Honorifics are crucial in Korean culture for proper conversation and relationship building. 씨 (shi) is the most common honorific for equal social standing. 님 (nim) is used for professions and notable status. 선배 (sun-bae) means senior, 후배 (hu-bae) means junior. 군 (goon) and 양 (yang) are used for young unmarried males and females
Korean culture emphasizes respect and etiquette in speech. Different registers exist based on context and age difference. Elders are addressed formally, peers and younger people informally
"Dongsaeng" means "younger sibling" but is used for close friends and family members. Gender-neutral term used by both male and female Koreans. Older siblings call younger siblings "dongseang". Older siblings call younger sisters "yeo-dongsaeng" or "nam-dongsaeng"
"Hyung" means "older brother" in Korean. Primarily used by men to refer to older male friends. Can be used with family members, cousins, or schoolmates. Women sometimes use it as flirty alternative to "oppa"
"Noona" means "older sister" in Korean. Used by men to address older females. Conveys respect and closeness in casual settings. Should not be used with bosses or teachers
"Oppa" means "older brother" in Korean. Primarily used by women to refer to older male friends. Typically used for men no more than 10 years older. Can refer to biological brothers, cousins, or handsome male celebrities