Korean slang words are a quintessential part of daily conversation among Koreans, especially the younger generation. These terms provide a glimpse into the dynamic nature of the language and the culture’s current trends and values. Here’s a closer look at some of the most popular Korean slang words and phrases, which will not only enhance your vocabulary but also give you a deeper insight into contemporary Korean society.
대박 (Daebak) – This term is used to express amazement or enthusiasm about something. It can be translated as “awesome” or “amazing.”
이 영화 정말 대박이야!
꿀잼 (Kkuljaem) – Literally translating to “honey fun,” this word is used to describe something that is extremely enjoyable or entertaining.
이 게임 진짜 꿀잼이다!
짱 (Jjang) – Used to denote that something or someone is the best or “top.” It can be translated to “best” or “awesome.”
우리 팀이 짱이야!
삼촌 팬 (Samchon Paen) – It refers to an older male fan of a young pop group or celebrity, similar to the term “uncle fan.”
저는 방탄소년단의 삼촌 팬이에요.
어머나 (Eomeona) – An exclamation similar to “Oh my goodness!” or “Oh no!”
어머나! 지갑을 집에 두고 왔어.
헐 (Heol) – This expression is used to show disbelief or shock. It can be akin to saying “What?!” or “Seriously?!”
헐, 그게 사실이야?
노잼 (Nojaem) – The opposite of 꿀잼 (Kkuljaem), this term means “not fun” or “boring.”
이 영화 노잼이야, 다른 거 볼래?
멘붕 (Menboong) – Short for 멘탈 붕괴 (mental bunggoe), which means “mental breakdown.” It’s used when someone feels overwhelmed or stressed.
시험 공부하다가 멘붕 왔어.
존맛탱 (Jonmat-taeng) – A combination of the words 존나 (jonna, very) and 맛있다 (masitda, delicious), used to describe extremely delicious food.
이 짜장면 존맛탱이야!
인싸 (Inssa) – Derived from “insider,” it refers to someone who is very sociable and popular within a group.
그녀는 우리 반에서 진짜 인싸야.
아싸 (Assa) – The opposite of 인싸 (Inssa), referring to someone who is more of an outsider or loner.
저는 파티보다 집에서 혼자 있는 게 더 좋아서 아싸예요.
솔까말 (Solkkamal) – Short for 솔직히 까놓고 말하다 (soljikhi kkanoko malhada), which means “to speak frankly” or “to be honest.”
솔까말, 그 영화 별로였어.
열폭 (Yeolpok) – Short for 열등감 폭발 (yeoldunggam pokbal), which means an “explosion of inferiority complex.” It’s used when someone reacts negatively due to jealousy or insecurity.
그가 상을 받자 친구가 열폭했어.
알바 (Alba) – Short for 아르바이트 (arubaiteu), borrowed from the German word “Arbeit” (work), meaning part-time job.
저는 주말에 카페에서 알바해요.
Understanding and using these slang terms can significantly enhance your conversational skills in Korean and help you connect more deeply with native speakers. Korean slang not only reflects the language’s evolution but also the vibrancy of its youth culture. By incorporating these expressions into your vocabulary, you can gain a more nuanced understanding of both the language and the cultural context in which it is used.
