급식 (geupsik) is a colloquial term used in South Korea that literally means 'school lunch.'
However, it has evolved into slang used to refer to students, particularly those in middle and high school.
The term is often used in a light-hearted or humorous context and can sometimes carry a slightly teasing or affectionate connotation. It reflects the shared experience of students eating school lunches together, which is a common part of their daily life.
In addition, 급식 is sometimes used to describe the behavior, attitudes, or characteristics of younger students, especially in online communities or among peers. It's important to note that while it can be playful, context matters, as it can also be used disparagingly depending on the tone of the conversation.
A: 요즘 급식들 너무 시끄럽다, 애들이 질서를 안 지키는 것 같아.
B: 진짜, 교실에서 뭐 그렇게 떠들어? 학창 시절에 나도 그랬던 것 같지만...
A: 맞아, 그런데 요즘은 더 심한 것 같아. 선생님이 말씀해도 듣지를 않더라고.
B: 그러니까, 급식들이 좀 더 책임감을 가져야 할 텐데…
A: 우리 때는 그래도 선생님 말씀 잘 들었는데…
B: 요즘은 그런 게 없는 것 같아. 좀 아쉽다.
A: These 급식 are so noisy these days; it feels like they’re not keeping order.
B: Seriously, why are they talking so much in class? I think I was like that too in school...
A: Right? But it seems worse now. Even when the teachers say something, they don’t listen.
B: Exactly, I wish these 급식 would be a bit more responsible...
A: Back in my day, we at least listened to the teachers...
B: It seems like that’s not the case anymore. It's a bit disappointing.