chaebol
/ˈtʃeɪ.bɒl/
Korean Origin
Business
Original Word
재벌
Hangul (jaebeol)
Entered English
1980s
First recorded usage in English
The Story Behind "chaebol"
From Korean 'jaebeol' (재벌), literally 'wealth clan'. A large family-owned business conglomerate in South Korea, similar to Japan's zaibatsu. Samsung, Hyundai, and LG are prominent examples.
Example Usage
"The chaebol played a crucial role in South Korea's economic miracle."