[MZ Dictionary] A Newbie Who's 'Aljaldakkkalsen'?

MZ Generation New Employees Relate and Trend
"Hearing These Words Would Make King Sejong Cry"

Editor's NoteWere you confused by the hard-to-understand language and behavior of the MZ generation? We are here to help you understand without any misunderstandings. Real MZ people reveal the true meanings behind their words.

Recently, Team Leader A was filled with anticipation upon hearing the news of an 'AI new employee' joining the company.

This was because he had heard many times about the reputation of AI that provides answers instantly. He had also recently seen an advertisement copy created by Hyundai Department Store's AI new employee 'Luis' in a news article.

However, Deputy B, who frequently uses AI for work and self-development, shook his head. He said it was not yet the stage to expect great achievements from AI.

"Team Leader, don't expect the AI to be an 'Aljalttakkkalsen' type of new employee."

"Aljalkkal...? What did you say?"

The Real Struggles of MZ New Employees Captured in 'Aljalttakkkalsen'

[Photo by Pixabay]

'Aljalttakkkalsen' means 'do it well, precisely, neatly, and with sense.' Recently, it has been shortened even further to 'Aljalttak.'

It first appeared in June 2018 during a live broadcast of a contest for a collaboration between streamer 'Uwakkud' and the fashion brand Fila.

During the contest broadcast, when viewers kept suggesting uninspired ideas, 'Uwakkud' expressed frustration and said, "Please do it well, neatly, and with sense... I’m counting on you." This led to the creation of the term "Aljalttakkkalsen."

This resonated deeply with the MZ generation because it reflected a phrase they often heard from their bosses or clients.

Instead of clear instructions like "Change C to D," they often received vague directions such as "It would be better if C had a more impactful feel. Can't you do it with some sense?" The experience of having to figure things out 'on their own' gave 'Aljalttakkkalsen' its power.

'Aljalttakkkalsen' Gained Fame Through Broadcast Appearances

[Photo by tvN Broadcast 'Ppyong Ppyong Jigu Oraksil' Capture]

'Aljalttakkkalsen,' which was used in gaming communities like Twitch and some online forums, gained popularity in 2020. BTS correctly answered the term 'Aljalttakkkalsen' during a new slang quiz on Naver V Live.

After learning the meaning, member Jimin remarked, "If you use words like this, King Sejong would shed tears," which led the term to top portal site search rankings.

Since then, 'Aljalttakkkalsen' has frequently appeared in new slang quizzes on various broadcasts.

Notably, in 2022, on the tvN variety show 'Ppyong Ppyong Earth Arcade,' PD Na Young-seok mistakenly presented 'Aljalttakkkalsen' as 'Aljalkkaldaksen' during a new slang quiz, and cast member Ahn Yujin pointed out the error. This led to a memorable scene where Ahn Yujin shouted Na Young-seok PD’s signature "Ddaeng!" and rose as the character known as the 'Clear-eyed Madman.'