[Photo &] BTS, Mukbang, Squid Game…'Everything Hallyu' English Dictionary Published

Not only K-pop, which is gaining global attention, but also a dictionary that details Korean food, fashion, games, and overall culture in English has emerged. If you have struggled to explain the meaning of 'Oppa' or 'Chimaek' to a foreign friend, this dictionary is likely to provide a clear answer.

National Folk Museum of Korea announced on the 2nd that it has published the 'Hallyu Cultural Dictionary' English Edition (Encyclopedia of Hallyu), which systematically organizes Korean lifestyle culture. This is the first encyclopedia themed on Hallyu, created based on the Korean edition published last year.

This English edition dictionary includes a total of 347 entries and over 600 photos to aid visual understanding. It encompasses key content representing Hallyu, including Korean daily life, BTS, Blackpink, the Netflix series 'Squid Game', and the film 'Parasite'.

In particular, it focuses on capturing cultural nuances beyond simple translation. Terms like 'Gimbap' and 'Tteokbokki' are presented as proper nouns to convey Korean culture as it is. Additionally, expressions like 'Oppa', 'Unni', and 'Uri', which are difficult to convey through direct translation, are explained with the unique relational cultural context of Korea.

It also covers essential elements for understanding K-pop fandom culture, such as 'Cheering Stick' and the historical background of Korea's unique living culture, including the 'Sitting' lifestyle. Modern food culture trends like Chimaek, Spicy Chicken Noodles, and Mukbang are thoroughly documented.

A museum official stated, "Through cross-review by native English-speaking experts and domestic specialists, we minimized cultural misunderstandings," adding, "This will serve as a stepping stone to understand Korean culture within the framework of universal human values, beyond just providing information."

Meanwhile, the 'Hallyu Cultural Dictionary' English Edition can be accessed for free on the National Folk Museum of Korea's website (www.nfm.go.kr) and the Korean Folk Encyclopedia website, and it is also available for purchase at the museum's gift shop.