If you’ve spent any time in Korea—or even just watched a K-drama—you’ve probably heard English words used in ways that don’t quite match what you learned in school. That’s Konglish, a mash-up of Korean and English that’s as creative as it is confusing.
But Konglish isn’t just a quirky side note; it’s part of daily Korean conversation. Use it well, and it can help you sound more fluent, more natural, and more in the know.
Let’s break down five common types of Konglish loanwords and how to actually use them like a local.
1. Words That Look English but Aren’t (a.k.a. “False Friends”)
Some Konglish words are borrowed from English but have taken on new meanings in Korean. Think of them as linguistic doppelgängers.
- Service (서비스)
Not paid customer service — this means something free or complimentary.
“We got free fries as service!” (Natural English: “We got free fries on the house.”) - Fighting! (화이팅)
Nothing to do with conflict — it’s a cheer meaning “You can do it!”
“You’ve got this—fighting!”
2. Shortened English Loanwords
Koreans love abbreviations, and English phrases often get clipped down to something snappy and easy to say.
- Aircon (에어컨) = Air conditioner
- Selca (셀카) = Selfie (from “self camera”)
- Remocon (리모컨) = Remote control
3. Words with Completely New Meanings
Sometimes, the shift from English is so extreme that you’d never guess the origin.
- Hand phone = Cell phone
(No one says “hand phone” in English.) - Cider (사이다) = Lemon-lime soda like Sprite or Chilsung
(Not apple cider, and not alcoholic.) - Alba (아르바이트) = Part-time job
(Borrowed from German Arbeit via Japanese.)
4. Made-in-Korea English (Konglish Originals)
These are entirely new inventions—built from English roots but not used in native English.
- Skinship = Physical affection or closeness
“They’re very affectionate—lots of skinship.” (e.g., hugging, holding hands) - Office-tel (오피스텔) = A building with both offices and apartments
5. Koreanized Pronunciations of English Words
Sometimes it’s a real English word—but it’s pronounced differently in Korean. If you say it the “correct” English way, you might not be understood.
- McDonald’s →
Maekdonal-deu (맥도날드) - Sandwich →
Saen-deu-wi-chi (샌드위치)
Final Thoughts
Konglish isn’t “wrong English.” It’s its own linguistic ecosystem—born from globalization, shaped by Korean culture, and always evolving.
Learning how to use Konglish like a native isn’t just about vocabulary. It’s about seeing how Koreans creatively adapt language to suit their world.
So next time someone offers you “service,” don’t be confused. Smile, say thank you—and maybe even shout a cheerful: “Fighting!”
