6 Words That Mean Something Totally Different To K-Pop Fans

For those who have been in K-pop for so long you’ve forgotten that some of these words are not real in English, this one’s for you.

All-kill

Everyone else:

You, a K-pop intellectual:

This term sounds very murderous, but it’s actually music to the ears of all K-poppers. A group achieves a realtime all-kill when their song reaches No. 1 on all eight realtime charts. It’s a feat not many have reached, but all aspire to.

Comeback

Everyone else: Isn’t this when you wittingly reply without stuttering?

You, a K-pop intellectual: SOUND THE ALARM AND WAKE UP THE FANDOM. IT’S TIME TO CRASH PRE-ORDERING WEBSITES AND STREAM THE HECK OUT OF THE NEW MV.

This word is golden in the K-pop world. It will clear acne, cause the sun to shine, and restore sight. When an idol group or singer is coming back, it means a new album, tons of new concept photos, increased appearances on shows, and, most importantly, more memes.

Fighting!/Hwaiting!

Everyone else: Why does everyone in Korea keep telling each other to fight?

You, a K-pop intellectual:

It can be used to cheer people on and tell them good luck, and it’s most commonly accompanied by a fist pump or two.

Gangnam

Everyone else: Oppa Gangnam Style~

You, a K-pop intellectual: The best place to see my bias.

Gangnam, a district within Seoul, is known for many things, but among K-poppers, it’s the place where many entertainment companies reside.

Skinship

Everyone else: That is not a word.

You, a K-pop intellectual:

In Korean culture, “skinship,” or physical intimacy, is not only for couples. It’s not unusual to see close friends (usually of the same gender) holding hands, cuddling, or even giving friendly kisses.

Like this.

Army

Everyone else: Okay, how could this possibly mean something different in K-pop lingo than in every day usage?

You, a K-pop intellectual: It isn’t. *breaks down in sobs*

While recently the term “Army” has taken on more than one meaning (like fans of BTS), it also means heartache for K-poppers who stan boy groups. Most Korean men are required to serve in the army for about two years, which translates to two years of complete inactivity from your favorite boy groups. *cries*

Hey Soompiers! When you were first getting in K-pop, were you confused by any of these terms? Let us know in the comments below!

mayme22’s favorite Bible verses at the moment are Psalm 8:3-4.