Heading to Korea soon?
These 10 Korean phrases will help you order food, ask for directions, and survive your first day in Seoul – no language app required!
1. 안녕하세요 [Annyeonghaseyo] – Hello
• Use it anywhere, anytime. It works in shops, restaurants, hotels – even elevators.
• Polite, safe, and essential.
2. 감사합니다 [Gamsahamnida] – Thank you
• Always appreciated. Smile + this phrase = good manners in Korea.
• Casual alternative: 고마워요 (Gomawoyo) if you’re feeling friendly.
3. 이거 얼마예요? [Igeo eolmayeyo?] – How much is this?
• Point at something and ask this. Super useful at markets and stores.
• Tip: Numbers are often shown on calculators or phones to avoid miscommunication.
4. 화장실 어디예요? [Hwajangsil eodiyeyo?] – Where is the bathroom?
• You’ll need this more than you think. Trust me.
5. 메뉴 있어요? [Menu isseoyo?] – Do you have a menu?
• Most places will hand you one – sometimes even in English.
• Add “영어 메뉴 있어요?” [Yeongeo menyu isseoyo?] for English version.
6. 주세요 [Juseyo] – Please give me…
• Magic word at cafés and restaurants.
• Example: [Americano juseyo] - “One Americano, please.”
7. 맵지 않게 해주세요 [Maepji anke haejuseyo] – Please make it not spicy
• Koreans love spicy food! Say this if you’re not ready for the heat.
8. 괜찮아요 [Gwaenchanayo] – It’s okay / I’m fine
• Universal phrase: Accept or decline something politely.
9. 영어 하세요? [Yeongeo haseyo?] – Do you speak English?
• Often answered with “조금요” [jogeumyo] – a little, but worth asking!
10. 도와주세요 [Dowajuseyo] – Please help me
• Emergency? Lost? Use this kindly and someone will usually try to help.
Bonus tip:
Koreans are incredibly generous when they see you trying to speak even basic Korean.
Don’t worry about pronunciation – your effort is what matters!
'Korea for Foreigners > Survival Korean' 카테고리의 다른 글
| Understanding Korean: When to Speak Polite-존댓말[jon-daen-mal] or Casual-반말[ban-mal] (0) | 2025.04.27 |
|---|