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Can I Call My Friend Hyung?

Published in Korean Culture 2 mins read

The term "Hyung" is a Korean honorific used to address an older brother or a male friend older than you. It is a sign of respect and is used in various social contexts.

Whether you can call your friend "Hyung" depends on a few factors:

  • Your relationship with your friend: If you are close with your friend and he is older than you, it is generally acceptable to call him "Hyung."
  • Your friend's preference: It's always best to ask your friend if he prefers to be called "Hyung" or by his name.
  • Social context: In some formal settings, it might be more appropriate to address your friend by his name.

If you are unsure, it is always better to err on the side of caution and address your friend by his name.

Examples:

  • If you are a younger male friend, you can ask, "Can I call you Hyung?" or "Do you mind if I call you Hyung?"
  • If you are unsure about the appropriate way to address your friend, simply ask, "How would you like me to address you?"

Ultimately, the best way to determine whether you can call your friend "Hyung" is to communicate directly with him.

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