I should really change the name from “Word of the Week” to “Words of the Week” since there are always multiple words. Today is no different, and this time for those of you who can’t read 한글 (hangeul…the Korean alphabet) today’s episode features Konglish that makes exclusive use of 로마자 (Roman letters). Today we take a look at some wacky abbreviations that most certainly do not exist in America. You will know it is time to turn the page when you hear the chimes ring like this (SOUND OF CHIMES). Let’s begin now (SOUND OF CHIMES).
(Commercial Film)
At least that’s what the smart money for the meaning of CF would be. CFs are commercials. Here in Korea commercials usually star celebrities from other realms (music, television, film, sports, ect.) Rare is the commercial featuring regular schmucks. Though Korea does have it’s share of commercials for local business on cable channels (which I have learned are the same the world over).
(Music Video)
This is pretty self explainatory, but to those of you who are not Koreans and are hanging around with Koreans, you would more likely than not, have no clue what your friends are talking about if they start talking about MVs. Please don’t confuse the Korean MV with the Nirvana b-side “MV.” The Nirvana “MV” stood for “Moist Vagina.”
(Membership Training)
The concept of membership training is really hard to explain. It’s kind of like an orientation. It’s kind of like summer camp. It’s kind of like a drunken bender. Basically when people join new clubs, declare majors, participate in a sport, and so on, these people go on membership training, which pretty much involves eating, drinking, and rediculous games that foster a sense of togetherness among the group.
(Producer)
As in a television show’s producer. This abbreviation is commonly seen on random Korean game shows where the producer will yell stuff from off camera. Since game shows have a bizarre habit of writing out everything that is bellowed on the bottom of the screen you will often see things like, “PD: 야, 임마!” on Korean game shows.
(No Good)
This is the Korean version of an outtake or a bloopers on television show or a movie. Like PD, this is commonly seen on Korean game shows.
So there are some of the random abbreviations used here in Korea. If I left anything out, drop me a comment and let me know.
