Eight Korean Words Added to Oxford English Dictionary Today!

UPDATE: Eight new words from South Korean culture have just been added to the Oxford English Dictionary, reflecting the global rise of K-culture. This announcement was made on January 8, 2024, and it highlights how South Korean language and customs are increasingly influencing English worldwide.

Among the newly added terms are ajumma, a respectful reference to middle-aged women; sunbae, meaning a senior colleague; and jjimjilbang, a popular communal bathhouse. This update also introduces food-related entries such as ramyeon, Korea’s beloved instant noodles, and bingsu, a refreshing shaved-ice dessert. Notably, the phrase Korean barbecue makes its dictionary debut, marking a significant milestone in the recognition of Korean culinary culture.

The Oxford English Dictionary has been expanding its vocabulary to include terms reflective of the burgeoning interest in Korean culture. The latest update comes on the heels of the addition of seven Korean words in 2025 and a massive influx of 26 terms in September 2021, coinciding with the global phenomenon known as the Korean Wave or hallyu.

In a statement, scholar Simon Barnes-Sadler noted, “While words of Korean origin have been attested in English texts since the nineteenth century, the surge in their inclusion since 1997 aligns with the rise of the Korean Wave.” This underscores the continuing transformation of global language dynamics as Korean culture garners international appreciation.

The new entry haenyeo refers to the traditional female divers of Jeju Island, renowned for their expertise in seafood harvesting, which has gained global recognition for its cultural significance. As these terms enter the lexicon, they not only enrich the English language but also bring a piece of Korean identity to the forefront of global discourse.

The Oxford English Dictionary is regarded as the authoritative record of the English language, with over 500,000 words and phrases documenting the evolution of English. This latest update reflects not just a growing trend but a significant cultural exchange that is reshaping how we communicate.

What happens next? As the popularity of K-culture continues to rise, we can expect further expansions in the recognition of Korean-origin words in English. The influence of Korean entertainment, cuisine, and lifestyle shows no signs of slowing down, making today’s update an important marker in the ongoing dialogue between cultures.

Stay tuned for more developments as this story unfolds, and share your thoughts on how these new additions resonate with your understanding of language and culture!