sseom
Also written: some; sseom; som; 썸 타다; situationship
The ambiguous stage in which two people show mutual romantic interest and behave as though something is developing, but they have not clearly defined themselves as a couple.
Literal meaning
“something,” shortened from the English word
Cultural context
The expression comes from the idea that there is “something” between two people. It became a common way to describe flirtation, emotional testing, and pre-dating uncertainty in contemporary Korean relationships and media.
How dramas use it
A sseom is built through messages, meals, jealousy, favors, lingering looks, and almost-confessions. The tension comes from whether the pair will define the relationship or retreat into friendship.
Usage & formality
Sseom usually suggests some degree of mutual signal, not a one-sided crush. English “situationship” can overlap but often carries a longer or more complicated meaning.