What does ㅇㅋ (okay) mean?
- ㅇㅋokay
OK
Casual: friends and people younger than you
ㅇㅋ (okay) means "OK" in Korean texting. It is short for 오케이 (okei), the Korean spelling of the English word "okay".
Where it comes from
ㅇ and ㅋ are the first consonants of 오 and 케 in 오케이. Typing only the consonants makes it a two-key reply.
How to use ㅇㅋ
ㅇㅋ is one of the most common quick replies between friends: agreeing to a plan, confirming a time, or saying "got it". Doubling it as ㅇㅋㅇㅋ sounds a bit more cheerful and willing.
Like most consonant abbreviations, it is only for friends and people your age or younger. To a boss or an older person, write 네, 알겠습니다 instead.
Spoken versions also exist. 오키 and 오키오키 are cute, casual ways to say okay out loud or in text.
Examples
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Splitting chores with a roommate
Confirming a meetup time
Friend says they will pick you up
Other ways to say it
| Korean | Meaning | When |
|---|---|---|
| ㅇㅋㅇㅋ | Okay okay | Cheerful, willing. |
| 오케이 | Okay | The full word. |
| 오키 | Okie | Cute, casual version. |
| 알겠습니다 | Understood | Polite version for work or elders. |
Questions learners ask
How do you say OK in Korean texting?
The quickest way is ㅇㅋ. You can also write 오케이, 오키, or ㅇㅋㅇㅋ for a more cheerful tone.
Can I send ㅇㅋ to my boss?
Better not. It is very casual. Use 네, 알겠습니다 ("Yes, understood") instead.
What is the difference between ㅇㅋ and ㅇㅇ?
ㅇㅋ is "OK" and is used to agree to something. ㅇㅇ is "yeah" and is used to answer yes to a question. They often overlap.