If you’re a fan of K-pop or K-dramas, you may have heard female fans or characters saying the word “oppa” (오빠) when referring to their favorite male idol or a handsome male character. If you’ve wondered what they meant, this article is for you! The English translation of the Korean word “oppa” is “older brother,” but it’s often used to mean an older male friend…or sometimes a boyfriend. We’ll cover the meaning of “oppa,” how to use it respectfully, and other Korean titles of respect.
A Quick Guide to Using “Oppa” (오빠)
“Oppa” (오빠) means “older brother,” but is often used to casually refer to an older male friend. The majority of the time, this term is used by a female to refer to an older brother or male friend who is no more than 10 years older than the speaker. It indicates the speaker shares a close bond with the other person.
Steps
Expert Q&A
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References
- ↑ https://www.fluentu.com/blog/korean/oppa-meaning
- ↑ https://www.fluentu.com/blog/korean/oppa-meaning/
- ↑ https://www.fluentu.com/blog/korean/oppa-meaning/
- ↑ https://lovingkorean.com/2012/10/22/what-does-oppa-mean/
- ↑ https://www.researchgate.net/publication/369645144_Jimin_Oppa's_Abs_Slay_Me_How_the_International_K-Pop_Fandom_Adopt_and_Adapt_Korean_Words_into_English_on_Social_Media
- ↑ https://www.fluentu.com/blog/korean/oppa-meaning/
- ↑ https://www.90daykorean.com/friend-in-korean/
- ↑ https://culturalatlas.sbs.com.au/south-korean-culture/south-korean-culture-naming
- ↑ https://www.90daykorean.com/korean-speech-levels/