Vocabulary5 min read64 views
Konglish: 40 English Words Transformed in Korean
You’ll think you understand because it “sounds English.” Sometimes yes. Sometimes no.
Published on September 14, 2026
Konglish (콩글리시) are English-origin words adapted into Korean, sometimes with different meanings from standard English.
Learn these first
- 핸드폰 = cellphone
- 리모컨 = remote
- 서비스 = complimentary extra (often)
- 헬스장 = gym
- 다이어리 = planner
- 커닝 = cheating
- 오버스펙 = overqualified
- 핫도그 = often Korean corn dog
Why it’s tricky
Meanings drifted locally. Translating word-for-word from English makes you miss things (and sometimes order the wrong snack).
Key vocabulary
| Word | Romanization | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 콩글리시 | konggeullisi | Konglish |
| 외래어 | oeraeeo | Loanword |
| 핸드폰 | haendeupon | Cellphone |
| 서비스 | seobiseu | Service / on the house |
Tip
When an “English” word feels off, ask: 한국에서는 무슨 뜻이에요?
Go further
Find these words in the Seonsaengnim dictionary and practice them in lessons / flashcards with native audio.
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