What does 갓생 mean?
When learning Korean, have you come across the word 갓생? This modern slang reflects the country's emphasis on self-improvement and work ethic. Let's dive into 갓생 and its related terms like 갓반인, 머글, and 현생, all of which offer a glimpse into Korean culture.
갓생 (God-Life)
The term 갓생 is a mash-up of "God" and "생" (short for life, 삶). It describes living an exemplary or "godly" life—one marked by productivity, discipline, and meaningful progress. If someone wakes up early, exercises, studies diligently, and accomplishes their goals, they're living a 갓생.
:
"오늘 일찍 일어나서 운동도 하고 공부도 했어. 갓생 살았지."
(I woke up early this morning, worked out, and studied. Living that 갓생 life!)
갓생 embodies the drive for self-betterment, a value deeply rooted in Korean society.
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갓반인 (Ordinary Person)
갓반인 refers to "ordinary people" and is often used humorously by 덕후 (enthusiasts) to describe those who are not consumed by fandoms or niche interests. It reflects a playful self-deprecation by 덕후, who sometimes admire the simplicity of non-fandom life.
:
"덕후로 살다 보니 갓반인이 너무 부럽다."
(As a passionate enthusiast, I sometimes envy ordinary people.)
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머글 (Muggle)
Borrowed from Harry Potter, 머글 in Korean also refers to non-enthusiasts or outsiders. However, it is often used in the context of fandoms. For instance, a K-pop fan might say:
"덕후들은 머글들과 대화가 힘들 때가 있어요."
(Sometimes, fans find it hard to talk with 머글s.)
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현생 (Real Life)
Short for 현실 생활 (real life), 현생 refers to one's "real-world" responsibilities outside of hobbies or fandoms. 덕후 use it to explain when they're too busy to fully engage with their passions:
"요즘 현생이 너무 바빠서 덕질을 못 하고 있어."
(I'm too busy with real life these days to indulge in my fandom.)
갓생: Living an admirable, productive life.
갓반인: Ordinary people admired by enthusiasts.
머글: Non-fans, often of specific hobbies.
현생: Real-life obligations.
Start using these fun words and dive deeper into Korean pop culture and language!