Forget MBTI — Gen Z Is Now Obsessed with ‘Egen vs. Teto’ Checklists

We all know MBTI is the go-to icebreaker at blind dates or first meetups — it's fun, insightful, and even interview-approved. Forget personality tests — Gen Z in Korea has a new way of defining themselves that’s all about vibe. Instead of MBTI types like INFJ or ESTP, they're now asking: "Are you more Egen or Teto today?"

Inspired by hormones, Egen (from estrogen) reflects soft, lovely energy — think nude-toned makeup, cozy knits, and delicate blouses. On the flip side, Teto (from testosterone) is bold, free-spirited, and effortlessly cool — imagine crop tops, oversized jackets, silver chains, and statement earrings.

Unlike MBTI, you're not stuck with one type. You can switch between Egen and Teto depending on your mood, outfit, or even your idol’s latest look. Fans are already using the terms like memes — “He’s totally Egen-core today,” or “She’s slaying this Teto outfit!”

Whether you're feeling soft and dreamy or edgy and fierce, Egen and Teto reflect your full vibe — attitude, style, and energy. So... which one are you today?

Where Do the Terms Come From?

Egen is short for estrogen, associated with feminine, soft, and lovely energy. Teto is short for testosterone, linked to strong, bold, and edgy energy.

But this isn’t about gender — it’s about mood, style, and attitude.

EGEN-CORE: Soft, Elegant, Romantic

People with Egen vibes tend to lean into aesthetics that feel warm, gentle, and composed.

Egen-core style examples:

Nude or pastel-toned makeup

Flowy blouses or knitwear

Ballet flats, pearls, and minimal jewelry

Calm, clean, and cozy overall look

Celeb example:

Think of aespa’s Winter in a classic pink dress, soft waves in her hair, and natural-toned makeup — that’s peak Egen.

Fan usage:

"He showed up in a cream knit and loafers? Total Egen-boy today."

TETO-CORE: Cool, Edgy, Confident

Teto vibes are all about attitude and edge. It’s bold, chic, and a little rebellious.

Teto-core style examples:

Crop tops or oversized jackets

Black eyeliner, smokey eyes, or bold lips

Silver accessories, chunky rings, chain necklaces

A cool, street-style silhouette

Celeb example:

Picture BLACKPINK’s Lisa or ITZY’s Ryujin in a crop top, leather jacket, and thick silver jewelry — that’s pure Teto energy.

Fan usage:

"She’s rocking that Teto-core look — this comeback concept suits her so well!"

Are You an Egen Boy or a Teto Boy?

Gen Z’s New Aesthetic Identity – ft. RIIZE and NCT WISH

Move over MBTI — Korean Gen Z guys are defining their vibes with Egen and Teto. It’s not about gender or personality type. It’s about mood, look, and energy. Here’s what that means for K-pop’s rising boy groups: EGEN BOY. Soft. Gentle. Clean-cut. An Egen boy gives you boyfriend-next-door vibes with a warm smile and cozy outfit.

Style traits:

Fluffy or softly styled hair

Knits, cardigans, button-ups

Neutral tones: beige, cream, pastel

Minimal jewelry, maybe one delicate earring

Warm-toned lighting in photos or videos

Idol examples: NCT WISH’s Riku in a white cable-knit sweater, laughing in soft-focus — total Egen-core.

RIIZE’s Anton in a pastel shirt with his calm and thoughtful aura? Egen boyfriend energy.

Fan meme line: “Anton today? He’s literally giving Egen prince.”

TETO BOY

Bold. Cool. Charismatic. A Teto boy owns the room with strong styling and effortless swagger.

Style traits:

Tousled or slick hair, maybe dark dye

Oversized jackets, crop vests, leather accents

Strong colors like black, navy, metallic

Chains, bold rings, statement earrings

Confident, piercing gaze in photos

Idol examples: RIIZE’s Wonbin with wet-look hair, a sleeveless top, and silver chains? Teto-core king. NCT WISH’s Yushi in a sporty bomber and layered accessories — Teto chic.

Fan meme line: “Wonbin just ripped the Teto meter with this airport fit.”

But It’s Not Either-Or

Just like fashion, your vibe can change daily. You can go full Egen for a coffee date, then show up Teto for a night out. Even idols switch up depending on the concept, and fans love to call it out: “He was so Egen in the fan call but Teto on stage — duality legend!”

Why Gen Z Loves It

Unlike MBTI, where you’re boxed into one of 16 types, Egen and Teto are flexible. You can feel soft and calm one day (Egen) and totally fierce and confident the next (Teto). It’s also more focused on outward expression — your vibe, your outfit, your attitude — rather than deep personality analysis.

In Pop Culture

K-pop fans often describe idols using these terms, especially during outfit changes or mood shifts in performances and airport fashion. It’s become a fun meme-style way to describe how someone’s aura comes across in the moment.