Music is a great way to practice your new language, and KPOP offers Korean learners the opportunity to not only pick up useful expressions but also gain insights into Korean culture, including its system of honorifics.
Honorifics are different forms of words that reflect levels of politeness according to the kind of social relationship between the speakers. In most KPOP songs, you'll hear non-honorifics—the intimate, casual style used in conversations between close friends. As a learner, it's especially important to know the polite forms of these words and expressions, too. After all, they're the ones you'll use in most social settings!
Here are some expressions and cultural nuances you can learn from KPOP songs:
1. Greetings and introducing yourself
TWS' debut single explores the excitement of meeting new friends for the first time, so it's a great song for practicing introductions!
Artist: TWS
Song: "Plot Twist (첫 만남은 계획대로 되지 않아)"
Culture: In Korean culture, individuals of the same age are often considered friends, so honorifics may not be used during initial meetings, especially among classmates. However, in more formal settings, honorifics are commonly used for introductions.
| 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. |