In Korea, it is common to answer the phone by saying “Moshi Moshi” instead of “hello.” This phrase comes from the Japanese language and was adopted by Koreans during the Japanese occupation from 1910-1945. While Korea is now independent, the custom of saying “Moshi Moshi” on the phone has remained.
The Meaning and Origin of Moshi Moshi
“Moshi Moshi” literally means “hello hello” in Japanese. The word “moshi” means “hello,” so saying it twice (“Moshi Moshi”) is a way of greeting someone. This phrase was originally used when answering the telephone in Japan as early as the late 1800s.
The duplication of the word “moshi” serves a specific purpose. Saying “hello” twice helps confirm the connection between the two speakers and indicates that the listener is paying attention. The repetition makes it clear that the greeting is not accidental or mistaken.
Use of Moshi Moshi in Japan
In Japan, “Moshi Moshi” became the standard telephone greeting in the early 20th century. At that time, telephones were still a new technology and people wanted to make sure the connection worked properly. Saying “moshi” twice verified that communication was established.
As telephones proliferated in Japan, “Moshi Moshi” was cemented as the way to politely answer the phone. It is used for both personal and business calls. The phrase continues to be ubiquitous when phone conversations start in Japan today.
Adoption in Korea
Korea was under Japanese colonial rule from 1910 to 1945. During this time, the Japanese language was taught in Korean schools and used in government and media. Many Japanese customs and words, including “Moshi Moshi,” were adopted by Koreans.
Even after Korea gained independence, the habit of saying “Moshi Moshi” persisted. Since it was already widely used and familiar, Koreans continued responding to phones with the Japanese phrase. Its repeated use over decades has made it a standard part of telephone etiquette in Korea.
Other Situations Koreans Say Moshi Moshi
“Moshi Moshi” is not just used when answering the phone. Koreans also say it in other situations when trying to get someone’s attention or confirm they are listening.
Greeting Friends
In informal settings among friends, “Moshi Moshi” may be used casually to say hello and check that someone notices you. For example, saying “Moshi Moshi” to greet a friend walking down the street or entering a room.
Getting a Stranger’s Attention
Saying “Moshi Moshi” is a polite way to get the attention of a stranger. For instance, if you need to ask someone for directions on the street, starting with “Moshi Moshi” establishes a friendly tone.
Confirming Understanding
Koreans may also say “Moshi Moshi” in the middle of a conversation to confirm the other person is still listening and engaged. The phrase reminds the listener to pay attention to what is being said.
Why Moshi Moshi Persists in Korea
There are several reasons why “Moshi Moshi” continues to be popular in Korea even though it originated in Japan:
Habit and Familiarity
After using “Moshi Moshi” for decades, it has become ingrained in Korean culture. Since everyone is accustomed to saying and hearing it, the habit persists.
Polite and Friendly Tone
The repetition of “moshi” establishes a polite, friendly tone to interactions. Koreans appreciate this gentle approach to getting someone’s attention.
Distinguishes Phone Greetings
Having a dedicated telephone greeting distinguishes answering the phone from other conversations. “Moshi Moshi” signals a phone call right away.
Lack of Alternative
There is no widely-adopted Korean equivalent to “Moshi Moshi” for telephone greetings. The absence of another option means Koreans continue using the Japanese phrase.
Regional Differences in Korea
While “Moshi Moshi” is common throughout Korea, there are some regional differences in usage:
Busan
In the southeastern port city Busan, “Yeoboseyo” is a more popular telephone greeting than “Moshi Moshi.” “Yeoboseyo” is a native Korean word that means “hello.”
Jeju Island
On the southern island province of Jeju, answering phones with “Yeonghwani ohiseyo” is common. This Jeju dialect phrase means “hello over the phone.”
Younger generation
Some younger Koreans are moving away from “Moshi Moshi” and simply say “Hello” on the phone instead. This reflects changing cultural trends among Korean youth.
Interesting Facts about Moshi Moshi in Korea
Beyond its basic function as a telephone greeting, “Moshi Moshi” has some cultural quirks and unique uses in Korea:
- Koreans sometimes write “Moshi Moshi” instead of saying it out loud – for example, in text messages when initiating a conversation.
- It is used in Korean pop songs and media, especially when characters are answering the phone.
- Some Koreans have “Moshi Moshi” set as their ringtone so they know the call is from Korea before answering.
- There are cute plush toys and cell phone accessories with “Moshi Moshi” on them.
- Spam callers in Korea often start with “Moshi Moshi” to seem polite before trying to scam people.
Is Moshi Moshi Considered Japanese or Korean?
There is disagreement on whether Koreans perceive “Moshi Moshi” as a Japanese or Korean phrase today:
Arguments for Japanese
- The word “moshi” itself is obviously Japanese in origin.
- It was imported from Japan and did not originate in Korea.
- Some Koreans avoid it due to anti-Japanese sentiment.
- It is more strongly associated with Japanese culture than Korean.
Arguments for Korean
- It has been used in Korea for nearly a century.
- Many Koreans are not consciously aware of its Japanese roots.
- It is not seen as more formal/polite like other Japanese loanwords.
- For most Koreans today, it is viewed as a Korean custom.
Overall, most Koreans consider “Moshi Moshi” a conventional part of Korean etiquette and use it without thinking of it as foreign or Japanese. But its origin and history contribute to the diverging perspectives.
Conclusion
In summary, Koreans say “Moshi Moshi” due to the influence of the Japanese occupation on Korean culture and language. Its use became customary during the colonial period and continued after independence. While originally Japanese, most Koreans have fully embraced “Moshi Moshi” and view it as a Korean telephone greeting today. It persists owing to habit, politeness, and lack of alternatives. The phrase exemplifies how language and culture evolve through contact between societies over time.