Mayahi
Original Korean title
마이야히
Mayahi is a Korean meme format that sets footage or a face to the 'ma ya hi' intro hook of Moldovan group O-Zone's 2003 hit, which went viral again in Korea in 2021.
Originated around 2021Last updated: August 4, 2026
PLUS TRANSLATION DESK
The translation for this language is already current and reviewed.
What does it mean?
The meme uses the 'ma ya hi' opening hook from O-Zone's 2003 track 'Dragostea Din Tei,' set to edited footage or someone's face. It went viral in Korea in April 2021, and many of the parody videos targeted celebrities who were embroiled in controversy at the time.
Where did it start?
The Moldovan group O-Zone's 2003 release; the video-editing trend went viral in Korea in April 2021.
How is it used?
Good for exaggerating a situation with the catchy hook.
By context
- On public social media
- Context matters
- At work
- Context matters
- With family
- Context matters
- With friends
- Generally safe to use
What should I be careful about?
Often used to mock people caught up in controversy, so caution is needed depending on the target.
PLUS USE KIT
A use kit for this meme
Explain to a friend
Mayahi: Mayahi is a Korean meme format that sets footage or a face to the 'ma ya hi' intro hook of Moldovan group O-Zone's 2003 hit, which went viral again in Korea in 2021.
Post caption
Plus turns this meme's meaning and usage signals into text you can actually send.
Safety check
Plus turns this meme's meaning and usage signals into text you can actually send.