What it means
형 means "older brother" and is used by males when addressing older male friends, mentors, or actual brothers. It conveys respect and closeness. The male equivalent of 오빠.
Nuance & when to use
형 is only used by males. Hearing a male idol call his older bandmate 형 shows their real relationship. 형, 진짜요? (Really, hyung?) is a common K-drama line showing surprise. 형이잖아 (You're my hyung!) can be both affectionate and accusatory.
⚠ Common mistake
Females don't use 형 — they use 오빠. Males don't call females 형. The gender-specific nature of Korean kinship terms confuses many learners.
Example sentences
See also
FAQ
When is this used?
형 is only used by males. Hearing a male idol call his older bandmate 형 shows their real relationship. 형, 진짜요? (Really, hyung?) is a common K-drama line showing surprise. 형이잖아 (You're my hyung!) can be both affectionate and accusatory.
What's a common mistake?
Females don't use 형 — they use 오빠. Males don't call females 형. The gender-specific nature of Korean kinship terms confuses many learners.
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