The Korean language has a rich and respectful way of greeting people, reflecting the country’s deep-rooted culture and social etiquette. Whether you’re planning to visit South Korea, learning the language, or just curious about Korean customs, knowing common greetings will help you connect with locals more easily. Here are some essential Korean greetings you should know.
1. Hello – 안녕하세요 (Annyeonghaseyo)
This is the most common and polite way to say hello in Korean. You can use Annyeonghaseyo in almost any situation, whether you’re greeting a stranger, a colleague, or someone older.
2. Hi – 안녕 (Annyeong)
A casual way to say hello, Annyeong is used among friends, family members, or people of the same age. Since it’s informal, avoid using it in professional or formal settings.
3. Good Morning – 좋은 아침이에요 (Joeun achim-ieyo)
Although Koreans don’t frequently use “good morning” as a daily greeting, Joeun achim-ieyo is a polite way to greet someone early in the day. It’s more common in written form or polite conversations.
4. Nice to Meet You – 반갑습니다 (Bangapseumnida) / 반가워요 (Bangawoyo)
When meeting someone for the first time, you can say Bangapseumnida (formal) or Bangawoyo (polite but slightly casual). This phrase expresses friendliness and a warm welcome.
5. How Are You? – 잘 지냈어요? (Jal jinaesseoyo?)
While Koreans don’t always ask “how are you?” in daily conversations, Jal jinaesseoyo? is a polite way to check on someone’s well-being. Close friends may use the casual version, Jal jinaesseo?
6. Goodbye – 안녕히 가세요 (Annyeonghi gaseyo) / 안녕히 계세요 (Annyeonghi gyeseyo)
When saying goodbye, use Annyeonghi gaseyo if the other person is leaving, and Annyeonghi gyeseyo if they are staying. Both are polite and commonly used in formal situations.
7. See You Later – 나중에 봐요 (Najunge bwayo) / 또 봐요 (Tto bwayo)
These phrases are informal ways to say “see you later.” They are great for casual conversations with friends and colleagues.
8. Thank You – 감사합니다 (Gamsahamnida) / 고마워요 (Gomawoyo)
Gamsahamnida is a formal way to express gratitude, while Gomawoyo is a polite but less formal version. Among close friends, you can simply say Gomawo.
9. You’re Welcome – 천만에요 (Cheonmaneyo) / 괜찮아요 (Gwaenchanayo)
While Cheonmaneyo is the direct translation of “you’re welcome,” it is rarely used in daily speech. Instead, Koreans often respond with Gwaenchanayo, meaning “it’s okay” or “no problem.”
10. Excuse Me / I’m Sorry – 실례합니다 (Sillyehamnida) / 죄송합니다 (Joesonghamnida)
Sillyehamnida is used when trying to get someone’s attention, while Joesonghamnida is an apology for mistakes. In casual settings, you can say Mianhaeyo or simply Mianhae among close friends.
Mastering Korean Greetings for Everyday Use
Learning these common Korean greetings will help you navigate conversations more easily and show respect for Korean culture. Whether you’re greeting a friend or meeting someone for the first time, using the right phrases can make a great impression. Try practicing these greetings in daily conversations and immerse yourself in the beauty of the Korean language!
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