🎤 Formal Debate Expressions in Korean – Advanced Level (TOPIK 5–6)

Want to elevate your Korean speaking to the next level? If you're preparing for an academic debate, a panel discussion, or a formal presentation, this post will help you use refined, persuasive Korean expressions with confidence.

📌 Key Debate Phrases and Their Functions

Expression	Meaning & Usage
제 의견은 이렇습니다.	"My opinion is this" – Used to introduce your point clearly.
우선, 본 주제에 대해 간단히 설명드리겠습니다.	"First, I will briefly explain the topic" – Used to open your argument with structure.
이에 대한 근거는 다음과 같습니다.	"The basis for this is as follows" – Used when presenting supporting evidence.
반론을 제기하자면, 다음과 같은 문제가 있습니다.	"To raise a counterargument, the following issues arise" – Used to challenge an opponent's point.
이상으로 제 주장을 마치겠습니다.	"That concludes my argument" – Used to wrap up your speaking turn.

🧠 Advanced Sentence Patterns for Debates

…다고 생각하는 이유는 세 가지입니다.
“There are three reasons I think that…”
첫째로, … / 둘째로, … / 마지막으로, …
“First, … / Second, … / Finally, …” – Use logical sequencing.
만약 … 한다면, 어떤 결과가 발생할지 고려해야 합니다.
“If … happens, we must consider what the consequences might be.”
이 문제는 단순히 개인의 문제가 아니라 사회 전체의 문제입니다.
“This is not just a personal issue but one that affects society as a whole.”

🗣 Practice Dialogue – Formal Debate

A: 제 의견은 기본소득 제도는 장기적으로 국가 재정에 부담을 줄 수 있다고 생각합니다.
B: 반대로 저는 기본소득이 오히려 사회적 불평등을 줄이는 데 기여할 수 있다고 봅니다.
A: 물론 단기적으로 긍정적인 효과가 있을 수 있지만, 재원 마련 방식에 대한 명확한 대안이 필요합니다.
B: 그 점은 동의합니다. 다만, 현재의 복지 시스템으로는 사각지대를 완전히 해소할 수 없습니다.

English:
A: In my opinion, the basic income policy could become a long-term burden on national finances.
B: On the contrary, I believe basic income can help reduce social inequality.
A: While there might be short-term benefits, we still need a clear plan for securing the funds.
B: I agree with that point. However, the current welfare system cannot fully eliminate the blind spots.

🧾 Did You Know?

In South Korea, debate education is becoming increasingly popular, especially at high schools and universities. According to the Korean Institute for Debate and Argumentation, over 1,200 secondary schools introduced formal debate programs between 2020 and 2024. These programs aim to develop critical thinking and democratic communication skills through structured argumentation.

💬 Practice with Me on italki!

Want to sharpen your formal speaking skills for debate or presentations in Korean? Join my advanced class on italki and get real-time feedback on your argument structure and vocabulary. 👉 Book your session now

💡 Final Thoughts:
Debating in Korean requires not only vocabulary but also a firm grasp of formal structure and logical flow. Practice these expressions regularly, listen to Korean panel discussions, and don’t hesitate to challenge opinions respectfully. The more you engage, the more natural your fluency will become.