 왔어요.

I came to promote a new app.

-(으)러 왔어요 (Came to do...).

4

전단지로 홍보를 하고 있어요.

They are promoting with flyers.

-로 (by means of).

5

홍보 대사가 누구예요?

Who is the PR ambassador?

홍보 대사 (PR Ambassador).

6

인터넷으로 제품을 홍보해요.

I promote products via the internet.

인터넷으로 (via internet).

7

홍보가 잘 안 됐어요.

The promotion didn't go well.

Past tense negative '안 됐어요'.

8

홍보 문구를 써 보세요.

Try writing a promotion phrase.

-어 보세요 (Try doing...).

1

효과적인 홍보 전략이 필요합니다.

We need an effective promotion strategy.

Formal '-습니다' ending.

2

SNS를 통해 신제품을 홍보했습니다.

We promoted the new product through SNS.

-을 통해 (Through...).

3

홍보 비용이 너무 많이 들어요.

The promotion cost is too high.

비용이 들다 (To cost money).

4

홍보팀에서 일하고 싶습니다.

I want to work in the PR team.

-에서 일하다 (Work at...).

5

관광객 유치를 위해 홍보가 중요해요.

Promotion is important for attracting tourists.

-을 위해 (For the sake of...).

6

이미지 개선을 위해 홍보를 시작했어요.

We started promotion to improve our image.

이미지 개선 (Image improvement).

7

홍보 자료를 메일로 보내드릴게요.

I will send the promotional materials by email.

-(으)ㄹ게요 (Future intention).

8

이번 행사는 홍보가 부족했습니다.

This event lacked promotion.

부족하다 (To be lacking).

1

그 기업은 사회 공헌 활동을 적극적으로 홍보합니다.

That company actively promotes its social contribution activities.

적극적으로 (Actively).

2

홍보 대행사를 통해 마케팅을 진행했습니다.

We conducted marketing through a PR agency.

홍보 대행사 (PR Agency).

3

허위 홍보는 법적인 처벌을 받을 수 있습니다.

False promotion can result in legal punishment.

-(으)ㄹ 수 있습니다 (Can...).

4

언론 홍보를 통해 브랜드 인지도를 높였습니다.

We increased brand awareness through media PR.

인지도를 높이다 (Increase awareness).

5

홍보 문구가 소비자들에게 강한 인상을 남겼습니다.

The promotion slogan left a strong impression on consumers.

인상을 남기다 (Leave an impression).

6

디지털 시대에는 온라인 홍보가 필수적입니다.

In the digital age, online promotion is essential.

필수적이다 (To be essential).

7

홍보 영상의 조회수가 예상보다 높았습니다.

The view count of the promotional video was higher than expected.

조회수 (View count).

8

정부는 새로운 정책을 국민들에게 홍보하고 있습니다.

The government is promoting the new policy to the citizens.

-고 있다 (Progressive tense).

1

브랜드의 가치를 전달하는 진정성 있는 홍보가 필요합니다.

Authentic PR that conveys the brand's value is necessary.

진정성 있는 (Authentic).

2

홍보 전략을 수립할 때 타겟 분석이 선행되어야 합니다.

Target analysis must precede the establishment of a PR strategy.

선행되어야 한다 (Must be preceded).

3

위기 상황에서의 홍보 대응이 기업의 운명을 결정합니다.

PR response in a crisis situation determines a company's fate.

위기 대응 (Crisis response).

4

홍보 매체의 다변화에 발맞추어 새로운 시도를 하고 있습니다.

We are making new attempts in step with the diversification of PR media.

-에 발맞추어 (In step with).

5

공익 홍보는 사회적 변화를 이끌어내는 데 기여합니다.

Public interest PR contributes to leading social change.

기여하다 (To contribute).

6

홍보의 본질은 단순한 알림을 넘어 신뢰를 구축하는 것입니다.

The essence of PR is building trust beyond simple notification.

-을 넘어 (Beyond...).

7

부정적인 여론을 잠재우기 위해 홍보팀이 분주하게 움직였습니다.

The PR team moved busily to calm negative public opinion.

여론을 잠재우다 (To calm public opinion).

8

국가 홍보는 국가 브랜드 가치를 제고하는 핵심 수단입니다.

National PR is a key means of enhancing the nation's brand value.

제고하다 (To enhance/improve).

1

현대 홍보는 일방향적 정보 전달에서 벗어나 쌍방향 소통을 지향합니다.

Modern PR moves away from one-way information delivery and aims for two-way communication.

지향하다 (To aim for).

2

홍보의 윤리적 경계에 대한 심도 있는 논의가 이루어져야 합니다.

In-depth discussion on the ethical boundaries of PR must take place.

심도 있는 (In-depth).

3

기업의 사회적 책임(CSR)과 연계된 홍보는 브랜드 충성도를 강화합니다.

PR linked with Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) strengthens brand loyalty.

-와 연계된 (Linked with).

4

데이터 기반의 맞춤형 홍보는 홍보 효율성을 극대화할 수 있습니다.

Data-driven customized PR can maximize PR efficiency.

극대화하다 (To maximize).

5

매스 미디어의 영향력이 약화되면서 홍보 패러다임이 변화하고 있습니다.

As the influence of mass media weakens, the PR paradigm is shifting.

패러다임 (Paradigm).

6

홍보는 단순한 수단이 아니라 경영의 핵심적인 전략 요소로 자리 잡았습니다.

PR has established itself not just as a means, but as a core strategic element of management.

자리 잡다 (To take place/establish).

7

스토리텔링을 가미한 홍보는 소비자에게 정서적 유대감을 제공합니다.

PR that adds storytelling provides an emotional bond to consumers.

가미하다 (To add/flavor).

8

홍보 전문가에게는 변화하는 미디어 환경에 대한 통찰력이 요구됩니다.

PR experts are required to have insight into the changing media environment.

통찰력 (Insight).

Synonyme

Häufige Kollokationen

홍보 대사
홍보 활동
홍보 전략
홍보 영상
홍보팀
홍보 자료
홍보 효과
홍보 문구
자기 홍보
공익 홍보

Häufige Phrasen

홍보를 하다

— To promote something.

우리는 새로운 앱을 홍보하고 있어요.

홍보가 되다

— To be promoted or to get publicity.

입소문 덕분에 홍보가 저절로 됐어요.

홍보를 맡다

— To be in charge of promotion.

제가 이번 프로젝트의 홍보를 맡았습니다.

홍보에 힘쓰다

— To strive/work hard for promotion.

지자체는 관광 홍보에 힘쓰고 있다.

홍보를 강화하다

— To strengthen promotion efforts.

매출을 올리기 위해 홍보를 강화해야 해요.

홍보를 중단하다

— To stop promotion.

예산 부족으로 홍보를 중단했습니다.

홍보에 나서다

— To step forward to promote.

배우가 직접 영화 홍보에 나섰다.

홍보가 시급하다

— Promotion is urgent.

제품 인지도가 낮아 홍보가 시급합니다.

홍보를 요청하다

— To request promotion.

인플루언서에게 홍보를 요청했습니다.

홍보를 기획하다

— To plan a promotion.

겨울 시즌 홍보를 기획하고 있습니다.

Wird oft verwechselt mit

홍보 vs 광고 (Advertising)

광고 is specifically paid media placement, while 홍보 is broader PR and reputation management.

홍보 vs 선전 (Propaganda/Promotion)

선전 can have a negative political nuance or imply boasting; 홍보 is more neutral.

홍보 vs 정보 (Information)

정보 is just facts; 홍보 is facts presented to create a positive image.

Redewendungen & Ausdrücke

"입소문 홍보"

— Word-of-mouth promotion; spreading information through people talking.

이 식당은 입소문 홍보로 대박이 났다.

Common
"얼굴 마담"

— A 'figurehead' or 'front person' used for PR, often just for their looks or fame.

그는 팀의 얼굴 마담으로 홍보에 참여했다.

Informal/Slightly Negative
"노이즈 마케팅"

— Noise marketing; intentionally creating a scandal to get PR.

그 가수는 노이즈 마케팅으로 홍보를 했다.

Business
"바이럴 홍보"

— Viral promotion; spreading quickly like a virus on the internet.

바이럴 홍보가 성공해서 조회수가 폭발했다.

Modern
"발로 뛰는 홍보"

— Promotion done by 'running with one's feet'; working hard on the ground.

신인 가수는 발로 뛰는 홍보를 하고 있다.

Common
"이미지 메이킹"

— Image making; intentionally creating a specific PR image.

정치인들에게 이미지 메이킹 홍보는 필수다.

Neutral
"언론 플레이"

— Media play; manipulating the media for PR (often negative nuance).

그 회사는 언론 플레이로 사건을 덮으려 했다.

Slightly Negative
"스타 마케팅"

— Star marketing; using a famous celebrity for promotion.

스타 마케팅은 가장 확실한 홍보 방법이다.

Business
"애국 마케팅"

— Patriotic marketing; promoting something by appealing to patriotism.

이 영화는 애국 마케팅으로 홍보를 했다.

Neutral
"깜짝 홍보"

— Surprise promotion; a sudden, unannounced PR event.

명동에서 아이돌의 깜짝 홍보 공연이 있었다.

Common

Leicht verwechselbar

홍보 vs 정보

Sounds similar (Hong-bo vs. Jeong-bo).

정보 is general information/data; 홍보 is specific promotion/PR.

유익한 정보를 얻었어요 (I got useful info). vs. 제품 홍보를 봤어요 (I saw the product PR).

홍보 vs 행보

Sounds similar (Hong-bo vs. Haeng-bo).

행보 refers to steps, movements, or a course of action.

그의 정치적 행보가 주목된다 (His political steps are being watched).

홍보 vs 공보

Related meaning.

공보 is specifically official government information/announcements.

정부 공보처에서 발표했다 (The government information office announced it).

홍보 vs 포교

Both involve spreading something.

포교 is strictly for religious proselytizing.

종교 포교 활동 (Religious mission activities).

홍보 vs 마케팅

Used in the same industry.

마케팅 is the entire business strategy; 홍보 is one part of it (PR).

마케팅의 일환으로 홍보를 한다 (Doing PR as part of marketing).

Satzmuster

A1

저는 [Object]을/를 홍보해요.

저는 제 책을 홍보해요.

A2

[Object] 홍보를 위해 [Action]해요.

가게 홍보를 위해 전단지를 돌려요.

B1

[Subject]은/는 홍보 효과가 커요.

이 영화는 홍보 효과가 아주 커요.

B1

[Object]을/를 적극적으로 홍보하고 있습니다.

신제품을 적극적으로 홍보하고 있습니다.

B2

[Subject]은/는 [Target]에게 널리 홍보되고 있다.

이 관광지는 외국인들에게 널리 홍보되고 있다.

B2

홍보 전략을 수립하는 것이 중요합니다.

성공을 위해서는 홍보 전략을 수립하는 것이 중요합니다.

C1

홍보의 본질은 [Concept]에 있습니다.

홍보의 본질은 진정성 있는 소통에 있습니다.

C1

[Subject]은/는 홍보 역량을 강화해야 합니다.

우리 회사는 홍보 역량을 강화해야 합니다.

Wortfamilie

Substantive

홍보 (Promotion)
홍보물 (Promotional material)
홍보팀 (PR team)
홍보관 (Promotion hall)
홍보비 (Promotion expense)

Verben

홍보하다 (To promote)
홍보되다 (To be promoted)
홍보시키다 (To make someone promote)

Adjektive

홍보용 (For promotion use)

Verwandt

광고 (Advertisement)
마케팅 (Marketing)
언론 (Press)
인지도 (Awareness)
명성 (Reputation)

So verwendest du es

frequency

Extremely high in business, media, and social contexts.

Häufige Fehler
  • Using '홍보' for a paid 15-second TV commercial. 광고 (Gwang-go)

    Paid media slots are specifically 'advertising' (광고).

  • Saying '홍보를 주다' (Give promotion). 홍보를 하다 (Do promotion)

    In Korean, you 'do' promotion, you don't 'give' it.

  • Using '선전' for a professional corporate PR strategy. 홍보 (Hong-bo)

    선전 sounds dated or political; 홍보 is the modern professional term.

  • Pronouncing it as 'Hyeong-bo'. Hong-bo

    Hyeong-bo means nothing; Haeng-bo means 'steps'. Accuracy is key.

  • Confusing '홍보' with '정보'. 홍보 (PR) vs 정보 (Info)

    Information is neutral; PR is promotional.

Tipps

Learn Hanja

Knowing that 'Hong' (弘) means 'wide' helps you remember that 홍보 is about spreading info widely.

Corporate PR

In a Korean company, the '홍보팀' is your go-to for anything related to company image and news.

Polite Requests

Use '홍보 부탁드려요' (I request your promotion) when asking friends to share your posts.

Variety Shows

Watch variety shows like 'Running Man'—guests often come specifically to '홍보' their new movie or song.

Verb Conversion

Remember: 홍보 (noun) + 하다 (to do) = 홍보하다 (verb). Most B1 nouns work this way.

Ambassadors

Look for '홍보 대사' signs in Korea; it's a great way to learn which celebrities are currently popular.

Catchy Slogans

A '홍보 문구' (PR slogan) should be short and memorable. Practice making some in Korean!

News Keywords

In Korean news, '홍보' is a keyword for government announcements and corporate launches.

Hashtags

Search #홍보 on Instagram to see how Koreans use the word for small businesses and events.

Honesty

Avoid '허위 홍보' (false PR) as it is a serious issue in Korean consumer law.

Einprägen

Eselsbrücke

Think of 'Hong' as 'Huge' and 'Bo' as 'Broadcast'. You are doing a Huge Broadcast to promote your brand!

Visuelle Assoziation

Imagine a person standing on a mountain with a megaphone, shouting to a large crowd below. That is '홍보'.

Word Web

Brand PR Public Awareness Strategy Media Success Information

Herausforderung

Try to write three sentences about a fictional product you want to sell using the word 홍보.

Wortherkunft

Derived from the Hanja characters 弘 (홍) and 報 (보). The character 弘 means 'wide' or 'great,' and 報 means 'to report' or 'to inform.'

Ursprüngliche Bedeutung: To widely inform or to spread news to a large audience.

Sino-Korean (Hanja-based vocabulary).

Kultureller Kontext

Be careful not to use '선전' (Sun-jeon) when you mean professional PR, as it can sound like political propaganda.

In English, 'promotion' often implies a discount (like 50% off), but in Korean, 홍보 is more about the communication aspect of PR.

Seoul City PR Ambassador (BTS) K-Food Promotion Campaigns Samsung Global PR Strategies

Im Alltag üben

Kontexte aus dem Alltag

Business

  • 홍보팀
  • 홍보 전략
  • 홍보 비용
  • 홍보 효과

Entertainment

  • 홍보 대사
  • 홍보 활동
  • 홍보 영상
  • 자기 홍보

Government

  • 정책 홍보
  • 공익 홍보
  • 국가 홍보
  • 홍보관

Social Media

  • SNS 홍보
  • 바이럴 홍보
  • 인플루언서 홍보
  • 홍보 문구

Job Hunting

  • 자기 홍보
  • 포트폴리오 홍보
  • 경력 홍보
  • 홍보 역량

Gesprächseinstiege

"요즘 SNS에서 어떤 제품이 가장 많이 홍보되고 있나요?"

"회사를 홍보할 때 가장 중요한 것은 무엇이라고 생각하세요?"

"좋아하는 연예인이 홍보 대사로 활동하는 것을 본 적이 있나요?"

"자기 홍보를 잘하는 비결이 뭐라고 생각하세요?"

"홍보가 부족해서 실패한 영화나 제품을 알고 있나요?"

Tagebuch-Impulse

내가 만약 새로운 브랜드를 만든다면, 어떻게 홍보할 것인지 써 보세요.

최근에 본 홍보 영상 중에서 가장 기억에 남는 것은 무엇인가요?

홍보와 광고의 차이점에 대해 자신의 생각을 정리해 보세요.

자신을 홍보하기 위한 1분 자기소개서를 작성해 보세요.

우리나라(또는 고향)를 외국인들에게 홍보하는 글을 써 보세요.

Häufig gestellte Fragen

10 Fragen

No, it can be used for anything you want to make known. You can promote a hobby, a school club, or even yourself during a job interview (자기 홍보).

광고 is 'Advertising' (usually paid like TV ads). 홍보 is 'Public Relations' or 'Promotion' (broader, including news, events, and image building).

Usually, no. If you are spreading bad news or rumors, words like '유포' (circulation) or '소문' (rumor) are used. 홍보 implies a positive or informative goal.

You can say '홍보 매니저' or '홍보 팀장' (PR Team Leader).

Mostly yes, celebrities or experts are appointed as 'Honorary Ambassadors' to use their fame for promotion.

It means 'exaggerated promotion'—making something sound much better than it actually is.

Yes, it is very common in both spoken and written Korean.

Yes, '자기 홍보' (self-promotion) is a common term for personal branding.

These are 'promotional materials' like flyers, brochures, or posters.

They are synonyms, but '선전' is less common now and can sound like 'propaganda' in certain contexts.

Teste dich selbst 187 Fragen

writing

Write a sentence using '홍보하다' to say you promote your blog.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'We need an effective PR strategy.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write a sentence about a promotional video.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'He was appointed as a PR ambassador.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write a sentence using '홍보 부족'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'Social media is a good PR tool.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write a sentence about 'self-promotion'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'The company is promoting a new product.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write a sentence using '홍보 효과'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'Please promote our event.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write a sentence about 'false PR'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'I work in the PR team.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write a sentence using '홍보 대사'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'We are planning a new promotion.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write a sentence about 'word-of-mouth'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'The movie was widely promoted.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write a sentence using '홍보 자료'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'Promotion costs are rising.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write a sentence about 'public interest PR'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'PR is essential for success.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say: 'I am promoting my new book.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say: 'Please promote this event to your friends.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say: 'Our company has a PR team.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say: 'I want to be a PR ambassador.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say: 'Promotion is very important for business.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say: 'We need a new PR strategy.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say: 'The PR effect was great.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say: 'I am making a promotional video.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say: 'Social media is good for PR.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say: 'I am in charge of promotion.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say: 'Exaggerated PR is bad.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say: 'Let's check the PR materials.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say: 'How should we promote this?'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say: 'Word-of-mouth is the best PR.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say: 'I came to promote my channel.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say: 'The budget for PR is small.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say: 'This is for promotional use.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say: 'Self-promotion is necessary.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say: 'The celebrity is doing PR activities.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say: 'The PR hall is over there.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen and identify the keyword: '저희 가게가 새로 오픈했어요. 많이 홍보해 주세요!'

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen and identify: '이번 제품은 홍보가 부족해서 인기가 없어요.' What is the problem?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen and identify: '저는 홍보팀에서 일하는 김민수입니다.' Where does he work?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen and identify: '이 영상은 신제품 홍보 영상입니다.' What kind of video is it?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen and identify: '서울시 홍보 대사로 BTS가 활동합니다.' Who is the PR ambassador?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen and identify: 'SNS 홍보 전략을 세워야 합니다.' What strategy is needed?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen and identify: '홍보 효과가 기대 이상이네요!' How was the PR effect?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen and identify: '과대 홍보로 처벌을 받았습니다.' Why were they punished?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen and identify: '홍보 자료를 준비해 주세요.' What should be prepared?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen and identify: '입소문 홍보가 무섭네요.' What kind of PR is mentioned?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen and identify: '자기 홍보를 잘해야 취업이 잘 돼요.' What is needed for employment?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen and identify: '이번 행사의 홍보를 맡게 되었습니다.' What is the speaker's role?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen and identify: '공익 홍보 캠페인입니다.' What kind of campaign is it?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen and identify: '홍보비가 너무 많이 들어요.' What is the speaker complaining about?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen and identify: '홍보 문구를 바꿔야겠어요.' What needs to be changed?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:

/ 187 correct

Perfect score!

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