The True Meaning Behind Netflix’s 'When Life Gives You Tangerines'—And Why Everyone’s Shocked

Netflix’s latest K-drama, When Life Gives You Tangerines, has left many viewers puzzled over its unique title. At first glance, Pokssak Sogatseuda might seem like it means “completely fooled” in standard Korean, but in Jeju dialect, it carries an entirely different—and heartwarming—meaning.

In Jeju dialect, Pokssak Sogatseuda translates to “You worked so hard” or “You’ve truly done a great job.” While sokda in standard Korean means “to be deceived,” in Jeju, it can also mean “to toil,” “to put in effort,” or “to struggle.” For instance, if a Jeju local says, Oneul pokssak sogatjeo (오늘 폭싹 속앗저), it means “You really worked hard today.”

Jeju dialect has long fascinated audiences whenever it appears in Korean media, as its similarities to standard Korean often mask its distinct meanings. Set in 1950s Jeju, When Life Gives You Tangerines follows the spirited and rebellious Ae-soon (played by IU) and the endlessly devoted Gwan-sik (played by Park Bo-gum) through the changing seasons of their lives.

One notable example of Jeju dialect in the drama is yomangjida (요망지다), which describes Ae-soon’s personality. While it sounds similar to the standard Korean yomanghada (요망하다), which has a negative connotation meaning “impudent” or “cheeky,” in Jeju dialect, yomangjida is a compliment, meaning “clever and quick-witted.” This kind of nuance often surprises those unfamiliar with Jeju speech.

Beyond just the title, Jeju dialect is expected to play a significant role throughout the drama. In fact, UNESCO has classified Jeju dialect as an endangered language due to its distinct characteristics, setting it apart from standard Korean. Rich in Middle Korean influences, Jeju dialect holds immense linguistic and historical value.

Here are some fascinating examples of how Jeju dialect differs from standard Korean:

Silpeuda (실프다) → Sounds like 슬프다 ("sad") in standard Korean, but in Jeju, it means “annoying” or “frustrating.”

Bejigeunhada (베지근하다) → Describes a rich, savory broth; has no exact equivalent in standard Korean.

Gamjeo (감저) / Jisil (지실, 지슬) → Jeju words for sweet potato and potato, respectively.

Mongkeda (몽케다) → Means to hesitate or dawdle.

Homi (호미) / Gaengi (겡이) → Jeju words for sickle and hoe.

Ilheum (일흠) → Means “name,” rooted in Middle Korean.

Jimchi (짐치) → The Jeju term for kimchi, originating from old Korean.

Orabang (오라방) → A Jeju term for “older brother,” not commonly used in standard Korean.

In When Life Gives You Tangerines, the Jeju dialect is woven seamlessly into the narrative, adding an authentic cultural layer to the story. The unique linguistic elements enrich the drama’s atmosphere, with actors skillfully bringing the dialect to life.

With Jeju language and culture deeply embedded in the drama’s DNA, audiences are eager to see how the series will introduce and preserve this regional heritage. When Life Gives You Tangerines may just be the show that brings greater awareness and appreciation for Jeju dialect to a global audience.