To paraphrase the Oscar winning director of Parasite, Bong Joon-Ho, there’s a whole new world of entertainment for those willing “to overcome the one-inch barrier of subtitles”.
Happily Korean dramas do not translate all words into English that are unique to the culture of Korea. So, we get a lesson in Korean language and culture while being entertained by some of the best television programming currently available on the planet. What’s not to love?
It’s important to keep in mind that age makes a significant difference when someone addresses or refers to another in Korea. If the age difference is not obvious you’ll notice Koreans may ask another person’s age so they will know which honorific to use.
Because Koreans use honorific language when addressing others, there is not an equivalent word for word translation for many of the nouns used for others. So I’ve included some of the most frequently used names below.
You’ll come across these words “romanized” or put into “konglish” in the translation bar (as opposed to remaining in Hangul, the Korean form of writing). As you watch Kdramas these words will become more familiar to you and hopefully this list will be helpful as you begin your odyssey into the rich world of Kdrama.
Words to Express Emotion
Aigoo – geez, urg, rats, whew. Shows frustration (maybe exhaustion), surprise or disappointment.
Aish – unfinished curse word. (Traditionally not to be said around elders.)
Heol – shock, surprise, sarcasm
Daebak – jackpot, surprise, can be sarcastic. Generally a very good thing, awesome.
Words to Address Others
Ajumma – married middle aged woman, sometimes translated as auntie.
Ajussi – middle aged or married man.
Unnie – older sister or good friend, sometimes spelled Eonni. Used by females.
Noona – older sister or good friend. Used by males.
Oppa – older male, brother, can be used to show affection, i.e. boyfriend. Used by females.
Hyung – older bother or close male friend. Used by males.
Dongsaeng – younger brother or sister. Add yeo for females, nam for males.
Sunbae – anyone with more experience at school or work.
Hoobae – someone with less experience. Hooebaes must treat Sunbaes with respect.
Btw: translators will often use the English words “punk” or “wench” for a male or female, respectively, who is annoying or worse. These are not words that Americans would commonly use but bastard and bitch usually seem too strong. When I think about it, I’m not sure English has a midrange characterization that would work any better. Jerk? But that is usually reserved for males only.
Currently watching – Because This is My First Life. Streaming on VIKI Rakuten. A+. Highly recommend.