When you dive into the world of Korean entertainment, be it through the captivating narratives of K-dramas, the thrilling plots of movies, or the energetic performances of K-pop, you’re bound to encounter an array of Korea slangs and expressions that are quintessentially Korean. These Korea slangs, often missing from conventional dictionaries, carry meanings and connotations that go beyond their literal translations, embodying emotions, cultural nuances, and social contexts unique to Korea. They add flavor and authenticity to dialogues, making the characters and situations more relatable and the cultural experience more immersive for the audience.
Understanding these slangs can significantly enhance your viewing or listening pleasure, offering deeper insights into the subtleties of Korean humor, relationships, and societal norms. Whether it’s the excitement expressed through a hearty “Daebak,” the camaraderie in calling someone “Hyung,” “Noona,” “Oppa,” or “Unnie,” or the shared understanding of “Fighting” as a word of encouragement, these slangs form an integral part of the Korean language’s charm and dynamism.
Today, I aim to bridge the gap between mere translation and true understanding by delving into some of the most commonly used Korean slangs across movies, dramas, and K-pop. This exploration will not only equip you with a richer vocabulary to appreciate the artistry and emotional depth of Korean entertainment but also provide a window into the heart and soul of Korean culture. So, let’s embark on this linguistic journey together, unraveling the meanings and stories behind Korea’s favorite slangs.
5o Korea Slangs
- 아이구 (Aigoo) – An exclamation of frustration or realization, similar to “Oh no” or “Geez”. Common in dramas and comedies to express mild distress or surprise.
- 대박 (Daebak) – Used to express amazement or awe, similar to “Awesome” or “Epic”. Seen in various genres, especially in scenes with unexpected outcomes.
- 헐 (Heol) – Expresses shock or disbelief, akin to “Wow” or “No way”. Popular in youth-oriented films or scenes with surprising revelations.
- 짱 (Jjang) – Means “The best” or “Awesome”, used to compliment someone or something. Often found in romantic comedies or dramas.
- 오빠 (Oppa) – A term used by a female to refer to an older male friend or romantic interest. Common in romantic plots.
- 누나 (Noona) – Used by a younger male to address an older female. Often seen in romances or dramas.
- 형 (Hyung) – Used by males to address an older male. Appears frequently in gangster films, dramas, or brotherhood themes.
- 언니 (Unnie) – A term used by females to refer to an older female. Common in female-centric stories or dramas.
- 막장 (Makjang) – Refers to highly exaggerated or unrealistic plot elements. While more common in TV dramas, it’s also used to describe over-the-top movie plots.
- 썰 (Ssul) – A story or gossip. Used in movies that revolve around mystery or scandal.
- 미안해 (Mianhae) – “Sorry”. A common expression across all film genres.
- 사랑해 (Saranghae) – “I love you”. Predominant in romantic films.
- 빨리 (Bballi) – “Quickly” or “Hurry”. Often found in action or thriller movies.
- 괜찮아 (Gwenchana) – “It’s okay” or “I’m fine”. Used in various contexts and genres.
- 동생 (Dongsaeng) – Refers to a younger sibling or someone younger. Used across genres.
- 선배 (Sunbae) – A term used to address someone senior in school or work. Common in movies set in schools or workplaces.
- 후배 (Hoobae) – The opposite of sunbae, used to address juniors. Seen in similar settings as sunbae.
- 사건 (Sageon) – “Incident” or “Case”. Used in thrillers or crime movies.
- 욜로 (Yolo) – You Only Live Once. Adopted from English, used in youth-centric movies to emphasize living in the moment.
- 빨리빨리 문화 (Palli-palli culture) – The cultural emphasis on speed and efficiency, referenced in movies showcasing Korean work-life or societal expectations.
- 친구 (Chingu) – “Friend”. Universal across genres.
- 눈치 (Nunchi) – The ability to gauge others’ moods or the atmosphere in a room. A concept often explored in dramas.
- 꿀잼 (Kkuljaem) – “Super fun” or “Entertaining”. Used for movies or scenes that are enjoyable.
- 짜파게티 (Jjapaghetti) – A popular instant noodle brand, often referenced in movies as a quick meal.
- 소주 (Soju) – A popular Korean alcoholic beverage, frequently featured in social scenes.
- 한강 (Han River) – A significant landmark in Seoul, often featured in movies as a backdrop for various scenes, reflecting moments of contemplation, romance, or drama.
- 엄친아/엄친딸 (Eomchina/Eomchinttal) – Short for “mom’s friend’s son/daughter,” used to describe a person who is successful in every way, often mentioned in a comparative way to highlight a character’s perceived lack of success.
- 눈팅 (Nunting) – Deriving from “eye” and “typing,” it refers to the act of lurking or reading online forums without actively participating, possibly used in scenes involving online interactions.
- 만렙 (Manrep) – Short for “max level,” used to describe someone who has reached the highest level of skill in a particular area, often in gaming or a professional context.
- 갓 (Gat) – A prefix meaning “god,” used to praise someone’s exceptional skills or virtues, like “갓병헌” (God Byunghun) for a superb actor.
- 미쳤다 (Michyeotda) – Means “crazy” or “insane,” often used to express disbelief or amazement at someone’s actions or a particular situation.
- 킹받다 (Kingbadah) – A slang expression for being extremely annoyed or pissed off, likely used in tense or frustrating moments.
- 서윗 (Seuwit) – A Konglish word derived from “sweet,” used to describe someone’s kind or considerate action.
- 쉐어하우스 (Share House) – Refers to a shared living space, commonly used in contexts where characters live together, highlighting their interactions and dynamics.
- 모쏠 (Mosol) – Short for “모태 솔로 (motae solo),” meaning someone who has never been in a relationship, often used in romantic plots or discussions about love life.
- 인생 영화 (Insaeng Yeonghwa) – Means “life movie,” referring to a film that deeply impacts one’s life, possibly mentioned in scenes where characters bond over movies.
- 페북 (Pebook) – Short for “Facebook,” used in dialogues involving social media activities or communication.
- 스펙 (Spek) – Short for “specifications,” referring to one’s qualifications or achievements, often mentioned in contexts related to job hunting or academic performance.
- 원숭이도 이해한다 (Wonsungido ihaehanda) – Literally means “even a monkey understands,” used to point out something very obvious or simple, often in comedic or sarcastic scenes.
- 화이팅/파이팅 (Hwaiting/Fighting) – A cheer meaning “let’s go” or “do your best,” used to encourage someone or show support.
- 유튜버 (Youtuber) – Referring to a YouTube content creator, possibly used in scenes discussing modern careers or social media influence.
- 노가다 (Nogada) – Refers to hard, physical work, often used in contexts discussing jobs or in scenes depicting manual labor.
- 맛집 (Matjip) – Means “a place with delicious food,” often mentioned in scenes where characters discuss where to eat or share food recommendations.
- 밀당 (Mildang) – Short for “push and pull,” referring to the strategic act of expressing interest and then disinterest in romantic relationships, likely used in romantic plotlines.
- 찐 (Jjin) – Means “real” or “genuine,” used to describe something or someone that is authentic or sincere, often in a positive context.
- 멍때리다 (Mengttaerida) – Means “to space out” or “to daydream,” likely used in scenes where characters are lost in thought or not paying attention.
- 열받다 (Yeolbatda) – Means “to get angry” or “to be pissed off.” It’s used in scenes where characters express frustration or anger towards a situation or person.
- 빵 터지다 (Bbang Teojida) – Literally means “to burst into laughter,” used in comedic scenes or when characters find something extremely funny.
- 얼짱 (Eoljjang) – Means “best face” or “good-looking,” used to compliment someone’s appearance, especially in romantic or youth-centric plots.
- 미쳤어 (Michyeosseo) – Translates to “Are you crazy?” or “That’s crazy!” It’s used in both positive and negative contexts to express disbelief or amazement.
Additional 5o Korea Slangs
- 황금손 (Hwanggeumson) – Literally “golden hand,” used to describe someone with exceptional skills or the Midas touch, especially in creative or repair tasks.
- 소확행 (Sohwakhaeng) – Short for “small but certain happiness,” referring to finding joy in the simple things. It’s used in scenes that highlight life’s simple pleasures.
- 국밥 (Gukbap) – Literally a type of soup with rice, but slang for something very ordinary or common. It can be used humorously to describe something that’s basic or fundamental.
- 만렙 (Manrep) – Short for “max level,” used to describe someone who has reached the peak of their ability or status, often in gaming, but also in real life skills or professions.
- 지름신 (Jireumsin) – Refers to the “god of shopping,” humorously used when someone goes on a shopping spree or can’t resist buying things.
- 먹방 (Meokbang) – Short for “eating broadcast,” this term has transcended its internet origins and is used in scenes featuring characters eating, often in an exaggerated or entertaining way.
- 힐링 (Healing) – Borrowed from English, it’s used to describe experiences or actions that are soothing or restorative, often in emotional or physical contexts.
- 웃프다 (Utpda) – A combination of “funny” and “sad,” used to describe situations that are bittersweet or ironically humorous.
- 애교 (Aegyo) – Refers to a cute display of affection often characterized by a high-pitched voice and childlike behaviors. It’s used in scenes to show someone trying to be endearing or persuasive.
- 시그널 (Signal) – Borrowed from English, it’s used to describe indirect hints or cues in relationships or communications, often in romantic contexts.
- 돌직구 (Doljikgu) – Literally “straight fastball,” used to describe blunt or straightforward comments, often in confrontations or honest conversations.
- 불태우다 (Bultaewoonda) – Means “to burn it up,” used to describe going all out in a situation, whether partying, working, or engaging in intense activity.
- 케미 (Chemi) – Short for “chemistry,” used to describe a strong connection or rapport between people, often in romantic or buddy-cop plots.
- 엄친아 (Eomchina) – Short for “mom’s friend’s son,” used to describe someone who is successful or talented, often in a way that parents compare their children to.
- 멘붕 (Menboong) – Short for “mental breakdown,” this term is often used in dramatic or comedic scenes to express a character’s overwhelming stress or confusion.
- 불금 (Bulgeum) – Short for “Fiery Friday,” this term is used to depict characters going out or partying on a Friday night, reflecting a break from the workweek.
- 썸 (Sseom) – Refers to the ambiguous phase of a relationship before dating officially. It’s often used in romantic plots to describe the tension and excitement between potential couples.
- 알바 (Alba) – Short for “part-time job,” this term is commonly used in scenes where characters are working part-time, often to support their dreams or education.
- 피폐 (Pipae) – Describes a state of being exhausted or worn out, often used in dramatic scenes to express a character’s physical or emotional exhaustion.
- 꿀잼 (Kkuljaem) – Means “super fun” or “hilarious,” used in scenes that are intended to be entertaining or amusing to the audience.
- 노잼 (Nojaem) – The opposite of 꿀잼, meaning “not fun” or “boring,” often used to describe dull moments or criticize something uninteresting.
- 존맛탱 (Jonmat-taeng) – A slang expression meaning “super delicious,” often used in scenes where characters enjoy food.
- 얼죽아 (Eoljukah) – Short for “I’d rather die than live without ice Americano,” humorously used to show a character’s love for iced Americano, reflecting a popular coffee culture in Korea.
- 인싸 (Inssa) – Means “insider,” referring to someone who is trendy or popular. Used in scenes to describe characters who fit in well with social groups.
- 아싸 (Assa) – Contrary to 인싸, it means “outsider,” used for characters who are loners or do not follow trends.
- 흑역사 (Heukyeoksa) – Literally “dark history,” referring to embarrassing past moments. It’s used in conversations where characters reveal or discuss their embarrassing pasts.
- 갑분싸 (Gapbunssa) – Short for “the atmosphere turned awkward suddenly,” used in scenes where the mood shifts dramatically to awkwardness.
- 솔로 (Solo) – Refers to being single, often used in discussions about relationship status or in scenes where characters express their desire to find love.
- 오지다 (Ojida) – Means “to be extremely good,” often used to praise someone or something in an impressive manner.
- 꾸안꾸 (Kkuankku) – Short for “effortlessly stylish,” used to describe characters who look fashionable without appearing to try hard.
- 실화냐 (Silhwanya) – Means “Is this real?” or “Can you believe it?” often used in scenes expressing disbelief or amazement at a situation.
- 워라밸 (Work-Life Balance) – Short for “work-life balance,” emphasizing the importance of balancing work with personal life.
- 셀럽 (Selrep) – A contraction of “celebrity,” used to refer to famous individuals, especially in social media contexts.
- 셀카 (Selca) – Short for “self-camera,” meaning a selfie or self-taken photograph.
- 플렉스 (Flex) – To show off one’s wealth or status through actions or purchases, borrowed from English slang.
- 랜선 (Raenseon) – Short for “LAN line,” referring to online or virtual interactions.
- 마이웨이 (My Way) – Living life in one’s own way, disregarding societal norms or expectations.
- 취향저격 (Chwihyangjeogeok) – “Striking one’s taste” directly, used when something perfectly matches one’s preferences.
- 나심비 (Nasimbi) – Short for “내 마음대로 심리적 비용,” meaning the psychological satisfaction derived from purchasing something desired, regardless of its practicality.
- 밀레니얼 (Millennial) – Referring to the generation born between the early 1980s and the mid-1990s to early 2000s, focusing on their habits and attitudes.
- Z세대 (Z Generation) – Generation Z, the generation born between the mid-1990s to early 2000s, often discussed in the context of their digital nativism and social attitudes.
- 영혼까지 갈아넣은 (Yeonghonkkaji Garaneun) – “Putting one’s soul into,” used to describe putting extreme effort or dedication into a task.
- 편의점 신상 (Pyeonuijeom Sinsang) – “New convenience store item,” highlighting the trend of trying or discussing new products available at convenience stores.
- 고고싱 (Gogosing) – A phrase used to express “Let’s go” or to encourage someone to proceed with something. It captures a sense of enthusiasm and readiness to embark on an activity or venture.
- 만만디 (Manmandi) – A slang term derived from 만만하다, meaning something is easy or not difficult. Used to describe tasks or challenges that can be easily overcome.
- 곰신 (Gomsin) – Short for 고무신 군대 신부, which means “rubber shoes military bride,” referring to individuals who are waiting for their significant others to complete mandatory military service. It expresses the patience and loyalty of those in long-distance relationships due to military service.
- 답정너 (Dapjeongneo) – A contraction of 답은 정해져 있고 너는 대답만 하면 돼, meaning “The answer is already decided, and you just have to agree with it.” It’s used to criticize situations where there’s an illusion of choice, but the outcome is predetermined
- 애빼시 (Aeppesi) – Derived from 애교 빼면 시체, meaning “Without cuteness, just a corpse.” It humorously suggests that someone’s charm or appeal lies solely in their cuteness or aegyo.
- 존버 (Jonbeo) – Short for 존나 버티다, meaning to endure or stick it out through difficult or challenging situations with perseverance. It’s often used to encourage persistence in the face of adversity.
- 행쇼 (Haengsyo) – A contraction of 행복하십시오, meaning “Be happy.” It’s a casual and trendy way to wish someone happiness or well-being, often used at the end of conversations or messages.
