What the Number "1" Means in Korean Messaging Culture
In Korea, the KakaoTalk messaging app features a unique indicator: the number '1'. We explore what this persistent number means in the context of daily Korean communication.
In This Article
The Role of the Number '1'
In Korea, KakaoTalk is more than just a messenger; it is the platform where all daily communication takes place. One of the most interesting features frequently mentioned in conversations with Koreans is the number '1' displayed next to a message. This number indicates the count of people who have not yet read the message.
When you send a message in a KakaoTalk chat, the number '1' remains until the recipient reads it. As soon as the recipient enters the chat room, the number disappears. In group chats, the number displays how many participants have not yet read the message; as participants enter the chat, the number gradually decreases until it eventually vanishes. This is a signature feature of KakaoTalk that provides real-time confirmation of message status.
Why Does the Number Persist?
Koreans often speculate about various reasons why the number '1' might not disappear:
- Physical circumstances: The recipient may be busy or unable to check their smartphone.
- Notification previews: Many users check parts or all of a message through smartphone notification previews without actually entering the chat room. In this case, the recipient knows the content, but the chat status remains unread.
- Psychological distance: Sometimes, the recipient intentionally avoids entering the chat room even after seeing the notification. In Korea, this is referred to as "An-ilk-ssip" (not reading and ignoring). It is a form of communication that may occur when someone prefers not to continue the conversation or needs time to consider a reply.
Digital Communication in Daily Life
This number has become a small but recognizable feature of modern digital communication in Korea. Foreign travelers or residents in Korea should not feel anxious if the number '1' does not disappear immediately. While message response speed can sometimes be seen as a measure of intimacy, understanding that everyone has different communication styles and circumstances will help you communicate more comfortably with Koreans.