In Russia, what is a 'gopnik'?

A 'gopnik' is a member of a subculture in Russia, Ukraine, Belarus, and other former Soviet republics — a young man (or a woman) of lower-class families that usually live in Russian suburban areas coming from families of poor education and income. The female form is 'gopnitsa', and the collective noun is 'gopota'.

The subculture of 'gopniks' has its roots in the late Russian Empire and evolved during the 20th century in many cities in the Soviet Union.

'Gopniks' are often seen squatting in groups "in court" or "doing the crab" outside blocks of flats or schools with their heels on the ground. It is described as a learned behaviour attributed to Russian prison culture to avoid sitting on the cold ground.

They are often seen wearing Adidas or Puma tracksuits (mostly Adidas), which were popularised by the 1980 Moscow Olympics Soviet team. Sunflower seeds are habitually eaten by 'gopniks', especially in Ukraine and Russia. They can also be seen wearing flat caps and Adidas backpacks.

'Gopniks' are often associated with cheap alcohol, such as low-quality vodka and light beer, cheap cigarettes, low-end mobile devices, and sometimes firearms. They also utilise common Russian profanities and often behave rudely. They often drive Lada Classics or older BMWs as their primary means of transport.