Seven Words Originating From Korean Culture Have Been Added to the Oxford English Dictionary

The Oxford English Dictionary, published by Oxford University Press, has included 7 Korean-origin words. This marks the first addition of Korean-origin words to the Oxford English Dictionary since September 2021, when 26 terms such as “K-drama,” “hallyu,” “mukbang,” and “daebak” were included, nearly three years ago. The newly added Korean terms reflect cultural significance, such as Korean cuisine and forms of address, and are closely tied to the global popularity of “K-culture,” which has gained significant traction in English-speaking regions.

● Dalgona: A Korean confection made by adding baking soda to melted sugar, typically sold by street vendors in the form of a flat disc with a simple shape, such as a heart or star, carved on its surface. Frequently used as a modifier, especially in “dalgona candy” or “dalgona cookie.”

● Hyung: In Korean-speaking contexts, an elder brother of a boy or man. It is also used as a respectful form of address, a term of endearment, or in an extended sense for an older male friend.

● Noraebang: In South Korea, a private room rented by an individual or group to perform karaoke; also refers to establishments featuring such rooms.

● Maknae: In Korean-speaking contexts, the youngest person in a family or group; specifically, the youngest member of a K-pop group.

● Jjigae: In Korean cuisine, a broth-based stew typically made with seafood, meat, or vegetables. Often combined with a modifying word denoting the seasoning or main ingredient, such as doenjang jjigae or kimchi jjigae.

● Tteokbokki: A Korean dish consisting of small, cylindrical rice cakes cooked in a spicy sauce made with gochujang, usually served as a snack or street food.

●Pansori: A traditional Korean narrative musical performance by a single singer, accompanied by a drummer. It also refers to this genre of music as a whole.

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