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Did you know that Valentine’s Day in Korea is celebrated differently from many other countries? In this episode, we’ll explore the origins of Valentine’s Day (it wasn’t romantic at all!) and how & why Korea celebrates Valentine’s Day differently. Curious about the hidden story behind this romantic day? Tune in now! 🎧✨ Want to take your Korean learning further? Free Download: Transcript & Fill-in-the-blank worksheet https://buymeacoffee.com/kimexplainskorean/e/372971 You can also watch this episode (transcript along) on my YouTube. https://youtu.be/KRuVfph0KwA

Why have terms like ‘혼밥’ (eating alone), ‘혼술’ (drinking alone), and ‘혼행’ (traveling alone) become so common in Korea? In this episode, we dive into the background of these trends and explore the appeal of doing things solo in a rapidly changing society. Want to take your Korean learning further? Free Download: Transcript & Fill-in-the-blank worksheet https://buymeacoffee.com/kimexplainskorean/e/363111 You can also watch this episode (transcript along) on my YouTube. https://youtu.be/_iPIpL7jBhk

Squid Game: Nostalgia, Survival, and Global Phenomenon In this episode, we dive into the captivating world of Squid Game—why it became a global sensation, the nostalgic childhood games that made it so special for Koreans. Tune in for cultural insights! Want to take your Korean learning further? Free Download: transcript & fill-in-the-blank worksheet https://buymeacoffee.com/kimexplainskorean/e/355998 You can also watch this episode (transcript along) on my YouTube. https://youtu.be/o5KiTpxq2-8

Korea’s 2025 Trend, Aboha. In this episode, we dive into Korea's 2025 trend, "아보하" (A Very Ordinary Day). How does it differ from the popular term "소확행" (Small but Certain Happiness)? Discover why embracing the simplicity of unshared, peaceful moments is gaining attention and how it reflects a shift in modern Korean culture. Want to take your Korean learning further? Grab my PDF, which includes transcript, key vocabulary, comprehension questions and Must-Know expressions. https://buymeacoffee.com/kimexplainskorean/e/347087 You can also watch this episode (transcript along) on my YouTube. https://youtu.be/zLeKCO1sPGM

Why is everyone in Korea wearing black in winter?  In this episode, we dive into the funny term 'Kimbap Season,' coined by foreigners to describe Korea's winter fashion. Discover the quirky "no color rule" dominating Korean winter fashion and the cultural and practical reasons behind. Tune in to learn how practicality, culture, and style come together in Korea's cold season! Want to take your Korean learning further? Grab my PDF, which includes transcript, key vocabulary, comprehension questions and Must-Know expressions. https://buymeacoffee.com/kimexplainskorean/e/341210 You can also watch this episode (transcript along) on my YouTube. https://youtu.be/BmDTOTrYl5c

Why do Koreans often downplay expressions of gratitude?This episode dives into the fascinating story behind 천만에요, its true meaning. We'll explore cultural roots influenced by Confucianism and you'll also learn the modern alternatives Koreans prefer today. Want to take your Korean learning further? Grab my PDF, which includes transcript, key vocabulary, comprehension questions and special Feature: An in-depth exploration of the phrase "Humility is a virtue" in Korean culture. https://buymeacoffee.com/kimexplainskorean/e/334766 You can also watch this episode (transcript along) on my YouTube. https://youtu.be/js3Xp3Cnv9Y

We dive into the story behind Apartment, the song by BLACKPINK’s Rosé and Bruno Mars that’s captivated listeners worldwide! We'll introduce two popular Korean drinking games that bring people together in Korea’s social scene. Want to take your Korean learning further? Grab my PDF, which includes transcript, key vocabulary, writing exercise and comprehension questions to test your understanding.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://buymeacoffee.com/kimexplainskorean/e/328460 You can also watch this episode (transcript along) on my YouTube. https://youtu.be/SJh5XoTLCwA

Han Kang has just won the Nobel Prize in Literature, a historic moment for Korean literature. In this episode, we explore the author, her impactful works like The Vegetarian, and the reasons behind her Nobel win. Want to take your Korean learning further? Grab my PDF, which includes Must-Know expression, key vocabulary and comprehension questions to test your understanding.⁠⁠⁠ https://buymeacoffee.com/kimexplainskorean/e/322110 You can also watch this episode (transcript along) on my YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U976k-MzG4A

Ever wondered why it feels like couples are everywhere in Korea? From cozy cafes to bustling parks, it seems like love is always in the air. Why Are There So Many Couples in Korea? In this episode, we dive into the unique reasons - why it stands out, what makes it so visible. Tune in as we explore the iconic phrase "Couple's Paradise, Single's Hell". Want to take your Korean learning further? Grab my PDF, which includes Grammar points, key vocabulary and comprehension questions to test your understanding.⁠ https://buymeacoffee.com/kimexplainskorean/e/315172 You can also watch this episode (Listen and Read the transcription at the same time) on my YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1wh-sD-rRs8&list=PLuUtJGJovsyzFQ9VBL3rnZ83o2vfxNihV

Tradition Meets Trend: The New Face of Korean Holidays.A look at how Korea’s holiday customs are blending with modern lifestyles. Want to take your Korean learning further? Grab my PDF, which includes Grammar points, key vocabulary , writing exercises, and comprehension questions to test your understanding. https://buymeacoffee.com/kimexplainskorean/e/305442 You can also watch this episode (Listen and Read the transcript at the same time) on my YouTube.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c_hFy_tCDoI&list=PLuUtJGJovsyzFQ9VBL3rnZ83o2vfxNihV&index=1

Have you heard of the Korean Slang "엄친아"(엄마 친구 아들)? Or are you watching the Korean drama called 엄마 친구 아들? In this episode, we dive into the term "엄친아" and explore its meaning in Korean culture and dramas. Whether you're a K-drama fan or just looking to improve your Korean, this is the perfect way to learn while having fun! Want to take your learning further? Grab my PDF, which includes key vocabulary , writing exercises, and comprehension questions to test your understanding. https://buymeacoffee.com/kimexplainskorean/e/299715 You can also watch this episode (Listen and Read the transcript at the same time) on my YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ec40zYi7YX0&list=PLuUtJGJovsyzFQ9VBL3rnZ83o2vfxNihV&index=2