Have you watched Squid Game 2 and noticed how Hyun-ju was so touched when she was called unnie?
Here’s what unnie means in Korean!
Quick Summary
- Unnie is an endearing term that means an older sister and is used only by women.
- Unnie can be a biological older sister, oppa’s wife, female cousin, older friend, upper classmate, and pretty girl (usually a celebrity).
- Koreans like to directly call someone unnie because it feels friendlier.
What Does Unnie Literally Mean?
In Korean, unnie means a big sister, used by a younger woman in a positive way.
Its usage goes beyond family ties and extends to friendships, mentorships, and even idol-fan relationships.
What’s the Cultural Context?
Korean language and culture revolve around age and hierarchy.
Since age determines social interactions and the language used in South Korea, addressing someone appropriately shows respect.
Koreans have ways to address an older person using family terms, such as:
- Oppa: Older brother to females
- Unnie: Older sister to females
- Hyung: Older brother to males
- Noona: Older sister to males
In Korean culture, unnie often takes on a caring, guiding role, and calling someone unnie reinforces this relationship.
In K-pop, female fans use it to express admiration for their favorite female idols. It shows familiarity and affection, so fans and their idols feel closer.
What Does Unnie Mean Emotionally?
Calling someone unnie isn’t about reminding them of how they’re older.
It carries warm affection, implying a bond, trust, and support.
When a Korean calls someone unnie, it means “You’re someone I look up to and feel close to.”
I only call my favorite older friends unnie. When I want to keep a distance from someone, I don’t call them unnie.
That’s why Hyun-ju from Squid Game Season 2 was so touched when she was called unnie. Because it means that she’s viewed and accepted as a woman by another Korean girl who finds her close and likable.
On the other hand, being addressed as unnie feels like I should provide some level of guidance and spoil the dongsaeng by buying them meals, coffee, and gifts.
How Is the Term Unnie Used in Everyday Life?
1. Between Friends: Among close friends, unnie is used in casual conversation. For example:
- “Unnie, do you want to grab coffee later?”
- “Thanks for helping me out, unnie!”
- “Unnie, Happy Birthday!”
2. In the Family: Younger sisters call their older sisters unnie to show respect and affection. Or, because they have to. Otherwise, unnie can be scary.
3. In Fan Culture: Female K-pop fans use unnie to address their favorite idols, creating a sense of intimacy.
- “Our (as in my) unnie is the best!”
4. In Everyday Interactions: You might hear unnie in a beauty salon, café, or college.
Why Does Unnie Matter?
The term unnie beautifully captures the warmth and closeness of Korean relationships.
It reflects not only the importance of age and hierarchy in Korean culture but also the emotional connections that go beyond those structures.
It can deepen your understanding of the nuanced ways Koreans express respect, care, and love.
When you want to build rapport with a Korean friend or when you get a chance to talk to your favorite K-pop girl group, don’t hesitate to sprinkle a heartfelt unnie into the conversation!
