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If you’re a K-pop fan, you’ve probably heard male idols referring to each other as “hyung” and wondered what it meant. “Hyung” means “older brother” and is a title Korean boys and men use when talking to or about an older family member or close friend. This article covers the meaning and usage of “hyung,” plus several other Korean honorific titles. You’ll find information about the levels of formality in the Korean language and more!
A Quick Guide to Using “Hyung” (형)
“Hyung” means “older brother” but is often used to refer to an older male friend who is as close as a brother. The majority of the time, this term is used by a male to refer to an older brother or close male friend.
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- ↑ https://learnkorean24.com/hyung-in-korean/
- ↑ https://www.koreatimes.co.kr/www/opinion/2024/09/715_370712.html
- ↑ https://www.fluentu.com/blog/korean/oppa-meaning/
- ↑ https://www.90daykorean.com/sister-in-korean
- ↑ https://www.90daykorean.com/friend-in-korean/
- ↑ https://www.90daykorean.com/korean-family-terms/
- ↑ https://www.90daykorean.com/korean-family-terms/
- ↑ https://culturalatlas.sbs.com.au/south-korean-culture/south-korean-culture-naming
- ↑ https://www.90daykorean.com/korean-speech-levels/