Korean Dictionary
How to say "Legend" in Korean
“Legend” in Korean is 레전드 (pronounced "Rejeondeu").
레전드
Rejeondeu
Usage & Context
레전드 is used in Korean slang to describe something or someone truly legendary or iconic. It is used both sincerely for genuinely impressive things and sarcastically for hilariously bad moments. Korean online communities frequently label viral content as 레전드.
Example Sentence
이 영상 완전 레전드야. 몇 번을 봐도 웃겨.
This video is a total legend. It is funny no matter how many times you watch it.
How to use 레전드 naturally
Quick answer
The Korean word for “Legend” is 레전드, romanized as Rejeondeu.
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 레전드.
Pronunciation Guide
Pronounced 're-jeon-deu' — loanword. 're' like 'reh' with tapped r, 'jeon' rhymes with 'yawn' with j-, 'deu' like 'duh' with unrounded eu.
Formal & Casual Forms
Formal (존댓말)
전설
jeonseol
native Korean for legend/myth — used more for stories/folklore than the slang meaning
More Example Sentences
fan's reaction post-concert
이번 콘서트 완전 레전드였어!
This concert was a total legend!
discussing a famous moment
그 장면은 레전드로 남을 거예요.
That scene will go down as legendary.
sharing viral content
레전드 짤 모음 봤어?
Did you see the legendary meme compilation?
Cultural Context
레전드 is internet-era slang that shifts the English word from serious ('legendary hero') to hyperbolic ('that's legendary!' about a meme or moment). Koreans often combine it: '레전드 각' (legend-shaped = going to be legendary) or '레전드 등극' (ascending to legend status). Used for both iconic achievements and hilariously awful fails.
Editorial note
We flag slang like 레전드 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
이거 완전 레전드!
This is a total legend!
레전드 남길 각이야.
This is going to be legendary.
역대 레전드 영상이야.
It's an all-time legendary video.
Related Expressions
전설
jeonseol
legend (native)
대박
daebak
awesome/jackpot
역대급
yeokdaegeup
all-time best level
신화
sinhwa
myth/legend
Frequently asked questions
How should I pronounce the Korean slang term 레전드 (Rejeondeu) correctly?+
The Korean slang word 레전드, romanized as Rejeondeu, is pronounced similar to the English 'legend'. The key difference is the final '드' (deu) syllable. It's not a hard 'd' sound like in English 'legend', but rather a softer 'd' followed by a short, almost silent 'eu' vowel sound. Practice saying 'leh-jeon-duh' with a very light 'uh' at the end to get it right. It flows smoothly.
In what contexts do Koreans typically use the slang word 레전드 (Rejeondeu)?+
레전드 (Rejeondeu) is commonly used to describe something or someone truly exceptional, iconic, or memorable. It can be used sincerely for impressive achievements or humorously/sarcastically for hilariously bad or awkward situations that are unforgettable. Korean online communities frequently label viral content or unforgettable moments, whether good or bad, as 레전드.
Is 레전드 (Rejeondeu) considered a formal or informal expression in Korean language?+
레전드 (Rejeondeu) is strictly an informal slang term. It's widely used among friends, peers, and in online communities, but it is not appropriate for formal settings, business communications, or when speaking to elders or superiors. Using it in formal contexts would be considered disrespectful or out of place. Always reserve it for casual conversations.
Are there any similar Korean slang terms or expressions to 레전드 (Rejeondeu)?+
Yes, there are a few similar terms. '대박' (daebak) is a common exclamation for something amazing or a great success. '역대급' (yeokdaegeup), meaning 'all-time best/worst', also captures a similar sense of extreme impact or memorability, often used for something unprecedented. While '레전드' is often used as a noun or adjective, '대박' is more of an exclamation.
Can 레전드 (Rejeondeu) be used for negative or serious situations, or only positive ones?+
레전드 (Rejeondeu) has a dual nature. While it often praises something incredibly good, it's also frequently used sarcastically or humorously to describe hilariously bad, embarrassing, or absurd situations. For example, a major gaffe could be called a '레전드 실수' (rejeondeu silsu - legendary mistake). However, it's generally not used for genuinely tragic or deeply serious negative events, as its usage usually carries a lighthearted or ironic tone.
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