I realized while describing Korean dramas to a friend today that there are some cultural aspects to these shows that might confuse the new (read: American) viewer. Most of the time the words in the subtitles are just not translated, so the only way you can figure it out is through inference or trying to look it up online.
Ajumma: Aunt
Used to address any middle-aged or older woman, relative or not
Ajusshi: Uncle
Used to address any middle-aged or older man, relative or not
Hwa-ting: Fighting
Used as a word of encouragement. The English word itself is often used
Hyung: Older Brother
Onni: Older Sister
Used among actual siblings, as well as friends who are close in age
Omo: Oh My Goodness
Used as an expression of surprise or shock, often repeated quickly in one breath
Oppa: Older brother
Noona: Older Sister
Used literally or affectionately among couples
"Oppa" is most often used in a flirtatious manner by non-relative girls
Sunbae: Senior
Used as a term of familiarity, and most often used in a school setting
Wae: Why? (informal)
Used in an exaggerated manner to better express surprise
Some other random tidbits:
In Korean culture, it
is important to know that hierarchy is a big deal. There are two ways of
addressing a person: formal and informal. If you know you're older than
someone, you can speak to them informally. On first introduction,
however, it is good manners to speak formally, until the age or rank is
known.
In groups, people tend to say "I'm leaving first" before they leave a location.
"Chaebol" refers to the privileged, rich upper-class who are due to inherit their family's business fortune.
"Flower boys" are attractive, well-dressed Korean males, (who most often happen to also be chaebols).
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