K-Pop Lingo and Understanding What It Means

When first getting into K-Pop and the fandom, there can be a lot of lingo that may seem confusing. From idol position names to the acronyms for award shows, it can be overwhelming. Here’s your guide to picking up on the lingo of the fandom!

Idol Lingo

Trainee

Before idols even debut in a group, they go through a period of training once they pass their audition or are scouted by a company. During this time period before they are known as idols, they are called trainees. Trainees go through years of dance and vocal lessons to prepare for debuting in a group or as a soloist. 

Comeback

Comebacks refer to when a soloist or group releases a new song or album. During a comeback, idols follow concepts during the promotional period for the song. A comeback usually has a few weeks to a month of promotions before the artist begins preparing for the next one.

Bias

A bias is a fan’s favorite member in a group. You can also use bias to refer to your favorite group as your “bias group.” An ultimate bias is a favorite idol out of every group/idol you like.

Maknae

The term “maknae” is used for groups and refers to the youngest member. Examples of maknaes include ATEEZ’s Jongho, Red Velvet’s Yeri, and SEVENTEEN’s Dino. 

Leader

On the other hand, most groups also have a leader. Typically, the leader helps keep the group in line and organized, while also appearing almost like a spokesperson for the group. They usually speak on behalf of the group at award shows and interviews. Examples of leaders include TWICE’s Jihyo, NCT’s Taeyong, and ITZY’s Yeji.

Fanchant

At concerts and award shows during performances, each group has unique chants that go along with their songs, whether it’s the names of the members or certain lines in the song they’re performing. Usually member names are chanted at the beginning of the song, while phrases are during the song.

Sasaeng

Sasaengs are fans who border on a stalker level. Sasaengs invade idols’ privacy, take the same flights as them, and usually end up putting idols into uncomfortable or unsafe situations. Some sasaengs have gone as far as attempting to break into idol homes and following their cars. 

Aegyo

Usually seen on variety shows, aegyo is when idols act innocent or childlike. Aegyo is used to charm fans and also is seen with cute gestures. 

Sunbae

Sunbae is used to reference idols who have been in the industry longer than others. For example, SHINee are sunbaes to EXO, since SHINee debuted before EXO did. 

Award Show Acronyms

The end of the year is always busting with award shows. Here are a few of the big ones you’d need to know!

AAA: Asia Artist Awards

MMA: MelOn Music Awards

MAMA: Mnet Asian Music Awards

GDA: Golden Disc Awards

SMA: Seoul Music Awards

Edited by Kelly Sipko