Decoding K-Pop lingo: Explaining the meaning of THESE words

Karen Noronha

 July 16, 2023

K-Pop lingo

A look at terms new fans of K-pop may not be familiar with in light of global K-pop phenomenon

4D

This Korean slang - considered a compliment - is for Idols who have a weird, eccentric personality

Aegyo

A term used when an Idol acts cute, pitching their voice high, speaking in baby talk, and making gestures

Finger heart

A gesture in which a person crosses their thumb and index finger to make a small V

Hwaiting

An expression of encouragement derived from the English word 'fighting'

Lightstick

An official cheering wand that K-pop fans wave at concerts

All-kill

It is when a K-pop group is ranked at number one spot on all eight Korean music charts at once

Anti

Someone who attacks an idol they don't like, especially rival groups

Bias

A person's 'bias' is basically fans' favourite idol in a K-pop groups or a particular group

Bias wrecker

This is when another member from the same group tempts fans to switch their bias

Ending fairy

It is when a member of a group has the camera linger on them at the end of a performance on stage

Fancam

A video that tracks a single idol throughout a group performance

Fanchant

A set cheering guides that K-pop fans follow during song performances

Daesang

The highest accolade groups can win at one of the annual music award shows like the Grammys

Fanmeets & Fansigns

When Idols organise greeting events that gives them one-on-one time with fans