What does 깐부 (gganbu) mean?
- 깐부gganbu
Close buddy / partner
Casual: friends and people younger than you
깐부 (gganbu) means a close buddy or partner, someone on your side who shares everything with you. It is old children's slang from games like marbles, where 깐부 were teammates who shared their winnings. The word became famous worldwide through the Netflix series Squid Game (2021).
Where it comes from
Its exact origin is not clear. It was used among kids in the past, so many older Koreans remember it from childhood.
How to use 깐부
Today people use 깐부 playfully to mean a best friend, a partner in crime or someone you trust completely. It has a warm, slightly nostalgic feel.
It is casual. Use it with friends, or in a lighthearted way in speeches and ads. In everyday conversation, 친구 (chingu, "friend") or 베프 ("best friend") are more common.
After Squid Game, many brands and public figures used the word for fun, so many younger people learned it from the show.
Examples
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Asking a friend to share their snack
Making a pact with your best friend
Teaming up for a game
Other ways to say it
| Korean | Meaning | When |
|---|---|---|
| 깐부잖아 | We're buddies, aren't we? | Casual, reminding someone of your bond. |
| 깐부 하자 | Let's be buddies | What kids say to team up. |
| 친구 | Friend | Standard everyday word. |
Questions learners ask
What does gganbu mean in Squid Game?
It means a close partner who shares everything, the kind of friend you team up with in childhood games. The show made the old word famous around the world.
Is gganbu a real Korean word?
Yes. It is older children's slang that many Koreans remember from playing games like marbles. It is not in everyday use like 친구, but most people understand it.
Can I call my friend gganbu?
Yes, it is a friendly, playful word. Just keep it for casual situations.