South Africa’s vibrant and multifaceted accent has been ranked the world’s second sexiest for 2025, according to a global ranking. The recognition highlights how expressions like “yoh,” “haibo,” and “lekker” have charmed global audiences while reflecting the country’s rich multilingual identity. With eleven official languages shaping a diverse range of speech patterns, South Africa’s accent stood out among global competitors, showing how perceptions of “attractive” language continue to evolve. The latest ranking places New Zealand first, followed by South Africa and Ireland, reinforcing the growing global appreciation for linguistic diversity and the cultural stories accents carry.
IOL
