Korean Dictionary
How to say "Ajae" in Korean
“Ajae” in Korean is 아재 (pronounced "ajae").
아재
ajae
Usage & Context
Slang for an older man or someone with old-fashioned tastes. Often used affectionately or mockingly to describe someone's outdated style or humor.
Example Sentence
그 사람 아재 같아.
That person seems like an old man.
How to use 아재 naturally
Quick answer
The Korean word for “Ajae” is 아재, romanized as ajae.
Usage tip
Use slang only with friends or people who already speak casually with you. It can sound rude in formal Korean.
Common mistake
Do not rely only on the English meaning. Read the Korean example sentence and notice the particles, word order, and politeness level around 아재.
Pronunciation Guide
아 (a) sounds like 'ah' in 'father'. 재 (jae) sounds like 'jae' in 'jelly' but with a softer 'j' and a short 'ae' sound like 'a' in 'cat'. The stress is fairly even.
More Example Sentences
Describing a father's old-fashioned fashion sense.
우리 아빠는 완전 아재 스타일이야. 등산복만 입어.
My dad has a total 'ajae' style. He only wears hiking clothes.
Observing older men in a casual setting like a restaurant.
저기 앉아있는 아재들 막걸리 마시면서 얘기하네.
The 'ajaes' sitting over there are drinking makgeolli and talking.
Joking about one's own aging and relatable 'ajae' characteristics.
나도 이제 아재 다 됐네. 벌써 허리가 아파.
I've become a total 'ajae' now. My back already hurts.
Cultural Context
아재 is a modern slang term derived from '아저씨' (ajeossi), meaning 'mister' or 'middle-aged man.' It often carries a connotation of being a bit old-fashioned, uncool, or having 'dad-like' characteristics, such as telling corny jokes (아재개그), wearing unfashionable clothes, or having predictable hobbies. It can be used affectionately among friends or mockingly, depending on the context and tone, and is frequently heard in K-dramas and variety shows.
Editorial note
We flag slang like 아재 for register and audience, since Korean slang can shift quickly and may sound rude outside close friendships.
Reviewed by Min-jung Park, Korean Language Teacher. Updated May 31, 2026. See our editorial standards.
Common Phrases
아재 스타일
Ajae style (old-fashioned fashion)
아재 감성
Ajae sensibility/emotion (old-fashioned sentiment)
아재 입맛
Ajae palate (preferring traditional/simple foods)
Related Expressions
아저씨
ajeossi
mister, middle-aged man (more neutral/formal)
아줌마
ajumma
middle-aged woman (female equivalent)
꼰대
kkondae
old fogey, boomer (derogatory for preachy older person)
아재개그
ajae gaeg
dad joke (directly related concept)
More Slang Words
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