🎯 Lesson 17: Mastering Formal Korean Email Expressions

Writing to a professor or a Korean coworker? Teacher Hoon explains the rigid structure and essential honorifics needed to sound professional and respectful in every message.

The 5-Step Professional Formula (EEAT Tip)

In Korea, jumping straight to your request is considered rude. As a teacher with 20 years of professional experience, I recommend following this set order to show respect: 인사 (Greeting) → 목적 (Purpose) → 본론 (Details) → 맺음말 (Closing) → 서명 (Signature). Mastering this flow is essential for Intermediate (TOPIK 3-4) success.

📑 Tap to view Lesson Steps

1. 12 Real-Life Formal Examples
2. Office & University Dialogue
3. 💡 Cultural Insight: Harmony over Urgency

📋 12 Professional Email Phrases

바쁘신 와중에 메일 드리게 되어 죄송합니다. (I'm sorry to contact you during your busy schedule.)
자료를 공유해 주시면 감사하겠습니다. (I would appreciate it if you could share the materials.)
일정 확인 후 회신 부탁드립니다. (Please reply after checking your schedule.)
수정된 파일 첨부드립니다. (The updated file is attached.)
답변 기다리겠습니다. (I look forward to your reply.)

💡 Teacher Hoon's Expert Politeness Tip

Avoid using "ASAP" or direct commands. Instead, use "~해주시면 감사하겠습니다" (It would be appreciated if...). This indirect tone is highly respected in Korean hierarchy. Also, always end your signature with [Your Name] 드림 (sent by) to signal humility.

🗣 Practice Dialogue: Requesting Materials

A (Student): 안녕하세요, 바쁘신 와중에 메일 드리게 되어 죄송합니다. 지난 회의 자료를 공유해 주실 수 있을까요?

B (Coworker): 네, 물론입니다. 요약본도 함께 보내드리면 도움이 될까요?

A: 네, 정말 감사하겠습니다. 교수님께 보고드려야 해서요.

💡 Cultural Insight: Harmony in Writing

Korean workplaces value harmony (Jeong) over raw efficiency. Even when a deadline is tight, people use soft, indirect phrases. This doesn't mean the message isn't urgent—it means the sender values the relationship as much as the task. Master these phrases to navigate the Korean corporate or academic world with grace.

Want Feedback on Your Business Email?

Don't risk sounding rude. Book a 1:1 "Business Korean" session with Hoon on italki. We'll review your specific email drafts and perfect your use of honorifics for a professional first impression!

🚀 Perfect Your Professional Writing

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