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B1 noun 12 min read

부응

bueung

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips 부응 in 30 Seconds

Explanation 부응 in your Level:

At the A1 level, '부응' is quite an advanced word that you likely won't see in basic textbooks. However, you can think of it as a very special way to say 'matching' or 'doing what someone hopes.' At this stage, just remember that in Korea, people care a lot about what their family and teachers think. '부응' is the word they use when they want to say, 'I will do a good job because you expect me to.' You don't need to use this word yet, but if you see it, just think of it as a very polite and serious 'thank you, I will do my best.' It's like a promise to be a good student or a good child. You might see it in a very formal greeting card or a school poster. Don't worry about the grammar for now; just recognize that it is a positive word about doing your duty and making people proud.

At the A2 level, you can start to recognize '부응' as a noun that often combines with '하다' to become '부응하다.' It's helpful to learn it alongside words like '기대' (expectation) or '요구' (demand). Think of it as a formal version of '맞추다' (to match). If you want to say you are working hard to make your parents happy, you could say '기대에 부응해요.' It sounds much more 'grown-up' than just saying '열심히 해요' (I work hard). You might encounter this word in simple news clips or in formal announcements at school or work. The key for A2 learners is to notice that it usually follows the particle '-에.' For example, '기대에 부응해요' (I meet expectations). It’s a good word to know if you want to understand why people in Korea feel so much pressure to succeed—it's often because they want to '부응' to those around them.

At the B1 level, you should be able to use '부응' in formal writing and understand its specific nuances. This word is essential for discussing topics like social responsibility, career goals, and public expectations. You should understand that '부응하다' isn't just about finishing a task; it's about the quality of the result matching a pre-set hope. At this level, you can start using phrases like '시대적 요구에 부응하다' (to meet the demands of the times) in your essays. This will significantly boost your 'formal tone' score. You should also be aware of how it differs from '충족하다' (to satisfy/fill a requirement). '부응' is about the *spirit* of the expectation, while '충족' is often about the *checkboxes* of a requirement. Practice using it with the particle '-에' and try to incorporate it into your speaking when you are discussing your future plans or your professional responsibilities.

At the B2 level, you should have a firm grasp of '부응' and its various forms, such as '부응하고자' (with the intent to meet) and '부응하는' (that meets). You are expected to use this word accurately in business and academic contexts. You should understand that '부응' carries a weight of social and moral obligation. It's not just a physical matching; it's a psychological and social alignment. In business Korean, you'll use this word to describe how a company's strategy aligns with market trends. In political discussions, you'll use it to evaluate whether a leader is meeting the public's needs. You should also be able to distinguish '부응하다' from similar-sounding words like '순응하다' (to adapt/conform) and '대응하다' (to react). Mastery at this level means knowing that '부응' is almost always positive and proactive, whereas '순응' can be passive and '대응' is simply reactive.

At the C1 level, '부응' should be a natural part of your high-level vocabulary. You should be able to appreciate its Hanja roots (符 - tally, 應 - response) and how that history informs its modern usage as a word for 'perfect alignment.' You can use '부응' to discuss complex sociological concepts, such as how institutions fail to '부응' to the evolving values of a generation. You should also be able to use it in sophisticated rhetorical structures, like '기대에 부응하기는커녕' (far from meeting expectations...). At this level, you can also use the word in its noun form more freely in titles, headings, and abstract discussions about '부응의 의무' (the duty of fulfillment). You should be able to detect the subtle emotional weight the word carries in different contexts—from the heavy burden of national expectation in sports to the calculated professional promise in a corporate merger announcement.

At the C2 level, you possess a native-like intuition for '부응.' You understand not just its meaning and grammar, but its deep cultural resonance within the Korean psyche, particularly regarding concepts like 'Chemyon' (face) and collective responsibility. You can use the word with precision in any context, including legal, philosophical, or literary discussions. You might use it to critique a work of art that fails to '부응' to the aesthetic standards of its genre, or to describe a historical figure whose actions perfectly '부응'ed to the existential crisis of their era. You are also capable of using the word ironically or metaphorically if the situation calls for it. Your use of '부응' is no longer about following a rule; it's about choosing the most precise word to describe the complex intersection of external expectation and internal action.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

부응 in 30 Seconds

부응 means fulfilling or meeting expectations and demands.
It is a formal word used in business, news, and serious personal contexts.
The common structure is [Noun] + 에 부응하다.
It comes from Hanja meaning 'matching response'.

The Korean word 부응 (Bu-eung) is a sophisticated noun that translates most closely to 'fulfillment,' 'meeting,' or 'acting in accordance with' specific expectations, demands, or trends. It is derived from the Hanja characters 符 (bu), meaning a tally or to match, and 應 (eung), meaning to respond. Together, they create a concept of a 'matching response'—not just any reaction, but one that perfectly aligns with a standard or hope set by others. In the hierarchy of Korean vocabulary, this word sits comfortably in formal and professional registers, often appearing in news broadcasts, business reports, and academic discussions. It describes a state where an action or a result rises to meet the height of a pre-existing requirement or a collective desire.

Core Concept: Alignment between external expectations and internal actions or results.
Social Context: Often used when discussing how a person, company, or government satisfies the hopes of the public or stakeholders.
Grammatical Usage: Commonly paired with the verb '하다' (to do) to form '부응하다' (to fulfill/meet) and used with the particle '에'.

When you use '부응,' you are highlighting a sense of responsibility. It isn't just about 'doing a good job'; it's about doing the job that was *expected* of you. For instance, if a famous athlete wins a gold medal, a commentator might say they '부응'ed to the nation's high expectations. In a business setting, if a company releases a product that includes all the features customers asked for, they are '부응'ing to consumer demand. It carries a weight of external pressure that has been successfully transformed into a positive outcome.

우리 회사는 고객의 요구에 부응하기 위해 최선을 다하고 있습니다. (Our company is doing its best to fulfill customer demands.)

The word is also deeply tied to the concept of 'trends' or 'the spirit of the times' (시대적 흐름). When a policy or a cultural movement matches the current needs of society, it is said to '시대에 부응하다.' This implies a sense of timeliness and relevance. It suggests that the entity in question is not out of touch but is actively listening and reacting to the surrounding environment. This makes it a very positive and proactive word in formal Korean discourse.

새로운 정책은 시대적 요구에 적극적으로 부응하고 있습니다. (The new policy is actively responding to the demands of the times.)

In interpersonal relationships, while '부응' is a bit formal, it can be used to express a deep sense of gratitude or commitment. For example, a student might tell their parents they will '부응' to their support by studying hard. It acknowledges the investment (emotional or financial) others have made and promises a result that justifies that investment. This nuance of 'reciprocity' is what distinguishes it from simpler words like '만족' (satisfaction).

부모님의 기대에 부응하여 장학금을 받았습니다. (I received a scholarship, meeting my parents' expectations.)

Finally, '부응' is often used in political and social criticism. When a government is criticized for failing to '부응' to the people's will, it implies a disconnect between the rulers and the ruled. It suggests a failure of the 'matching' process that the word's Hanja roots imply. Therefore, mastering this word allows you to engage with higher-level Korean content, such as editorials and political debates, where the alignment between action and expectation is a constant theme.

Using 부응 correctly requires understanding its role as a verbal noun. While it can stand alone in titles or headings, it is most frequently used as part of the verb 부응하다. The most critical grammatical rule to remember is that it takes the particle -에 to indicate the expectation or demand being met. You do not 'meet' the expectation in the sense of a direct object; you 'respond toward' it. This reflects the 'matching' nature of the word.

Standard Pattern: [Noun] + 에 + 부응하다
Common Nouns Used: 기대 (Expectation), 요구 (Demand), 희망 (Hope), 성원 (Support), 시대 (The Times/Era)

Let's look at how this functions in different sentence structures. In a simple declarative sentence, you might say, '그는 팬들의 성원에 부응했다' (He met the fans' support). Here, '성원' is the target, and '부응했다' is the action of fulfilling that support through a good performance. Notice how the '에' particle acts as a bridge between the support and the fulfillment.

그 영화는 관객들의 높은 기대에 부응하지 못했습니다. (The movie failed to meet the high expectations of the audience.)

In more complex sentences, '부응' can be used in the middle of a sentence to show purpose or reason, often using the form 부응하고자 (intending to meet) or 부응하기 위해 (in order to meet). This is very common in corporate mission statements or political manifestos where an entity is explaining *why* they are taking a certain action.

시장 변화에 부응하고자 신제품을 개발했습니다. (We developed a new product to respond to market changes.)

Another interesting usage is the adnominal form, 부응하는. This allows you to describe a noun using the concept of fulfillment. For example, '기대에 부응하는 결과' means 'a result that meets expectations.' This is a very efficient way to pack a lot of meaning into a short phrase. It elevates the level of your Korean by showing you can link abstract concepts with their outcomes.

One must also be careful with the negative form. While you can say '부응하지 못하다' (to be unable to meet), it carries a strong sense of disappointment. In Korean culture, failing to meet the '기대' (expectations) of others is often seen as a significant personal or professional failure. Therefore, the use of '부응' in the negative often precedes an apology or an explanation of what went wrong.

국민의 염원에 부응하지 못한 점 사과드립니다. (I apologize for not meeting the people's wishes.)

Finally, consider the nuances of '부응' in the context of '시대' (era). This is a very common rhetorical device in Korean speeches. To '시대에 부응하다' means to be a leader who understands the current historical moment. It’s not just about following a trend; it’s about being the right person at the right time. This usage is particularly frequent in history books and political analyses.

While you might not hear 부응 in a casual conversation about what to eat for lunch, it is ubiquitous in several specific spheres of Korean life. Understanding these contexts will help you recognize the word and understand the underlying tone of the communication. The most common place is the **Corporate World**. Korean business culture is highly focused on results and meeting the needs of stakeholders. In quarterly meetings, annual reports, or press releases, companies will constantly talk about how they are '부응'ing to the market, to investors, or to technological advancements.

News & Media: Reporting on government policies or public sentiment regarding social issues.
Sports Journalism: Describing an athlete's performance in relation to the pressure from fans.
Award Ceremonies: Acceptance speeches where winners thank those who believed in them.

In **Sports**, the word takes on a more emotional tone. Korea has a very passionate sporting culture, and the weight of national expectation is heavy. When a player like Son Heung-min scores a goal, the news headlines often use '부응' to describe how his performance matched the intense hope of the Korean public. It bridges the gap between the individual's effort and the collective's desire. Hearing this word in a sports context usually signals a moment of triumph over pressure.

그는 에이스로서의 책임감에 부응하는 완벽한 투구를 선보였습니다. (As the ace, he showed a perfect pitch that met the sense of responsibility.)

Another key area is **Education and Family**. While '부응' is formal, Korean parents often have very high expectations for their children's academic success. In formal letters, graduation speeches, or even serious family discussions, a child might promise to '부응' to their parents' sacrifices. This is a very 'Korean' sentiment—the idea that one's success is not just for oneself but is a way to repay the support and expectations of the family unit.

선생님의 가르침에 부응하여 훌륭한 사람이 되겠습니다. (I will become a great person, meeting the expectations of my teacher's guidance.)

You will also encounter '부응' frequently in **Political Speeches**. Politicians use it to show they are in sync with the '민심' (the heart of the people). A politician might say, '국민의 부름에 부응하겠습니다' (I will respond to the call of the people). This usage is designed to sound humble and dutiful, positioning the politician as a servant who is simply fulfilling a pre-existing mandate. It’s a powerful word for building legitimacy.

Finally, in the context of **Technology and Trends**, tech reviews or product launches often use the phrase '시대적 흐름에 부응하다' (meeting the flow of the times). For example, a new eco-friendly car is described as '부응'ing to the global need for sustainability. This usage highlights that the product is not just a gadget, but a necessary response to a global challenge. It lends an air of importance and necessity to the subject being discussed.

The most common mistake learners make with 부응 is using the wrong particle. In English, we 'meet expectations' (direct object), but in Korean, you '부응' *to* (에) expectations. Many students try to use the object marker '-을/를' because they are translating directly from English. This is a fundamental error that makes the sentence sound unnatural to a native speaker. Always remember: **[Target] + 에 + 부응하다**.

Incorrect Particle: 기대를 부응하다 (X) -> 기대에 부응하다 (O)
Misusing Register: Using '부응' in a very casual setting, like 'I met my friend's expectation for lunch,' sounds overly dramatic.
Confusing with '응답': '응답' is a simple answer to a question; '부응' is a fulfillment of a complex expectation.

Another subtle mistake is using '부응' when you simply mean 'satisfaction' (만족). While '부응' results in satisfaction, the focus of '부응' is the *alignment* with a standard. If you are just talking about how much you liked a meal, '만족' is the correct word. Use '부응' only when there was a pre-existing bar or expectation that needed to be cleared. For example, if a restaurant was famous and you went there with high hopes, and the food was indeed great, then you can say the food '기대에 부응했다'.

Incorrect: 점심 식사가 제 입맛에 부응했어요. (The lunch met my taste - sounds weirdly formal.)

Learners also sometimes confuse '부응하다' with '순응하다' (sun-eung-hada). While they look similar, '순응하다' means to adapt or conform to a situation, often passively. '부응하다' is more active and positive—it’s about rising to a challenge or meeting a hope. If you '순응' to the weather, you just dress appropriately. If you '부응' to your teacher's hopes, you study hard and get an A. The direction of energy is different.

Confusion: 환경에 부응하다 (To fulfill the environment?) vs. 환경에 순응하다 (To adapt to the environment.)

Finally, some students use '부응' with negative nouns, like 'meeting a threat' or 'meeting a disaster.' This is incorrect. '부응' is almost exclusively used with positive or neutral targets like expectations, demands, or trends. For negative things, you would use words like '대처하다' (to cope/deal with) or '대응하다' (to respond/react to). '부응' implies that fulfilling the target is a desirable or necessary achievement.

In summary, keep '부응' for those moments where there is a clear expectation to be met, use the '-에' particle, and reserve it for formal or significant contexts. This will ensure your Korean sounds sophisticated and accurate.

Korean has several words that overlap with 부응, and knowing the difference between them is key to reaching an advanced level of fluency. The most common synonym is 충족 (Chung-jok), which means 'satisfaction' or 'fulfillment.' While '부응' focuses on the *response* to an expectation, '충족' focuses on the *completion* of a requirement. You '충족' the minimum requirements for a job, but you '부응' to the employer's high expectations for your performance.

충족시키다 (Chung-jok-si-ki-da): To satisfy a condition or a physical need (like hunger or a quota).
만족시키다 (Man-jok-si-ki-da): To make someone feel pleased or satisfied. More emotional and subjective than 부응.
일치하다 (Il-chi-ha-da): To coincide or match. Used for facts, opinions, or data points.

Another word often confused with '부응' is 대응 (Dae-eung). While both involve 'responding' (eung), '대응' is a neutral reaction to an action or a situation. If a competitor lowers their prices, your company '대응's by also lowering prices. This isn't necessarily meeting an expectation; it's a strategic reaction. '부응', on the other hand, always has that nuance of 'living up to' something positive or expected.

Comparison: 시장 변화에 대응하다 (React to market changes) vs. 시대적 요구에 부응하다 (Fulfill the demands of the era).

For a more casual alternative, you can use 맞추다 (Mat-chu-da), which means 'to adjust' or 'to match.' If you are telling a friend you will try to meet their schedule, you would say '네 시간에 맞출게.' Using '부응' here would be absurdly formal. '맞추다' is the workhorse word for 'matching' in daily life, whereas '부응' is reserved for the 'big' moments of fulfillment.

Casual: 친구의 기분에 맞춰 줬어요. (I went along with my friend's mood.)

Lastly, 보답하다 (Bo-dap-ha-da) is a beautiful word that means 'to repay' or 'to requite.' It is often used interchangeably with '부응하다' when talking about meeting the expectations of someone who has helped you. However, '보답' has a stronger sense of gratitude and 'giving back,' while '부응' is more about the 'performance' of meeting the goal. You '보답' your parents' love by '부응'ing to their hopes for your success.

By choosing between these words, you can specify exactly what kind of 'meeting' or 'satisfying' you are talking about, making your Korean much more nuanced and expressive.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The character 符 originally referred to a piece of bamboo split in two, used as a contract. When the two halves matched (부), the contract was fulfilled. This is why '부응' implies a perfect match between expectation and reality.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /bu.ɯŋ/

US /bu.ɯŋ/

Stress is even on both syllables, typical of Korean.

Rhymes With

수응 (su-eung - compliance) 적응 (jeok-eung - adaptation) 반응 (ban-eung - reaction) 호응 (ho-eung - positive response) 상응 (sang-eung - correspondence) 순응 (sun-eung - adaptation/conformity) 감응 (gam-eung - resonance/influence) 상응 (sang-eung - corresponding)

Common Errors

Pronouncing 'eung' like 'ong'.
Making the 'u' too long like 'boooo'.
Failing to make the 'eu' (ɯ) sound distinct from 'u' (u).
Adding a 'g' sound at the end of 'bu'.
Merging the two syllables into one.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 4/5

Common in news and books, but requires knowledge of formal Hanja-based terms.

Writing 5/5

Requires correct particle usage (-에) and formal tone.

Speaking 4/5

Used in professional or serious personal conversations.

Listening 4/5

Frequent in broadcasts and formal speeches.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

기대 요구 하다 에 (particle)

Learn Next

충족하다 부합하다 상응하다

Advanced

시대정신 민의 책무

Grammar to Know

The particle -에 for targets of response

기대'에' 부응하다

Adnominal form -는 for current state

부응하'는' 사람

Intent marker -하고자

부응'하고자' 노력하다

Purpose marker -하기 위해

부응'하기 위해' 공부하다

Negative form -지 못하다

부응하'지 못하다'

Examples by Level

선생님 기대에 부응하고 싶어요.

I want to meet my teacher's expectations.

기대 (expectation) + 에 (to) + 부응하고 싶어요 (want to meet).

부모님 기대에 부응해요.

I meet my parents' expectations.

Simple present tense of 부응하다.

우리는 기대에 부응해요.

We meet the expectations.

Using '우리는' (we) as the subject.

그는 기대에 부응했어요.

He met the expectations.

Past tense '부응했어요'.

이것은 내 기대에 부응해요.

This meets my expectations.

Using '이것은' (this) for an object.

기대에 부응하는 사람이에요.

He is a person who meets expectations.

Adnominal form '부응하는' describing '사람'.

기대에 부응하려고 노력해요.

I try to meet expectations.

-려고 노력하다 (try to...).

기대에 부응해서 기뻐요.

I am happy because I met expectations.

-어서 (because/so) connecting the reason.

회사의 기대에 부응하기 위해 열심히 일합니다.

I work hard to meet the company's expectations.

-하기 위해 (in order to).

팬들의 성원에 부응하는 경기를 보여줬어요.

He showed a game that met the fans' support.

성원 (support) + 에 + 부응하는 (meeting).

새로운 요구에 부응하는 제품을 만들어요.

We make products that meet new demands.

요구 (demand) + 에 + 부응하는.

그 가수는 팬들의 기대에 부응했어요.

That singer met the fans' expectations.

Subject (가수) + Target (기대) + 부응했다.

사회적 요구에 부응하는 것이 중요합니다.

It is important to meet social demands.

-는 것이 중요합니다 (It is important to...).

우리는 고객의 소리에 부응해야 합니다.

We must respond to the customers' voices.

-해야 합니다 (must/should).

기대에 부응하지 못해서 죄송합니다.

I am sorry for not being able to meet expectations.

-지 못하다 (be unable to).

그는 기대에 부응하려고 최선을 다했어요.

He did his best to meet expectations.

최선을 다하다 (do one's best).

변화하는 시대적 흐름에 부응하는 정책이 필요합니다.

Policies that meet the changing trends of the times are necessary.

시대적 흐름 (trend of the times) + 에 부응하는.

기업은 소비자의 다양한 욕구에 부응해야 경쟁력을 갖출 수 있다.

Companies can be competitive only when they meet the diverse desires of consumers.

욕구 (desire) + 에 부응해야 (must meet... to...).

그 선수는 전국민의 염원에 부응하여 금메달을 목에 걸었다.

The athlete won the gold medal, meeting the wishes of the entire nation.

염원 (earnest wish) + 에 부응하여.

이번 신제품은 시장의 기대에 충분히 부응하고 있다는 평가를 받는다.

The new product is evaluated as fully meeting market expectations.

-고 있다는 평가를 받다 (receive an evaluation that...).

학생들의 학습 요구에 부응하기 위해 새로운 프로그램을 도입했습니다.

We introduced a new program to meet students' learning needs.

도입하다 (to introduce/adopt).

그는 주위의 기대에 부응하고자 밤낮없이 연구에 매진했다.

He devoted himself to research day and night to meet the expectations of those around him.

-하고자 (with the intent to).

이번 공연은 관객들의 높은 기대에 부응하는 최고의 무대였다.

This performance was the best stage, meeting the high expectations of the audience.

최고의 무대 (the best stage).

지역 주민들의 요구에 부응하여 공원이 조성되었습니다.

The park was created in response to the demands of local residents.

조성되다 (to be created/built).

현대 사회의 복잡한 요구에 부응하기 위해서는 창의적인 사고가 필수적이다.

Creative thinking is essential to meet the complex demands of modern society.

-기 위해서는 (in order to...).

그 감독의 신작은 평론가들의 기대에 부응하지 못했다는 혹평을 들었다.

The director's new work received harsh criticism for failing to meet critics' expectations.

혹평 (harsh criticism).

정부는 국민들의 민생 안정 요구에 적극 부응할 것을 약속했다.

The government promised to actively respond to the people's demands for livelihood stability.

민생 안정 (livelihood stability).

기술의 발전에 부응하여 교육 커리큘럼도 대폭 수정되어야 한다.

In response to technological developments, the educational curriculum must also be significantly revised.

대폭 (drastically/significantly).

그 기업은 윤리 경영에 대한 사회적 기대에 부응하려 노력하고 있다.

The company is trying to meet social expectations for ethical management.

윤리 경영 (ethical management).

전문가들은 이번 조치가 시장의 불안을 해소하는 데 부응할 것으로 내다봤다.

Experts predicted that this measure would help alleviate market anxiety.

내다보다 (to predict/look ahead).

그는 가업을 이어받아 부모님의 기대에 부응하는 훌륭한 경영자가 되었다.

He took over the family business and became a great manager, meeting his parents' expectations.

가업을 이어받다 (to take over a family business).

기존의 방식으로는 급변하는 시장의 요구에 부응하기 어렵다.

It is difficult to meet the demands of the rapidly changing market with existing methods.

급변하는 (rapidly changing).

작가의 치밀한 묘사는 독자들의 지적 호기심에 충분히 부응하고도 남음이 있다.

The author's meticulous descriptions more than satisfy the intellectual curiosity of the readers.

-고도 남음이 있다 (is more than enough to...).

민주주의의 가치에 부응하지 못하는 법안은 국민의 거센 저항에 직면할 것이다.

Bills that do not align with democratic values will face strong resistance from the people.

거센 저항에 직면하다 (to face fierce resistance).

그 학자의 이론은 시대적 고찰을 통해 학계의 기대에 부응하는 새로운 패러다임을 제시했다.

Through historical reflection, the scholar's theory presented a new paradigm that met the expectations of the academic world.

패러다임을 제시하다 (to present a paradigm).

예술가는 대중의 기호에 부응할 것인가, 아니면 자신만의 예술 세계를 고집할 것인가의 기로에 선다.

Artists stand at a crossroads between meeting public tastes or sticking to their own artistic world.

기로에 서다 (to stand at a crossroads).

이번 개정안은 시대의 변화에 부응하려는 입법부의 의지가 반영된 결과물이다.

This amendment is a result of the legislature's will to respond to the changes of the times.

입법부의 의지 (the will of the legislature).

그는 자신의 직위에 부응하는 도덕적 책무를 다하기 위해 고군분투했다.

He struggled to fulfill the moral obligations corresponding to his position.

도덕적 책무 (moral obligation).

조직의 비전에 부응하는 인재를 등용하는 것이 경영의 핵심이다.

Hiring talent that aligns with the organization's vision is the core of management.

인재를 등용하다 (to appoint/hire talent).

환경 보호라는 시대적 과제에 부응하지 못하는 기업은 도태될 수밖에 없다.

Companies that fail to meet the historical task of environmental protection cannot help but be left behind.

도태될 수밖에 없다 (cannot help but be eliminated).

그의 연설은 국가적 위기 상황 속에서 국민의 울분에 부응하는 강력한 메시지를 담고 있었다.

His speech contained a powerful message that resonated with the people's resentment in a national crisis.

울분에 부응하다 (responding to/matching the resentment).

칸트의 정언명령은 인간 이성의 요구에 부응하는 보편적 도덕 법칙을 확립하려 했다.

Kant's categorical imperative sought to establish a universal moral law that met the demands of human reason.

정언명령 (categorical imperative).

포스트모더니즘은 거대 서사에서 벗어나 파편화된 현대인의 감성에 부응하며 등장했다.

Postmodernism emerged by moving away from grand narratives and responding to the fragmented sensibilities of modern people.

파편화된 감성 (fragmented sensibility).

법의 집행이 사회적 법감정에 부응하지 못할 때 사법부에 대한 불신이 팽배해진다.

When law enforcement fails to meet the social sense of justice, distrust in the judiciary becomes rampant.

법감정 (legal sentiment/sense of justice).

그 문학 작품은 허무주의라는 시대정신에 부응하여 당시 청년들에게 큰 반향을 일으켰다.

The literary work met the spirit of the times—nihilism—and caused a great sensation among the youth of that time.

반향을 일으키다 (to cause a sensation/echo).

혁신은 단순히 기술적 진보에 그치는 것이 아니라, 인류의 근원적 갈망에 부응할 때 완성된다.

Innovation is not just about technological progress; it is completed when it meets the fundamental longings of humanity.

근원적 갈망 (fundamental longing).

그 정책은 표면적으로는 민의에 부응하는 듯 보였으나, 실상은 기득권의 이익을 대변하고 있었다.

On the surface, the policy seemed to meet the will of the people, but in reality, it represented the interests of the establishment.

기득권의 이익 (interests of the establishment).

진정한 리더십은 구성원들의 잠재된 역량을 끌어내어 조직의 목표에 부응하게 만드는 힘이다.

True leadership is the power to draw out the latent capabilities of members and make them align with the organization's goals.

잠재된 역량 (latent capability).

Synonyms

충족 호응 만족 일치 순응

Antonyms

위배 거부

Common Collocations

기대에 부응하다

요구에 부응하다

시대에 부응하다

성원에 부응하다

부름에 부응하다

취지에 부응하다

희망에 부응하다

수요에 부응하다

기대에 부응하지 못하다

적극 부응하다

Common Phrases

기대에 부응하는

— That meets expectations. Used as an adjective.

기대에 부응하는 실력을 보여주세요.

부응하기 위해서

— In order to meet/fulfill.

기대에 부응하기 위해서 최선을 다했습니다.

부응하고자

— Intending to meet (very formal).

시대적 요구에 부응하고자 이 자리에 섰습니다.

부응하는 결과

— A result that matches expectations.

기대에 부응하는 결과를 얻었다.

부응하지 못하는

— Failing to meet.

현실에 부응하지 못하는 정책들.

부응할 것으로 기대되다

— To be expected to meet.

신제품이 시장 수요에 부응할 것으로 기대됩니다.

부응할 수 있도록

— So that one can meet.

기대에 부응할 수 있도록 도와주세요.

부응하며

— While meeting/responding to.

트렌드에 부응하며 성장해 왔다.

부응한 바 있다

— Has met (expectations) before.

그는 과거에도 여러 차례 기대에 부응한 바 있다.

부응할 따름이다

— Just fulfilling (humble).

저는 주어진 임무에 부응할 따름입니다.

Often Confused With

부응 vs 응답

응답 is a simple answer; 부응 is fulfilling an expectation.

부응 vs 순응

순응 is adapting/conforming; 부응 is actively fulfilling.

부응 vs 대응

대응 is a neutral reaction; 부응 is a positive fulfillment.

Idioms & Expressions

"기대에 부응하다"

— To live up to expectations.

그는 모두의 기대에 부응했다.

Neutral

"시대의 부름에 부응하다"

— To answer the call of the times.

그는 시대의 부름에 부응하여 혁명에 참여했다.

Literary/Formal

"성원에 부응하다"

— To live up to the support given by others.

팬들의 성원에 부응하는 멋진 무대를 만들겠습니다.

Entertainment

"요구에 부응하다"

— To meet demands.

시장의 요구에 부응하는 것이 우선입니다.

Business

"희망에 부응하다"

— To fulfill someone's hopes.

자식으로서 부모님의 희망에 부응하고 싶다.

Personal

"염원에 부응하다"

— To fulfill a long-cherished wish.

국민의 통일 염원에 부응하다.

Political

"취지에 부응하다"

— To be in line with the purpose/intent.

법안의 취지에 부응하는 시행령.

Legal

"기대에 부응하지 못하다"

— To fall short of expectations.

실적이 기대에 부응하지 못했다.

General

"적극적으로 부응하다"

— To actively respond to/meet.

정부는 민심에 적극적으로 부응해야 한다.

Formal

"부응하는 삶"

— A life that lives up to (certain values).

자신의 신념에 부응하는 삶을 살다.

Philosophical

Easily Confused

부응 vs 충족

Both mean 'fulfill'.

충족 is for conditions/requirements; 부응 is for expectations/demands.

자격 충족 vs 기대 부응

부응 vs 만족

Both involve satisfaction.

만족 is the feeling of being pleased; 부응 is the act of meeting a standard.

결과에 만족하다 vs 기대에 부응하다

부응 vs 적응

Both involve matching a situation.

적응 is getting used to an environment; 부응 is fulfilling a hope within it.

환경에 적응하다 vs 기대에 부응하다

부응 vs 호응

Both end in 'eung' and mean response.

호응 is a positive reaction or cheering; 부응 is fulfilling a standard.

관객의 호응 vs 관객의 기대에 부응

부응 vs 상응

Both mean matching.

상응 is a proportional correspondence (e.g., pay matching work); 부응 is meeting an expectation.

노력에 상응하는 대가 vs 기대에 부응하는 결과

Sentence Patterns

N에 부응해요.

기대에 부응해요.

N에 부응하기 위해 V.

기대에 부응하기 위해 열심히 공부해요.

N에 부응하는 N.

기대에 부응하는 결과.

N에 부응하지 못하다.

요구에 부응하지 못했습니다.

N에 적극 부응하다.

변화에 적극 부응해야 합니다.

N에 부응하고자 N을/를 V.

시대적 요구에 부응하고자 혁신을 단행했다.

N에 부응할 것으로 기대되다.

신제품이 기대에 부응할 것으로 기대됩니다.

N에 부응하고도 남음이 있다.

그의 실력은 기대에 부응하고도 남음이 있다.

Word Family

Nouns

부응 (fulfillment/meeting)

Verbs

부응하다 (to fulfill/meet)

부응시키다 (to make something fulfill - rare)

Adjectives

부응하는 (fulfilling/meeting - adnominal form)

기대 (expectation)

요구 (demand)

희망 (hope)

성원 (support)

시대 (era)

How to Use It

frequency

Common in professional, academic, and media contexts.

Common Mistakes

기대를 부응하다 → 기대에 부응하다
You must use the particle '-에' because '부응하다' functions like an intransitive verb in this context.
Using 부응 for 'reacting to an accident' → 대응하다 / 대처하다
'부응' is for positive expectations or trends, not for responding to emergencies or accidents.
Using 부응 casually with friends → 맞추다 / 기대대로 하다
It sounds overly formal and stiff in casual conversation.
Confusing 부응 with 순응 → 부응 (fulfilling) vs 순응 (conforming)
'순응' is about adapting to a situation, while '부응' is about fulfilling an expectation.
Spelling it as '부응' but pronouncing as '붕' → 부응 (two syllables)
Make sure to pronounce both 'bu' and 'eung' clearly.

Tips

Particle Choice

Always pair '부응' with the particle '-에'. Never use '-을/를' with the verb '부응하다'.

Business Writing

Use '부응' in your cover letters to say you will meet the company's expectations (회사의 기대에 부응하겠습니다).

Collocation King

Memorize the phrase '기대에 부응하다' as a single unit. It is the most common use of the word.

Formal vs. Casual

If you want to say 'match' in a casual way, use '맞추다'. Keep '부응' for serious topics.

Hanja Help

The 'Eung' in '부응' is the same 'Eung' in 'Dae-eung' (response) and 'Ban-eung' (reaction).

Social Pressure

Understanding '부응' helps you understand the Korean concept of 'Chemyon' or saving face through success.

Presentation Power

Start a presentation by saying how your proposal '부응's to the client's needs to sound professional.

Essay Booster

Use '시대적 요구에 부응하여' to introduce a solution to a social problem in an essay.

News Keyword

When you hear '부응' on the news, it usually means something successful happened in response to public hope.

Visual Tally

Imagine a tally stick matching up. That is the 'Bu' in 'Bu-eung'.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'Bu' as 'Blue' and 'Eung' as 'Engine'. A 'Blue Engine' that finally starts up to meet the high 'expectations' of the race team.

Visual Association

Imagine two halves of a puzzle piece coming together. One piece is labeled 'What people want' (Expectation) and the other is labeled 'What you did' (Action). When they click, that is '부응'.

Word Web

기대 (Expectation) 요구 (Demand) 희망 (Hope) 성원 (Support) 시대 (Era) 결과 (Result) 만족 (Satisfaction) 책임 (Responsibility)

Challenge

Write a sentence using '부응' to describe a time you made someone proud. Use the particle '-에' correctly.

Word Origin

Derived from Hanja (Sino-Korean characters).

Original meaning: 符 (Bu) means a tally, a charm, or to match. 應 (Eung) means to respond or answer.

Sino-Korean (Hanja-eo).

Cultural Context

Be careful not to use '부응' in very casual settings, as it can sound sarcastic if used for trivial tasks (e.g., 'Thank you for meeting my expectation to bring the salt').

In English, we use 'meet expectations' or 'live up to,' but '부응' is slightly more formal and is often used for collective or historical demands rather than just a boss's orders.

Often used in presidential inaugural addresses in Korea. A common theme in sports commentary regarding national stars like Son Heung-min. Frequently appears in the lyrics of 'cheer-up' songs or formal anthems.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Business

시장 수요에 부응하다
고객의 요구에 부응하다
주주들의 기대에 부응하다
경영 목표에 부응하다

Sports

팬들의 성원에 부응하다
기대에 부응하는 활약
에이스의 면모에 부응하다
감독의 믿음에 부응하다

Politics

민심에 부응하다
시대적 소명에 부응하다
국민의 염원에 부응하다
변화의 요구에 부응하다

Education

부모님의 기대에 부응하다
학습자의 요구에 부응하다
교육적 취지에 부응하다
사회의 기대에 부응하는 인재

Art/Media

대중의 기호에 부응하다
평단의 기대에 부응하다
장르적 요구에 부응하다
예술적 완성도에 부응하다

Conversation Starters

"이번 프로젝트가 고객의 기대에 잘 부응할까요?"

"부모님의 기대에 부응하는 것이 부담스럽지는 않으세요?"

"어떤 선수가 팬들의 성원에 가장 잘 부응한다고 생각하세요?"

"우리 회사가 시대적 흐름에 잘 부응하고 있다고 보시나요?"

"기대에 부응하지 못했을 때 어떻게 대처하시나요?"

Journal Prompts

내가 누군가의 기대에 부응했던 가장 뿌듯한 순간은 언제였나?

사회의 기대에 부응하는 삶과 내가 원하는 삶 사이의 균형을 어떻게 맞추고 있는가?

올해 내가 세운 목표들에 얼마나 부응하며 살고 있는가?

시대적 요구에 부응하는 리더란 어떤 사람이라고 생각하는가?

누군가의 기대에 부응하지 못해 실망을 주었던 경험과 그로부터 배운 점은?

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Usually, you use a noun like '기대' (expectation) or '요구' (demand) *from* that person, rather than the person themselves. For example, say '부모님의 기대에 부응하다' instead of '부모님에 부응하다'.

Yes, it is almost always used in a positive or constructive context. It implies that meeting the expectation is a good thing. For negative reactions, use '대처하다' or '대응하다'.

Think of '충족' as filling a container (like requirements) and '부응' as reaching a high bar (like expectations).

It might sound a bit too serious or even sarcastic unless you are discussing something very important like a job offer or a big exam.

No, it is always '부응' or '부응하다'.

Always use '-에'. '-에게' is for people, and '부응' targets abstract concepts like expectations.

Yes, you can say '제 자신의 기대에 부응하고 싶어요' (I want to meet my own expectations).

You'll hear it every day on the news and in business meetings, but rarely at a coffee shop with friends.

The most direct opposite is '부응하지 못하다' or '기대를 저버리다' (to betray expectations).

No, it is strictly for abstract things like hopes, demands, and trends.