LINE

LINE is a messaging app developed by LINE Corporation (originally a subsidiary of the Korean company Naver). Launched in 2011 after the Tohoku earthquake, it became the dominant messaging platform in Japan.

Key features

• 既読(きどく) (read receipt) - Shows when messages are read
• スタンプ (stickers) - Decorative images for messaging
• グループ (groups) - Group chat function
• 通話(つうわ) (calls) - Voice and video calling

Common expressions

• LINEする (to send a LINE message, to LINE someone)
• LINE交換(こうかん)する (to exchange LINE contact info)
• LINE追加(ついか)する (to add on LINE)
• 既読(きどく)スルー (ignoring a message after reading it)

Cultural note

LINE is essentially ubiquitous in Japan. Asking for someone's LINE is the standard way to exchange contact information, particularly among younger generations. Many businesses and organizations also use LINE for official communications.

Register: Neutral. Used across all age groups and contexts.