바선생

Ba-seonsaeng

Bah-sun-saeng

The 'Ba-seonsaeng' meme began to be widely used on the internet around 2022. It further spread around March to April 2023, when challenges like "What would you do if I turned into a cockroach?" became popular on social media.

'Ba-seonsaeng' is a euphemism and an internet neologism used when one is reluctant to directly mention 'cockroach' (바퀴벌레, bakwi-beolle). It originates from the psychological aversion to directly naming something repulsive. It's similar to how rats are sometimes called 'Seosaengwon' (서생원, an old honorific for a scholar, used ironically for rats). By attaching the honorific 'Seonsaengnim' (선생님, teacher/master), it paradoxically expresses a sarcastic form of respect for the cockroach's tenacious vitality or overwhelming presence.

This meme is primarily used by young generations who are active on the internet and social media, as well as by people of all ages. It is particularly prevalent among internet users who share an aversion to cockroaches.

• "A Ba-seonsaeng appeared in my house yesterday, so I couldn't sleep well."
• "Looking for a Ba-seonsaeng extermination expert."
• "Only do this when there are a lot of Ba-seonsaengs!"
• "The challenge of asking a friend, 'What would you do if I turned into a cockroach?' is trending."