Korean slang, explained in English

404 English translations · Awaiting review

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• 1.5가구1.5 gaguIndependent living with shared supportA way of living independently while drawing on shared services or outside support when needed.
• 아아aaAn iced AmericanoShort for 아이스 아메리카노, commonly used when ordering at a cafe.
• 아보하abohaContentment in an ordinary dayAn attitude of finding satisfaction in an uneventful, ordinary day rather than showing off exceptional achievements.
• 어그로aggroDeliberately attracting attentionBehavior intended to attract attention or stir up controversy. It comes from a gaming term for drawing a monster's attacks.
• 아자스ajaseuA casual thanksA casual expression of thanks that can also be used dismissively or sarcastically, depending on context.
• 아점ajeomBrunchA meal that serves as both breakfast and lunch.
• 알바albaA part-time jobAn abbreviation of 아르바이트, meaning part-time work.
• 알잘딱깔센aljalt takkalsenHandle it well without being toldAn expression for taking care of something independently, neatly, and with good judgment, without needing detailed instructions.
• 안구정화angu jeonghwaA refreshing sight for the eyesAn expression suggesting that seeing an attractive person makes your eyes feel refreshed or “cleansed.”
• 안물안궁anmulangungDidn't ask, not interestedAn expression meaning “I didn't ask and I'm not curious,” used when someone offers an unsolicited story.
• 안습anseupA pitiful situationA situation that feels so unfortunate or pathetic it could bring tears to your eyes.
• 앱테크app techEarning small amounts through appsA way of earning money by using smartphone apps.
• ASAPASAPAs soon as possibleThe English abbreviation for “as soon as possible.”
• ASMRASMRASMR videos and sensationsA term for sensory stimulation associated with a calming feeling. It also refers to videos featuring hand movements, soft whispers, or sounds made by everyday objects.
• 아싸assaAn outsider to the groupSomeone who does not mix much with a group, abbreviated from 아웃사이더, meaning “outsider.”
• AX조직AX jojikAn organization built around AI transformationAn organization that changes its workflows and structure to adapt to AI transformation.
• 백꾸baekkkuPersonalizing a bagDecorating a bag to suit your taste with accessories such as key rings or stickers.
• 반반차banbanchaTwo hours of leaveA leave arrangement that divides a half-day off in half again, allowing time off in two-hour blocks.
• 반차banchaA half-day offUsing half a day of annual leave.
• 방콕bangkokStaying inStaying at home or in your room, or a person doing so. This slang use is separate from Bangkok, the city in Thailand.
• 반모banmoLet's speak casuallyAn expression used to suggest that two people switch to informal Korean speech with each other.
• 번개beongaeA spontaneous meetupAn impromptu in-person gathering among people who met online, or a meetup arranged on the spot during a conversation.
• 베프bepeuBest friendA person's closest friend.
• 빚투bittuInvesting with borrowed moneyBorrowing money in order to invest it.
• 복전bokjeonA double majorA university abbreviation of 복수전공, meaning a double major.
• 복세편살boksepyeonsalTake it easy in a complicated worldAn expression encouraging people to live comfortably without getting too caught up in the complications of life.
• 볼꾸bolkkuPersonalizing a penDecorating a ballpoint pen by choosing and attaching decorative parts.
• 봄이구나bomigunaOh, it's springA meme describing spring scenery or warm weather in Cristina's distinctive intonation, sometimes extended with other words ending in 구나.
• 본방사수bonbangsasuWatching a show as it airsMaking a point of watching a program at its originally scheduled broadcast time.
• 본진bonjinYour main fandom favoriteIn fandom, the singer or member someone is most devoted to.
• 본캐bonkaeYour main character or everyday identityThe character a player mainly uses in a game. Outside gaming, it refers to a person's usual identity or main occupation in contrast with an alternate role.
• BTWBTWBy the wayThe English abbreviation used to add a thought or shift the subject: “by the way.”
• 부청샹bucheongsyangI never saw that comingA Chinese meme expression meaning “I never thought of that,” used to emphasize an absurd twist.
• 부캐bukaeAn alternate character or personaA character created in addition to a main game character. In everyday life and popular culture, it can mean an alternate identity or side of a person.
• 불금bulgeumA lively Friday nightThe excited atmosphere of enjoying Friday evening at the end of the week.
• 벌크업bulk upBuilding muscle massA process of building up the body through strength training and nutrition, with the goal of increasing muscle mass.
• 분좋카bunjokaA cafe with a nice atmosphereAn abbreviation of 분위기 좋은 카페, meaning a cafe with a pleasant atmosphere.
• 별다줄byeoldajulPeople abbreviate everythingA mildly critical comment about the sheer number of abbreviations, suggesting that people will shorten just about anything.
• 병원에 가보기로 했어요byeongwone gabogiro haesseoyoI've decided to go to the hospitalA meme that figuratively describes going to a concert or another fan event to see a favorite artist.
• 차애chaaeYour second-favorite group memberThe idol group member you like second-most, after your favorite.
• 차박chabakSleeping in your carUsing a car as a place to sleep overnight.
• 책없쾌chaegeopkwaePleasure without responsibilityA situation in which someone enjoys the benefits without taking on responsibility or a burden.
• 치팅데이cheat dayA cheat dayA planned day during a diet when someone eats foods they have been wanting.
• 케미chemiChemistry between peopleHow well people connect or work together, especially the chemistry between a man and a woman.
• 칠 가이chill guyThe Chill Guy memeA meme using a laid-back-looking character to express a relaxed attitude in any situation.
• 치맥chimaekFried chicken and beerThe combination of eating chicken and drinking beer together.
• 최애choeaeYour absolute favoriteThe thing or person you like most, often an idol, character, or food.
• 추구미chugumiThe aesthetic you aspire toAn ideal kind of beauty or personal image that you want to embody.
• 취향저격chwihyang jeogyeokExactly your kind of thingAn expression used when discovering an object or person that fits your taste so well it feels made for you.
• 취존chwijonRespecting different tastesAn expression asking people to respect others' preferences instead of criticizing them.
• 취준생chwijunsaengA job seekerSomeone preparing to find a job.
• 대박daebakWow, that's incredible!An exclamation for something surprising or impressive. It can also refer to a major success.
• 단톡dantokA group chatA conversation among several people on KakaoTalk, or the group chat room itself.
• 다크 사이렌dark sirenThe dark-siren beauty trendA beauty trend using heavy eye makeup and cool tones to evoke a mysterious, dark mermaid from the deep sea.
• 덕연이 딸Deogyeoni ttalDeogyeon's daughterA greeting meme that spread after RESCENE's Woni introduced herself using her mother's name at a shop in her hometown.
• 덕후deokhuA devoted enthusiastSomeone deeply interested in a particular subject or person who pursues that interest passionately.
• 덕질deokjilBeing an enthusiastic fanDevoting time and enthusiasm to a person, subject, or interest you love.
• 덕메deongmeA fellow fan friendA friend who shares your fandom activities.
• 덕밍아웃deongmingautRevealing your fandomLetting other people know that you are an enthusiastic fan of something.
• 득근deukgeunGaining muscleA slang expression meaning to gain muscle.
• 득템deuktemScoring a good findGetting an item you are happy with. Originally used for acquiring items in games, it later spread into everyday use.
• 등린이deungniniA hiking beginnerSomeone who has just started hiking.
• 디토소비ditto sobiFollowing someone else's choicesChoosing products or services by following another person's selections.
• DIYDIYDo it yourselfThe English abbreviation for making or assembling something yourself.
• DMDMDirect messageA private message sent to a particular person on social media.
• 도달가능미dodal ganeungmiAn attainable personal imageA version of your appearance or personal image that feels realistically achievable, compared with an ideal you aspire to.
• 동방dongbangA university club roomA university abbreviation of 동아리 방, meaning a club room. This usage is separate from the word for “east.”
• 동학개미donghak gaemiKorean retail stock investorsIndividual investors who buy stocks in the Korean domestic market.
• 도파민 디톡스dopamine detoxTaking a break from stimulating mediaA practice of reducing smartphone use or short, highly stimulating content and spending more time on activities such as reading or walking.
• 도파밍dopamingConstantly seeking stimulationContinuously seeking amusement and intense stimulation, likened to collecting items in a game.
• 두쫀쿠dujjonkuDubai chewy cookieAn abbreviation of 두바이 쫀득 쿠키, meaning “Dubai chewy cookie.”
• 듀프dupeAn affordable alternativeA lower-priced product that offers performance similar to a high-end branded product.
• 에겐테토egen-tetoThe egen–teto personality memeAn internet meme that borrows the names of estrogen and testosterone to categorize personalities or dating styles.
• 어다행다eodahaengdaIf you're dieting, make it enjoyableAn abbreviation expressing the idea that if you are going to diet anyway, you should do it happily and enjoyably.
• 어쩔티비eojjeol TVSo what? Go watch TVA dismissive comeback that brushes someone off along the lines of “so what—go watch TV.”
• 억텐eoktenForced enthusiasmActing more excited or amused than you really feel to keep the mood up.
• 얼짱eoljjangSomeone with a good-looking faceA person described as having a particularly handsome or pretty face.
• 얼죽아eoljug-aIced drinks, even in freezing weatherShort for 얼어 죽어도 아이스, describing a person or preference that insists on iced drinks no matter how cold it is.
• 엄친아eomchinaThe seemingly perfect person parents compare you toSomeone often held up by parents as a comparison because they do well in school and seem good at everything.
• 엄카eomkaPaying with Mom's cardA mother's payment card, or a card she has given someone to use; also used when someone pays with a parent's card.
• 팬싸fanssaA fan signing eventAn event where a singer, author, or other public figure signs autographs for fans.
• 필코노미feelconomySpending guided by feelingsAn economic trend in which mood and emotional satisfaction become central reasons for spending.
• 파이어족FIRE-jokPeople pursuing financial independence and early retirementPeople working toward voluntary early retirement through financial independence.
• 플렉스flexShowing off or splashing outProudly displaying money, possessions, or achievements, or deciding to spend generously; from the English word “flex.”
• FOMOFOMOFear of missing outAnxiety about missing out on what others are doing, falling behind, or being left out.
• 프렌드플레이션friendflationThe rising cost of keeping up with friendsThe increasing expense of meeting friends and maintaining friendships as prices rise.
• FYIFYIFor your informationThe English abbreviation used when passing along information someone may find useful.
• 가치소비gachi sobiValue-driven spendingSpending based on personal values and satisfaction. Older sources emphasize buying what one wants, while more recent sources also discuss beliefs and principles alongside price and quality.
• 개총gaechongStart-of-semester department gatheringAn abbreviation of 개강총회, a gathering at the start of a semester.
• 갠톡gaentokA private KakaoTalk chatA one-on-one conversation on KakaoTalk.
• 갈테야테야galteyateyaI'm going, I'm going!An exaggerated, repetitive way to express a strong desire to go somewhere, such as a concert.
• 감다살gamdasalYour instincts are on pointA compliment for someone's sharp taste or sense of what works in their choices or expression.
• 감옥에서 누가 돌아왔게gamogeseo nuga dorawatgeGuess who's back from prisonA meme dramatically announcing the return of someone or something absent for a while, often copied with a loud, drawn-out delivery or a different place name.
• 감튀모임gamtwi moimA casual fries meetupA low-commitment meetup where people who met online get together to eat fries and then go their separate ways.
• 갑분싸gapbunssaSuddenly awkwardAn expression for a moment when the mood suddenly turns awkward or chilly.
• 갑차기스러운데gapchagiseureoundeWell, this is unexpectedA meme using deliberately awkward wording to react to something unexpected or a situation someone would rather avoid.
• 갑질gapjilAbuse of powerUnfair treatment by someone who uses a position of advantage or authority against another person.
• 갑툭튀gaptwiktwiPopping up out of nowhereAn expression for a person, object, or topic suddenly appearing without warning.
• 가성비gaseongbiValue for moneyHow much performance or satisfaction something provides for its price. It can be described as good or poor value.
• 가심비gasimbiEmotional value for moneyA way of judging a purchase by how satisfying it feels compared with what it costs.
• 갓벽gatbyeokAbsolutely perfectAn emphatic way to say that something is completely perfect.
• 갓생gatsaengLiving a productive lifeA diligent, fulfilling life described as almost godlike, or the attitude of trying to live that way.
• 갓성비gatseongbiExceptional value for moneyOutstanding performance or quality for the price.
• 젠지어Gen Z-eoGen Z meme languageThe delivery and trendy expressions of memes used by Gen Z on social media and in short-form content.
• 거제 야호Geoje yahoGeoje, woo-hoo!A catchphrase combining the place name Geoje with a shout of 야호. Other place names can be substituted into the same pattern.
• 건강지능geongang jineungProactive, informed health managementThe ability and attitude to manage one's health proactively and comprehensively while considering scientific evidence.
• 극혐geukhyeomExtreme disgustAn emphatic expression of strong disgust or aversion.
• 금사빠geumsappaSomeone who falls in love quicklyAn abbreviation describing a person who falls in love easily or quickly.
• 금수저geumsujeoBorn with advantagesA metaphor for a person or group whose wealthy parents give them an advantage in a competitive society.
• 근본이즘geunbonijeumA renewed focus on lasting valuesA tendency to focus on enduring values and traditions amid rapidly changing trends.
• 급식체geupsikcheSchool-age internet slangSpeech patterns and internet slang associated with students, especially middle and high school students.
• 그러시구나geureosigunaOh, I seeA response acknowledging or sympathizing with someone, imitating Cristina's distinctive high pitch and intonation.
• 기후감수성gihu gamsuseongClimate awarenessAn awareness of climate and environmental problems coupled with a willingness to act on them.
• 글램핑glampingCamping with comfortsCamping in a setting with upscale facilities.
• 고구마gogumaA frustratingly stuck situationA situation or story development that feels frustrating and blocked, likened to the sensation of eating a sweet potato.
• 골반통신golban tongsinThe nonstop-hips dance memeA short-form dance meme built around the idea that someone's hips will not stop moving.
• 골린이golliniA golf beginnerSomeone who has just started learning golf.
• 공채gongchaeOpen recruitmentAn abbreviation referring to publicly advertised recruitment.
• 공강gonggangA gap between classesA period with no classes between university lectures. It can also mean an entire day without classes.
• 공구gongguA group purchaseBuying something together in a group to get a lower bulk price.
• 공시생gongsisaengA civil service exam candidateSomeone preparing for the civil service exam.
• 그린그린green greenA playful sign of approvalAn expression for something good or appealing, paired with 레드레드 to indicate likes and dislikes.
• 구독경제gudok gyeongjeThe subscription economyEconomic activity in which people pay a recurring fee to receive products or services.
• 군싹gunssakMouthwateringAn expression meaning that a food photo or a description of food is making your mouth water.
• 과방gwabangA department student loungeA shared space where students in a university department study, relax, and spend time together.
• 과잠gwajamA university or department jacketA jacket representing a university or academic department.
• 광클gwangkeulRapid-fire clickingClicking repeatedly at high speed. Early usage referred to fans boosting a search term's ranking; current usage also includes ticket sales and first-come, first-served signups.
• 광탈gwangtalGetting eliminated immediatelyBeing rejected or eliminated almost instantly.
• 귀하게 자란 내가 이런 걸 봐도 될까gwihage jaran naega ireon geol bwado doelkkaShould my precious eyes be seeing this?An exaggerated comment left in response to content someone finds unpleasant or embarrassing to watch.
• 귀요미gwiyomiA cutieA person or thing with an endearing, adorable appearance, manner of speaking, or behavior.
• 경도gyeongdoCops and robbersShort for 경찰과 도둑, a group game in which a team of police chases a team of thieves.
• 핵인싸haek-inssaAn especially sociable group memberSomeone who fits in exceptionally well and socializes easily with others in a group.
• 햄부기haembugiA playful word for hamburgerA playful variation on 햄버거, also used in wordplay that strings together similar sounds.
• 행집욕부haengjipyokbuFocus on happiness and let go of wanting moreAn expression of self-encouragement to focus on happiness and set aside excessive desires.
• 학고hakgoAcademic warningAn abbreviation of 학사경고, meaning an academic warning.
• 학식haksikA university student cafeteriaAn abbreviation for a university's student cafeteria.
• 할렐야루hallel-yaruA joyful exclamationAn upbeat interjection added when someone is in a good mood.
• 한달살기handalsalgiLiving somewhere for a monthA style of travel that involves staying in one place for around a month to experience daily life and explore.
• 헬시플레저healthy pleasureEnjoying healthy habitsA lifestyle of pursuing health and satisfaction together by making exercise, eating habits, and similar activities enjoyable.
• 헬린이helliniA gym beginnerSomeone who has just started working out, especially weight training.
• 헐heolWhoa or seriously?An exclamation used when someone is surprised or finds something hard to believe.
• 헌내기heonnaegiA returning university studentA student beyond the first year, such as a sophomore, junior, or senior, contrasted with a freshman.
• 흑역사heugyeoksaAn embarrassing pastPast failures, mistakes, or experiences someone would rather keep hidden or avoid bringing up.
• 흙수저heuksujeoGrowing up without financial advantagesA metaphor for someone facing persistent financial hardship because poverty is passed down through the family.
• 호캉스hocanceA hotel-based vacationTaking a vacation by staying at and enjoying a hotel.
• 호갱hogaengA customer easy to overchargeA customer seen as inexperienced or naive and therefore easy to take advantage of.
• 홈카페home cafeA cafe experience at homeA space at home arranged like a cafe, or the practice of making and enjoying coffee at home.
• 홈쿡home cookCooking at homePreparing food yourself at home.
• 홈트home trainingHome workoutsExercising at home with guidance from online videos or a smartphone instead of going to a fitness center.
• 홈캉스homecanceA vacation at homeSpending your vacation at home.
• 홈술homsulDrinking at homeDrinking alcohol at home. The cited articles include both drinking alone and drinking with family at home.
• 혼밥honbapEating aloneEating a meal by yourself.
• 혼캠honcamSolo campingGoing camping by yourself.
• 혼행honhaengSolo travelTraveling by yourself.
• 혼코노honkonoSolo coin karaokeGoing to a coin-operated karaoke room alone instead of with a group.
• 혼놀honnolEnjoying leisure on your ownSpending leisure time alone, such as playing, watching a performance, or traveling, without arranging to meet other people.
• 혼술honsulDrinking aloneDrinking alcohol by yourself.
• 혼영honyeongGoing to the movies aloneWatching a movie by yourself.
• 호프코어hopecoreHopeful, uplifting contentA meme label for videos, images, or other content that conveys positive thoughts and hope.
• 핫딜hot dealA very low-priced offerAn overseas-shopping term for a product offered at an especially low price.
• 핫플hotpleA popular place to goA place that has become popular and attracts frequent visitors.
• 휴먼인더루프human in the loopHuman judgment in an AI workflowA process in which a person participates and exercises judgment in work handled by AI.
• 현생hyeonsaengReal-life responsibilities and routinesShort for 현실 생활, referring to everyday real life in contrast with experiences in virtual spaces.
• 현타hyeontaA sudden, deflating reality checkA moment of suddenly returning to reality from a dream or excitement and feeling empty or deflated.
• 현웃hyeonutActually laughing out loudAn expression meaning that something made you laugh in real life, beyond simply typing a laughter marker online.
• 휴덕hyudeokTaking a break from fandomTemporarily pausing fan activities without giving them up entirely.
• 이불킥ibulkikCringing at your own memoriesRemembering something embarrassing you said or did and wanting to kick the blankets in embarrassment.
• 이건 첫 번째 레슨igeon cheot beonjjae lessonThis is the first lessonA meme framing a small resolution or piece of advice as a grand lesson.
• 읽지 않음 난 모르는 일ilkji aneum nan moreuneun ilIf I don't read it, I don't know about itAn avoidance meme that plays innocent by suggesting that unread information is something you know nothing about.
• 일코ilkoKeeping your fandom hiddenConcealing your fan activities because you feel shy about them or do not want others to know you are an enthusiast.
• 인증샷injeungsyatA photo as proofA photo taken and posted online to show that a claim or action is real.
• 인만추inmanchuPreferring deliberately arranged datesPreferring or actively pursuing romantic meetings set up intentionally, such as blind dates.
• 인생샷insaengsyatOne of your best-ever photosA photo of you that turns out exceptionally well—one of the best of your life.
• 인싸inssaA socially active member of the groupSomeone who actively mixes with a group, abbreviated from 인사이더, meaning “insider.”
• 입덕ipdeokBecoming a fanBeginning to become a fan of a person or subject.
• 이생망isaengmangThis life is a lost causeAn abbreviation expressing self-deprecating resignation that this life is ruined and the future is unlikely to improve.
• 이탈리안 브레인롯Italian brainrotItalian brainrotAn absurd video meme pairing strange AI-generated characters with unusual names and voices.
• 자컨jakeonIn-house idol contentVideos about idols' daily lives, reality shows, and entertainment produced by the K-pop agency itself.
• 자만추jamanchuPreferring to meet someone naturallyPreferring romantic connections that develop naturally in everyday life rather than through arranged meetings such as blind dates.
• 장원영OOJang Wonyoung OOAdding “Jang Wonyoung” as praiseA wordplay pattern that adds Jang Wonyoung's name before something attractive or well-made as a compliment.
• 자소서jasoseoA personal statementAn abbreviation of 자기소개서, meaning a written self-introduction or personal statement.
• 젬민이JemminiSomeone who asks Gemini about everythingA lighthearted term for someone who leaves even small decisions to the AI service Gemini.
• 절친jeolchinA close friendAn abbreviation referring to a very close friend.
• 전라남도 여수시 소라면 사곡리 산94Jeollanam-do Yeosu-si Sora-myeon Sagok-ri san 94Sending an address as a heartA meme that indirectly expresses affection by sending an address that reveals a heart-shaped island on a map.
• 저메추jeomechuDinner recommendations, pleaseA request for suggestions about what to eat for dinner.
• 점메추jeommechuLunch recommendations, pleaseA request for suggestions about what to eat for lunch.
• 정주행jeongjuhaengWatching or reading from the beginningGoing through a series, such as a drama or webtoon, in order from the first episode or installment.
• 정모jeongmoA regular group meetupAn abbreviation for a regularly scheduled gathering, such as a club meetup.
• 저속노화jeosok nohwaHealthy aging through everyday habitsA term for trying to age slowly and healthily by managing habits such as diet, sleep, and exercise.
• 직캠jikcamA fan-recorded performance videoShort for 직접 찍은 캠코더 영상, referring to footage someone records themselves at a performance or similar event.
• 직구jikguBuying directly from overseasBuying foreign products directly from an overseas online store and receiving them through international shipping.
• 직관jikgwanWatching live in personWatching a game or performance at the venue in person.
• 지못미jimotmiSorry I couldn't protect youAn expression of regret toward someone or something you could not help or that experienced something unfortunate.
• 지옥철jiokcheolA hellishly crowded subwayA figurative expression for a subway so crowded there is barely room to stand.
• 집콕jipkokStaying at homeStaying inside your home.
• 지름신jireumsinThe imaginary spirit of impulse buyingAn imaginary deity said to make people buy things impulsively, as in the expression “the spirit of impulse buying has descended.”
• 짤jjalAn image shared onlineAn image file circulated online, especially a funny photo or an animated image.
• 짠테크jjantechBuilding savings through small economiesA money-management approach that cuts expenses and steadily saves small amounts to build a larger sum.
• 찐친jjinchinA truly close friendA friend you are genuinely close to, rather than someone you only seem close to.
• 찐팬jjinfanA devoted fan or loyal customerA true fan. It can also refer to a customer who repeatedly and consistently uses a product or service.
• 족보jokboA collection of past exam questionsA university term for materials collecting questions that appeared on earlier exams.
• 조용한 퇴사joyonghan toesaQuiet quittingStaying in a job while working only within its defined duties and hours and declining overtime.
• 중도jungdoThe central university libraryA campus abbreviation of 중앙도서관, meaning the central library.
• 중꺾마jungkkyeokmaA spirit that won't give upA mindset of persisting through difficulties and seeing something through to the end.
• 주린이juriniA beginner stock investorSomeone who has just started investing in stocks.
• 캠린이kaemniniA camping beginnerSomeone who has just started camping.
• 캡꾸kaepkkuDecorating keycapsAdding decorative parts to keyboard keycaps. The cited article describes making keycap key rings.
• 카공족kagongjokPeople who study in cafesPeople who use cafes as places to study.
• 칼퇴kaltoeLeaving work right on timeLeaving work as soon as the scheduled finishing time arrives.
• 케바케kebakeCase by caseAn expression meaning that the answer depends on the situation, abbreviated from the English phrase “case by case.”
• 커터칼퇴keoteo kaltoeLeaving as early as office expectations allowLeaving work as early as possible while gauging others' reactions, even when leaving exactly on time is not possible.
• 크더싼keudeossanCheaper on KREAMA label for a product that sells for less on the resale platform KREAM than at its original retail price.
• 킹받다kingbatdaReally getting on your nervesAn expression for feeling very annoyed or angry, formed by adding the emphatic 킹 to 열받다.
• 깜놀kkamnolThat startled me!An expression meaning that something gave you a sudden surprise.
• 낄끼빠빠kkilkkippappaKnow when to join in and when to step backAn expression telling someone to read the situation and know when to participate and when to leave others to it.
• 꼰대kkondaeA condescending authority figureA disparaging term for someone who acts authoritatively and imposes their own experiences or values on others.
• 꾸안꾸kkuankkuEffortless-looking styleA stylish look that appears natural and does not show how much effort went into it.
• 꿀잼kkuljaemReally entertainingAn expression meaning that something is very fun or entertaining.
• 꿀조합kkuljohapA delicious combinationA combination of foods or menu items that taste especially good together, or a recipe using that combination.
• 꿀팁kkultipA useful tipAn especially useful piece of advice, information, or know-how.
• 쿨내kullaeGiving off a cool attitudeThe impression of a cool, relaxed attitude or atmosphere, as in “giving off a cool vibe.”
• L을 가져가L-eul gajyeogaTake the LA meme telling someone to accept a loss, often performed by copying a distinctive delivery and gesture.
• 라떼는latteneunBack in my dayA playful variation on 나 때는 말이야, used to poke fun at someone who keeps bringing up their past experiences.
• 레전드legendLegendaryAn expression for something so impressive it seems legendary, used to react to a remarkable scene or event.
• 럭키비키lucky VickyFinding your good luck in a setbackAn expression for finding the bright side of an unpleasant situation and treating yourself as lucky.
• 매끈매끈하다maekkeunmaekkeunhadaSmooth, smoothA repetitive meme that spread from a video teaching Korean adjectives through rhythm and choreography.
• 막콘makconThe final concert dateThe last concert in a run that takes place over several days.
• 만렙mallepThe highest levelThe highest level available in a game, also used to describe top-level ability in another field.
• 만반잘부manbanjalbuNice to meet you—let's get alongAn abbreviation of 만나서 반가워, 잘 부탁해, a greeting used when meeting someone for the first time.
• 망고주스 밈mango juice memeThe mango-juice memeA meme that grew out of a prank testing whether an idol would trust a fan's words and act on them.
• 만찢남manjjinnamA man who looks straight out of a comicA man described as so good-looking that he seems to have stepped out of a comic book.
• 만찢녀manjjinnyeoA woman who looks straight out of a comicA woman described as so good-looking that she seems to have stepped out of a comic book.
• 마상masangThat hurt my feelingsAn expression meaning that someone's feelings have been hurt.
• 말차코어matchacoreMatcha-inspired styleA trend that extends an interest in matcha drinks and desserts to using matcha-green colors in clothes and accessories.
• 맛저matjeoEnjoy your dinnerShort for 맛있는 저녁 드세요, a greeting offered before dinner.
• 맛점matjeomEnjoy your lunchShort for 맛있는 점심 드세요, a greeting offered around lunchtime.
• 맞팔matpalFollowing each otherA mutual following relationship on Twitter.
• MBTIMBTIA 16-type personality questionnaireA personality questionnaire based on Jung's theory of personality types that sorts people into 16 categories.
• 엠비스찬MBTIstianAn MBTI true believerA term for someone who believes in MBTI as firmly as if it were a religion.
• 밀키트meal kitA meal kitA package of prepared ingredients, seasonings, and a recipe for the buyer to cook at home.
• 밈memeAn internet memeA phrase, image, video, action, or other item that spreads as an internet trend, from the English word “meme.”
• 멘붕menbungBeing mentally overwhelmedA state of shock or confusion in which someone feels overwhelmed and does not know what to do.
• 먹부림meokburimShowing off an appetiteBehavior that shows someone's enthusiasm for eating. Some explanations also include sharing or showing off food.
• 먹스타그램meokstagramFood posts on social mediaPosting photos of food you have eaten on social media, or a social media account or feed focused mainly on food photos.
• 먹튀meoktwiTaking the benefit and disappearingLeaving without paying for food. It also describes taking a benefit and disappearing without accepting responsibility.
• 마이크로 은퇴micro retirementA temporary career breakTaking a period away from work to rest or regroup during a career, with the intention of returning to work.
• 마이크로맨스micromanceAffection in small everyday gesturesExpressing affection through small acts of care and everyday connection rather than grand events.
• 밀당mildangRomantic push and pullA subtle psychological back-and-forth in a romantic relationship, likened to pushing and pulling.
• 몰세권molsegwonLiving near a shopping mallA residential location with convenient access to a large shopping mall. Some articles also use it for commercial areas combining a rail station and a large mixed-use mall.
• 몸짱momjjangSomeone with a great physiqueA person described as having an attractive or well-developed physique.
• 모쏠mossolSomeone who has never datedA person who has never been in a romantic relationship.
• 못해솔로motaesolloTired of being singleSomeone expressing a desire to date because they no longer want to be alone.
• 무해력muhaeryeokThe comfort of harmless cutenessThe charm and comfort of something small, cute, and innocent that feels gentle rather than harmful or overstimulating.
• 무지출mujichulA no-spend daySpending no money, as in a no-spend challenge that aims to avoid even a tiny purchase for the day.
• 먹방mukbangAn eating broadcastA broadcast or video showing someone eating food.
• 물성매력mulseong maeryeokThe appeal of tangible experiencesA tendency to value seeing, touching, and experiencing physical things even in a digital environment.
• 무물mumulAsk me anythingA question-and-answer session, including posts or sessions on Instagram or YouTube where an account owner takes and answers questions.
• 문상munsangA cultural gift certificateShort for 문화상품권. This usage is separate from 문상 meaning a condolence visit.
• MZ세대MZ sedaeMillennials and Gen ZA collective Korean label for millennials and Generation Z.
• N잡러N-japreoSomeone with multiple jobsA person who holds several jobs at the same time.
• N포세대N-po sedaeThe generation giving things upYoung people described as giving up on dating, marriage, having children, and other goals because of pressures such as a difficult job market and rising living costs.
• 내가 그걸 모를까naega geugeol moreulkkaYou think I don't know that?A meme used to snap back when someone knows what they should do but finds it hard to put into practice.
• 난리자베스nallijabeseuWhat a commotion!A playful exclamation used when something is especially surprising or chaotic.
• 나니가 스키nani ga sukiWhat do you like?A song-and-challenge meme in which people copy a question and answer about what someone likes.
• 넵병nepbyeongThe automatic “yes” habitA humorous description of office workers mechanically replying 넵 to their boss's messages all day.
• 노바이no buyA no-buy periodA practice of avoiding unnecessary purchases of new items for a set period.
• 노답nodapHopelessA frustrating situation with no apparent solution, or a person described that way.
• 뇌절noejeolTaking the joke too farA situation in which someone repeats a joke or behavior so much that it stops being entertaining.
• 뇌피셜noepisyeolAn opinion presented as factPresenting a personal idea as if it were a fact without an official basis.
• 노잼nojaemNot entertainingAn expression meaning that something is boring or not funny.
• 노지캠핑noji campingCamping in remote areasCamping in remote or out-of-the-way locations.
• 누가 내 간식을 먹었을까nuga nae gansigeul meogeosseulkkaWho ate my snack?A video meme combining eerie music with stiff, AI-generated dancing.
• 외모 체크oemo checkAppearance checkAn upbeat catchphrase about checking how you look, such as by looking in a mirror.
• 오히려 좋아ohiryeo joaActually, this could be a good thingAn expression for choosing to see a positive side even when something bad happens.
• OMGOMGOh my GodThe English abbreviation used online to express surprise or disbelief.
• 옴니보어omnivoreA consumer with wide-ranging tastesA consumer whose tastes cross conventional boundaries of age, gender, and culture.
• OOTDOOTDOutfit of the dayThe English abbreviation for “outfit of the day,” also used as a hashtag when posting photos of what someone is wearing.
• 오픈런open runWaiting for a store to openWaiting outside a store before opening time, then heading in as soon as the doors open to buy something.
• 오살힘osalhimSomething that gets you through todayThe strength to get through the day that comes from looking at favorite photos, videos, or similar content.
• 오트로버트otrovertBeyond a simple introvert–extrovert labelAn expression for someone who feels that neither “introvert” nor “extrovert” alone describes them well.
• OTTOTTInternet video servicesA service that delivers video content over the internet.
• 오운완ounwanToday's workout: doneShort for 오늘 운동 완료, used to record or show that you have finished your workout for the day.
• 팩폭paekpokA blunt truth that stingsShort for 팩트 폭력, referring to bluntly stated facts that shock or hurt the person hearing them.
• 프사peusaA profile pictureThe profile photo displayed beside someone's name in a smartphone messaging app.
• 폰테크phone techMaking money from phone resaleBuying a phone cheaply through subsidies or similar offers and reselling it for more to keep the difference.
• 픽셀라이프pixel lifeA life of small, varied choicesA way of living that quickly explores many small choices rather than relying on one major decision.
• 포기하겠습니다… 생각해보니 진행하겠습니다pogihagetseumnida… saenggakhaeboni jinhaenghagetseumnidaI give up… on second thought, I'll keep goingA meme sentence that announces giving up, then immediately reverses the decision, humorously expressing hesitation and indecision.
• 폰꾸ponkkuPersonalizing a phoneDecorating a phone to suit your taste with stickers or accessories.
• 빼박ppaebakThere's no denying itA situation where the evidence is so clear that it cannot be denied or explained away.
• PPLPPLProduct placementAn advertising technique that places a product or brand within a movie, drama, or other program.
• 프라이스 디코딩price decodingLooking behind a priceA way of deciding what to buy by analyzing what makes up a price and applying your own standards.
• 편맥pyeonmaekConvenience-store beerShort for 편의점 맥주, meaning beer from a convenience store. It can also refer to enjoying beer there.
• 라방rabangA livestreamShort for 라이브 방송. The verified article uses it for a live broadcast that introduces and sells products while interacting with viewers.
• 레디코어readycoreMaking preparedness a way of lifeA tendency to make advance planning and management central to life in response to an uncertain future.
• 레알realReallyAn emphatic expression meaning “really.” The cited article explains it as a pronunciation based on the spelling of the English word “real.”
• 레드레드red redA playful sign of disapprovalAn expression for something disliked or best avoided, paired with 그린그린 to indicate likes and dislikes.
• 런린이reonniniA running beginnerSomeone who has just started running.
• 리셀resellReselling for a premiumBuying scarce items such as limited-edition or luxury products and selling them again at a higher price.
• 런트립run tripTravel built around runningA trip that combines running in a new place with sightseeing or local experiences.
• 런플루언서runfluencerA running influencerAn influencer who shares running experiences, routes, and other running-related content.
• 러닝크루running crewA running groupA group of running enthusiasts who meet regularly to run a planned route together.
• 러닝코어runningcoreRunning-inspired everyday fashionA fashion trend that combines running clothes or accessories with everyday outfits.
• 사바사sabasaIt depends on the personAn expression meaning that something varies from person to person, patterned after 케바케 with the English word “by.”
• 새내기saenaegiA newcomerSomeone who has just entered a university, workplace, or other organization.
• 생파saengpaA birthday partyAn abbreviation of 생일 파티, meaning a birthday party.
• 생선saengseonA birthday presentAn abbreviation of 생일 선물, meaning a birthday present. This use does not mean “fish.”
• 사고방식을 바꾸세요sagobangsigeul bakkuseyoChange your way of thinkingA meme caption suggesting a casual, lighthearted response to a negative concern.
• 사이다saidaA satisfying resolution or comebackA satisfying resolution to a frustrating situation, or the relief of hearing someone say what needed to be said.
• 3일팅samiltingThree-day video datingA dating format in which people share short videos of their daily lives for three days before finding out whether the attraction is mutual.
• 삼포세대sampo sedaeThe generation giving up three thingsA label for a generation described as giving up on dating, marriage, and having children.
• 사수sasuA directly senior coworkerA senior colleague who works directly with someone at their workplace.
• 성덕seongdeokA fan whose dream came trueA “successful fan,” especially someone who gets the chance to connect with a favorite celebrity in a special way.
• 선팔seonpalFollowing someone firstFollowing or subscribing to someone first on social media.
• 스불재seubuljaeA problem of your own makingAn expression meaning that someone's own choices or actions have landed them in trouble.
• 슬세권seulsegwonEveryday amenities a short walk awayA residential area where leisure spots and conveniences are close enough to visit in casual clothes such as slippers.
• 스펙seupekA job applicant's credentialsA collection of qualifications used to assess job applicants, such as university, major, education, training, certificates, GPA, and TOEIC score.
• 스세권seusegwonLiving near a StarbucksAn area with a Starbucks location nearby.
• 쉐이칸샹sheikansyangWho could have imagined it?An expression meaning “who could have imagined it?” that spread alongside Chinese animation with unexpected twists.
• 숏폼short formShort-form videoShort, concise video content.
• 숏셜링shortsialingA brief, one-off meetupA low-commitment gathering where people briefly come together for a shared experience and then go their separate ways.
• 심쿵simkungA flutter of the heartThe feeling of your heart beating from excitement, attraction, or surprise.
• 심멎simmeotHeart-stoppingAn expression for something so striking or beautiful it seems to stop your heart, also used for surprise or romantic excitement.
• 67six-sevenThe six-seven memeAn internet catchphrase pronounced “six-seven.” It has no fixed meaning and is used as a reaction or a way of joining in on a shared trend.
• 슬립맥싱sleepmaxxingTrying to optimize sleepA lifestyle trend of closely managing sleep habits and surroundings to improve sleep quality as much as possible.
• 슬로우러닝slow runningRunning at a sustainable paceRunning slowly at an intensity that can be maintained comfortably, with less emphasis on speed or records.
• SNSSNSSocial networking servicesOnline services where people connect and share photos, personal updates, and messages.
• 소버 큐리어스sober curiousExploring social life with less alcoholAn attitude of consciously reducing or avoiding alcohol while exploring enjoyment and socializing without intoxication.
• 소버 이코노미sober economySpending beyond drinking cultureAn economic trend in which activities such as exercise, cafe visits, and experiences fill the space left by fewer drinking gatherings.
• 소확행sohwakhaengSmall, certain joysSmall but tangible moments of happiness in everyday life, or an attitude of seeking those moments.
• 소맥somaekSoju mixed with beerA drink made by mixing soju and beer.
• 손절sonjeolCutting losses or cutting tiesSelling a stock at a loss. Online, it also means ending or distancing yourself from a relationship.
• 스포일러spoilerRevealing a story in advanceRevealing plot details before someone watches or reads a work. It can also refer to a person who gives away a movie's ending and spoils the experience.
• 썸sseomMutual interest before datingA relationship or stage in which two people are attracted to each other and getting close before becoming a couple.
• 썸남sseomnamA guy you're in the pre-dating stage withA man someone is getting close to romantically before they officially date.
• 수면이혼sumyeon ihonSleep divorceA figurative term for couples or partners who sleep in separate rooms or beds.
• 숲세권supsegwonLiving near green spaceA residential location close to natural green spaces such as parks or forests.
• 탈덕taldeokLeaving a fandomStopping being a fan of someone or something you used to like.
• 탕진잼tangjinjaemThe joy of small splurgesFinding enjoyment in small, nonessential purchases rather than large-scale spending.
• TBTTBTThrowback ThursdayA tag used when sharing old photos or memories on social media. The cited article traces it to posting older photos on Thursdays.
• 팀플teampeulA group projectA university assignment or project meeting carried out by a group of students.
• TMITMIToo much informationUnnecessarily detailed information that someone does not really need to know; short for the English phrase “too much information.”
• 퇴준생toejunsaengPreparing to leave your jobSomeone preparing to quit while still employed at their current workplace.
• 토핑경제topping economyPersonalizing purchases with extrasA consumption trend of adding decorations or optional features to an existing product to make it your own.
• 딸깍ttalkkakResults at the click of a buttonGetting a result through a simple action with little effort, including easily producing something with AI.
• 떡밥tteokbapHints that invite interpretationAmbiguous clues or metaphors in lyrics or props that leave room for interpretation. The term is also used for film details that hint at developments in other works.
• 떡상tteoksangA sharp price surgeA sudden, steep rise in a market price.
• 뜨아tteuaA hot AmericanoShort for 뜨거운 아메리카노, commonly used when ordering at a cafe.
• 뚜벅이ttubeogiGetting around without a carA colloquial term for someone who walks or uses public transportation because they do not drive or own a car.
• 투잡two jobsWorking two jobsOne person holding two jobs.
• UCCUCCUser-created contentDocuments, photos, videos, and other content that users make themselves and post online.
• 움짤umjjalAn animated imageA moving image file, explained in the verified source as a file with the GIF extension.
• 저소비 코어underconsumption coreMaking the most of what you already ownA way of living that cuts unnecessary spending, uses existing possessions for longer, and shares that practice with others.
• 운동 많이 된다undong mani doendaWell, this is quite a workoutA meme used to offer encouragement or calmly endure a difficult situation.
• 언팔unfollowUnfollowing someoneCanceling an existing social media follow so that you no longer subscribe to someone's posts.
• 언택트untactWithout face-to-face contactA term referring to interactions or activities that take place without meeting or making contact in person.
• 웃참utchamHolding back laughterTrying not to laugh.
• 웃프다utpeudaFunny and sad at the same timeAn expression for something that is both funny and sad, also used in the adjective form 웃픈.
• 빌런villainA villain or a troublesome personA villain in a movie or comic. It is also used jokingly for someone whose behavior causes trouble for others.
• 브이로그vlogA video diaryVideo content recording someone's everyday life.
• 와 너 정말 핵심을 찔렀어wa neo jeongmal haeksimeul jjilleosseoWow, you really nailed the pointA meme imitating the overly affirming tone of an AI chatbot.
• 완내스wannaeseuExactly my tasteAn expression meaning that something is a perfect match for your preferences.
• 월루wolluSlacking off on the clockSomeone who collects a salary without doing their work, or the act of pretending to work while doing something else.
• 원영적 사고Wonyoungjeok sagoFinding the bright side, Wonyoung-styleA way of thinking that finds something positive even in an inconvenient or disappointing situation.
• 워라밸worabaelWork–life balanceBalance between work and personal life, abbreviated from the English phrase “work-life balance.”
• 워케이션workationWorking from a vacation destinationA way of combining work and leisure while staying at a vacation destination at home or abroad.
• 월요병woryobyeongThe Monday bluesPhysical or mental fatigue and a lack of energy associated with Mondays.
• 야자yajaEvening self-studyAn abbreviation of 야간자율학습, meaning evening self-study.
• 야르yareuA shout of excitementAn exclamation of happiness or excitement. More recently, forms such as 야르하다 are also used to describe something positively.
• 역세권yeoksegwonLiving near a train or subway stationAn area close to a railway or subway station.
• 열폭yeolpokLashing out from an inferiority complexFeelings of inferiority caused by comparing yourself with others that erupt outwardly.
• 영크크yeongkeukeuYoung and stylishA term describing a youthful, stylish group or atmosphere.
• 영끌yeongkkeulScraping together every resourcePutting together as much money as possible, including borrowing, to make a large purchase, especially a home.
• 욜로YOLOYou only live onceAn attitude of prioritizing happiness in the present because you only live once, from the English abbreviation “YOLO.”
• 요노YONOBuy only what you needAn attitude of buying necessities and cutting back on unnecessary consumption.
• 요린이yoriniA cooking beginnerSomeone who is new to cooking.
• 윤정아 챌린지Yunjeonga challengeThe Yunjeong-a challengeA two-person dance skit built around calling someone's name and receiving the reply 왜요 쌤, meaning “yes, teacher?” or “what is it, teacher?”
• 제로클릭zero clickAnswers without clicking search resultsA phenomenon in which users click search results much less often because AI presents an answer first.
• ㄱㄱLet's goA consonant abbreviation of 고고, the Korean rendering of “go go,” used to suggest getting started or to agree to do something together.
• ㄱㄷWait a momentA consonant abbreviation of 기다려, meaning “wait.”
• ㄱㅅThanksA casual way to say thanks, written with the initial consonants of 감사.
• ㄱㅊIt's okayA consonant abbreviation of 괜찮다 or 괜찮아, meaning “it's okay.”
• ㄴㄴNo, noA casual way to say no or express reluctance, using the initial consonants of 노노, a Korean rendering of “no no.”
• ㄷㄷShaking with fear or surpriseA consonant abbreviation of 덜덜, representing trembling from fear, surprise, or nervousness.
• ㄹㅇFor realA consonant abbreviation of 리얼 or 레알, used to emphasize that something is real or true.
• ㅁㅊCrazyA consonant abbreviation of 미친, used to express shock, disbelief, or amazement.
• ㅂㅂBye-byeA casual farewell written with the initial consonants of 바이바이.
• ㅅㄱAcknowledging someone's effortA consonant shorthand for expressions such as 수고했다 or 수고하세요, used to acknowledge someone's work or effort.
• ㅇㄱㄹㅇThis is for realA consonant abbreviation of 이거 레알, used to emphasize that something is true.
• ㅇㄷWhere?A consonant abbreviation of 어디, used to ask where something is.
• ㅇㅇYeahA casual affirmative response formed by repeating the initial consonant of 응.
• ㅇㅈAgreedA consonant abbreviation of 인정, used to agree with someone or acknowledge something as true.
• ㅇㅋOkayA consonant abbreviation of 오케이, used to say that you understand or agree.
• ㅇㅎAha or oh!A consonant rendering of 아하 or 오호, expressing realization or surprise.
• ㅈㄱㄴThe title says it allAn abbreviation meaning that the title already contains everything the post has to say.
• ㅈㅅSorryA casual apology written with the initial consonants of 죄송.
• ㅈㅈI concedeA consonant abbreviation of 지지, the Korean rendering of “GG,” used to concede defeat or give up, especially in games.
• ㅊㅊRecommendedA chat abbreviation used to indicate a recommendation.
• ㅊㅋCongratsA congratulatory expression using the consonants of 추카, a pronunciation-based spelling of 축하.
• ㅋㅋLaughter in textA Korean online expression representing laughter.
• ㅋㅋㅋㄹㅌㅅLaughter with a CORTIS referenceA fandom expression that adds the initial consonants of the group name CORTIS to the laughter marker ㅋㅋㅋ.
• ㅍㅌFactThe word 팩트 written using its initial consonants.
• ㅎㅇHiA casual greeting using the initial consonants of 하이.
• ㅎㅎGentle laughter in textA Korean online expression representing laughter such as “haha.”
• ㅠㅠCrying eyesA crying emoticon made from the Korean vowel symbol ㅠ, whose shape resembles an eye with tears.

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