Korean word

깡패

Pronunciation

Romanizationkkangpae

Meaning

  • nounthug

Example

어젯밤에 깡패들이 가게 앞에 있었어요.eo jet ppa me kkang pae deu ri ka ge a pe i sseo sseo yo

There were thugs in front of the store last night.

Illustration for 깡패 (thug)

More examples

주민들이 힘을 합쳐 깡패에게 맞섰다.chu min deu ri hi meul hap cheo kkang pae e ge mat sseot tta

The residents joined forces to stand up to the thugs.

Core concept

A rough person or small gang that uses fists or intimidation to control others and get money or revenge.

Common phrases

  • 깡패를 응징하다kkang pae reul eung jing ha da

    punish the thug

  • 깡패에게 맞서다kkang pae e ge mat sseo da

    stand up to the thug

Similar words

폭력배pongnyeokppae: A violent criminal group or one of its members that threatens, robs, or injures people.
조폭chopok: An organized crime gang or one of its members involved in extortion and other illegal acts.
건달keondal: Rogues without regular work who earn money by intimidating people and demanding payment.
양아치yangachi: A young delinquent or small group that mistreats people and causes trouble.

Definition in Korean

주로 주먹이나 협박으로 갈취·보복을 일삼는 개인이나 소규모 무리를 낮잡아 이르는 말이며, 때로는 폭력단의 일원에게도 쓰인다.chu ro chu meo gi na hyeop ppa geu ro kal chwi po bo geul il sam neun kae i ni na so gyu mo mu ri reul nat jja ba i reu neun ma ri myeo ttae ro neun pong nyeok tta nui i rwo ne ge do sseu in da

Word origin

The historical formation of 깡패 (kkangpae, "thug") is uncertain, and the meanings of its apparent parts do not provide a confirmed etymology.

Usage tips

  • Because this word is insulting, it fits descriptions of troublesome people better than friendly teasing or casual labels for a tough person.

Other meanings

  • hoodlumnoun
  • gangsternoun

Related words

  • 깡패단kkangpaedanthug gangnoun

Word lists with this word