Korean Dictionary
How to say "Older brother (said by male)" in Korean
“Older brother (said by male)” in Korean is 형 (pronounced "Hyeong").
형
Hyeong
Usage & Context
A male speaker's older brother or a close older male friend. In Korean, kinship terms are used not just for family but also to address close acquaintances of similar age difference. Using 형 shows familiarity and respect for a slightly older male.
Example Sentence
형, 오늘 같이 밥 먹어요!
Hyeong (older bro), let's eat together today!
How to use 형 naturally
Quick answer
The Korean word for “Older brother (said by male)” is 형, romanized as Hyeong.
Usage tip
Relationship words can sound too direct if the social context is wrong. Check the age, closeness, and formality before using it.
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 형.
Pronunciation Guide
Pronounced 'hyung' — one syllable. Start with an 'h,' glide into a 'yoo' sound, and end with a soft 'ng.' Almost like 'hyoong.'
Formal & Casual Forms
Formal (존댓말)
형님
hyungnim
Respectful, used to address older males formally or in workplaces
Casual (반말)
형
hyung
Casual, used by younger males for older males they're close with
More Example Sentences
a younger guy asking his older friend
형, 이거 먹어봤어?
Hyung, have you tried this?
introducing a family member
우리 형은 대학생이에요.
My older brother is a college student.
catching up with an older male friend
형, 잘 지냈어요?
Hyung, how have you been?
Cultural Context
형 is used by males to address older males — it's both family (big brother) and social (older male friend you're close with). Calling someone 형 signals closeness and respect, but only after a certain level of friendship. In K-dramas and K-pop fandoms, 형 is how younger male idols refer to their seniors.
Editorial note
We check relationship words like 형 against age, closeness, and politeness rules, because a literal English match often misses the social meaning.
Reviewed by Min-jung Park, Korean Language Teacher. Updated May 31, 2026. See our editorial standards.
Common Phrases
형!
Hyung! (calling out to older bro)
우리 형이에요.
This is my older brother.
형이랑 같이 가요.
I'm going with my older brother.
Related Expressions
형님
hyungnim
older brother (honorific)
오빠
oppa
older brother (said by female)
동생
dongsaeng
younger sibling
친형
chinhyung
biological older brother
Frequently asked questions
How do I correctly pronounce the Korean word "형" (Hyeong) for older brother?+
The pronunciation of "형" (Hyeong) is straightforward. The 'ㅎ' (h) sound is aspirated, similar to the 'h' in "hello". The 'ㅕ' (yeo) vowel is like the 'yo' in "yogurt". The 'ㅇ' (ng) final consonant is a velar nasal, like the 'ng' in "sing". Put it together as "Hyeong", ensuring a clear 'h' and the 'ng' at the end.
When exactly do male speakers use the term "형" to address an older male in Korea?+
Male speakers use "형" (Hyeong) to address an older brother, a close older male friend, or even an older male acquaintance they wish to show respect and familiarity to. It's used when the speaker is male and the person being addressed is an older male. It implies a close relationship, moving beyond formal titles in many social contexts.
Is "형" considered a formal or informal way for a male to address an older male?+
"형" (Hyeong) is generally considered an informal yet respectful term. While it's not strictly formal like a professional title, it's used among close friends and family, indicating a bond of affection and respect for the older individual. It signifies a level of intimacy that makes it appropriate in most social settings where a close relationship exists.
Are there other related Korean terms for "older brother" besides "형" that I should know?+
Yes, while "형" (Hyeong) is used by males for an older brother, females use "오빠" (Oppa) for their older brothers or close older male friends. For a more formal or respectful address to an older male, regardless of gender, "형님" (Hyeongnim) can be used, often in specific contexts like addressing an in-law or a respected senior.
Can a female speaker use the term "형," or is it exclusively for males? What's the key difference?+
No, a female speaker should not use "형" (Hyeong). "형" is exclusively used by male speakers to address an older male. A female speaker would use "오빠" (Oppa) for her older brother or an older male friend. This gender-specific usage is a fundamental aspect of Korean kinship terms and a common mistake for learners.
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