Korean Slang – 101 Popular Words & Phrases in 2024

If you want to add some Korean slang to your casual conversations, then you’ve come to the right place!

This post list is a mix of different words and expressions used by native Koreans. From Korean internet slang to funny Korean words, we’ll give you a breakdown of the slang words you can plug into various situations and sound like a native.Β  So, let’s get to it!

You can get a copy of these slang words in the FREE PDF below:

“Slang” in Korean

Let’s start by learning how to say “slang” in Korean. You can either say 속어 (sogeo) or 은어 (euneo).

What is Korean Slang?

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.Β 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!

Korean Slang Words

We’ll now be giving you examples of basic Korean slang words. These are words that are used in regular conversations by everyday Koreans. Some are common Korean slang words (single words only), while others are expressions that you can use as full sentences. Since a lot of these phrases are colloquial, it’s good to be familiar with basic Korean phrases as well.

Below each Korean slang term, we’ll give you a breakdown of what they mean in the Korean language, an explanation, the verbs, and the words included so you can understand what the Korean word means exactly.Β 

Pick your favorites, make sure you understand the meaning, and try them out with your Korean friends. You’re almost certain to see some surprised looks, as well as hear “Where did you learn that?!” It’s a really fun way to supplement your regular Korean learning.

Some warning: the slang in this article is in Hangul, the Korean alphabet. If you can’t read Hangul yet, it is possible to learn it fast and easily, so what are you waiting for?

Let’s do this!

Modern Korean SlangΒ 

Ready to impress your Korean friends? Here’s the list of Korean words and phrases to do it! Pepper these throughout your conversations and bond with your 친ꡬ (chingu).

1. λ‚¨μ‚¬μΉœ (namsachin) – A guy who is “just a friend”

남 (nam) is short for λ‚¨μž (namja), meaning “man”

사 (sa) is short for μ‚¬λžŒ (saram), meaning “person”

친 (chin) is short for 친ꡬ (chingu), meaning friend.

Put them all together, and you get man-person-friend, or a male friend.

Guys, you can use the same term for a girl who is your friend but isn’t your girlfriend. Change the 남 (nam) to μ—¬ (yeo), which stands for μ—¬μž (yeoja), and you’ve got μ—¬μ‚¬μΉœ (yeosachin)!

2. λ‚¨μΉœ (namchin)= Boyfriend | μ—¬μΉœ (yeochin) = Girlfriend

Like lots of Korean slang terms (and indeed Korean words in general), these words come from taking the first parts of two other words.

Can you guess which words they are made up of? λ‚¨μΉœ (namchin) comes from λ‚¨μž 친ꡬ (namja chingu) and μ—¬μΉœ (yeochin) comes from μ—¬μž 친ꡬ(yeoja chingu). That should save you some typing time on KakaoTalk when you ask somebody if they have a boyfriend or girlfriend.

3. κΏ€μžΌ (kkuljaem) – Something that is fun, funny, or interesting

κΏ€ (kkul) means “honey.”

잼 (jaem) is short for μž¬λ―Έμžˆμ–΄μš” (jaemiisseoyo), which means “interesting.”

If you put them together, you get κΏ€μžΌ (kkuljaem), which you can use to describe something that is fun or interesting.

4. λ…ΈμžΌ (nojaem) – Something that is not fun, funny, or uninterestingΒ 

The evil twin of κΏ€μžΌ (kkuljaem) is λ…ΈμžΌ (nojaem).

λ…Έ (no) means “no” or “not”

잼 (jaem) is the first part of μž¬λ―Έμžˆμ–΄μš” (jaemiisseoyo), Β meaning interesting.

So if you see something that you don’t think is fun or funny, you can say, “λ…ΈμžΌ (nojaem)!”Β 

5. μ†”κΉŒλ§ (solkkamal) – To speak openly and honestly

솔 (sol) stands for μ†”μ§νžˆ (soljiki), with means “honestly.”

The 까 (kka) and 말 (mal) parts come from κΉŒλ†“κ³  λ§ν•˜λ‹€ (kkanoko malhada), meaning “speak your mind.”

The full Korean phrase is μ†”μ§νžˆ κΉŒλ†“κ³  λ§ν•˜λ‹€ (soljiki kkanoko malhada), but you can keep it simple. When you want someone to tell it to you straight, use the Korean slang μ†”κΉŒλ§ (solkkamal).

6. λ”λŸ½κ²Œ (deoreopge) – Badly

This Korean slang word literally means “dirtily” (from λ”λŸ½λ‹€ | deoreopda), but is often used to mean “badly,” for example λ”λŸ½κ²Œ λͺ»μƒκΈ°λ‹€ (deoreopge motsaenggida) would mean “really ugly” and “λ”λŸ½κ²Œ λŠλ¦¬λ‹€ (deoreopge neurida)” would mean “really slow” (referring to a slow computer perhaps).

7. ν’ˆμ ˆλ‚¨ (pumjeollam) | ν’ˆμ ˆλ…€ (pumjeollyeo) – Man or woman who just got married

ν’ˆμ ˆ (pumjeol) is another Korean expression for sold out (맀진 | maejin), coming from the hanja for product (ν’ˆ | pum) and gone (절 | jeol). The words ν’ˆμ ˆλ‚¨ (pumjeollam) and ν’ˆμ ˆλ…€ (pumjeollyeo) literally mean “sold-out man” and “sold-out woman,” they refer to somebody (a celebrity or popular friend) who has just got married and is therefore off the market for dating.

These Korean slang terms can be used with the verb λ˜λ‹€ (doeda), which means “to become.” For example, ν’ˆμ ˆλ…€κ°€ λμ–΄μš” (pumjeollyeoga dwaesseoyo) means “she got married.”

To say “she got married” you can also use the word μ‹œμ§‘κ°”μ–΄μš” (sijipgasseoyo), which is a real word (not Korean slang) literally meaning “she went to the in-laws’ house.” For guys, you can use μž₯κ°€κ°”μ–΄μš” (janggagasseoyo) instead.

8.Β  λͺ¨μ  (mossol) – Someone who has never had a boyfriend or girlfriend

λͺ¨μ  (mossol) is the shortened word for λͺ¨νƒœμ†”λ‘œ (motae sollo). The first wordΒ λͺ¨νƒœ (motae) means “mother’s womb.” The second word, μ†”λ‘œ (sollo) sounds like “solo,” which means a person who has never been in a relationship.

Put them together, and you’ve got “someone who has been alone since birth.”

*gasp* Use this one with caution!

If you happen to be λͺ¨μ  (mossol) and want to fight fire with fire, you can use μ†”λ‘œμ²œκ΅­ μ»€ν”Œμ§€μ˜₯ (sollocheonguk keopeuljiok). It’s aimed at couples and means “Solo Heaven Couple Hell.”Β 

9.Β  극혐 (geukyeom) – Extreme disgust

Short for κ·Ήν•œμ˜ 혐였 (geukanui hyeomo), this phrase . κ·Ήν•œ (geukan) means “limit or extreme” and 혐였 (hyeomo) means “hatred, disgust or revulsion,” so put them together and you’ve got a shortened phrase that means just that — extreme disgust!

Use this with your Korean friends any time you want to point out that something is very disgusting or revolting, like when you venture into the weird parts of YouTube!

10. λ°€λ‹Ή (mildang) – Push and pull

This is a combination of the verbs λ°€λ‹€ (mildang | to push) and λ‹ΉκΈ°λ‹€ (danggida | to pull). However, in this case, the words do not literally mean pushing and pulling as in a tug of war or a door.

This Korean slang refers to the flaky actions people take in romantic relationships, “playing games” with each other where one minute they’re hot and the next they’re cold. You can also use this as a verb in the form λ°€λ‹Ήν•˜λ‹€ (mildanghada).

11. 맛점 (matjeom) – Delicious lunch

Short for λ§›μžˆλŠ” 점심 (masinneun jeomsim), this Korean slang word simply describes a “delicious lunch.” Want to describe a delicious dinner and sound cool doing so? Just use 맛저 (matjeo), short for λ§›μžˆλŠ” 저녁 (masinneun jeonyeok)! Shortening things really is easy, isn’t it?

12. λ§Œλ ™ (mallep) – Level 10,000

Another shortened phrase, λ§Œλ ™ (mallep) is a combination of 만 (man | 10, 000) and 레벨 (rebel | level). Have you ever played an RPG or strategy game like World of Warcraft where your character increases in level after making certain achievements?

This phrase refers to someone who is a master of something, and their level is so good it is like they have achieved the maximum level in a game! But don’t worry, you can use this phrase for anything — someone who is good at lifting weights, building things, or studying (not only games)!

13. μͺΌλ ™ (jjorep) – Beginner level

This Korean slang word is just the opposite of the previous one! There are the masters, and then there are the beginners or the “newbs.” This word is a slightly altered version of μͺΌκ·Έλ§Œν•œ 레벨 (jjogeumanhan rebel), meaning a small or low level.

Not good at tennis and want to let your partner know before the match starts? Let them know you’re μͺΌλ ™ (jjorep), and you’ll be sure to get a laugh.Β 

14. 심쿡 (simkung) – Heartthrob (huge crush)

심쿡 (simkung) is like a type of emotional heart attack you feel when you see or think about your crush or someone you find extremely attractive! Remember it by knowing that 심μž₯ (simjang) means “heart” and μΏ΅μΏ΅ (kungkung) is the “thud” or “booming” sound your heartbeat makes!Β 

15. λŒ“μΈ  λ…Έλ…Έ (daetcheu-nono) – That’s no no

λŒ“μΈ λ…Έλ…Έ (daetcheunono | that’s no no) is a Konglish phrase that originated on a popular TV program, and is sure to get laughs from your Korean friends! You can use it anytime you disagree with someone or something, or want to say “no.”

16. κΉŒλ„λ‚¨ (kkadonam) Β An abrasiveΒ city-man

Short for κΉŒμΉ ν•œ (kkachilhan | abrasive) λ„μ‹œ (dosi | city) λ‚¨μž (namja | man), this word is used to describe a certain type of guy who is usually arrogant, rich and full of himself.

17.Β  λŒ€λ°• (daebak) – Awesome

What does Daebak mean? We’re sure you may well have heard this one a million times before, but it is still popular and widely used. λŒ€λ°• (daebak) is an exclamation that’s meaning has changed from λŒ€λ°•λ‚˜λ‹€ (daebangnada | to be very successful) to now mean “awesome” or “wow” or to describe anything that is shocking or amazing!Β 

18. μ—„μΉœμ•„ (eomchina) | μ—„μΉœλ”Έ (eomchinttal) – Someone who is good at everything

Short for μ—„λ§ˆμΉœκ΅¬μ˜ μ•„λ“€ (eommachinguui adeul | my mom’s friend’s son) orΒ  μ—„λ§ˆμΉœκ΅¬μ˜ λ”Έ (eommachinguui ttal |my mom’s friend’s daughter), these Korean slang phrases are used to describe “the perfect child” or someone who is good at everything.

It originates from the fact that Korean parents like to talk to their children about how “so and so’s” son or daughter did so well on his/her tests, got into a great school, or just got a new job at a big company.

19. ν–‰μ‡Ό (haengsyo) – Let’s be happy

Short for ν–‰λ³΅ν•˜μ‹­μ‹œμ˜€ (haengbokasipsio), this Korean slang phrase just means “let’s be happy!” You can use it to suggest to your Korean friends to cheer up and be happy while at the same time sounding cool.

Start using this one today, and you’ll be sure to make someone’s day.

20. κ°‘ (gap) | 갑이닀 (gabida) – The boss

This Korean slang word was popularized by a comedy program, and κ°‘ (gap) has come to mean “the boss” or the person with the power dynamic in a group.

κ°‘ (gap)refers to a person who has a relative advantage or power in a particular phase. It can also simply means when something is “the best” or “above the others.”

You’ll often see this word in legal contracts, such as if you get a work contract. The words κ°‘ (gap) and 을 (eul) mean A and B, or the former and latter. κ°‘ (gap) is usually the one holding power.Β 

What a great word. Make sure to use it like a κ°‘ (gap)!Β 

21. ν˜„μ›ƒ (hyeonut) – LOL

From ν˜„μ‹€μ—μ„œ μ›ƒμŒ (hyeonsireseo useum), this word means “laughter (μ›ƒμŒ | useum) in real life (ν˜„μ‹€μ—μ„œ | hyeonsireseo).” This is equivalent to “laugh out loud” in English and could be used, for example, while watching a video or reading a text message. It is used instead of just γ…‹γ…‹γ…‹ to show you literally laughed out loud.

22. λΉ΅ 터지닀 (ppang teojida) – To laugh really loudly (like a bomb)

Very similar to ν˜„μ›ƒ (hyeonut), λΉ΅ 터지닀 (ppang teojida) is a slang verb that means “to laugh really loud” with the emphasis being on the LOUD part! 터지닀 (teojida) usually means “to burst,” and λΉ΅ (ppang) is the sound a gun or bomb makes. So when you put them together, you get the picture of someone who is laughing explosively!

23. μ–Έν”Œ (eonpeul) – Media play

This is a shortened version ofΒ μ–Έλ‘ ν”Œλ ˆμ΄ (eonnonpeullei), which means β€œmedia play.” However, this is not all fun and games! In this case, ν”Œλ ˆμ΄ (peullei | play) is not referring to playing or fun but rather to “manipulation.” It is used to express the act of using the media to create a beneficial image for a corporation or celebrity, etc.

24. λ©˜λΆ• (menbung) – Mental breakdown

Ever had a mental breakdown? You can express this idea with “λ©˜λΆ•β€, which is a combo of λ©˜νƒˆ (mental | mental) + λΆ•κ΄΄ (bunggoe | deconstruction or collapse).

In Korean, this is more often used to express yourself when your mental status is on the fritz! It’s used in various situations where this is the case. For example, you could say it when at the last minute, you realize you have to work on the weekend, and you have a huge date that you can’t cancel!

25. 헐 (heol) – OMG

This exclamation is usually used after something shocking or surprising is said or seen. It’s really similar to “OMG” in English! You’ll notice this piece of Korean slang is used a lot in texting.Β 

26. λ­₯λ―Έ (mwongmi) – What the heck | What is it?

This is a purposeful typo of λ­μž„ (mwoim), which means “what is this?” or “what the heck.” When you are typing fast, you can easily input characters in the wrong order, and this internet slang rose out of this common misspelling! However, it still retains the same meaning! When you see something you are unsure of, you can say, “이게 λ­₯λ―Έ (ige mwongmi)?”

27. λ ˆμ•Œ (real) – Real | Really

This word means “real,” and if you read it in Korean, you can see that it is actually the phonetic pronunciation of the same word in English! Use it in place of intensifiers like μ§„μ§œ (jinjja | really) and sound cool in the process!

28. 돌직ꡬ (doljikgu) – To say or do directly

This word literally translates to “rock fastball,” and that’s exactly what its meaning is intended to portray, although in this case, we’re not talking about baseball! When someone says something in a very direct manner or behaves very forward, you can use the word 돌직ꡬ (doljikgu) to describe it, and in doing so, compare the action to throwing a fastball with a stone!

29. 치λ§₯ (chimaek) – Chicken and beer

치λ§₯ (chimaek) is the popular South Korean combo of μΉ˜ν‚¨ (chikin | chicken) and λ§₯μ£Ό (maekju | beer). This pairing is a cultural staple that is often enjoyed at social gatherings. It’s more than simply food and drink; you also get to enjoy the flavor and excitement of Korean casual dining.

30. 지 (jjal) – Photo

This is a new internet slang word that simply means “photo,” and you can use it in place of 사진 (sajin |picture or photo).

31. 움지 (umjjal) – Animated photo | GIF

You know those animated GIFs floating around the internet? In Korean, you can talk about them using the word 움지 (umjjal)!

32. 리즈 (rijeu) – Your prime

From the expression 리즈 μ‹œμ ˆ (rijeu sijeol), this refers to the best-looking time of your life when you are young and beautiful and in your prime! Shorten it down and just use the word 리즈 (rijeu) to describe this magical time that you never want to leave.Β 

33. 덕후 (deoku) – A person with an obsessive interest in something

This Korean slang comes from the Japanese word β€œotaku” which means a person who is β€œcrazy about something.” In Japanese, this usually refers to a person who is obsessed with Japanese anime or anime characters.

However, it is now used in Korean to describe a person who has an obsessive interest in almost anything – celebrities, studying, movies, characters — you name it! It has a slightly negative connotation, so be careful how you use it.

34. κΏ€νŒ (kkultip) – A great tip

Just like in the phrase κΏ€μžΌ (kkuljaem), this phrase uses the word “honey” (κΏ€ | kkul) to mean “really good.” This time it’s a 팁 (tip | tip) that’s being considered, and this is not just any old tip!

In English, we may say “gold” or “golden” to denote something very valuable, but in Korean, it’s “honey.” Use this when you give a great tip to someone or someone gives you advice or tips that are valuable!

35. 그린라이트 (geurillaiteu) – Green light (crush)

We’re not talking about traffic here! This “green light” is all about relationships. When someone is giving you the green light or showing interest in you and giving you the go-ahead, you can use the word 그린라이트 (geurillaiteu) to describe them!

36. 뢈금 (bulgeum) – TGIF

Fire (뢈 | bul) Friday (κΈˆμš”μΌ | geumyoil)! Much like we’d say “TGIF” on Friday as the week is winding down, Koreans say 뢈금 (bulgeum) as they get amped up for the weekend festivities! If you want to up your Korean slang game, then you can also use λΆˆν†  (bulto) as well for 뢈 (bul) + ν† μš”μΌ (toyoil).Β 

37. 웃프닀 (utpeuda) – Funny but sad

When something is funny (웃기닀 | utgida) and sad (μŠ¬ν”„λ‹€ | seulpeuda) at the same time, you can use this combination Korean slang word to describe that situation! Say you’re watching funny YouTube videos, and you see a clip of a cute puppy falling down or wiping out (without getting hurt, of course!), you could use 웃프닀 (utpeuda) to describe it!

38. κ°œμ΄λ“ (gaeideuk) – Big, unexpected benefit or profit

When you get something you didn’t expect to benefit you, you can say, “κ°œμ΄λ“ (gaeideuk).” The word 개 (gae) is used a lot in slang words in Korean, and it literally means “dog.”

However, in Korean slang, it is used as an intensifier like “crazily” or other *hmm* more negative words in English. Use this with Korean friends, but with caution.

The 이득 (ideuk) part means “benefit or profit.”

39. λ°˜μ‚¬ (bansa) – Back at you

This is a funny Korean slang term used to deflect someone’s insults or jokes toward you. Just say this word, and it reflects their insult back to them like a mirror! It is a slightly childish and cheesy term.Β 

40. 고퀄 (gokwol) – High quality

Short forΒ κ³  (go | high) 퀄리티  (kwolliti | quality), you can use 고퀄 (gokwol) to describe something that is of high quality! See some earrings at the store you like and notice they’re really well made? Boom! Perfect time for a “고퀄 (gokwol).”

41. 클래슀 (keullaeseu) – World class

This slang word has now become more and more used and is simply the Korean pronunciation of the English word “class.” Here, we’re not talking about school or social ranking, but it’s used to mean “world-class” or “high-level.”

42. 평타 (pyeongta) – Do something at an average level

From ν‰νƒ€μΉ˜λ‹€ (pyeongtachida), it means to do something average (at least). For example, you can use this slang phrase to say you are not amazing at something, but you did average or as much as reasonably can be expected!

43. μŒλž€λ§ˆκ·€ (eumnanmagwi) – A person with a dirty mind

Everyone has that friend. They’re the person who always sees the innuendo in a situation or has a dirty mind. For them, you can use the slang phrase μŒλž€λ§ˆκ·€ (eumnanmagwi) meaning “lewd devil.”

44. 병맛 (byeongmat) – Something so ridiculous that it gives you a funny taste in your mouth

This slang word literally means 병신 (byeongsin | idiot) 맛 (mat | taste). You can say this when something looks stupid (but funny). From pop culture, some examples may be Napoleon Dynamite or Jackass, or anything that gives you that funny taste in your mouth because it’s so silly or stupid!

45. 칼ꡰ무 (kalgunmu) – Dancing perfectly in sync

K-pop and Korean pop culture have really taken off around the world in recent years, and this Korean slang term is used to describe the dancing aspect of performances. When an idol group or a group of dancers is dancing like a knife (perfectly in sync) and they nail their performance, you may hear commentators use the Korean slang term 칼ꡰ무 (kalgunmu | knife group dance).

46. μ—­λŒ€κΈ‰ (yeokdaegeup) Legendary level | The best ever

This word means “unprecedented” or “legendary level” and refers to someone or something that is the best ever. Use it to really emphasize how awesome something is!

47. 지린닀 (jirinda) – Something is just so cool

From the verb 지리닀 (jirinda) meaning “to wet your pants”, this expression is used when something is just so cool that you wet your pants or feel like you could!Β 

48. 쩐닀 (jjeonda) – Very cool

This comes from the old verb μ ˆλ‹€ (jeolda), which means “to be salted.” It became μ©”λ‹€ (jjeolda) or 쩐닀 (jjeonda) and, in its slang form, could take on the meaning “so salty and good” as if to say “very, very cool.”

49. 포슀 μžˆλ‹€ (poseu itda) – To have “the Force”

When a person has a very strong character or aura, you may hear this term being tossed around. Ever seen Star Wars? This slang phrase literally means to have “the Force.”

50. 썸 (sseom) – “Something” between two people

썸 (sseom) is used to describe that special “something” between two people who are not in a relationship but have feelings for one another. There is β€œsomething” (썸 | sseom) Β between them.

The slang expression 썸타닀 (sseomtada) or 썸을 타닀 (sseomeul tada) is used when two people know each other before dating, and start to get along.

Use 썸남 (sseomnam | about men) and 썸녀 (sseomnyeo | about women) to describe someone you have feelings towards but not formally dating.

51. μ‚¬λž‘κΎΌ (sarangkkun) – A person full of love

A person who expresses or shows their love a lot is a μ‚¬λž‘κΎΌ (sarangkkun). This is a person who is just filled up to the brink with love (the romantic kind or not)!

This word is also used as a sarcastic word for people who are constantly involved in dating rumors and scandals.

52. λ² ν”„ (bepeu) – Best friend

Do you have a λ² ν”„ (bepeu) to hang out with? This slang term is shortened from the Konglish phrase 베슀트 ν”„λ Œλ“œ (beseuteu peurendeu | best friend). You can also say 절친 (jeolchin), shortened from μ ˆμΉœν•œ 친ꡬ (jeolchinhan chingu | literally “great friend”).

53. μΌ€λ―Έ (kemi) – Chemistry

This slang word is a shortened form of the word “chemistry” in English – but we’re not talking about science here! This is for when there is “chemistry” between two people. In Korean, you can cut it down to a simple “μΌ€λ―Έ (kemi).”

54. 베이글녀 (beigeullyeo) – A baby-faced but glamorous girl

This word is a funny combination of the words babyface (베이 | bei) + glamor (κΈ€ | geul). λ…€ (nyeo) just refers to a female. This is a girl who has a baby face that is cute and innocent but an attractive, overly sexy, or glamorous body.Β 

55. μ…€μΉ΄ (selka) – Selfie

This slang word is short for μ…€ν”„ (selpeu | self) 카메라 (kamera | camera) and means a “selfie” or to take a picture of yourself! Selfie sticks are all the rage nowadays and are called 셀카봉 (selkabong) in Korean.Β 

56. 썰 (sseol) – Story

From the word μ„€ (seol) meaning “theory,” this Korean slang word has come to mean “story.” You can also use it as a verb in the form 썰을 ν’€λ‹€ (sseoreul pulda | to tell a story).Β 

57. μ…€λŸ½ (selleop) – Celebrity

This word is Konglish for the word “celebrity.” In Korean, they call celebrities or stars “μ—°μ˜ˆμΈ (yeonyein)” but use this slang word to sound cool and trendy as you refer to your favorite star!

58. μ„ μˆ˜ (seonsu) – Player

You may think: “Wait a minute, I have learned this vocabulary word before in myΒ regular Korean studies!” and you would certainly be right. This word means “player” as in an athlete. However, when used in the slang form and referring to relationships, this refers to the other meaning of “player” as in someone who dates around.

59. λ“ν…œ (deuktem) – An item you get for free or at a great bargain

Short for 이득 μ•„μ΄ν…œ (ideuk aitem), this slang word means something you get for free or at a real bargain! For example, if you head out shopping and find a really great sweater at half off, that’s a λ“ν…œ (deuktem)! Also, when you play video games (which are all the rage in South Korea) and get a free item, there’s another. YOINK!

60. 된μž₯남 (doenjangnam) | 된μž₯λ…€ (doenjangnyeo) – An appearance-obsessed guy (or girl) who lives beyond their means

된μž₯ (doenjang) is fermented bean paste that is often used in the cooking of Korean foods, including 된μž₯찌개 (doenjangjjigae | bean paste stew) which is known to be very filling but cheap! The terms 된μž₯남 (doenjangnam) and 된μž₯λ…€ (doenjangnyeo) refer to a guy (남 | nam) or girl (μ—¬ | yeo) who values expensive or superficial things despite being unable to afford them.

For example, a girl who dates an older, richer man to get free gifts, trips, or plastic surgery or a man who lives in the most expensive area of the city despite having a less-than-average paying job could be called a 된μž₯λ…€ (doenjangnyeo) or 된μž₯남 (doenjangnam), respectively. These terms have negative connotations, so use them sparingly!

61. 브금 (beugeum) – Background music

This word is short for “background music” and refers to any sort of jingle you might listen to in the background. You might hear it while studying, working, or chilling out in the cafe with your Korean friend!Β 

62. κ°•μΆ” (gangchu) – Strongly recommend

This word is a combination of κ°•ν•˜λ‹€ (ganghada) meaning “to be strong” and μΆ”μ²œν•˜λ‹€ (chucheonhada) meaning “to recommend.”

63. κΉœλ†€ (kkamnol) – Surprise!

Short for 깜짝 놀라닀 (kkamjjak nollada) or λ†€λžμ–΄μš” (nollasseoyo), this term is used when you are shocked or startled. The verb 놀라닀 (nollada) means exactly that – to be surprised, shocked, or startled, and the phrase 깜짝 놀라닀 (kkamjjak nollada) means to be suddenly surprised!Β 

64. 버카좩 (beokachung) – Bus card charge

Guess what, it’s another shortened Korean slang phrase! This one is short for λ²„μŠ€ μΉ΄λ“œ μΆ©μ „ (beoseu kadeu chungjeon | bus card charge) and has been abbreviated because of its common usage. Most people use the bus or subway daily.

In South Korea, transportation cards for the bus and subway system need to be regularly charged with money, and the next time you’re in town and need a 버카좩 (beokachung), you can just look for the big machines in the subway stations!

65. λ‹­μ‚΄ (daksal) – Goosebumps

λ‹­μ‚΄ (daksal) literally translates to “chicken skin,” which is similar to “goosebumps” in English. You normally get goosebumps when you describe the feeling of fear, excitement, or even cringing, especially in response to overly cheesy or romantic gestures.

66. 페뢁 (pebuk) – Facebook

This word is short for 페이슀뢁 (peiseubuk), which is the way Koreans say “Facebook” in English. It’s simply been shortened down, so if you want to sound cool and in the know, call it 페뢁 (pebuk) next time you’re chatting with your Korean friends!

You say 페뢁 탐라 (pebuk tamna) for the 페뢁 (pebuk) timeline. 탐라 (tamna)Β  is the shortened version of νƒ€μž„λΌμΈ (taimnain).Β  Make sure to give μ’‹μ•„μš” (joayo, or “like”) when you see your favorite friends post on your 탐라 (tamna)!

67. 프사 (peusa) – Profile picture

Speaking of Facebook, everyone needs a profile picture for their favorite social media page! You can talk about that by using this Korean slang word, which is short for ν”„λ‘œν•„ 사진 (peuropil sajin | profile picture).

68. ν›ˆλ‚¨ (hunnam) – A handsome and well-mannered guy

This comes from the descriptive verb ν›ˆν›ˆν•˜λ‹€ (hunhunhada), which means “warm or heartwarming” plus λ‚¨μž (namja | man). Commonly, handsome guys are referred to as 미남 (minam), so the term ν›ˆλ‚¨ (hunnam) is used to describe a guy who is both attractive physically and kind and warms you up just by looking at him. Want to describe a girl in a similar way? Use the term ν›ˆλ…€ (hunnyeo).

69. λ‡Œμ„Ήλ‚¨ (noesengnam) – A smart, intelligent guy

This is another Korean slang term used to describe a certain type of guy! While the previous one referred to a handsome and kind guy, this one will emphasize the intelligence aspect! Let’s break it down:

λ‡Œ (noe)Β means “brain”

μ„Ήμ‹œν•˜λ‹€ (seksihada) means “to be sexy”

λ‚¨μž (namja) means “man”

Put it all together, and you’ve got one who is very smart and sexy. It’s good to be a nerd sometimes!

70. 아점 (ajeom) – Brunch

This is a combination of the words for breakfast (μ•„μΉ¨ | achim) and lunch (점심 | jeomsim). Like in English when we combine those two words, put them together and you’ve got a word that means “brunch.”

And if you eat a bit late in the day, you can use the word 점저 (jeomjeo), which is a combination of 점심 (jeomsim) and 저녁 (jeonyeok).

71. μ•ˆμŠ΅ (anseup) – Watery eyeballs (from an embarrassing situation)

This isΒ an abbreviation of μ•ˆκ΅¬μ— μŠ΅κΈ°μ°¨λ‹€ (angue seupgichada), meaning β€œdampening of the eyeballs.” It’s a direct term used to describe when someone tears up from embarrassment or humiliation!

72. κΈˆμ‚¬λΉ  (geumsappa) – A person who falls in love easily

From 금방 μ‚¬λž‘μ— λΉ μ§€λŠ” μ‚¬λžŒ (geumbang sarange ppajineun saram), this term is used to describe a person who easily falls in love.

금방 (geumbang) means “a short time” or “soon”

μ‚¬λž‘μ— 빠지닀 (sarange ppajida) means “to fall in love”

μ‚¬λžŒ (saram) means “person.”

Do you know anyone like this?

73. λ„˜μ‚¬λ²½ (neomsabyeok) – Something that cannot be overcome

Short forΒ the phraseΒ λ„˜μ„μˆ˜ μ—†λŠ” 사(4)μ°¨μ›μ˜ λ²½ (neomeulsu eomneun sa(4)chawonui byeok), this term literally means “unclimbable wall.” It is used to refer to something that cannot be overcome or that is a big obstacle.

74. 지λͺ»λ―Έ (jimonmi) – Sorry I couldn’t protect you

From μ§€μΌœμ£Όμ§€ λͺ»ν•΄ λ―Έμ•ˆν•΄ (jikyeojuji mothae mianhae), meaning “sorry I couldn’t protect you,” this term is used most commonly when someone (usually Korean celebrities) turns out bad in a picture. Type this phrase as a hashtag in Instagram, and you’ll find some examples!

75. λΉ„λ²ˆ (bibeon) Β  – Password

Short for λΉ„λ°€λ²ˆν˜Έ (bimilbeonho), meaning “password,” this word is used by the younger generation quite commonly in place of the full term.Β 

76. μ•ˆ λ¬Ό (an mul) – I didn’t ask

This is shortΒ for μ•ˆ λ¬Όμ–΄λ΄€μ–΄ (an mureobwasseo), meaning “I didn’t ask you.” It can be slightly rude and should only be used with those that are really close to you when you know they won’t be offended.

For example, maybe your friend is bragging about how good-looking they are or how many likes they got on their picture, and you use this phrase to say, “I didn’t ask you,” in a sort of funny way to tell them not to be arrogant.

77. μ•ˆκΆ (angung) – Β I’m not curious

Very similar to the previous, this is short for μ•ˆ κΆκΈˆν•΄ (an gunggeumhae), meaning “I am not curious.” You could use it in very similar circumstances to say “I am not curious.”Β 

78. λ…Έ λ‹΅ (no dap) – No answer

Like in some of the other Korean slang terms, Β λ…Έ (no) here is the same as “no” or “not” in English.

λ‹΅ (dap) means “answer.”

So this phrase means “no answer” and can be used in any situation where there is no solution. By using it, you are inferring there is “no answer” to the problem or situation, like a troublemaker for whom there is no hope.

79. λ§₯λ‚  (maengnal) – McDonald’s

This is just a shortened phrase for λ§₯λ„λ‚ λ“œ (maekdonaldeu), which is the Korean way to say “McDonald’s.” Next time you see the golden arches sign, you can refer to it as λ§₯λ‚  (maengnal) to your friends!

McDonalds special deals in Korea

80. μ–ΌλΉ  (eolppa) – Someone who is drawn to good-looking people

From 얼꡴에 빠지닀 (eolgure ppajida), this term is used to describe a person who easily feels drawn to someone handsome or pretty.

81. 근자감 (geunjagam) – Β Unfounded self-esteem

This term comes from the expression κ·Όκ±° μ—†λŠ” μžμ‹ κ° (geungeo eomneun jasingam), which literally means “self-esteem/confidence without grounds.” It is when someone has a huge ego or confidence about something, but they really shouldn’t!

82.Β  λ“œλ¦½ μΉ˜λ‹€ (deurip chida) – To make a joke

From “ad lib” (μ• λ“œλ¦½ | aedeurip), this verbΒ means “to make a joke” or “to make an absurd comment.”

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Cool Korean Words and Expressions

Here are the cool Korean slang expressions and words that have stood the test of time and are still in use today.Β 

83. λ‚΄κ°€ 쏠게 (naega ssolge) – I’ll pay | treat

From the verb μ˜λ‹€ (ssoda), which means “to shoot (a gun | arrow etc.)”, the Korean slang expression λ‚΄κ°€ 쏠게 (naega ssolge) means “I’ll pay.” You can say this at the end of a date if you want to impress your companion and take care of the check.

You could also use it at a bar with your Korean friends. If you are a ꡬ두쇠 (gudusoe | miser: literally “iron shoes”) then you might not want to learn this expression.

84. 일차 (ilcha) , 이차 (icha) , μ‚Όμ°¨ (samcha) – Stage 1, stage 2, stage 3

A typical night out with Korean friends, or a company dinner (νšŒμ‹ | hoesik), can be separated into stages called μ°¨ (cha). The first stage, 일차 (ilcha), involves a meal with some drinks to go with it. The second stage, 이차 (icha), often means going to a bar to continue drinking. The third stage, μ‚Όμ°¨ (samcha), might involve going to a noraebang.

Although what each particular stage of the night consists of will depend on the particular people who are out that night. There may even be a 4μ°¨ (sacha) or 5μ°¨ (ocha) involving more food or beer and noodles outside a convenience store.

When it is time to move to the next stage, you might hear your Korean friends or coworkers say something like 2μ°¨ κ°‘μ‹œλ‹€ ( icha gapsida) or 2μ°¨ κ°€μž (icha gaja | let’s go to stage 2). If you are on a company dinner then these gaps between stages offer a good opportunity to make your excuses and go home or to a different bar away from your boss.

85. 짱 (jjang)! – Great or amazing

This sound effect means “great” or “amazing”. You can just say it on its own, without putting it into a sentence. It is also sometimes used in order to make other slang words. A common one of these is 얼짱 (eoljjang), which means great or amazing face [the μ–Ό (eol) comes from the word μ–Όκ΅΄ (eolgul)]. You can also say λͺΈμ§± (momjjang) to describe somebody with an amazing body.

86. 얼짱 (eoljjang) – A good-looking person

When someone is really good-looking, you can use 얼짱 (eoljjang) to describe them! It’s a combination of μ–Όκ΅΄ (eolgul | face) and 짱 (jjang | another slang word meaning “great” or “the best”).

87. λͺΈμ§± (momjjang) – A hot body

This Korean slang term can be used to describe someone with a great body, like a guy who is quite fit and muscular or a girl who has a great figure! It is a combination of the word for “body” (λͺΈ | mom) and 짱 | jjang which means “great” or “the best.”

88. 간지 λ‚œλ‹€ (ganji nanda) – Great, stylish, awesome

This Korean slang expression comes from the Japanese word for λŠλ‚Œ (neukkim | feelings) and so literally means “feeling is coming out.”

The phrase 간지 λ‚œλ‹€ (ganji nanda) means great, stylish, awesome, or λ©‹μžˆλ‹€ (meositda). This phrase can be used to describe fashion, food, appearance, architecture, or even a skillful football move. It is quite a new slang word and can be used in most situations as a replacement for the rather cheesy word λŒ€λ°• (daebak). You might have been curious about what ganji means in Korean from K-pop artist PSY‘s music video with Jessi.

The opposite of this is 간지 μ•ˆλ‚˜ (ganji anna) which can be used jokingly to say something is awful. If you want to say somebody (such as a celebrity) is stylish, you can say 간지남 (ganjinam | for guys) or 간지녀 (ganjinyeo | for ladies).

89. 폭탄 (poktan) – Bomb or something that is terrible

The Korean slang word 폭탄 (poktan) literally means “bomb.” It is used to describe something that is terrible, such as a piece of work that you have really messed up. It can also be used to describe a really really ugly person.

Another way to use 폭탄 (poktan) is by adding a μ£Ό (ju) at the end to make 폭탄주 (poktanju). This is basically a cocktail of whatever random alcohol your friend managed to find and mix together. It is often a mix of beer, soju, whisky, maybe some vodka, and some other things. Watch out: It’s called 폭탄주 (poktanju) because it is dangerous like a bomb!

90. μ™•λ”° (wangtta) – Outcast

You don’t want to be the μ™•λ”° (wangtta)!

This Korean slang word describes a person who has no friends and is bullied by everybody at school. They have to sit on their own because nobody wants to sit near them or be associated with them in any way at all. The bullying is often justified by saying, “We did it because he/she is μ™•λ”° (wangtta),” as if being μ™•λ”° (wangtta) means that you are denied human rights.

Almost every high-school drama in Korea will involve a μ™•λ”° (wangtta) at some point in the storyline, so listen out for the word. Unfortunately, despite teachers’ efforts to stop bullying, the phenomenon of μ™•λ”° (wangtta) exists in the real world too.

91. λ»₯μΉ˜μ§€ 마 (ppeongchiji ma) !Β – Don’t lie

This Korean slang expression means “don’t tell a lie”.

λ»₯ (ppeong) means “lie”.

λ»₯을 μΉ˜λ‹€ (ppeongeul chida) is the expression you use to express the idea of “telling a lie”.

The suffix -지 마 (ji ma) is the informal version of -지 λ§ˆμ„Έμš” (ji maseyo) which means “don’t.”

You should only use this expression with Korean friends who you are close with, especially if the lie they are telling isn’t particularly serious. An example of this would be a friend claiming that they can drink ten bottles of soju when you know that they can’t handle their alcohol. λ»₯ μΉ˜μ§€λ§ˆ (ppeongchijima)!

In situations where you’re not with close friends, you should use κ±°μ§“λ§ν•˜μ§€ λ§ˆμ„Έμš” (geojinmalhaji maseyo) instead.

92. λ°”λžŒλ‘₯이 (baramdungi) – PlayerΒ 

A λ°”λžŒλ‘₯이 (baramdungi) is a playboy who isn’t looking for a serious relationship, and may even be seeing multiple people at the same time. He will be gone as quickly as the wind (λ°”λžŒ | baram).

Girls will often tell their boyfriends not to be a λ°”λžŒλ‘₯이 (baramdungi), although the word can be used to describe playgirls too.

A similar use of the word λ°”λžŒ (baram) is the phrase λ°”λžŒ λ§žμ•˜μ–΄μš” (baram majasseoyo) which means “to be stood up.” A λ°”λžŒλ‘₯이 (baramdungi) isn’t fully in a relationship yet. If somebody is in a relationship but they are cheating on their partner, then you can use the word 양닀리 (yangdari | meaning both legs), which is the Korean slang for “two-timing.”

93. 꽝 (kkwang) | 꽝이닀 (kkwangida) – Wrong | you lose

This word comes from the sound 꽝 (kkwang), which is like a banging or bashing kind of sound. It basically means “wrong” or “you lose.”

Game shows in Korea often have some kind of ladder game (사닀리 κ²Œμž„ | sadari geim) to determine what prize the contestants win (it is sometimes also played by friends or coworkers to determine who pays for lunch). If you get 꽝 (kkwang) it means you don’t win any prize.

The 꽝 (kkwang) sound is often accompanied by the tune from the drama “secret garden” to further mock the losing contestant.

94. λ†ˆ (nom) – Man or person

In the Korean movie “μ’‹μ€λ†ˆ, λ‚˜μœλ†ˆ, μ΄μƒν•œλ†ˆ (joeunnom, nappeunnom, isanghannom)”, the “nom” (λ†ˆ | nom) in this title means “man” or “person.” It is used as a suffix such as λ―ΈμΉœλ†ˆ (michinnom | crazy person), or like the three examples in the movie title.

It usually has negative connotations, and you should only use it with really close friends who have a good sense of humor. In fact, in general, you should remember that the Korean language is very hierarchical and you can only really use Korean slang with close friends. Whatever you do, don’t use it to introduce yourself to your partner’s parents for the first time, unless you like getting dumped!

95. 곡주병 (gongjubyeong) – Princess disease

This literally means “princess disease” (the male equivalent is “prince disease” or μ™•μžλ³‘ (wangjabyeong). This is when somebody is acting like a spoiled little princess and constantly seeking attention and wanting their partner to buy them things.

As this word comes from hanja (Korean based on Chinese Characters), it has a similar sounding equivalent in Cantonese. This amusing video explaining the Cantonese equivalent explains the concept of 곡주병 (gongjubyeong) quite well.

96. λΆ•μ–΄λΉ΅ (bungeoppang) – Two people that look or act the same

This can be used to suggest that two people look or act the same. It comes from the name of the bean-paste-filled pastries that resemble fish that you can buy from roadside stalls in winter.

The pastries are made using a press, so they always look the same and are also the same on both sides, which is where this expression comes from.

97. 방콕 (bangkok) – Stay in your room

This Korean slang expression means “to stay in your room” and is used when somebody is so tired or worn out that they plan to stay in their room all weekend or all vacation. If somebody uses this word to describe their vacation, don’t get confused and think that they are going to Thailand.

98. μ•Œλ°” (alba) – A part-time job

This is a shortened phrase and comes fromΒ μ•„λ₯΄λ°”μ΄νŠΈ (areubaiteu), which means “part-time job” in Korean. The word originally comes from the German word “arbeit”, meaning “work or labor.”

Bonus round: You can add 생 at the end of μ•Œλ°” (alba) to make μ•Œλ°”μƒ (albasaeng). This refers to someone who is studying at school and also working part time. The 생 (saeng) comes from the word 학생 (haksaeng), which means “student”.Β 

You often see μ•Œλ°”μƒ (albasaeng) at 편의점 (pyeonuijeom | convenience stores), 피씨방 (pissibang | Internet cafe), and 카페 (kape | cafe) etc. Look out for those μ•Œλ°”μƒ (albasaeng) the next time you’re nearby a λŒ€ν•™κ΅ (daehakgyo | university)!

99. μ†Œλ§₯ (somaek) – Soju + beer

Two of the most popular alcoholic drinks in Korea are (you guessed it) – soju and beer! What do you get when you mix the two in your glass? Why μ†Œλ§₯ (somaek) of course (μ†Œμ£Ό + λ§₯μ£Ό = μ†Œλ§₯ | soju + maekju = somaek). Cheers!

100. λˆˆνŒ… (nunting) – Looking only, no chatting

You can use this word to describe chatting with your eyes and not speaking, or reading posts or forum threads and not leaving a comment or a trace of you being there!

λˆˆνŒ… (nunting) is the combination of the words “eye” + “(chatting)ting,” originally started in an online chatting room to call people who just listen to other people’s conversations but they’re not saying anything. So λˆˆνŒ…ν•˜λ‹€ (nuntinghada) literally means to chat with eyes.

Now, the bigger meaning is that they only look and do not do things like posting or leaving a comment. These people are called λˆˆνŒ…μ‘± (nuntingjok), with μ‘± (jok) meaning “tribe.” Although the meaning is slightly different, μœ λ ΉνšŒμ› (yuryeonghoewon | ghost member) is also used for those who clearly exist but are invisible in the online community.

Next time you catch someone λˆˆνŒ… (nunting), encourage them to get in the conversation!

101. λ‹Ήκ·Ό (danggeun) – Of course

This word, which literally means “carrot,” is used to mean “of course” because it sounds similar to the word for “λ‹Ήμ—°ν•˜μ§€ (dangyeonhaji)?” You can say “당근이지 (danggeuniji)?”Β 

Wrap Up

Hopefully, you enjoyed this article, learned a lot more about Korean culture, and have an easy way to learn Korean slang. There are many other slang words and expressions out there, and the list changes all the time.

If you want to stay up-to-date with new expressions, then you can try using Naver’s open dictionary (search for “μ˜€ν”ˆμ‚¬μ „ | opeunsajeon)” to learn some new words such as 셀카봉 (selkabong | selfie-stick) or λžœμ„ μ—¬μΉœ (raenseonyeochin | online girlfriend – from the word for LAN cable). It’s one of the Korean dictionaries we recommend on this list.Β 

Now that you’ve learned a handful of Korean slang, use these words to get a deeper understanding of the languageΒ and to make Korean learning even more fun!Β 

And speaking of fun, here are some excellent resources you can use when talking in Korean:

For a structured Korean course, check out the 90 Day Korean Membership program. You’ll be having 3-minute conversations in Korean in just 90 days!

What are the best slang words that you have come across while learning Korean? Let us know in the comments below!

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188 thoughts on “Korean Slang – 101 Popular Words & Phrases in 2024”

  1. Gilbert S Marquez

    I’m watching some kdramas and they keep calling everyone song-bey or sung-bae, something like that. It can be used alone or with part of the person’s name you are referring to. It also appears as if it is only for someone really close to you, a boy or girlfriend perhaps. Can be used with your roommate if you are close, too. So it clearly isn’t too intimate or affectionate. In English I would say it is something like “bae” or “bro” or “sista” depending on the sex and relationship status… Any information from native speakers would be lovely πŸ™‚

    1. Hi Gilbert! μ„ λ°°[seonbae] means ‘a senior in school or in a field’. It’s more official and polite than to call someone 였빠[oppa]/ν˜•[hyeong]/μ–Έλ‹ˆ[eonni]/λˆ„λ‚˜[nuna]. ^^

  2. Quick question; why is 탐라 pronounced (tamna)? Is that a batchim rule? Same with λ§₯λ‚  (maengnal)? Thanks!

  3. I was watching a tv series where the guy screaming: “μ˜ˆλ“€μ•„! λŒ€λ°• ___! λŒ€λ°• ___! λŒ€λ°• ___!
    The blank part sounds like 상것 or something.
    The subtitle translates it as “guys! I have amazin news!”

  4. I learned of a phrase that means outgoing, or extrovert. A person who knows all the gossip?
    인사.

    Whats the introvert slang for that?

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