seonbae
Also written: sunbae; seonbae; 선배님; senior; upperclassman
A Korean term for someone senior within the same school, organization, profession, activity, or shared field because they entered or gained experience earlier. Age alone does not determine the relationship.
Literal meaning
senior; a person who entered earlier
Cultural context
Seonbae–hubae relationships help organize hierarchy, mentorship, etiquette, and networks in schools, workplaces, clubs, entertainment, and professions. The more respectful form 선배님 adds the honorific 님.
How dramas use it
Characters may call an older student, experienced colleague, established teammate, or professional predecessor seonbae. The relationship can carry respect, obligation, rivalry, affection, mentorship, or romantic tension.
Usage & formality
Seonbae does not simply mean “older person.” Someone younger in age can still be a seonbae if they entered the institution or field first.