In the rich tapestry of Korean culture, relationships are often expressed with layers of nuance, respect, and affection. While honorifics dictate formal interactions, the realm of close friendships opens up a delightful world of informal and endearing terms – nicknames. These aren’t just arbitrary labels; they are powerful expressions of intimacy, shared history, and deep emotional bonds. A well-chosen nickname can convey warmth, humor, and a unique understanding that transcends mere words.

For those looking to deepen their connection with a Korean best friend, or simply to understand the subtle dynamics of Korean friendships, exploring these affectionate terms is an invaluable step. Korean nicknames often reflect a person’s personality, physical traits, or the unique nature of the friendship itself. They can be sweet, playful, slightly teasing, or profoundly meaningful, but always signify a special closeness that moves beyond formal titles.

This article delves into 86 Korean nicknames for best friends, providing their Hangul script, Romanization, English meaning, and the context in which they are typically used. From classic terms of endearment to whimsical food-related names and playful personality descriptors, you’ll discover a vibrant array of ways Koreans express affection for their closest companions.

I. Classic & Endearing Terms: The Foundations of Friendship

These nicknames are general terms of affection, often used to express the fundamental closeness and importance of a best friend. They are widely understood and cherished.

  1. 친구야 (Chingu-ya): “Hey friend” or “My friend.” A very common and direct way to call out to a friend informally.
  2. 내 친구 (Nae Chingu): “My friend.” A possessive and affectionate way to refer to your friend, emphasizing your bond.
  3. 단짝 (Danjjak): “Best friend” or “close buddy.” This term specifically denotes a very close, inseparable friend.
  4. 베프 (Bepeu): “BFF.” A direct transliteration and abbreviation of the English “Best Friend Forever,” widely used among younger generations.
  5. 절친 (Jeolchin): “Close friend.” Short for ‘절친한 친구’ (jeolchinhan chingu), meaning a very intimate and close friend.
  6. 자기야 (Jagiya): “Darling” or “Honey.” While primarily used between romantic partners, it can be used very playfully and affectionately between extremely close female friends, often with a hint of irony.
  7. 여보 (Yeobo): “Darling” or “Honey.” Similar to ‘Jagiya’, this term is typically reserved for married couples. Its use between friends is highly playful, often sarcastic, and only for the closest of bonds.
  8. 내 사랑 (Nae Sarang): “My love.” An affectionate term that can be used for a very dear friend, not necessarily romantic.
  9. 내 보물 (Nae Bomul): “My treasure.” For a friend who is incredibly precious and valuable to you.
  10. 내 편 (Nae Pyeon): “My side” or “My ally.” For a friend who always supports you and is on your side, no matter what.
  11. 소울메이트 (Soulmateu): “Soulmate.” A direct loanword from English, used to describe a friend with whom you share a deep spiritual or emotional connection.
  12. 평생 친구 (Pyeongsaeng Chingu): “Lifelong friend.” Emphasizes the enduring nature of your friendship.
  13. 영원한 친구 (Yeongwonhan Chingu): “Eternal friend.” Similar to ‘Pyeongsaeng Chingu’, highlighting an everlasting bond.
  14. 친애하는 (Chinaehanuen): “Dear.” More formal in its literal sense, but can be used ironically or with emphasis among close friends to convey deep affection.
  15. 나의 분신 (Naui Bunsin): “My alter ego” or “My other self.” For a friend who understands you perfectly and is like a part of you.

II. Cute & Playful Terms: Adding a Touch of Whimsy

These nicknames are often used to express adoration, cuteness, or a lighthearted, teasing affection.

  1. 귀요미 (Gwiyomi): “Cutie” or “Adorable one.” For a friend who is inherently cute or acts adorably.
  2. 애교쟁이 (Aegyojjaengi): “Someone full of aegyo.” For a friend who naturally exhibits cute, charming behaviors.
  3. 꿀벌 (Kkulbeol): “Honeybee.” For a sweet, busy, or hardworking friend.
  4. 아가 (Aga): “Baby.” Can be used for a friend who is younger, acts innocent, or needs looking after.
  5. 꼬마 (Kkoma): “Little one” or “Kiddo.” For a friend who is physically smaller or acts in a childlike, endearing way.
  6. 똥강아지 (Ttonggangaji): “Little puppy.” Literally “poop puppy,” but it’s a very affectionate, playful term for a cute, sometimes mischievous, friend.
  7. 바보 (Babo): “Fool” or “Silly.” Used affectionately, meaning “my silly friend” rather than a genuine insult.
  8. 멍청이 (Meongcheongi): “Dummy.” Similar to ‘Babo’, used endearingly for a friend who might do something silly.
  9. 개구쟁이 (Gaegujjaengi): “Mischievous one” or “Prankster.” For a friend who loves to joke around or pull pranks.
  10. 심쿵이 (Simkungi): “Heart-throb” or “Heart-flutterer.” For a friend who makes your heart skip a beat, often used playfully.
  11. 뿅아리 (Ppyongari): “Chick” (baby bird). For a small, cute, or innocent friend.
  12. 토끼 (Tokki): “Bunny.” For a friend who is cute, gentle, or perhaps a bit timid.
  13. 곰돌이 (Gomdori): “Teddy bear.” For a cuddly, comforting, or large friend.
  14. 천사 (Cheonsa): “Angel.” For a friend who is kind, helpful, or has a pure heart.
  15. 공주님 (Gongjunim): “Princess.” For a female friend who is cherished, pampered, or perhaps a bit dramatic.
  16. 왕자님 (Wangjanim): “Prince.” For a male friend who is handsome, charming, or acts nobly.

III. Food-Related Nicknames: Sweet & Delicious Bonds

Food is central to Korean culture, and using food items as nicknames often conveys sweetness, comfort, or a particular liking for that person.

  1. 빵 (Pang): “Bread.” Simple, comforting, and wholesome.
  2. 떡볶이 (Tteokbokki): “Spicy rice cakes.” For a friend who is lively, spicy, or simply your favorite.
  3. 젤리 (Jelli): “Jelly.” For a friend who is soft, sweet, or wobbly.
  4. 사탕 (Satang): “Candy.” For a sweet and delightful friend.
  5. 초코 (Choko): “Choco” (Chocolate). For a friend who is sweet and comforting like chocolate.
  6. 쿠키 (Kuki): “Cookie.” For a friend who is sweet, comforting, and a treat to be around.
  7. 케이크 (Keikeu): “Cake.” For a friend who is sweet, special, and makes life celebratory.
  8. 꿀 (Kkul): “Honey.” For a very sweet and precious friend.
  9. 찹쌀떡 (Chapsaltteok): “Sticky rice cake.” For a friend who is soft, squishy, or always sticks by you.
  10. 만두 (Mandu): “Dumpling.” For a friend who is cute, round, or comforting.
  11. 감자 (Gamja): “Potato.” For a friend who is simple, reliable, and a staple in your life.
  12. 옥수수 (Oksusu): “Corn.” For a friend who is sweet, cheerful, or has a bright personality.

IV. Personality/Trait-Based Nicknames: Capturing Their Essence

These nicknames highlight a friend’s prominent personality traits or habits, often in an affectionate or humorous way.

  1. 똑똑이 (Ttokttoki): “Smarty” or “Clever one.” For a friend who is intelligent or quick-witted.
  2. 힘찬이 (Himchani): “Energetic one” or “Powerful one.” For a friend who is full of energy and vigor.
  3. 긍정이 (Geungjeongi): “Positive one” or “Optimist.” For a friend who always sees the bright side.
  4. 밝음이 (Balkeumi): “Bright one” or “Cheerful one.” For a friend who brings light and joy.
  5. 웃음이 (Useumi): “Laughing one” or “Always smiling.” For a friend who laughs a lot or has a contagious smile.
  6. 잠만보 (Jammanbo): “Snorlax.” From the Pokémon character, for a friend who loves to sleep or is often sleepy.
  7. 엉뚱이 (Eongttungi): “Quirky one” or “Eccentric one.” For a friend with a unique, sometimes unpredictable, personality.
  8. 분위기 메이커 (Bunwigi Meikeo): “Atmosphere maker.” For a friend who is good at livening up the mood.
  9. 해결사 (Haegyeolsa): “Problem solver.” For a friend you can always count on to help with issues.
  10. 리더 (Rideo): “Leader.” (From English) For a friend who naturally takes charge or guides the group.
  11. 분위기 여신 (Bunwigi Yeosin): “Goddess of atmosphere.” For a female friend who brightens any gathering with her presence.
  12. 분위기 남신 (Bunwigi Namsin): “God of atmosphere.” For a male friend who brightens any gathering with his presence.
  13. 듬직이 (Deumjigi): “Reliable one” or “Dependable one.” For a friend who is trustworthy and steady.
  14. 순둥이 (Sundungi): “Innocent one” or “Gentle one.” For a friend who is mild-mannered and pure-hearted.
  15. 시크 (Shikeu): “Chic” or “Cool.” (From English “chic”) For a friend who is stylish and effortlessly cool.
  16. 쿨 (Kul): “Cool.” (From English “cool”) For a friend who is laid-back, calm, and generally admirable.

V. Shortened/Playful Variations of Names or Words: Personalized Affection

Many nicknames are derived directly from a friend’s name, often by adding playful suffixes or shortening them.

  1. (Friend’s Name) + 야/아 ((Name)-ya/a): A common informal address suffix. E.g., for a friend named Ji-min, you’d say “지민아 (Jimin-a).”
  2. (Friend’s Name) + 짱 ((Name)-jjang): “(Name) + best/awesome.” E.g., “수진짱 (Sujin-jjang)” means “Awesome Sujin.”
  3. (Friend’s Name) + 님 ((Name)-nim): “(Name) + honorific.” Used ironically or playfully to show exaggerated respect to a friend.
  4. (Friend’s Name) + 띠 ((Name)-tti): A cute, playful suffix added to a name, often for a whimsical effect.
  5. (Friend’s Name) + 쿵 ((Name)-kung): Another playful, cute suffix, often used to mimic a sound or feeling.
  6. (Friend’s Name) + 돌이 ((Name)-dori): A common suffix for boys’ names, making it sound like “little (name).” E.g., 철수돌이 (Cheolsu-dori).
  7. (Friend’s Name) + 쑤니 ((Name)-ssuni): A common suffix for girls’ names, making it sound like “little (name).” E.g., 영희쑤니 (Yeonghui-ssuni).
  8. (First Syllable of Name) + (First Syllable of Name): Doubling the first syllable for a cute effect. E.g., “지지 (Jiji)” for Jimin.
  9. (First Syllable of Name) + 똥 (Ddong): “(First Syllable) + poo.” A highly affectionate and playful term, despite the literal meaning. E.g., “지똥 (Jidong)” for Jimin. Use with extreme caution and only with very close friends who understand the affection.
  10. (First Syllable of Name) + 꿀 (Kkul): “(First Syllable) + honey.” E.g., “지꿀 (Jikkul)” for Jimin, meaning “Honey Jimin.”
  11. (Friend’s Name) + 새끼 ((Name)-saekki): “(Name) + little one/bastard.” This term is extremely informal and can be highly offensive if not used within a very specific context of deep, almost sibling-like closeness where both parties understand it as an affectionate, teasing insult. Use with utmost caution.

VI. Honorifics Used Informally/Affectionately: Blurring the Lines

While honorifics denote age and status, they can be used informally among friends to express affection or to playfully acknowledge age differences.

  1. 오빠 (Oppa): “Older brother.” Used by a female speaking to an older male friend. It implies closeness and affection.
  2. 언니 (Eonni): “Older sister.” Used by a female speaking to an older female friend. Signifies a close, supportive bond.
  3. 형 (Hyeong): “Older brother.” Used by a male speaking to an older male friend. Denotes respect and camaraderie.
  4. 누나 (Noona): “Older sister.” Used by a male speaking to an older female friend. Implies care and affection.
  5. 동생 (Dongsaeng): “Younger sibling/friend.” While not a direct address, it’s used to refer to a younger friend in an affectionate, protective way.

VII. Unique & Whimsical Nicknames: Beyond the Ordinary

These terms are more metaphorical, often poetic, and convey a deeper sense of admiration or importance.

  1. 심장 (Simjang): “Heart.” For a friend who is vital to your existence, like your own heart.
  2. 빛 (Bit): “Light.” For a friend who brings brightness and hope into your life.
  3. 햇살 (Haetsal): “Sunshine.” For a friend who is warm, cheerful, and illuminates your day.
  4. 별 (Byeol): “Star.” For a friend who shines brightly or guides you.
  5. 꽃 (Kkot): “Flower.” For a beautiful, delicate, or cherished friend.
  6. 보석 (Boseok): “Jewel.” For a friend who is precious and valuable.
  7. 그림자 (Geurimja): “Shadow.” For a friend who is always with you, constantly by your side.
  8. 껌딱지 (Kkeomttakji): “Chewing gum stuck on something.” For a friend who is always sticking to you, inseparable.
  9. 수호천사 (Suho Cheonsa): “Guardian angel.” For a friend who protects you or always looks out for you.
  10. 영웅 (Yeongung): “Hero.” For a friend who inspires you or saves the day.
  11. 내 우주 (Nae Uju): “My universe.” For a friend who means everything to you, encompassing your world.

Cultural Nuances & Usage Tips

When choosing and using Korean nicknames, understanding the cultural context is paramount:

  • Relationship Matters: The appropriateness of a nickname heavily depends on the depth and nature of your friendship. Some terms, like ‘Jagiya’ or ‘Yeobo’, are usually romantic, and their use among friends is a sign of extreme playfulness and closeness. Terms like ‘(Name) + 새끼’ are even more sensitive and should only be used if you have an incredibly strong, established bond and mutual understanding that it’s affectionate.
  • Mutual Consent: Always ensure your friend is comfortable with the nickname. It’s best to start with more common and universally accepted terms and gauge their reaction.
  • Age and Gender: While many nicknames are gender-neutral, some might lean towards one gender or be more common among certain age groups. For instance, ‘Oppa’ and ‘Unnie’ are specifically gendered honorifics used informally.
  • Context is Key: The same word can have different implications based on tone and situation. A playful “Babo!” is very different from a genuinely angry one.
  • Start Simple: If you’re new to using Korean nicknames, begin with safer, more common options like ‘단짝 (Danjjak)’ or ‘귀요미 (Gwiyomi)’ before venturing into more unique or potentially ambiguous terms.

Conclusion

Korean nicknames are more than just labels; they are a vibrant expression of affection, camaraderie, and the unique bond shared between best friends. They reflect the depth of connection, the inside jokes, and the unspoken understanding that defines true friendship. By exploring these 86 terms, you gain not only a vocabulary of endearment but also a deeper insight into the warmth and intimacy that characterize Korean relationships.

Whether you choose a sweet food-related name, a playful animal term, or a deeply meaningful descriptor, the act of giving and receiving a nickname is a beautiful way to acknowledge and celebrate the special place your best friend holds in your heart. So go ahead, find the perfect Korean nickname that truly captures the essence of your cherished friendship.

Read more: 86 nice nicknames for boyfriend