The global influence of K-culture continues to grow, leaving its mark on one of the most authoritative dictionaries in the English-speaking world. Seven Korean words have recently been added to the Oxford English Dictionary (OED), reflecting the vibrancy of Korean culture and its reach across the globe.
The New Additions
The latest update, announced in December, introduces words that capture key aspects of Korean culture:
- Noraebang: A private karaoke room where friends can gather to sing and enjoy music—a staple of Korean nightlife.
- Maknae: The youngest member of a family, group, or K-pop band, often cherished for their youthful charm.
- Jjigae: A hearty Korean stew made with various ingredients, a cornerstone of home-cooked Korean meals.
- Tteokbokki: A popular street food made of chewy rice cakes cooked in a spicy red pepper sauce.
- Pansori: A traditional Korean performance art combining storytelling and singing.
- Dalgona: A Korean candy made from melted sugar and baking soda, famously featured in Netflix’s Squid Game.
-
Hyung: A term used by younger males to refer to older brothers or close male friends with respect and affection.
K-Culture’s Linguistic Footprint
This addition is more than a linguistic update—it’s a cultural milestone. For instance, dalgona was once a nostalgic candy sold at street stalls but gained international fame through Squid Game. Meanwhile, maknae has been embraced by K-pop fans worldwide as an essential part of group dynamics and fan conversations.
In 2021, the OED made a similar update, adding 26 Korean words to its entries, further cementing K-culture’s place in global discourse. Some of those words include:
- Banchan: A variety of small side dishes served with Korean meals.
- Bulgogi: Thinly sliced beef marinated in a sweet and savory sauce, grilled to perfection.
- Kimbap: A Korean rice roll wrapped in seaweed, often compared to sushi but with its unique flavors.
- Japchae: A sweet and savory stir-fried noodle dish made with glass noodles and vegetables.
- Hanbok: Traditional Korean clothing known for its vibrant colors and flowing lines.
- Mukbang: A popular genre of online content where creators broadcast themselves eating, often engaging with their audience.
These words offer insights into Korean food, fashion, and digital culture, making Korean culture more accessible to global audiences.
A Growing Global Presence
This is not the first time Korean words have made waves in the OED. The ongoing inclusion of Korean terms underscores the sustained interest in Korean culture worldwide. The OED editorial team has hinted at the possibility of adding more words, such as haenyeo (female divers), bingsu (shaved ice dessert), and ajumma (middle-aged women), in future updates.
A Cultural Legacy Beyond Borders
“The inclusion of these words highlights their widespread use and cultural significance,” noted an OED editor. Indeed, these entries are more than just dictionary updates—they are markers of Korea’s deepening impact on global culture.
As K-pop idols perform on international stages and Korean dramas and films captivate audiences worldwide, these words reflect a broader cultural phenomenon. Korea is not just sharing its stories—it’s teaching the world its language, one word at a time.
So, the next time you enjoy tteokbokki or sing your heart out in a noraebang, remember: you’re part of a global movement that’s rewriting the dictionary—literally.
