Summary of Korean Slangs : I understand that there are many unfamiliar words when conversing with Korean friends. However, it’s often challenging to find these words in dictionaries because they are mostly Korean slang or compound words. Knowing these trendy words can make your life in Korea more convenient.
Korean slang is a group of words, phrases, or expressions used by Koreans in everyday conversations. They are usually informal and are used by many in written or oral conversations. Learning Korean slang is a great way to improve your Korean skills. Not only is it going to help with your listening abilities, but you’ll be able to sound more like a local when you speak Korean.
Korean friends will become closer, funny Korean jokes will be easier to understand (and laugh along to), and you’ll be able to follow Korean movies and songs better. It’s also a great way to become more familiar with Korean culture or understand more on your next trip to South Korea. Not bad for only learning a few phrases and words!
Today, I will introduce some of the popular Korean words that are trending. I encourage you to familiarize yourself with these words and try using them when you have conversations with your Korean friends.
Summary of Korean Slangs for K-POP
입덕 : ipdeok
The term “입덕” (ipdeok) refers to the act of becoming a fan of something or someone to the point of obsession. It is commonly used to describe the process of becoming a devoted fan of a celebrity, a music group, a TV show, or any other form of entertainment. When someone “입덕(ipdeok),” it means they are captivated by a particular person or entity and become actively involved in following their activities, collecting merchandise, attending events, and supporting them. In English, you can describe “입덕(ipdeok)” as “becoming a superfan” or “getting obsessed with something/someone.”
탈덕 : taldeok
The term “탈덕” (taldeok) is the opposite of “입덕” (ipdeok). It refers to the act of ceasing to be a fan or supporter of something or someone. When someone “탈덕(taldeok),” it means they no longer have the same level of interest, enthusiasm, or dedication to a particular celebrity, music group, TV show, or any other form of entertainment. They might stop following their activities, lose interest in collecting merchandise, or withdraw their support. In English, you can describe “탈덕(taldeok)” as “falling out of fandom” or “abandoning a fanbase.” It signifies a person’s decision to distance themselves from something they were once passionate about.
최애 : choiae
The term “최애” (choiae) is a Korean abbreviation of the phrase “최고의 애정” (choegoui aejeong), which translates to “ultimate favorite” or “top affection” in English. It refers to a person’s absolute favorite or the one they hold the highest affection for among various options or choices. In fandom culture, “최애(choiae)” typically refers to an individual’s most beloved celebrity, music group, or character. It signifies a deep emotional attachment and devotion towards that particular person or entity. In English, you can describe “최애(choiae)” as an “ultimate bias” or “ultimate favorite.”
Summary of Korean Slangs for DAILY LIFE
핫플 : hatpeul
The term “핫플” (hatpeul) is a shortened form of “핫 플레이스” (hat peulleiseu) in Korean, which translates to “hot place” in English. It refers to a trendy and popular location or destination that is currently attracting a lot of attention and visitors. A 핫플(hatpeul) can include various establishments such as restaurants, cafes, shopping centers, entertainment venues, tourist attractions, or neighborhoods known for their vibrant atmosphere. People often visit 핫플(hatpeul) to experience the latest trends, enjoy unique experiences, and capture Instagram-worthy moments. In English, you can describe 핫플 as a “hot spot” or a “trendy place.”
인싸 : inssa
The term “인싸” (inssa) is a Korean slang word derived from the English word “insider.” It refers to someone who is popular and well-connected within social groups or communities. An 인싸(inssa) is often seen as someone who easily fits in, has many friends, and is up-to-date with the latest trends and social dynamics. They are skilled at navigating social situations, making connections, and being well-liked by others. Being an 인싸 is often associated with having a wide network of friends and being actively involved in various social activities. In English, you can describe 인싸(inssa) as a “social butterfly” or someone who is “in the know” and well-integrated into social circles.
알잘딱깔센 (aljalddakkkalsen)
The term “알잘딱깔센” (aljalddakkkalsen) is a Korean slang word that is used to describe someone who is knowledgeable, competent, and well-rounded. It is often used to refer to individuals who are capable in various areas or possess a wide range of skills and expertise. In English, you can describe “알잘딱깔센(aljalddakkkalsen)” as someone who is “knowledgeable and versatile” or “well-rounded and competent.” It implies that the person is capable and proficient in different aspects of life or possesses a diverse set of abilities.
갑분싸: gabpunsSa
The term “갑분싸” (gabpunsSa) is a Korean internet slang phrase that combines “갑자기” (gabjagi) meaning “suddenly” and “분위기 싸해” (bunwiGi ssahae) meaning “tense atmosphere.” It describes a situation where a friendly or lighthearted conversation unexpectedly turns into a heated argument or tense atmosphere, often due to a controversial or sensitive topic being introduced. In English, you can describe “갑분싸(gabpunsSa)” as a “sudden heated argument” or a “conversation turning sour unexpectedly.” It signifies a swift shift in the atmosphere from calm to tense or confrontational.
Latte Is Horse/라떼는 말이야
나 때는 말이야 (Na-tte-neun-mal-ee-ya). Na-tte sounds similar to latte, and mal is horse in Korean. It’s a sarcastic expression for 꼰대 (Kkondae, a condescending person who is usually older, like “boomer”) who always says “in my day”.
Summary of Korean Slangs : Knowing these words will make conversations with Korean friends more enjoyable, as they often come up in discussions. Being familiar with these terms will allow you to engage in more entertaining conversations with your friends, so it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with them.
