Affiliate Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. This means I will get a commission if you purchase anything through my links, at no extra cost to you. I choose products and services for these links that I believe in.
K-drama fans will know there are a few common phrases used in Korean dramas that pop up in almost every show.
Understanding these phrases not only helps you follow the storyline better but also gives you a deeper appreciation of Korean culture and language.
Here are some of the most common phrases used in K-dramas and what they mean:
1. Saranghae (사랑해) – “I love you”
As one of the most recognizable phrases in Korean dramas, especially in romantic scenes, you’ll often hear characters confessing their love by saying “Saranghae” or the more formal version “Saranghaeyo (사랑해요)”.
2. Gwenchana (괜찮아) – “It’s okay”
Most recently, this phrase went viral, stemming from a funny internet meme. This phrase can be used in a variety of situations. Characters say “Gwenchana” when they want to reassure someone that everything is fine or that they don’t need help.
3. Daebak (대박) – “Awesome,” Jackpot,” or “Unbelievable”
“Daebak” is an exclamation used when something surprising, amazing, or unbelievable happens. Whether it’s a shocking plot twist or an impressive feat by one of the characters, this phrase often conveys awe and admiration. It’s a must-know for anyone watching K-dramas.
4. Aigoo (아이고) – “Oh dear” or “Oh my”
“Aigoo” is often used to express frustration, exhaustion, or sympathy. Older characters frequently use this phrase when they’re overwhelmed or dealing with a troublesome situation. It’s a classic expression of exasperation, and you’ll hear it in many family dramas or intense emotional scenes.
5. Omo (어머) – “Oh my gosh”
Similar to “Aigoo,” “Omo” is an exclamation of surprise, but it’s often used by younger characters, particularly women. It’s a playful and feminine expression of shock or excitement, often heard when something unexpected happens.
6. Oppa (오빠), Hyung (형), Noona (누나), Unni (언니) – Honorifics for Siblings
In Korean, there are specific words used to refer to older siblings or close friends, and these terms often appear in dramas:
- Oppa (오빠) is used by women to refer to an older brother or a close male friend.
- Hyung (형) is used by men to refer to an older brother or an older male.
- Noona (누나) is what men call an older sister or older female friend.
- Unni (언니) is what women call their older sister or an older female friend. These honorifics convey a sense of closeness and respect, and they’re often used in romantic relationships when a younger woman refers to her older boyfriend as “Oppa.”
7. Chaebol (재벌) – “Wealthy Conglomerate Family”
We all secretly love a good Cinderella plot.
One of the most iconic tropes in Korean dramas is the Chaebol character, who comes from an ultra-wealthy family that owns large businesses or conglomerates. Chaebol refers to these wealthy families, specifically the heirs to the business.
The western version of this concept might be “nepo-baby” but it has a slightly different context and meaning.
Check out the best Office Romance Kdramas, many of which include chaebols.
8. Jinjja (진짜) / Daebak (대박) – “Really?” or “Seriously?”
You’ll hear “Jinjja” in almost every drama when characters express disbelief or surprise. It’s the Korean equivalent of saying “Really?” or “Are you serious?” in English.
9. Michyeosseo (미쳤어) – “Are you crazy?”
When things get intense, you might hear a character exclaim “Michyeosseo?” which means “Are you crazy?” It’s often used during heated arguments or when someone says something really wild.
10. Ottoke (어떻게) – “What should I do?” or “How?”
When a character is in a dilemma or faced with a difficult situation, they might say “Ottoke?” It conveys a sense of helplessness or confusion. This phrase is often used during emotional or suspenseful moments when the character is unsure of how to handle a situation.
11. Mwo (뭐) – “What?”
If a character is taken aback or confused, you’ll hear them say “Mwo?” It’s a quick and casual way of asking “What?” or “What did you say?” It’s often used in reaction to something unexpected or shocking.
12. Hwaiting (화이팅) – “You can do it” or “Good luck”
This popular phrase is a mix of Korean and English (fighting), and it’s used to encourage someone or cheer them on. You’ll often hear characters saying “Hwaiting!” to motivate others, especially before a big challenge or competition.
13. Jalja (잘 자) – “Goodnight”
In romantic or sweet scenes between couples, you might hear “Jalja” or the formal version “Jal jayo (잘 자요),”which means “sleep well” or “goodnight.”
14. Bogosipeo (보고 싶어) – “I miss you”
This phrase is often heard in emotional scenes when characters are longing for someone they can’t be with. “Bogosipeo”means “I miss you” and is often used in romantic dramas or after characters have been separated for a while.
15. Geurae (그래) – “Okay” or “Got it”
“Geurae” is a casual way of saying “okay” or “I understand.” Characters often use it in conversations to show agreement or to acknowledge what the other person is saying.
16. Jeongmal (정말) – “Really”
Similar to “Jinjja,” “Jeongmal” is used to express disbelief or surprise. It can also emphasize sincerity, like when a character is truly thankful or when they’re confirming something serious.
17. Chingu (친구) – “Friend”
“You know, I have no chingu” – Perhaps, one of my favorite quotes and funny moments from Business Proposal.
In Korean dramas, the word “Chingu” refers to a friend, and it’s a term often used to emphasize camaraderie and close relationships. You’ll hear characters use “Chingu” when talking about childhood friends, schoolmates, or companions they deeply trust.
