Dictionary — Entry No. 0681
네
ne-yes · interjection
네
ne-yes
[neh]
interjectionbeginner
Meaning
네 (ne) is the formal and polite way to say ‘yes’ in Korean, used in professional settings, with elders, and in any context requiring courtesy. It signals respectful acknowledgment and is typically among the very first words Korean learners and K-Drama fans encounter.
K-Pop & K-Drama Context
네 is heard constantly in K-Dramas during office scenes, family dinners, and phone calls — characters in Goblin and Business Proposal use it extensively to show deference and attentiveness. TWICE’s members are frequently shown saying 네 during interviews and variety shows when responding to MC questions with polite enthusiasm. It is the standard response idols give on music show broadcasts when addressed by hosts.
Example Sentences
네, 알겠습니다.
Ne, algesseumnida.
Yes, I understand. (Very formal confirmation used in professional or respectful situations)
네, 맞아요.
Ne, majayo.
Yes, that’s right. (Polite agreement in everyday conversation — the safe default)
선생님, 네.
Seonsaengnim, ne.
Yes, teacher. (Respectful response to authority — the go-to phrase in every school drama)
⚠️ Don’t use ne-yes when…
Repeating 네 rapidly — 네네네 (ne ne ne) — carries a dismissive, impatient tone that Koreans recognize immediately, even though learners often think it sounds extra polite. Also, 네 (yes) and 네 (your/yours, as in 네 가방) are written and pronounced identically, so context determines meaning every time.
🎵 Heard In
- K-Drama: Business Proposal — Shin Ha-ri repeatedly says 네 in awkward workplace situations, perfectly capturing how the word functions within Korean social hierarchies.
- K-Pop: TWICE — YES or YES
ℹ️ Editorial Note: The cultural context and example usage are for educational reference only. Artist names, song titles, and drama references are used descriptively to illustrate vocabulary in context. This content is AI-assisted and reviewed for accuracy. For official information, please refer to the respective artists’ or studios’ official channels.