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A2 noun 9 min read

회장님

hoejangnim
Examples Notes & Tips 회장님 in 30 Seconds
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회장님 in 30 Seconds

  • 회장님 (hoejangnim) is a highly respectful title for a company chairman.
  • It signifies the highest position of authority.
  • The '-님' (-nim) suffix is crucial for showing deep respect.
  • Used in formal business settings, news, and official communications.
Core Meaning
The word '회장님' (hoejangnim) is a highly respectful title used in Korean to refer to the chairman of a company, organization, or association. It signifies the highest position of authority within that entity.
The Honorific Suffix '-님' (-nim)
The '-님' (-nim) suffix is crucial here. It's an honorific particle added to nouns to show great respect for the person being referred to. Without '-님', '회장' (hoejang) simply means 'chairman,' but adding '-님' transforms it into a title of deep deference, similar to how we might use 'Mr. Chairman' or 'Your Excellency' in English, but with a stronger cultural emphasis on hierarchy.
Contexts of Use
You will most commonly hear '회장님' in formal business settings, at company events, during official meetings, or when discussing the leadership of large corporations or established organizations. It's also used in the context of political or significant social organizations where a clear hierarchy exists. For instance, when a junior employee addresses or refers to the head of their company, they would use '회장님'. Similarly, in news reports about major companies, the chairman would be referred to as '회장님'. It’s important to note that this term is reserved for the absolute top position; other executive roles have different titles.
Showing Respect and Hierarchy
Korean society places a strong emphasis on hierarchy and respect for elders and superiors. Using '회장님' is a fundamental way to demonstrate this respect. It's not just about the position but also about acknowledging the seniority, experience, and authority that the person holds. Misusing this term or using a less respectful term for someone in this position would be considered highly impolite and disrespectful.

The company's success is largely due to the vision of our 회장님.

We are honored by the presence of our 회장님 at this event.

Formal Business
In a corporate environment, referring to the chairman as '회장님' is standard practice. For example, a department head might say to a colleague, '회장님께서 이번 분기 실적에 대해 말씀하셨습니다.' (The chairman spoke about this quarter's performance.)
Public Announcements
During public speeches or announcements related to a company, the chairman's title is always used respectfully. '오늘, 저희 회장님께서 새로운 비전을 발표하실 것입니다.' (Today, our chairman will announce a new vision.)
Addressing the Chairman Directly
When speaking directly to the chairman, especially in a formal setting, you would use their title. '회장님, 저희 팀의 제안을 검토해 주셔서 감사합니다.' (Chairman, thank you for reviewing our team's proposal.)
Formal Address
When directly speaking to the chairman in a formal setting, you would use '회장님'. For example, if you are a subordinate and have a question, you might say: '회장님, 잠시 시간 괜찮으십니까?' (Hoejangnim, jamshi shigan gwaenchansimnikka? - Chairman, do you have a moment?). This shows utmost respect.
Referring to the Chairman
When talking about the chairman to someone else, you also use '회장님'. For instance, in a meeting, someone might report: '오늘 회장님께서 저희 부서에 방문하셨습니다.' (Oneul hoejangnimkkeseo jeohui buseoe bangmunhasyeossseumnida. - Today, the chairman visited our department.) The particle '께서' (kkeseo) is another honorific particle often used with subjects who are highly respected.
In Company Communications
Official company documents, announcements, or news articles will always refer to the chairman as '회장님'. For example: '회장님은 회사의 미래 전략에 대해 강조하셨습니다.' (Hoejangnim-eun hoesaui mirae jeollyag-e daehae gangjohasyeossseumnida. - The chairman emphasized the company's future strategy.)
At Events and Gatherings
At formal events, such as company dinners or award ceremonies, the chairman's presence is often announced or referred to with great respect. '오늘 이 자리에 함께 해주신 회장님께 감사드립니다.' (Oneul i jari-e hamkke haejusin hoejangnimkke gamsadeurimnida. - We thank the chairman for joining us here today.)
When Discussing Leadership
When discussing the leadership or decisions made by the head of a company, the term '회장님' is consistently used. '회장님의 결단력 덕분에 위기를 극복할 수 있었습니다.' (Hoejangnimui gyeoldallyeok deokbun-e wigi-reul geukbokhal su isseossseumnida. - Thanks to the chairman's decisiveness, we were able to overcome the crisis.)
In Legal or Official Documents
Formal legal documents or official reports pertaining to a company will use '회장님' when referring to the chairman to maintain the correct level of formality and respect.

The employees greeted the 회장님 with applause.

Corporate Boardrooms
This is the primary environment. During board meetings, strategic discussions, or formal presentations, the term '회장님' is used by executives, managers, and board members when referring to or addressing the chairman. It's a standard part of the corporate lexicon.
Company Events and Ceremonies
At company-wide gatherings, award ceremonies, anniversary celebrations, or retirement parties, the chairman is often the guest of honor. Speeches will invariably refer to them as '회장님', and employees will use this title when greeting or acknowledging them.
News and Media Reports
When major Korean news outlets report on business, finance, or the economy, they will refer to the heads of large conglomerates (chaebols) as '회장님'. This is a common term you'll encounter in news articles, television broadcasts, and online business publications.
Formal Business Lunches or Dinners
If a company is hosting important clients or partners, and the chairman is present, they will be referred to and addressed as '회장님' throughout the meal, reinforcing their status and the company's respect for them.
Interactions with Government Officials
When business leaders interact with government officials or participate in public forums, the chairman of a major company will be addressed as '회장님' by officials and other attendees, reflecting the established hierarchy.
Interactions with Employees
Employees, especially those in lower ranks, will use '회장님' when speaking to or about the chairman. This is a fundamental aspect of workplace etiquette in Korea, emphasizing respect for seniority and position.

The news reported that the 회장님 announced a new investment.

The employees were excited to hear directly from the 회장님.

Using '회장님' for Lower Ranks
Mistake: Using '회장님' to refer to someone who is not the chairman, such as a general manager or a department head.
Explanation: '회장님' is exclusively for the highest position. Using it for anyone else is incorrect and can be seen as either ignorant or intentionally disrespectful, depending on the context. Different titles exist for other executive roles (e.g., 사장님 - President, 부사장님 - Vice President).
Forgetting the Honorific Suffix '-님' (-nim)
Mistake: Saying '회장' (hoejang) instead of '회장님' (hoejangnim) in a formal or respectful context.
Explanation: While '회장' is the base word for 'chairman,' omitting the '-님' suffix in situations where respect is due is considered impolite. It's like saying 'chairman' instead of 'Mr. Chairman' or 'The Chairman' when addressing someone formally.
Using Informal Language
Mistake: Using casual language or slang when speaking to or about the '회장님'.
Explanation: The term '회장님' itself demands formality. Any informal language used in conjunction with it would be inappropriate and disrespectful. This includes using casual speech levels (반말 - banmal) or overly familiar expressions.
Confusing with Similar Titles
Mistake: Confusing '회장님' with other high-ranking titles like '사장님' (President/CEO) or '대표님' (Representative/CEO).
Explanation: While '사장님' and '대표님' are also respectful titles for top executives, '회장님' specifically denotes the chairman of the board, who is often the founder or holds the ultimate authority, sometimes above the CEO. The specific title matters in formal Korean.
Assuming Automatic Translation
Mistake: Assuming that simply translating 'chairman' into English is sufficient without understanding the cultural nuances of '회장님'.
Explanation: While 'chairman' is the direct translation, the Korean term carries a much heavier weight of respect and hierarchical acknowledgment. English equivalents like 'Mr. Chairman' or 'The Chairman' might be used, but the cultural context of '회장님' is deeper and more ingrained in social interactions.

Incorrect: 'He is the 회장.' Correct: 'He is the 회장님.' (in a respectful context)

회장 (Hoejang)
Meaning: Chairman.
Comparison: This is the base word for chairman. It is used in more neutral or descriptive contexts, or when referring to the role itself rather than the person holding it with respect. For example, in a job description: '회장직 지원' (Application for the Chairman position). When used to refer to the person in a formal setting, '회장님' is preferred.
사장님 (Sajangnim)
Meaning: President, CEO, or owner of a company.
Comparison: '사장님' is also a highly respectful title for a top executive, but it typically refers to the President or CEO, who manages the day-to-day operations of the company. The '회장님' is often the ultimate authority, sometimes a founder, and may oversee the board of directors, with the '사장님' reporting to them or working under their ultimate direction. In some companies, the roles might overlap or be structured differently.
대표님 (Daepyonim)
Meaning: Representative, CEO.
Comparison: Similar to '사장님', '대표님' is a respectful title for the chief executive or representative of a company. The distinction between '사장님' and '대표님' can be subtle and company-specific. Both are used for the top operational leader, whereas '회장님' denotes the highest position of the board.
이사님 (Isanim)
Meaning: Director.
Comparison: '이사님' refers to a director within a company. While also a respectful title, it signifies a position lower in the hierarchy than '회장님', '사장님', or '대표님'. Directors are part of the management team but do not hold the ultimate leadership position.
부장님 (Bujangnim)
Meaning: Department Head.
Comparison: '부장님' is a title for a department head, a senior managerial role responsible for a specific department. This is significantly lower in the hierarchy than '회장님'. It is a common and respectful title within a company but does not imply top executive leadership.

The 회장님 oversees the 사장님.

Fun Fact

The suffix '-님' (-nim) is one of the most important honorific markers in Korean. It's attached to names, titles, and even common nouns to show respect. Its usage is extensive and deeply ingrained in Korean social interactions.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /hwe̞.d͡ʑaŋ.nim/
US /hwe̞.d͡ʑaŋ.nim/
First syllable (회 - hwe)
Rhymes With
장님 (jangnim) 사장님 (sajangnim) 대표님 (daepyonim) 부장님 (bujangnim) 과장님 (gwajangnim) 팀장님 (timjangnim) 선생님 (seonsaengnim) 부모님 (bumonim)
Common Errors
  • Pronouncing '회' (hwe) as a simple 'oe' sound without the initial 'h' aspiration.
  • Incorrectly stressing the second or third syllable instead of the first.
  • Not clearly articulating the final 'm' sound in '님' (nim).
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Examples by Level

1

회장님 오셨어요?

Is the Chairman here?

Simple question about presence.

2

회장님 감사합니다.

Thank you, Chairman.

Expressing gratitude with a title.

3

회장님, 안녕하세요.

Hello, Chairman.

Formal greeting.

4

이것은 회장님 책상입니다.

This is the Chairman's desk.

Possessive use of the title.

5

회장님은 어디 계세요?

Where is the Chairman?

Asking for location.

6

회장님 말씀 잘 들었습니다.

I listened carefully to the Chairman's words.

Referring to someone's speech.

7

회장님께 선물 드렸어요.

I gave a gift to the Chairman.

Indirect object usage with honorific particle.

8

회장님, 식사하세요.

Chairman, please eat.

Polite invitation to eat.

1

우리 회사의 회장님은 아주 현명하십니다.

Our company's chairman is very wise.

Using descriptive adjectives with the title.

2

회장님께서 주신 과제입니다.

This is the assignment given by the Chairman.

Using the honorific subject marker '께서' (kkeseo).

3

회장님은 언제 오실 예정이십니까?

When is the Chairman scheduled to arrive?

Formal question about arrival time.

4

회장님께서는 직원들을 격려하셨습니다.

The Chairman encouraged the employees.

Using the honorific subject marker '께서는' (kkeseoneun).

5

이 중요한 결정은 회장님과 상의해야 합니다.

This important decision must be discussed with the Chairman.

Using the title in a consultation context.

6

회장님의 리더십 덕분에 회사가 성장했습니다.

Thanks to the Chairman's leadership, the company has grown.

Expressing gratitude for leadership.

7

다음 주에 회장님과 미팅이 있습니다.

I have a meeting with the Chairman next week.

Mentioning a scheduled meeting.

8

회장님, 저희 회사를 방문해 주셔서 감사합니다.

Chairman, thank you for visiting our company.

Formal welcome and thanks.

1

이번 신사업 추진은 회장님의 강력한 의지가 반영된 결과입니다.

The promotion of this new business is a result reflecting the Chairman's strong will.

Connecting actions to the Chairman's will.

2

회장님께서는 사회 공헌 활동에도 깊은 관심을 가지고 계십니다.

The Chairman also has a deep interest in social contribution activities.

Highlighting engagement in CSR.

3

회장님의 연설은 참석자들에게 큰 영감을 주었습니다.

The Chairman's speech gave great inspiration to the attendees.

Describing the impact of a speech.

4

회장님은 늘 직원들의 복지를 최우선으로 생각하신다고 합니다.

It is said that the Chairman always considers employees' welfare as the top priority.

Reporting on the Chairman's priorities.

5

전통 산업의 위기를 극복하기 위해 회장님께서 새로운 전략을 제시하셨습니다.

To overcome the crisis in the traditional industry, the Chairman presented a new strategy.

Linking the Chairman to strategic solutions.

6

회장님은 젊은 사업가들에게 멘토링을 제공하는 데에도 적극적이십니다.

The Chairman is also active in providing mentoring to young entrepreneurs.

Describing mentorship activities.

7

회장님의 오랜 경험과 통찰력은 우리 회사에 큰 자산입니다.

The Chairman's long experience and insight are great assets to our company.

Highlighting the value of experience.

8

이사회는 회장님의 제안을 만장일치로 통과시켰습니다.

The board unanimously passed the Chairman's proposal.

Describing board decisions influenced by the Chairman.

1

그 기업의 회장님은 혁신적인 경영 철학으로 잘 알려져 있습니다.

The chairman of that company is well-known for their innovative management philosophy.

Describing reputation and philosophy.

2

회장님께서는 급변하는 시장 환경에 대한 깊은 이해를 바탕으로 미래를 예측하십니다.

The Chairman predicts the future based on a deep understanding of the rapidly changing market environment.

Analyzing market trends and foresight.

3

회장님의 비전은 단순히 경제적 이익을 넘어 사회적 책임을 다하는 데에도 초점을 맞추고 있습니다.

The Chairman's vision focuses not only on economic profit but also on fulfilling social responsibilities.

Discussing a broader vision beyond profit.

4

그는 수십 년간의 경험을 통해 얻은 통찰력으로 수많은 위기를 극복해 왔으며, 이는 모두 회장님의 헌신 덕분입니다.

He has overcome numerous crises through insights gained from decades of experience, all thanks to the Chairman's dedication.

Attributing success to the Chairman's dedication.

5

회장님은 기업의 지속 가능한 성장을 위해 친환경 경영을 적극적으로 도입하셨습니다.

The Chairman actively introduced eco-friendly management for the sustainable growth of the company.

Implementing sustainable practices.

6

회장님의 탁월한 협상 능력은 국제적인 사업 확장에 결정적인 역할을 했습니다.

The Chairman's excellent negotiation skills played a crucial role in the international expansion of the business.

Highlighting negotiation skills in global business.

7

그는 항상 겸손한 태도로 직원들의 의견을 경청하며, 이는 회장님께서 강조하시는 민주적 경영의 한 단면입니다.

He always listens to employees' opinions with a humble attitude, which is a facet of democratic management emphasized by the Chairman.

Describing a democratic management style.

8

회장님의 후원으로 설립된 재단은 수많은 교육 및 문화 사업을 지원하고 있습니다.

The foundation established with the Chairman's sponsorship supports numerous educational and cultural projects.

Mentioning philanthropic activities.

1

그 기업의 회장님은 격변하는 글로벌 경제 속에서도 흔들림 없는 확신으로 회사를 이끌어 왔습니다.

The chairman of that company has led the company with unwavering conviction amidst the turbulent global economy.

Describing leadership through economic uncertainty.

2

회장님께서는 기술 혁신과 인재 양성을 기업의 핵심 가치로 삼아, 끊임없이 미래를 준비하고 계십니다.

The Chairman considers technological innovation and talent development as core corporate values, continuously preparing for the future.

Focus on core values and future preparation.

3

그의 경영 철학은 단순히 이윤 추구를 넘어, 사회적 책임을 다하고 인류의 발전에 기여하는 것을 궁극적인 목표로 삼고 있습니다. 이는 회장님께서 늘 강조하시는 바이기도 합니다.

His management philosophy aims beyond mere profit-seeking, with the ultimate goal of fulfilling social responsibilities and contributing to human progress. This is also what the Chairman always emphasizes.

Elaborating on a philosophy that transcends profit.

4

회장님의 혜안은 다가올 산업 변화를 미리 감지하고 선제적으로 대응하는 데 결정적인 역할을 해왔습니다.

The Chairman's foresight has played a decisive role in detecting upcoming industrial changes in advance and responding proactively.

Highlighting foresight and proactive strategy.

5

기업의 사회적 책임(CSR)을 강화하기 위한 회장님의 노력은 여러 국제기구로부터 찬사를 받고 있습니다.

The Chairman's efforts to strengthen Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) have received praise from various international organizations.

Receiving international acclaim for CSR initiatives.

6

그는 끊임없이 변화하는 비즈니스 환경 속에서 새로운 기회를 포착하고 혁신을 주도하는 데 탁월한 능력을 보여왔으며, 이는 회장님의 헌신적인 리더십 없이는 불가능했을 것입니다.

He has demonstrated exceptional ability in seizing new opportunities and driving innovation amidst the constantly changing business environment, which would have been impossible without the Chairman's dedicated leadership.

Attributing innovation and opportunity seizing to leadership.

7

회장님께서는 직원들의 창의성과 자율성을 존중하는 문화를 조성하여, 조직의 잠재력을 극대화하는 데 기여하셨습니다.

The Chairman contributed to maximizing the organization's potential by fostering a culture that respects employees' creativity and autonomy.

Fostering a culture of creativity and autonomy.

8

그는 단순한 사업 확장을 넘어, 윤리 경영과 투명한 지배구조 확립을 통해 사회 전체의 신뢰를 얻고자 노력하고 있으며, 이는 회장님의 장기적인 비전의 일부입니다.

He strives to gain the trust of society as a whole through ethical management and the establishment of transparent governance structures, beyond simple business expansion, and this is part of the Chairman's long-term vision.

Focus on ethical management and transparent governance.

1

그 기업의 회장님은 기술 혁신과 지속 가능한 발전을 융합하는 비전으로, 4차 산업혁명 시대를 선도하는 기업으로의 전환을 진두지휘하고 계십니다.

The chairman of that company is spearheading the transformation into a company leading the era of the Fourth Industrial Revolution with a vision that merges technological innovation and sustainable development.

Leading a transformative shift in the era of the Fourth Industrial Revolution.

2

회장님께서는 급변하는 글로벌 지정학적 및 경제적 환경 속에서도 흔들림 없는 확신과 탁월한 통찰력으로 기업의 생존과 성장을 위한 최적의 전략적 방향을 제시해 오셨습니다.

Amidst the rapidly changing global geopolitical and economic environment, the Chairman has consistently presented the optimal strategic direction for the company's survival and growth with unwavering conviction and exceptional insight.

Navigating through geopolitical and economic volatility with strategic insight.

3

그의 경영 철학은 단순한 이윤 극대화를 넘어, 사회적 책임을 다하고 인류의 보편적 가치 증진에 기여하는 것을 궁극적인 기업 사명으로 설정하고 있으며, 이는 회장님께서 평생을 통해 실현하고자 하신 비전입니다.

His management philosophy sets the ultimate corporate mission as fulfilling social responsibilities and contributing to the advancement of universal human values, going beyond mere profit maximization, and this is the vision the Chairman has sought to realize throughout his life.

Defining corporate mission beyond profit, focusing on universal human values.

4

회장님의 혜안은 미래 산업의 패러다임 전환을 선제적으로 감지하고, 이에 대한 과감한 투자와 혁신을 통해 기업의 경쟁 우위를 공고히 하는 데 지대한 공헌을 하였습니다.

The Chairman's foresight has made a significant contribution to proactively detecting paradigm shifts in future industries and solidifying the company's competitive advantage through bold investments and innovation.

Contributing to competitive advantage through foresight and innovation.

5

기업의 사회적 책임(CSR) 이행에 대한 회장님의 확고한 신념은, 지역 사회 발전과 환경 보호를 위한 실질적인 프로그램들을 다수 출범시키는 기폭제가 되었습니다.

The Chairman's firm belief in fulfilling Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) has served as a catalyst for launching numerous practical programs for local community development and environmental protection.

Catalyzing CSR initiatives for community and environment.

6

그는 끊임없이 진화하는 글로벌 비즈니스 환경 속에서 새로운 성장 동력을 발굴하고 혁신적인 사업 모델을 구축하는 데 있어 타의 추종을 불허하는 역량을 발휘해 왔으며, 이는 회장님의 헌신적이고 전략적인 리더십의 결정체라 할 수 있습니다.

He has demonstrated unparalleled capability in discovering new growth engines and establishing innovative business models within the constantly evolving global business environment, which can be considered the culmination of the Chairman's dedicated and strategic leadership.

Demonstrating unparalleled capability in innovation and growth engine discovery.

7

회장님께서는 직원들의 창의적 잠재력을 최대한 발현시키고 자율적인 의사결정을 장려하는 조직 문화를 조성함으로써, 기업의 혁신 역량과 민첩성을 비약적으로 향상시키는 데 결정적인 역할을 하셨습니다.

The Chairman played a decisive role in dramatically enhancing the company's innovative capacity and agility by fostering an organizational culture that maximizes employees' creative potential and encourages autonomous decision-making.

Enhancing innovation and agility through culture of creativity and autonomy.

8

그는 단순한 사업적 성공을 넘어, 윤리 경영의 확립과 투명하고 책임감 있는 지배구조 구축을 통해 사회 전체의 신뢰를 얻고 지속 가능한 발전에 기여하는 것을 기업의 궁극적인 존재 이유로 삼고 있으며, 이는 회장님의 심오하고 장기적인 경영 철학을 반영합니다.

Going beyond mere business success, he considers gaining the trust of society as a whole and contributing to sustainable development through the establishment of ethical management and the construction of transparent and accountable governance structures as the ultimate raison d'être of the company, reflecting the Chairman's profound and long-term management philosophy.

Defining corporate raison d'être through ethical management and sustainable development.

Common Collocations

회장님께 보고하다
회장님의 결정
회장님의 지시
회장님의 비전
회장님의 격려
회장님을 만나다
회장님의 은퇴
회장님을 존경하다
회장님의 리더십
회장님의 경영 철학

Common Phrases

회장님, 안녕하십니까?

— A very formal and respectful way to greet the chairman.

Korean business etiquette dictates using this phrase when addressing the chairman directly.

회장님께서 말씀하셨습니다.

— The Chairman said/spoke. This uses the honorific subject marker '께서' (kkeseo) to show respect.

When reporting what the chairman said, this phrase is used to maintain formality.

회장님의 뜻대로

— According to the Chairman's wishes/intentions.

This phrase implies that actions are being taken based on the chairman's will or directive.

회장님의 통찰력

— The Chairman's insight/foresight.

This phrase is used to praise the chairman's ability to understand complex situations or predict future trends.

회장님의 지혜

— The Chairman's wisdom.

Similar to insight, this highlights the chairman's experience and sound judgment.

회장님을 모시고

— Accompanying the Chairman / Having the Chairman present.

This phrase is used when referring to an event or occasion where the chairman is present or being hosted.

회장님께 건의하다

— To make a suggestion/recommendation to the Chairman.

This is a formal way for subordinates to propose ideas to the highest authority.

회장님은 회사의 심장과도 같습니다.

— The Chairman is like the heart of the company. (A metaphorical expression)

This emphasizes the vital importance of the chairman to the company's existence and operation.

회장님의 혜안을 빌리다

— To borrow the Chairman's discerning eye/wisdom.

This implies seeking guidance or advice from the chairman due to their superior understanding.

회장님 말씀이 곧 법입니다.

— The Chairman's word is law. (An idiomatic expression emphasizing absolute authority)

This phrase highlights the unquestionable authority of the chairman within the organization.

Idioms & Expressions

"회장님 말씀이 곧 법이다"

— The Chairman's word is law. This idiom emphasizes the absolute authority and unquestionable decisions of the chairman within the company.

In some traditional hierarchical companies, '회장님 말씀이 곧 법이다' might still reflect the power structure, though modern management styles often encourage more collaborative decision-making.

Formal/Emphatic
"회장님 코트 자락을 잡다"

— To cling to the hem of the Chairman's coat. This idiom refers to someone trying to gain favor or benefit by closely following or associating with a person of high status and influence.

New employees often try to '회장님 코트 자락을 잡다' hoping for mentorship or advancement opportunities.

Figurative/Slightly negative connotation
"회장님처럼 굴다"

— To act like the Chairman. This idiom is used to describe someone who is acting very bossy, authoritative, or as if they have the highest power, often in a humorous or critical way.

Even though he's just a team leader, he sometimes acts like he's the '회장님처럼 굴다'.

Informal/Critical
"회장님의 그림자"

— The Chairman's shadow. This refers to someone who is always present or closely associated with the chairman, often acting as their aide or confidant.

The chairman's long-time assistant was like his '회장님의 그림자', always by his side.

Figurative
"회장님을 등에 업다"

— To carry the Chairman on one's back. This idiom can imply that someone is heavily reliant on the chairman's support or influence for their own success or position.

Some might say his career advanced rapidly because he was '회장님을 등에 업고' the company.

Figurative/Can be critical
"회장님께 엎드려 빌다"

— To prostrate oneself and beg the Chairman. This idiom describes an act of extreme humility and pleading, often in a desperate situation, to the highest authority.

In dire circumstances, one might have to '회장님께 엎드려 빌다' for help.

Dramatic/Figurative
"회장님과 한솥밥을 먹다"

— To eat from the same pot with the Chairman. This idiom means to work for the same company or organization under the same leader, implying a shared experience and belonging.

Many employees who have worked at the company for a long time have '회장님과 한솥밥을 먹었던' experiences.

Figurative/Friendly
"회장님께 굽신거리다"

— To bow and scrape to the Chairman. This idiom describes someone who is excessively subservient and fawning towards the chairman.

He's known for '회장님께 굽신거리는' behavior to get ahead.

Negative connotation/Informal
"회장님의 눈도장을 찍다"

— To get the Chairman's attention/notice. This idiom means to do something notable or impressive enough to be recognized by the chairman.

She worked hard to '회장님의 눈도장을 찍기' for a promotion.

Figurative
"회장님의 혜안을 따르다"

— To follow the Chairman's wise judgment/foresight.

The company's strategy is largely based on '회장님의 혜안을 따르는' principles.

Formal/Respectful

Word Family

Nouns

회장 (hoejang - chairman)

Related

사장님 (sajangnim - president/CEO)
대표님 (daepyonim - representative/CEO)
이사님 (isanim - director)
부장님 (bujangnim - department head)
님 (nim - honorific suffix)
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Memorize It

Mnemonic

Imagine a 'wheel' (sounds like 'hwe') turning, and a 'jang'le of coins falling because the 'Chairman' (회장님) is generous. The '-님' makes it very respectful, like a king's decree.

Visual Association

Picture a very distinguished, older gentleman in a tailored suit, sitting at the head of a large, polished boardroom table, looking wise and in command. This is your '회장님'.

Word Web

Chairman CEO President Leader Boss Executive Board Compan

Word Origin

The word '회장님' is composed of the base word '회장' (hoejang) and the honorific suffix '-님' (-nim). '회장' itself originates from Chinese characters (Hanja).

Original meaning: 會 (hoe) means 'to meet', 'to gather', or 'association', and 長 (jang) means 'leader' or 'elder'. Thus, '회장' originally meant the leader of an association or gathering.

Korean (influenced by Chinese Hanja)
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