Dictionary

Korean trend dictionary

Short explanations of Korean trend words global readers see in K-pop, K-dramas, K-beauty, Korean food, travel, and everyday culture.

Aegyo

Cute or charming behavior often seen in Korean entertainment and social moments.

Banchan

Small Korean side dishes served with a meal.

Bias

A fan's favorite member in a K-pop group.

Chaebol

A large family-controlled business group, often used as a drama trope.

Comeback

A new promotional release by a K-pop artist after debut.

Fan chant

Words fans shout during specific parts of a K-pop performance.

Gimbap

A Korean seaweed rice roll filled with vegetables, egg, meat, tuna, or other ingredients.

Glass skin

A K-beauty phrase for skin that looks clear, hydrated, and luminous.

Honorifics

Korean language choices that show respect, formality, age, or social distance.

Maknae

The youngest person or youngest member of a group.

Noona

A word used by male speakers for an older sister or close older woman.

Second lead syndrome

When viewers strongly support the secondary romantic character in a drama.

T-Money

A rechargeable transportation card used for subways, buses, and other payments in Korea.

Tteokbokki

A popular Korean rice cake dish often served in a spicy red sauce.

Oppa

A word used by female speakers for an older brother or close older male.

Sageuk

A Korean historical drama genre with palace, period, or traditional settings.

Photocard

A small collectible card featuring a K-pop idol, often included in albums.

Weverse

A fan community platform used for artist posts, livestreams, and official updates.

Samgyeopsal

Korean pork belly BBQ often eaten with lettuce wraps and side dishes.

Essence

A lightweight K-beauty skincare step often used for hydration or treatment.

Sheet mask

A face-shaped mask soaked in skincare liquid for short-term hydration or comfort.

Hanbok

Korean traditional clothing worn for holidays, ceremonies, photos, and cultural events.

Noraebang

A Korean private karaoke room for friends, coworkers, or social gatherings.

Kakao Map

A Korean map app often used for local routes, places, and public transport planning.

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