Korean Dictionary
How to say "Maknae" in Korean
“Maknae” in Korean is 막내 (pronounced "makgnae").
막내
makgnae
Usage & Context
Maknae refers to the youngest member of a K-pop group. In Korean culture, the youngest holds a special role and is often both babied and teased by older group members.
Example Sentence
그 그룹의 막내는 나이에 비해 성숙하다는 평을 받는다.
The group's maknae is praised for being mature beyond their age.
How to use 막내 naturally
Quick answer
The Korean word for “Maknae” is 막내, romanized as makgnae.
Usage tip
Learn this word together with a complete Korean sentence. Meaning often depends on particles, politeness level, and word order.
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 막내.
Pronunciation Guide
“막내” (makgnae) is pronounced “MAHK-nae.” The “막” (mak) is like “mock” but with a shorter 'a' sound, ending with a soft 'k' stop. The “내” (nae) sounds like “nay” in “nay-say.” The 'g' in romanization is silent or very soft, almost blending into the 'n'.
More Example Sentences
A family member talking about their youngest sibling.
우리 가족의 막내는 아직 고등학생이에요.
The youngest in our family is still a high school student.
Describing the role and treatment of the youngest in a group.
팀의 막내라서 귀여움을 독차지해요.
Being the youngest in the team, they get all the cuteness.
Discussing the dynamics within a K-pop group.
그 막내 멤버는 형들에게 장난을 많이 쳐요.
That youngest member often plays a lot of pranks on their older brothers.
Cultural Context
“막내” is a crucial concept in Korean culture, reflecting the importance of age hierarchy. The maknae is typically doted upon, protected, and sometimes playfully teased by older members (형/누나/오빠/언니). In K-pop groups, the maknae often has a distinct image, sometimes cute and innocent, other times surprisingly mature or “evil maknae” (악마 막내) who playfully challenges the older members. This dynamic is a significant part of group chemistry and fan appeal.
Editorial note
We review entries like 막내 for pronunciation, example sentence fit, and learner mistakes so the page answers more than a direct dictionary lookup.
Reviewed by Min-jung Park, Korean Language Teacher. Updated May 31, 2026. See our editorial standards.
Common Phrases
막내 온 탑
Maknae on top (playful phrase meaning the youngest rules)
우리 막내
Our maknae (our youngest)
막내 특권
Maknae privilege (benefits of being the youngest)
Related Expressions
맏이
maji
eldest child
형 라인
hyeong rain
hyung line (older male members)
막내 라인
maknae rain
maknae line (youngest members)
귀염둥이
gwiyeomdungi
cutie, darling (often used for maknae)
More Korean Pop Culture Words
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