Say "Sosin Sobi" Instead of "Meaning Out"

Recommendations for Korean Alternatives
for "Meaning Out," "Face Shield," and "Co-living House"
by the National Institute of the Korean Language

On the 26th, when the discount event "Korea Together Sale," planned to overcome the economic crisis caused by COVID-19 and promote consumption, began, Mangwon Market in Seoul was bustling with citizens. This Together Sale, in which all economic entities including traditional markets, neighborhood supermarkets, department stores, and large marts participate with gift certificate giveaways and discount events, will be held for 17 days until the 12th of next month. Photo by Kim Hyunmin kimhyun81@

The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism and the National Institute of the Korean Language recommended on June 29 that the term "meaning out" be replaced with the Korean expression "Sosin Sobi," which means "consumption based on one's beliefs." They also suggested "eolgul garimmak" (face shield) and "gonggan nanum jutaek" (co-living house) as Korean alternatives for "face shield" and "co-living house," respectively.

"Meaning out" refers to expressing one's tastes or beliefs by purchasing and sharing specific products. The selection of the alternative term "Sosin Sobi" was based on survey results. An official from the Ministry stated, "In a survey conducted from June 22 to 23 with 600 citizens, more than 60% responded that 'meaning out' should be replaced with a simpler Korean term," adding, "Over 77% of respondents supported the term 'Sosin Sobi.'"

"Face shield" refers to a film-type face protector used to prevent infection. It is lighter and easier to wear than goggles, making it popular among many people. "Co-living house" refers to a new type of communal housing where personal spaces are separated, but residents share common areas within the building.

The Ministry and the Institute selected these alternative terms during the "Saemalmoim" (New Words Meeting) held from June 19 to 21. The Saemalmoim is a committee that provides easy-to-understand Korean alternatives for difficult foreign neologisms before they become widespread. Experts from various fields, including Korean language, foreign languages, education, public relations and publishing, information and communications, and media, participate in the committee. The Ministry and the Institute plan to continue promoting the use of these alternatives, encouraging government ministries and media organizations to take the lead.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.