Every country has its own cool way of saying words that don’t show up in the dictionary, but somehow, everyone knows what they mean. In Korea and Nigeria, slang is a big part of how people, especially the young ones, talk, laugh, and connect. Even though the countries’ languages are totally different, you’d be surprised how some of the slang means exactly the same thing!

Let’s take a fun trip into Korean slang and find their Nigerian twins. Get ready to shine your teeth because why not!

“Daebak!” vs “Wahala!”

When something crazy, unbelievable, or super cool happens, Koreans say “Daebak!” It’s like saying, “Wow, that’s wild!” but in Nigeria, we don’t hold back. We say, “Wahala,” and when we want to be dramatic, we can add “be like bicycle (o),” especially when thick and juicy drama is involved. Although they have different vibes, they still carry the same surprise gestures.

“Aegyo” vs “Package”

“Aegyo” is that cute act of pouting, smiling sweetly, or using a soft voice to get what you want. It’s a very common gesture in Korea, and people do it for fun or to charm others. However, in Nigeria, it is similar to what we call “packaging” or “forming,” especially when someone is acting sweet or clean to impress. It’s not always romantic and cute on this side of the world; most people don't really send you. Packaging is the Nigerian aegyo with a sprinkle of swagger that commands admiration instead.

“Hul~” vs “E shock you?”

Koreans say “Hul~” when something is super surprising or awkward. It's short, funny, and often used in texts or chats to express the awkwardness of the news or situation, but in Nigeria, we go straight to the point: “E shock you?”

Yes, we like to ask the question, and it’s not new. It’s perfect when someone sees something unexpected or gets caught doing something they thought others didn’t know about. Both give the same feeling: a jaw-dropping surprise expression.

“Oppa/Hyung” vs “Bros”

If you've watched any K-drama, you’ve certainly heard of “Oppa/Hyung.” It means older brother, but girls often use Oppa for their boyfriends or a guy they admire. However, here in this country, we say “Bros” or “Oga mi” depending on the region and the context. It’s respectful, friendly, and sometimes flirtatious if we have a crush on the person and would rather hang on a palm tree than let them know, just like the Oppa word.

Have you seen a typical Nigerian sibling relationship? Who Oppa/Hyung epp? “Bros! Abeg pass me that remote” is the right way to communicate over here because where is the fun and trouble if we don’t tease our older ones?

“Jinjja?” vs “For real?”

“Jinjja?” means “Really?” or “Are you serious?” in Korean. It’s short and perfect for surprise or disbelief. In Nigeria, we simply say, “For real?” or sometimes “Na lie!” not because we think you're lying, but just to express shock that what just happened or what you said was too big to believe. Both ways are fun to say “This one pass me o!”

“No jaem” vs “No vibe”

Koreans say “No jaem” when something is boring or not funny. Jaem means “fun,” so no jaem means no fun. Nigerians are also on the same ride with Koreans on this one. We say “No vibe” when a party or gist is dry. If you hear “No vibe” or “E dry” at a gathering, just know it’s not popping and sit it out.

Language is different, but the vibes? They're totally universal. It’s amazing how Korean and Nigerian slang carry the same feelings of fun, shock, admiration, and drama. Whether you're saying “Daebak!” or “Wahala dey!” you're still speaking the language of youth and enjoying the trend of your generation.

Next time you hear Korean slang, just think of the Naija version. Who knows? You might start mixing them up and creating your own global language, even though it might crack you and others up in the beginning.