Here’s the comprehensive list of Korean phrases that you’ll need to join in on the fun and converse in Korean. This is the up-to-date modern version of how Koreans actually talk, so it will be useful if you want to learn how to speak Korean.
To get you started, here are some basic phrases you can use to speak Korean:
- Yes – 네 (ne)
- No – 아니요 (a-ni-yo)
- Hello – 안녕하세요 (an-nyeong-ha-se-yo)
- Thank you – 고맙습니다 (go-map-seum-ni-da)
- You’re welcome – 천만에요 (cheon-man-e-yo)
- Excuse me – 실례합니다 (sill-ye-ham-ni-da)
- Ok – 괜찮아요 (gwaen-chan-a-yo)
- I don’t know – 몰라요 (mollayo)
- Sorry – 미안합니다 (mi-an-ham-ni-da)
- Goodbye – 안녕히 가세요 (an-nyeon-ghi ga-se-yo)
Below, we’ve got the most important phrases in the Korean language that you need to learn, broken down by category. We’ve written the Korean words and phrases using the Korean alphabet. We will also include the audio for the Korean phrases so you can practice your pronunciation.
If you need this list of basic Korean words and phrases to take with you on the go, we’ve got you covered! The PDF download is right here:
Forget the dated Korean guidebooks or confusing phrases that don’t make sense, this list of words and phrases will give you exactly what you need to speak Korean for your next adventure in Korea. We’ll provide the phrases with the Korean alphabet and romanization.
Here we go!
Read on and study the Korean phrases section by section. Or, skip ahead to the Korean phrases you want to speak most, and add them to your favorite flashcard deck. Click on the word next to the yellow speaker to hear the audio pronunciation of the Korean phrase.
Most important of all, have fun with them!
Contents
- 1 Basic Korean Phrases
- 2 Common Korean Phrases
- 3 Easy Korean Phrases
- 4 Simple Korean Phrases
- 5 Korean Phrases for Beginners
- 6 Formal Korean Phrases
- 7 Informal Korean Phrases
- 8 Korean Phrases to Know
- 9 Popular Korean Phrases
- 10 Korean Conversation Phrases
- 11 Korean Expressions
- 11.1 Restaurant Korean Phrases
- 11.2 Cafe & Coffee Shop Korean Phrases
- 11.3 Shopping Korean Phrases
- 11.4 Dry Cleaner Korean Phrases
- 11.5 Bank Korean Phrases
- 11.6 Hospital Korean Phrases
- 11.7 Pharmacy Korean Phrases
- 11.8 Dentist Korean Phrases
- 11.9 Hair Salon Korean Phrases
- 11.10 Movie Theater & Cinema
- 11.11 Post Office Korean Phrases
- 12 Korean Travel Phrases
- 13 Useful Korean Phrases
- 13.1 Dinner Table Korean Phrases
- 13.2 Korean Small Talk Phrases
- 13.3 Meeting Friends Korean Phrases
- 13.4 Special Occasion Korean Phrases
- 13.5 Phone Call Korean Phrases
- 13.6 Mobile Phone Korean Phrases
- 13.7 Korean Exclamations
- 13.8 Impress the Locals
- 13.9 Talking with the Landlord Korean Phrases
- 13.10 Apartment Search Korean Phrases
- 13.11 Dating & Romance Korean Phrases
- 13.12 Taxi Korean Phrases
- 13.13 Emergency Korean Phrases
- 13.14 Encouragement Korean Phrases
- 14 Special
- 15 Formal vs Informal Korean Phrases
We highly recommend you learn the Korean alphabet (Hangeul) ASAP. It’s an essential first step to improve your Korean language skills. It’ll help you speak Korean and correctly pronounce the basic Korean phrases you’ll find below.
Basic Korean Phrases
Need the bare minimum sentences for simple conversation using the Korean language? These are the basic Korean phrases you’ll want to get down to make sure your time in Korea is smooth sailing!
You might notice that there are a few ways of saying some of the basic Korean phrases, such as “excuse me”, “thank you,” and “goodbye”. In English, these phrases are much more multi-purpose. In Korean, there are specific phrases that you’ll use for certain situations. It’s important to know when to use these basic Korean phrases especially when you’re in South Korea. The different situations make learning the Korean language fun and interesting.
Click on the word in Hangul to hear the pronunciation of the basic Korean phrases. To learn more about the phrases in detail, click on the English equivalent of the phrase.
English | 한국어 (Korean) | Romanization |
---|---|---|
Thank You | gomapseumnida | |
Don’t mention it | cheonmaneyo | |
Sorry | mianhamnida | |
That’s OK | gwaenchanayo | |
Hello | annyeonghaseyo? | |
Excuse me (to get attention) | jeogiyo | |
Excuse me (to apologize) | sillyehamnida | |
Excuse me (to pass someone) | jamsimanyo | |
Hello (on phone) | yeoboseyo | |
Good morning | annyeonghaseyo? | |
Good evening | annyeonghaseyo? | |
Sleep well | jal jayo | |
Sweet dreams | joeun kkum kkwoyo | |
Goodbye (to person leaving) | annyeonghi gaseyo | |
Goodbye (to person staying) | annyeonghi gyeseyo | |
Get home safely | jal gayo | |
Have a nice day | joeun haru bonaeseyo | |
Have a good trip! | yeohaeng jalhaseyo | |
Welcome | hwanyeonghamnida | |
Yes | ne | |
No | aniyo | |
Maybe | amado | |
Just a moment! | jamkkanmanyo! | |
I feel sick | apayo | |
I need a doctor | uisaga piryohaeyo | |
Take me to the hospital (to taxi) | byeongwone gajuseyo |
In the Korean language, there are a few different ways to say “thank you.” You may also hear 고마워요 and 감사합니다.
In the basic Korean phrases above, we gave you the most common way to thank someone. Go here if you’d like to learn more about the different ways to say “thank you” in Korean.
Common Korean Phrases
As you continue with your Korean learning, focus on these common Korean phrases and sentences that will be used on a daily basis. You can use them when you meet friends or speak to the staff at the local market.
When you’re asking questions in Korean, make sure to speak with an upwards intonation towards the end of the sentences. You should say the sentence as if you’re unsure.
You’ve got the Korean phrases necessary to have simple interactions, so now’s the time to put your language skills to use!
English | 한국어 (Korean) | Romanization |
---|---|---|
Where is the bathroom? | hwajangsireun eodie isseoyo? | |
Please repeat that | dasi malhae juseyo | |
Please speak slowly | cheoncheonhi malhae juseyo | |
Please write it down | jeogeo juseyo | |
I understand | ihaehaeyo | |
I don’t understand | ihae mothaeyo | |
I don’t know | mollayo | |
I know | arayo | |
Can you speak Korean? | hangungmareul hal su isseoyo? | |
I can speak a little Korean | hangungmareul jogeum hal su isseoyo | |
I can’t speak Korean | hangungmareul motaeyo | |
How do you say tiger in Korean? | taigeoga hangungmallo mwoyeyo? | |
How much is this? | igeo eolmayeyo? | |
I’ll be right back! | geumbang gatda olgeoyeyo! | |
What is this? | ige mwoyeyo | |
Don’t worry! | geokjeong haji maseyo! | |
No problem! | munje eopseoyo | |
Good | joayo | |
Bad | an joayo | |
So-so | geujeo geuraeyo |
A great way to speak these basic Korean phrases on a daily basis is to plan on using one phrase each day. Write it down on an index card, and say it whenever the opportunity comes up. It takes a few minutes of planning, but you will thank yourself later when you have a strong repertoire of things to say.
Easy Korean Phrases
Easy Korean phrases are words and phrases that have easy Korean pronunciation. These Korean words and phrases are often used in Korean dramas.
Below is a list of words and phrases that will help you easily speak Korean.
English | 한국어 (Korean) | Romanization |
---|---|---|
Yes | ne | |
No | aniyo | |
Maybe | amado | |
I feel | apayo | |
I know | arayo | |
Good | joayo | |
Bad | an joayo | |
I don't know | mollayo | |
Sleep well | jal jayo | |
Get home safely | jal gayo | |
Of course | dangyeonajyo | |
I’m hungry | baegopayo | |
I understand | ihaehaeyo |
Simple Korean Phrases
These are simple Korean phrases that you’ll first learn as you begin learning the Korean language. These words also have easy Korean pronunciation so it won’t be challenging learning and speaking them.
These words and phrases are often used in Korean dramas and daily conversations among Koreans.
Here’s a list of simple Korean phrases you can start with:
English | 한국어 (Korean) | Romanization |
---|---|---|
Hello | annyeonghaseyo | |
Thank you | gamsahamnida | |
You’re welcome | cheonmaneyo | |
I’m sorry | mianhamnida | |
It’s okay | gwaenchanayo | |
Congratulations | chukahaeyo | |
Hello (over the phone) | yeoboseyo | |
Excuse me | sillyehamnida | |
Please don’t worry | geokjeong hajimaseyo | |
Long time no see | oraenmanieyo | |
It’s delicious | masisseoyo | |
I’m thirsty | mok mallayo |
Korean Phrases for Beginners
In this section, you’ll learn the Korean phrases for beginners. When you’re starting to learn the Korean language, these are the phrases you can start with. This time the words and phrases are a bit longer but the Korean pronunciation isn’t difficult.
For example, the Korean word 도와주세요 (dowajuseyo) has longer spelling but its Korean pronunciation isn’t difficult. It’ll help you say the Korean word easier if you know how to read the Korean alphabet.
Here’s a list of Korean phrases for beginners to help you get to speak Korean:
English | 한국어 (Korean) | Romanization |
---|---|---|
Goodbye | annyeonghi gyeseyo | |
Goodbye | annyeonghi gaseyo | |
Just a moment | jamkkanmanyo | |
Nice to meet you | mannaseo bangapseumnida | |
Have you eaten? | bap meogeosseoyo | |
Thank you for this meal | jal meogetseumnida | |
No problem | munje eopseoyo | |
I don’t understand | ihae mot haeyo | |
Please speak slowly | cheoncheonhi mal haejuseyo | |
How much is this? | eolmaeyo | |
Have a nice day | joheun haru bonaeseyo | |
Please give me a menu | menyupan juseyo | |
Be careful | josimhaseyo | |
Please help me | dowajuseyo |
Formal Korean Phrases
Formal Korean phrases are used when you’re speaking to someone who is older than you or who holds a higher position or social hierarchy than you. You may also use these phrases with people who you are close with but you want to show or give them respect.
Here are a few of the common formal Korean phrases you can start learning:
English | 한국어 (Korean) | Romanization |
---|---|---|
I like it | joseumnida | |
I don’t like it | silseumnida | |
Nice to meet you | mannaseo bangapseumnida | |
See you next time! | daeume bwayo | |
Thank you | gomapseumnida | |
See you tomorrow | naeil bwayo | |
I’m sorry | mianhamnida | |
What are you doing? | mwo hamnikka | |
How are you? | jal jinaesyeosseoyo |
Informal Korean Phrases
Informal Korean Phrases are usually used when you’re speaking to your friends, people who have the same age as you, or someone who’s younger than you.
You wouldn’t use these with people who are older than you. These phrases would sound rude when used to speak with people older than you.
Here are a few common informal Korean phrases you can use with your friends:
English | 한국어 (Korean) | Romanization |
---|---|---|
Yes | eung | |
No | ani | |
Hi/ Bye | annyeong | |
Please | jebal | |
Okay | geurae | |
Thanks | gomawo | |
I like it | joa | |
I don’t like it | sireo | |
I’m sorry | mianhae | |
See you next time/ See you | daeume bwa | |
See you tomorrow | naeil bwa | |
Nice to meet you | mannaseo bangawo | |
What are you doing? | mwo hae | |
How are you? | jal jinae | |
How's it going? | yojeum eottae |
Korean Phrases to Know
As you’re learning the Korean language, these words and phrases are a few of the many that you first need to know. These are helpful words and phrases that you can use when speaking. These are also words to look out for when you watch K-Dramas or listen to your favorite K-Pop idol’s live programs.
Below is a list of the Korean words and phrases you need to know:
English | 한국어 (Korean) | Romanization |
---|---|---|
Hello | annyeonghaseyo | |
Nice to meet you | mannaseo bangapseumnida | |
Thank you | gamsahamnida | |
Please give | juseyo | |
How much is it? | eolmayeyo | |
Please give discount | kkakkajuseyo | |
Please wait a moment | jamsiman gidaryeo juseyo | |
I don't understand | ihae mot haeyo |
Popular Korean Phrases
Popular Korean phrases are those that many Korean learners learned first. This is because these are words often used in Korean dramas, movies, or even in K-Pop songs.
Here’s a list of a few of the many popular Korean phrases:
English | 한국어 (Korean) | Romanization |
---|---|---|
I love you | saranghaeyo | |
Hello | annyeonghaseyo | |
Thank you | gamsahamnida | |
It’s okay | gwaenchanayo | |
I know | arayo | |
I don’t know | mollayo | |
I miss you | bogo sipeoyo | |
I like you | joahaeyo | |
It’s delicious | masisseoyo |
Korean Conversation Phrases
When you’re starting to learn the Korean language, getting to speak Korean in conversations is the goal. There are many Korean conversation phrases but we’ve listed a few of them here.
You can use these common Korean phrases with a friend or someone you just met.
Here are a few of the most common Korean conversation phrases you can learn and use.
English | 한국어 (Korean) | Romanization |
---|---|---|
Hello | annyeonghaseyo | |
How are you? | eotteoke jinaeseyo? | |
Is everything all right? | 별일 없지요? | byeolil eobsjiyo? |
Long time no see | 오랜만이다 | orenmanida |
Nice to meet you | mannaseo bangapseumnida | |
What’s your name? | ireumi mwoyeyo? | |
How old are you? | myeot sarieyo? | |
Where are you from? | 어디 출신이세요? | eodi chulsiniseyo? |
Where do you work? | 어디에서 일해요? | eodieseo ilhaeyo? |
Can you speak Korean? | 한국어 할 수 있습니까? | hangugeo hal su isseumnikka? |
Can you speak English? | 영어 할 수 있습니까? | yeongeo hal su isseumnikka? |
What does this mean? | 무슨 뜻이에요? | museun tteusieyo? |
Please say that one more time. | 다시 한 번 말해 주세요. | dasi han beon malhae juseyo |
Please write it down. | 적어 주세요. | jeogeo juseyo. |
I don’t know. | 모르겠습니다. | moreugesseumnida |
What music do you like? | 어떤 음악을 좋아해요? | eotteon eumag eul johahaeyo? |
Korean Expressions
In this section, you’ll learn about the different Korean expressions commonly used in different places in Korea.
Use these Korean phrases and Korean sentences to speak to people you meet in various places. The sentences are organized in sections so they can be used in different locations. This will be useful so you can practice your Korean language skills as you go to each different location.
Restaurant Korean Phrases
The restaurant Korean phrases below can be used at any Korean restaurant. You might use these sentences if you’re visiting Korea, or if you’re getting Korean food at the local restaurant in your area.
If this is your first time ordering at a Korean restaurant, you may want to learn how to say the numbers and basic counting words. They are important parts of the language used for ordering food.
When you first enter, the staff will usually ask you how many people are in your group. You can use the first phrase below to ask if they have a table for 4. The staff will likely speak to you in honorific language, but you can reply in standard everyday Korean.
English | 한국어 (Korean) | Romanization |
---|---|---|
Do you have a table for 4 people? | nemyeong jari isseoyo? | |
Please give me a menu | menyupan juseyo | |
Do you have vegetarian dishes? | chaesikjuuijayong siksa isseoyo? | |
Is this spicy? | igeo maewoyo? | |
Please do not make this spicy | maepji anke yorihae juseyo | |
Please give me 4 orders of galbi | galbi sainbun juseyo | |
Please give me 1 bottle of soju | soju hanbyeong juseyo | |
Please give me 3 glasses | yurijan segae juseyo | |
It’s delicious! | masisseoyo! | |
I don’t like it | maseopseoyo | |
It was a delicious meal! | jal meogeotseumnida! | |
What time do you close? | myeotsie mun dadayo? | |
Do you take credit cards? | kadeu dwaeyo? |
Keep in mind that Korean table manners may be a bit different than what you’re used to in your culture. For example, in the phrase above 잘 먹었습니다! (jal meogeotseumnida), you’d actually use that to say “thank you” in Korean when you’re done eating Korean food. It’s similar to saying “thank you, I ate well”.
Cafe & Coffee Shop Korean Phrases
If you’re a coffee-lover who loves visiting coffee shops, then these Korean phrases and sentences will be of great help to you when you move or visit Korea.
When you order at a cafe, there are some unique Korean cafe phrases that might be surprising to English speakers. For example, the way you say your order to go will be different depending on whether you order only a drink or if you order food with your drink. Although Koreans think this is normal, even they get surprised when they think about the intricacies of the Korean language!
Use these Korean phrases and sentences when you visit a cafe in Korea or a Korean cafe near your area.
English | 한국어 (Korean) | Romanization |
---|---|---|
Please give me 1 hot coffee | ttatteutan amerikano hanjan juseyo | |
Please give me 2 ice coffees | aiseu amerikano dujan juseyo | |
Do you have non-caffeinated drinks? | kapein eomneun eumnyo isseoyo? | |
I’d like to eat here | yeogiseo meokgo galgeyo | |
I’d like this to go (drink only) | teikeu ausieyo | |
I’d like this to go (food and drink) | pojanghae juseyo | |
Please throw away my receipt | yeongsujeungeun beoryeo juseyo | |
Do you have wifi here? | waipai isseoyo? | |
What is the wifi password? | bimil beonho allyeo juseyo | |
Do you have electrical outlets? | konsenteu isseoyo? | |
Where are your electrical outlets? | konsenteu eodie isseoyo? |
Shopping Korean Phrases
If you’re out in Dongadaemun, Garosul-gil, or Myeongdong, you are definitely going to need some Korean phrases to help you shop!
The Korean language has its own specialized vocabulary terms when it comes to shopping, so make sure you know these sentences before you head out for the next shopping spree. For example, did you know that some Korean credit cards give you the choice of paying for your purchase over one month or multiple month installments? The installment plans have interest fees, so plan accordingly! Be ready for this question, since some stores will ask you if you want your purchase to be put through as 일시불 (ilsibul).
Use these Korean phrases to add even more fun to your shopping experience. You will thank yourself for all of the great deals you’ll get!
English | 한국어 (Korean) | Romanization |
---|---|---|
Throw away the receipt | yeongsujeungeun beoryeo juseyo | |
Please give me a receipt | yeongsujeung juseyo | |
Put it in a bag | bongtue neoeo juseyo | |
Please give me a discount | jom kkakka juseyo | |
How much is it? | eolmayeyo? | |
Please give me coffee | keopi juseyo | |
Do you have wallet? | jigap isseoyo? | |
Can I pay with credit card? | kadeu dwaeyo? | |
Please give me a refund | hwanbulhae juseyo | |
Please exchange this | gyohwanhae juseyo | |
Please wrap it for me | pojanghae juseyo | |
One-time payment | ilsibul | |
3 month installments | samgaewol halbu |
Dry Cleaner Korean Phrases
Are you living or visiting Korea for a while and you’re thinking of visiting a dry cleaner soon? You’ll need to pack yourself with helpful dry cleaner Korean phrases and sentences.
Korean dry cleaners can be one of the best dry cleaners in the world! They can be your best friend. Why? They can totally make ordinary shirts, trousers, skirts, and suits make your clothing look new again. Not only that, but you can save some of your clothing from certain doom.
Learn the Korean phrases and sentences below so that you’ll be able to speak with the person in the dry cleaner shop at your next stop.
English | 한국어 (Korean) | Romanization |
---|---|---|
Please dry clean this for me | deurai hae juseyo | |
Please iron this for me | darimjil hae juseyo | |
Please make this longer | gijangeul neullyeo juseyo | |
Please make this shorter | gijangeul juryeo juseyo | |
Please sew on this button | danchu darajuseyo | |
Can you remove this stain? | eolluk ppael su isseoyo? | |
When can I pick up my clothes? | oseul eonje badeul su isseoyo? | |
I’m here to pick up my clothes | je oseul chajeureo wasseoyo | |
How much is it? | eolmayeyo? | |
How much is the total? | modu eolmayeyo? |
Bank Korean Phrases
Use these Korean phrases at the bank to confidently, quickly, and seamlessly get your banking business taken care of. You may want to print these out and read the sentences when you’re at the bank.
Most Korean banks have staff who speak English. They can help you with your transactions but there can be days when they’re not around so learning the words and phrases will come in handy. You’ll also be able to impress them when you speak Korean to them. Make sure to click the audio below to help you with the Korean pronunciation of the words and phrases.
English | 한국어 (Korean) | Romanization |
---|---|---|
I would like to open a new bank account | tongjangeul mandeulgo sipeoyo | |
I would like an ATM card | chekeu kadeureul mandeulgo sipeoyo | |
I need to reset my password | bimilbeonhoreul jaebalgeup hago sipeoyo | |
Are there monthly fees? | susuryo isseoyo? | |
Do you have an ID card | sinbunjeung isseoyo? | |
Please give me your ID card | sinbunjeung juseyo | |
Do you need internet banking? | inteonet baenking piryohaeyo? | |
I would like to apply for a public certificate | gongininjeungseo balgeuphago sipeoyo | |
I want to send money to Philippines | pillipine don bonaeryeogo wasseoyo | |
I need to make a deposit | ipgeum haejuseyo | |
I need to make a withdrawal | chulgeum haejuseyo | |
How much is the wire transfer charge? | songgeum susuryoneun eolmayeyo? | |
Can I apply for a credit card? | sinyong kadeu sincheonghal su isseoyo? |
There you have it! These sentences will mostly be useful if you are living or traveling in Korea. However, you may also find them useful if you visit a Korean bank in another country.
Hospital Korean Phrases
You can use these Korean phrases below to communicate the next time you go to the hospital. They will help you explain to the doctor what the problem is.
Even if the doctor speaks English, you may find these phrases handy to use with the nurse or the receptionist who takes your name down and asks what is bothering you. These sentences may also be helpful when talking with the X-ray technicians.
If you get a prescription, there will usually be a pharmacy nearby. Sometimes, there will be a pharmacy inside the hospital!
English | 한국어 (Korean) | Romanization |
---|---|---|
I need to see a doctor | jinchareul batgo sipeoyo | |
I have health insurance | geongang boheom isseoyo | |
My body aches all over | momsal nasseoyo | |
I have a headache | meoriga apayo | |
I have a sore throat | mogi apayo | |
I have a stomachache | baega apayo | |
I have diarrhea | seolsareul haeyo | |
I have an upset stomach | chehaesseoyo | |
My nose is runny | jakku konmuri nayo | |
My nose is stuffy | koga makyeosseoyo | |
I don’t have any allergies | allereugiga eopseoyo | |
I am allergic to cucumber | oie allereugiga isseoyo | |
Where can I get this prescription filled? | eodieseo yageul badeul su isseoyo? | |
I have a prescription to fill | cheobangjeoneul bada wasseoyo |
Pharmacy Korean Phrases
If you’re not feeling well and you don’t think it’s quite worth a doctor’s visit, then you might want to swing by your local pharmacy in Korea.
Pharmacists in Korea are very helpful. Explain what the problem is, and they’ll give you the recommended medicine to get you back to your former glorious self.
Or, maybe you went to the hospital and now you’ve got that piece of paper with the cure to your sickness. You’ll be on your way with your prescription filled in no time!
English | 한국어 (Korean) | Romanization |
---|---|---|
Do you have Tylenol? | tairenol isseoyo? | |
I have a cold | gamgie geollyeosseoyo | |
I have a stuffy nose | koga makyeosseoyo. | |
I have a runny nose | jakku konmuri nayo | |
I have a headache | meoriga apayo | |
I have a sore throat | mogi apayo | |
I have a stomachache | baega apayo | |
My body aches all over | momsal nasseoyo | |
I have been sick for two days | iteul dongan apasseoyo | |
Take one pill twice a day | harue du beon han alssik deuseyo | |
Take one pill three times a day with meals | harue se beon siksahal ttaemada han alssik deuseyo | |
I don’t have any allergies | allereugiga eopseoyo | |
I am allergic to cucumber | oie allereugiga isseoyo | |
I have a prescription to fill | cheobangjeoneul bada wasseoyo |
Many speak English well and can understand what you are saying in English. However, knowing a few phrases or specialty words in Korean can help. Try looking those words up in a Korean-English dictionary to ensure a smooth visit.
Dentist Korean Phrases
It’s about that time to take care of that movie star smile!
If you’re afraid of the dentist, you’re not alone. Not to worry, we’ve got some Korean phrases you can use at the dentist’s office to make sure your visit is a smooth one.
In Korean, people use the term “scaling” (스케일링) for cleaning. If the dentist starts talking about scaling your teeth, don’t be surprised, it’s a good thing!
Most of the dentists in Korea speak English, so you likely won’t have to worry about a heavy language barrier. However, their assistants may not be confident about their abilities to speak English, so having some Korean phrases may come in handy.
The dentists in Korea are really good, so sit back and relax, it should be a painless and carefree visit!
English | 한국어 (Korean) | Romanization |
---|---|---|
I’m here to make an appointment | yeyakaryeogo wanneundeyo | |
How long do I have to wait? | eolmana gidaryeoyahaeyo? | |
My last checkup was 1 year ago | majimak chigwa geomjinhanji ilnyeon dwaesseoyo | |
My last scaling was 6 months ago | majimak seukeillinghanji yukgaewol dwaesseoyo | |
I am here for a scaling | seukeilling hareo wasseoyo | |
I'm here for a dental checkup | chigwa geomjin hareo wasseoyo | |
My upper tooth hurts | winniga apayo | |
My lower tooth is senstive | araenniga siryeoyo | |
My gums hurt | inmomi apayo | |
I think I have a cavity | chungchiga saengin geot gatayo | |
I don’t have dental insurance | chigwa boheom eopseoyo | |
I have dental insurance | chigwa boheom isseoyo | |
Can I pay with a credit card? | kadeu dwaeyo? |
Hair Salon Korean Phrases
Use these phrases at the 미용실!
These salon sentences will help you speak Korean for your next trip to the salon in South Korea.
You may be worried about the stylist chopping away at your gorgeous locks of hair. After all, it’s really easy to miscommunicate when you’re learning to speak in a foreign language!
Thankfully, there are Korean phrases for the hair salon to help you get exactly the hairstyle that you want.
Study up, and get ready to show off that new hairdo!
English | 한국어 (Korean) |
---|---|
Please give me a haircut | (keoteu haejuseyo) |
Please dye my hair | (yeomsaek haejuseyo) |
Dye only my roots please | ppuri yeomsaek hae juseyo (ppuyeom haejuseyo) |
Dye my hair this color please | (i saekkkallo yeomsaek hae juseyo) |
Please perm my hair | (pama haejuseyo) |
How much does a haircut cost? | (meori keoteu eolmayeyo?) |
How long will it take? | (sigan eolmana geollyeoyo?) |
Please don’t cut it too short | (neomu jjalge jareuji maseyo) |
Please cut it a little shorter here | (yeogi jogeum deo jalla juseyo) |
Please just trim my hair | (jom dadeumeo juseyo) |
Please just trim my bangs | (ammeoriman dadeumeo juseyo) |
Please trim the sides and even out the top | (wieneun geunyang dugo yeopeman dadeumeojuseyo) |
Leave the back long | (dwinmeorineun gilge namgyeo duseyo) |
I’d like to make an appointment tomorrow at 2pm | (naeil ohu dusiro yeyageul hagosipeundeyo) |
I’d like my hair like this person in the picture | (sajine inneun saramcheoreom meorireul jalla juseyo) |
Make it about this long | (i jeongdoro gilge hae juseyo) |
Movie Theater & Cinema
There are a variety of Korean movie theaters, some of the popular being CGV, Lotte Cinema, and Megabox. You may even notice these Korean movie theater brands in other countries.
There are a few great things about going to the movies in Korea.
CGV Theater in Korea
Photo: TFurban
First of all, you can easily reserve tickets for a movie through Korean smartphone apps. If some problem with your schedule comes up, many theaters have a refund policy if you cancel before the movie starts (depending on the movie theater). Knowing the language will help if the app is only in Korean.
Secondly, many of the Korean theaters have movies that start well into midnight. You may find yourself going to a movie at 3:00 am!
Thirdly, you can cuddle up with your significant other during your movie by reserving couple seats, often on the top row. CGV calls them “Sweetbox” seats, and they have a foldable armrest for a loveseat-style feeling at the movies.
Here are basic Korean words and phrases to help you understand the Korean language on the movie reservation apps or speak Korean to movie theater staff.
English | 한국어 (Korean) | Romanization |
---|---|---|
Are there any seats available for the 7:30pm showing? | ilgopsiban sangyeong jari isseoyo? | |
Are there subtitles for this movie? | yeonghwa jamak isseoyo? | |
What time is Parasite the movie showing? | gisaengchungyeonghwaneun eonje sangyeonghaeyo? | |
What is the genre of the movie? | yeonghwaneun museun jangneueyo? | |
How long is the movie? | yeonghwa sangyeong sigani eolmana dwaeyo? | |
Where is Theater 12 | yeonghwagwansibigwan eodie isseoyo | |
Where is the concession stand? | maejeomeun eodi isseoyo? | |
I’d like two tickets for Train to Busan the movie | busanhaeng yeonghwaneun dujang juseyo | |
How much are the Sweetbox seats? | seuwiteubakseu jarineun eolmayeyo? | |
Do you give discounts to students? | haksaeng harin dwaeyo? | |
When is the last move playing? | majimak yeonghwaneun eonjeyeyo? |
Just remember to turn off your mobile phone, and don’t speak during the movie. Save your language conversation practice for after the movie is over!
Post Office Korean Phrases
The post offices in Korea have a wide variety of services, from regular domestic shipments to international airmail. Most locations also have shipping supplies right at the post office, so you can do all of your packing and shipping in one spot.
Here are Korean phrases you can use to understand the Korean language instructions or details used or to speak Korean with post office employees.
English | 한국어 (Korean) | Romanization |
---|---|---|
How much is it to send by air mail? | hanggongupyeoneuro eolmayeyo? | |
How much is the least expensive shipping option? | jeil ssan upyeon bangbeop eolmayeyo? | |
Do I need a customs form? | segwan seoryu piryohaeyo? | |
Please send this package by registered mail | deunggiro sopo bonaejuseyo | |
Please send this envelope to Canada by regular mail | kaenadae bongtuupyeoneuro bonaejuseyo | |
Where can I buy stamps? | upyeoneun eodieseo sal su isseoyo? | |
Please give me 3 stamps | upyo sejang juseyo | |
Do you sell envelopes? | pyeonji bongtu parayo? | |
How long will it take to be delivered? | baesonggiganeun eolmana geollyeoyo? | |
What is the zip code for this address? | i jusoui upyeonbeonhoga mwoyeyo? | |
Please give me one size 3 box | samho bakseu hangae juseyo | |
Please give me some bubble wrap | ppokppogi jom juseyo |
Note that if you’re sending a letter to Korea from outside the country, you can write the address in Korean. However, make sure to write the country name in English.
Korean Travel Phrases
Pack your bags! We’re hitting the road and going to put some of our Korean language skills to good use. Use these Korean travel phrases to help you speak with anyone you meet as you take trips throughout Korea. These travel survival phrases will help you have a fun and comfortable stay in South Korea.
Asking for Directions Korean Phrases
Ready for some adventure? It’s time to do some traveling within Korea!
Of course, we want to make your trip to South Korea as smooth as possible, so we’ll give you some common phrases you can use in case you get lost or need directions.
Whether you’re in the big city or quiet countryside, use these Korean phrases to ask the locals where something is.
Start things off with a simple “잠시만요”, and then get to chat in the local language!
Below is a list of Korean words and phrases to help make your visit to South Korea convenient.
English | 한국어 (Korean) | Romanization |
---|---|---|
Excuse me (asking for help politely) | sillyehamnida | |
Excuse me (asking for help) | jeogiyo | |
I’m lost | gireul ireobeoryeosseoyo | |
Do you know where Apgujeong station is? | apgujeongyeok eodiinji aseyo? | |
How far is it from here? | yeogieseo eolmana geollineunji aseyo? | |
Is it far from here? | yeogieseo meoreoyo? | |
It’s quite far | kkwae meoreoyo | |
It’s not far | meolji anayo | |
It’s close | gakkawoyo | |
It’s not within walking distance | georeogal manhan georiga aniyeyo | |
It’s about 1 kilometer from here | yeogieseo ilkillojeongdo meoreoyo | |
Can you show me on the map? | jidoro boyeo jusigesseoyo? | |
I’m sorry, I’m not from around here | mianhajiman jeoneun i geuncheo sarami aniyeyo | |
It’s that way | geu jjogeuro gaseyo | |
Go left | oenjjok gaseyo | |
Go right | oreunjjoge gaseyo | |
Go straight | jjuk gaseyo |
Hotel and Pension Korean Phrases
Staying in Korean accommodations can be a fun and unique experience. There are many interesting places to stay throughout the country. Since some of them are outside of the big cities, the staff may not be used to speaking English as in other tourist areas so it’s good to know a bit of the Korean language.
That’s where these Korean phrases for accommodations will come in handy!
KAL Hotel in Jeju
Use these Korean phrases to help you speak the local language at hotels and pensions (B&Bs) in Korea.
English | 한국어 (Korean) | Romanization |
---|---|---|
Do you have any rooms available? | binbang isseoyo? | |
I would like to make a reservation | yeyageul hago sipeoyo | |
Did you have a reservation? | yeyageun hasyeotseumnikka? | |
I have a reservation | ne, yeyakhaesseoyo | |
I don’t have a reservation | ajik yeyageul haji anasseoyo | |
How much is a room for one night? | harue bangi eolmayeyo? | |
Is breakfast included with the room? | yogeume josigeun pohamdoeeo isseoyo? | |
How long would you like to stay? | myeot bageul hasil geomnikka? | |
May I see the room first? | bangeul meonjeo bwado dwaeyo? | |
I will stay for four night(s) | sail mukgesseoyo | |
May I have your name? | seonghameul malsseumhaejuseyo | |
Can you wake me at 7 o'clock? | ilgopsie kkaewojusigesseoyo? | |
I want to check out now | jigeum chekeu authago sipeoyo |
Bus Korean Phrases
The Korean bus system is one of the best systems in the world.
The buses are fast, clean, and on time. This goes for the smaller local buses (마을 버스), the regular city buses, and even the express buses (고속 버스).
At many bus stops in Seoul, there is a digital display that shows which buses are coming and what time they will arrive. It’s very accurate!
Sokcho Bus Station in Korea
If you really want to dial in your schedule down to the minute, you can download applications to tell you which bus will arrive at certain times. That way, you can check the bus arrival times before you get to the bus stop. This is especially useful when during the winter. You may want to stay in that warm cafe or restaurant as long as possible and walk out to your bus right as it arrives.
The Korean phrases below will help you with regular city buses. There are also basic Korean phrases to help you book bus tickets from different parts of the country at the various terminals around Korea.
Charge up your T-Money card, and go for a ride!
English | 한국어 (Korean) | Romanization |
---|---|---|
Please stop the bus here | yeogiseo sewo juseyo | |
Please open the bus door | beoseu mun yeoreo juseyo | |
What time is the last bus? | majimak beoseu eonjeyeyo? | |
How much is the bus fare? | beoseu yogeum eolmayeyo? | |
Where can I charge my bus card? | beoseu kadeu eodieseo chungjeonhal su isseoyo? | |
How much is a bus ticket to Seoul? | seoure ganeun beoseu pyoga eolmayeyo? | |
One ticket to Gangneung, please | gangneunge ganeun pyo han jang juseyo | |
Where does this bus go? | i beoseuneun eodiro gayo? | |
Where is the bus to Jinju? | jinjue ganeun beoseuneun eodie isseoyo? | |
Are there tickets available for the 3pm bus to Geo Je Island? | sesie geojedo ganeun beoseu jari isseoyo? | |
Does this bus stop in Incheon International Airport? | i beoseuneun incheongukjegonghange seoyo? | |
When does the bus for Sokcho leave? | sokchoe ganeun beoseuneun eonje chulbalhaeyo? | |
When does bus number 605 arrive? | yukbaegobeon beoseuneun eonje dochakaeyo? | |
When will this bus arrive in the Namsan Tower? | i beoseuneun namsantawoe eonje dochakaeyo? |
Note that some of the bus information maybe be in English, but not all of it. Knowing a bit of Hangeul will help you, especially when you leave the big cities such as Seoul or Busan.
Useful Korean Phrases
In this section, you’ll learn all about the useful Korean phrases for different situations you’ll possibly be in when visiting or staying in Korea.
Here are some fantastic Korean phrases you can use for different social situations. For example, you may use these when you meet your Korean friends.
If you’re not confident about talking 100% in Korean, then just start small. Use a mix of Korean and English in your sentences to get some language practice. For example, you can talk in 10% Korean and 90% English. Then as you improve your ability to speak in Korean, you can increase it to 20% Korean and 80% English.
The more you practice, the more comfortable you will be with the language. It may be challenging at first, but you’ll thank yourself later when you’re having smooth conversations in Korean.
Dinner Table Korean Phrases
Korea has a strong food culture. Along with that, comes a wide range of interesting Korean phrases that will allow you to express your feelings in unique ways. There are similar phrases in English, but the Korean version may be used differently.
For example, you say “I will eat well” before eating your meal. This is the way that Koreans show gratitude toward the person who cooked the meal. Then, instead of saying “thank you”, you’d simply say the Korean word 잘 먹었습니다 (jal meogeotseumnida), which means “I ate well.”
맛있게 드세요!
Photo: ebifry
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