How KPOP can teach you about Korean culture
Estimated reading time: 3 minutes
KPOP gives Korean language learners the chance to learn practical idioms as well as insights into Korean culture, including its honorific system. Music is a terrific way to practice a new language.
Different word forms known as honorifics express varying degrees of politeness depending on the type of social relationship between the speakers. You can hear non-honorifics, which are private, informal words used in chats amongst close friends, in the majority of KPOP songs. It’s crucial for learners to be aware of these expressions’ polite variations as well. These are the ones you’ll utilize in the majority of social situations, after all!
You can pick up on the following expressions and cultural quirks from KPOP songs:
- Salutations and self-introduction
The excitement of making new acquaintances is explored in TWS’s debut single, which makes it a fantastic tune to practice introductions!
Artist: TWS
Theme: “Plot Twist (첫 만남은 계획대로 되지 않아)”
Culture: Since people of the same age are frequently regarded as friends in Korean culture, honorifics are not appropriate in first interactions, particularly between classmates. Nonetheless, honorifics are frequently employed for introductions in more formal contexts.
| LYRICS | TRANSLATION | POLITE VERSION |
|---|---|---|
| -이름이 뭐야? Ireumi mwoya? | What is your name? | 이름이 뭐예요? Ireumi mwoyeyo? |
| 내 이름은OO야. Nae ireumeun OO-ya. | My name is OO. | 제 이름은 OO예요. Je ireumeun OO-yeyo. |
| 만나서 반가워. Mannaseo bangawo. | Nice to meet you. | 만나서 반가워요. Mannaseo bangawoyo. |
| 내일 또 봐. Naeil tto bwa | See you tomorrow. | 내일 또 봐요. Naeil tto bwayo |
| 안녕. Annyeong. | Bye. | 안녕히 가세요. / 안녕히 계세요. Annyeonghi gaseyo./ Annyeonghi gyeseyo. |
- Words of support
You’ll hear many strategies to support yourself and your fellow Korean learners as “Fighting” from Seventeen BSS spreads the theme of conquering obstacles and finding strength during trying times!
Artist: Seventeen BSS
Music: “Fighting”
Culture: The boundary “Take-out coffee, please” (Ame, Ame, Ame, Ame) is a term used to describe the love Koreans have for iced coffee, which is a popular choice because it’s convenient for working. It’s good to have little luxuries during difficult times!
| LYRICS | TRANSLATION | POLITE VERSION |
|---|---|---|
| 필요해. Pilyohae. | I need it. | 필요해요. Pilyohaeyo. |
| 힘을 좀 내어보자. Himeul jom nae-eo boja. | Let’s muster up some strength. | 힘내요. Himnaeyo. |
| 파이팅 해야지. Paiting haeyaji. | Let’s go for it. | 파이팅! Paiting! |
Phrases for checking in
“SOLO” is about the aftermath of a breakup and includes expressions commonly used when checking in with someone. ❤️
Artist: Jennie of Blackpink
Song: “SOLO”
Culture: In Korean culture, asking about meals is a common way to show concern for someone’s well-being—so food is central to Korean interactions!
| LYRICS | TRANSLATION | POLITE VERSION |
|---|---|---|
| 뭐 해? Mwo hae? | What are you up to? | 뭐 해요? Mwo haeyo? |
| 어디야? Eodiya? | Where are you? | 어디예요? Eodiyeyo? |
| 밥은? Babeun? | Did you eat? | 밥은 먹었어요? Babeun meokutseyo? |
| 잘 자. Jal ja. | Good night. | 잘 자요. Jal jayo. |
Learn Languages Store
Vashi,
Email: services@learnlanguages.store
