Korea's New MBTI: Are You Attracted to a 'Teto Man' or Do You Prefer an 'Egen Woman'?

Do you know the new buzzwords that are currently dominating Korean internet and variety shows? While MBTI once categorized Korean personalities into 16 types, the new slang terms 'Teto' and 'Egen' are now being used to describe ideal romantic types and male-female relationships.

These terms classify a person’s characteristics and charm by comparing them to hormones. It's an 'Internet Meme' used to categorize people. Rather than taking it too seriously, you can view it as a fascinating window into how deeply and humorously Koreans consider their dating styles and ideal partners!

1. Teto and Egen: What Are They? 'Teto' and 'Egen' are derived from hormones:

Teto: Stands for Testosterone, symbolizing masculine traits.

Egen: Stands for Estrogen, symbolizing feminine traits.

These terms are used to classify a person's temperament and appeal, regardless of their gender, and are often abbreviated as Teto Man/Woman or Egen Man/Woman. If someone in Korea asks, "Do you prefer a Teto Man or an Egen Man?" they are essentially asking, "What style of person is your ideal type?"

2. Teto vs. Egen: The Perfect Feature Comparison Check which side you or your ideal partner falls on, based on the traits defined by the creators of this trend:

3. Advanced Dating: The Teto & Egen Food Chain Theory The most entertaining part of this trend is the 'food chain' that supposedly governs attraction between these types. (Remember, this is a joke or a meme theory!)

This theory suggests that attraction flows in a specific, cyclical order:

Egen Woman (Most Delicate) is attracted to the Egen Man (Believes he will be sensitive and understanding).

Egen Man is attracted to the Teto Woman (Wants someone cool and capable of taking the lead).

Teto Woman is attracted to the Teto Man (Wants someone stronger and more decisive than herself).

Teto Man (Most Dominant) is attracted to the Egen Woman (Wants someone he can protect and cherish).

In common usage, Teto Man is often used as a compliment (e.g., "Alpha Male"), and Teto Woman means "cool and genuine." Conversely, Egen Man is sometimes used for teasing if a man is perceived as too delicate, while Egen Woman describes someone who is "pretty and dainty."

Which type do you think you are, or which one is your ideal type? Share your Teto/Egen type and your 'Ideal Mix' (e.g., Egen look + Teto personality) in the comments!