Introduction
Korean slang is evolving quickly and becoming more creative than ever before. For those learning Korean, keeping up with these fun and trendy expressions can be a great way to expand your vocabulary and sound like a native speaker. In this post, we’ll dive into five of the hottest Slang words trending this year. Whether you’re a language enthusiast or just curious about Korean pop culture, these words will help you connect with the latest slang used by Koreans today. These are expressions that I also use a lot in my daily life.
Korean Slang #1: 자만추 [ja-man-chu]
자만추
[ja-man-chu]
자만추 [Ja-man-chu] represents a fascinating approach to modern dating. This term is an abbreviation of “자연스러운 만남 추구” which means seeking a natural meeting. It refers to people who prefer meeting and dating others naturally, rather than going on blind dates or set-up meetings. Those who identify as 자만추 believe that love is not something that should be forced but should happen naturally, through social interactions and fate.
Example Usage:
- Do you want to go on a blind date?
No, 나 자만추야.
[na-ja-man-chu-ya] (*나[na] : I) - Are you into 자만추?
너 자만추야?
[neo-ja-man-chu-ya]
(*너[neo] : you)
Korean Slang #2: 오운완 [o-un-wan]
오운완
[O-un-wan]
오운완, short for “오늘 운동 완료” (today’s workout complete), has become a popular fitness-related term. It is a popular term used to mark the completion of a daily exercise routine. People often post their workout progress on social media with the hashtag #오운완, sharing their achievements and motivating others to keep going. This trend is not only about fitness but also about setting goals and holding oneself accountable.
Example Usage:
- #오운완 #diet
Korean Slang #3: 인싸 [in-ssa]
인싸
[in-ssa]
인싸, derived from the English word “insider,” refers to someone who is highly social, outgoing, and actively involved in group activities. An 인싸 is a person who thrives in social settings, whether it’s at school, work, or social gatherings. The opposite of an 인싸 is an 아싸 (outsider), someone who prefers solitude or doesn’t engage much in social groups.
In-ssa Characteristics:
- Has a large circle of friends
- Actively participates in both formal and informal group events
- Always has plans with friends
- Boasts a high number of social media followers
A-ssa Characteristics:
- Few friends
- Minimal social interactions
- Prefers solitude
Example Usage:
- You have so many followers.
You must be an 인싸.
너 인싸구나
[neo-in-ssa-gu-na] - You are at a party again?
You’re such an 인싸.
너 진짜 인싸네.
[neo-jin-jja-in-ssa-ne]
(*진짜[jin-jja] : really, such a) - Nobody invites me to the party.
I am an 아싸.
나 아싸야.
[na-a-ssa-ya]
Korean Slang #4: 킹받네 [king-ban-ne]
킹받네
[king-ban-ne]
킹받네 [King-ban-ne] is a humorous slang term that combines 킹, the English word ‘King,’ with 열받네, meaning ‘I’m heated’ or ‘I’m frustrated,’ amplifying the emotional intensity of feeling annoyed or irritated. When you’re extremely frustrated or angry, you can say this.
The term was popularized by a YouTuber named 침착맨[chim-chak-man], who used it in moments of extreme irritation. By adding “King,” the term amplifies the feeling of frustration, making it a fun way to express intense irritation in a lighthearted manner.
Example Usage:
- Are you starting work now?
You’re really 킹받네.
너 진짜 킹받네.
[neo-jin-jja-king-ban-ne] - Do you think this makes sense?
Oh, 킹받아
아, 킹받아
[Ah-king-ba-da]
Korean Slang #5: 럭키비키잖아 [lucky-Vicky-ja-na]
럭키비키잖아
[lucky-Vicky-ja-na]
Inspired by K-pop idol Jang Won-young, 럭키비키잖아 [Lucky-Vicky-ja-na] represents the ultimate form of positive thinking. It suggests finding silver linings in challenging situations.
Example Usage:
- I went to buy cookies, but they were sold out. Then I got to try even better brownies.
So 럭키비키잖아.
완전 럭키비키잖아.
[wan-jeon-lucky-Vicky-ja-na]
(*완전[wan-jeon] : So, Really) - The bus is delayed? That means I get to spend more time with you.
럭키비키잖아
[lucky-Vicky-ja-na] - I got fired. But I wanted to go on a trip anyway, so it’s actually good.
럭키비키잖아
[lucky-Vicky-ja-na]
Conclusion
These five trending words are just a glimpse into the ever-evolving world of Korean slang. Whether you’re learning Korean or just following the trends, using these phrases will help you connect with young Koreans and understand their ever-evolving language.
If you’re interested in more useful Korean expressions, check out our previous posts. :
6 Expressions for your hotel stay
