Which Hand Signals Do Koreans Use?

 

Today, we will be learning about different hand signals that Koreans often use. As the body language varies between countries and the meanings of each hand signal may differ depending on the countries as well, we recommend you to learn these hand signals and try using them on your Korean friends next time!

1. V Sign

V stands for victory in V-sign, and this is a classic Korean hand signal. It is a standard pose Koreans take when taking pictures or selfies. Do not forget that the conventional Korean phrase for pictures is ”1, 2, 3! Kimchi~”.

2. Heart Sign

Next hand signal is a pose that Americans frequently take to describe money. In Korea, these hand signals are recognized as ”hearts”. It is another pose that Koreans often take during photo time! Express your love towards someone by using this body language! (Then how do Koreans express money? There are people who use the American body language, but most people make OK signs with hands to describe money.)

3. To call (or get) someone

To call a person, Koreans sometimes use this hand signal with the back of the hand facing the top. Be aware that confusing this hand signal with the American signal, with the palm facing the top, can offend someone if they are not familiar with American cultures, as this sign is used in Korea to call and get pets. 

Today, we went over some Korean hand signs. As Koreans enjoy using interjections than gestures during a speech, we will go over these interjections Koreans enjoy using next time!