[New Word Dictionary] Buca - Another Me Within Me

The term "Bucae" originates from gaming and refers to a sub-character created in addition to the main account or character used. Later, its meaning expanded in everyday life to include acting in a new role or character different from one's usual self. Illustration by Seongsu Oh

[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Heeyoon] Japanese film director Takeshi Kitano, who gained worldwide attention in the 1990s with films like ‘Hanabi’ and ‘Sonatine,’ originally worked as a comedian. When the director initially scheduled to star in the film ‘That Man Is Dangerous’ dropped out due to conflicts with the production company, putting the film at risk of being canceled, Kitano himself persuaded the production company to let him take the helm, making his directorial debut to critical acclaim. Subsequently, as Hanabi and Sonatine received praise at Venice and Cannes respectively, Kitano’s status as a film director rose. When active as the comedian Beat Takeshi, he dyed his hair blonde and appeared in roles, clearly separating the identities of his two characters. In Korea, rapper Mad Clown sparked attention by appearing wearing a hot pink mask and introducing himself as rapper MAMISON, unrelated to Mad Clown. Broadcaster Yoo Jae-suk showcased various characters such as drummer Yoo Go-star, trot singer Yoo San-seul, and entertainment agency CEO Jimmy Yoo on the show ‘Hangout with Yoo,’ ushering in a full-fledged era of supporting characters.

The term “bucaek” (sub-character) originates from gaming, referring to a newly created character or account separate from the main one. It has since expanded in everyday life to mean acting or performing as a new persona or character different from one’s usual self. The bucaek craze, spreading mainly in the entertainment industry, has introduced new stories and worlds to the public through diverse characters such as trot singer Duljjaeimo Kim Dabi portrayed by comedian Kim Shinyoung, nature-loving copycat Kapi Chu by comedian Choo Daeyeop, and Korean-American Linda G transformed by singer Lee Hyori. Recently, singer Lee Jihoon, who appeared as member Awonchu of the group A.A. on M.net’s web variety show ‘Bucaek Selection Contest’ and won first place, explained in an interview, “The greatest power of a bucaek is that you can do anything you want,” adding, “When the consumption of the main character reaches its limit, it’s a breakthrough to show the public a different color,” describing the meaning he found in bucaek. The bucaek craze, expressing various concerns about one’s identity amid a monotonous daily life, is expected to continue for some time through various media platforms.

Example

A: Congratulations! I heard you got your Pilates instructor certification this time?
B: Yeah, thanks. As I kept learning, I got ambitious and started seriously, and now I’ve come this far.
A: You must have been busy commuting to work and taking Pilates classes. So now you’re going to teach classes after work?
B: I’m trying to prepare for that. My job isn’t bad, but I’m really happy to have the chance to make money doing what I love.
A: Wow, you’re a real hardworking bucaek. I should create a bucaek myself too.

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