🙇 Say It Right: Must-Know Polite Expressions for Korean Beginners

Want to be treated with kindness in Korea? It starts with how you speak. Teacher Hoon explains the essential polite phrases and Honorific Basics to help you build real connections.

Kind Korean women preparing food, representing local hospitality

Respect as a Language Core (EEAT Tip)

In Korea, politeness isn't just about "please" and "thank you"—it's built into the grammar. As an expert teacher, I always tell beginners: When in doubt, use honorifics. It shows you respect the local culture and social hierarchy. Let's master the "Kind Korean" toolkit.

📑 Tap to view Politeness Guide

1. Top 6 Essential Polite Phrases
2. Honorific Basics: ~Yo vs. ~Sumnida
3. 🗣 Real-Life Shopping Dialogue
4. 💡 Did You Know? Two-Hand Rule

1. The "Big 6" Survival Phrases

👋 안녕하세요 (Annyeong-haseyo) - Hello
🙏 감사합니다 (Gamsahamnida) - Thank you
🙇 죄송합니다 (Joesong-hamnida) - I am sorry
👌 괜찮아요 (Gwaenchana-yo) - It’s okay / I'm fine
🙋‍♂️ 실례합니다 (Sillye-hamnida) - Excuse me
🕒 잠시만요 (Jamsimanyo) - Just a moment

2. Honorifics 101: Ending Your Sentences

🌟 -요 (-yo): The most versatile polite ending. Use it for daily conversations, with strangers, or older acquaintances.
(e.g., 가요 - Gayo)
🏛 -습니다 (-sum-nida): Very formal. Use it in business, announcements, or when meeting someone for the very first time in a professional setting.
(e.g., 갑니다 - Gam-nida)

💡 Teacher Hoon's Pro "Bow" Tip

Words are only half the battle! When you say "안녕하세요" or "감사합니다", a slight nod or a gentle bow of the head makes your politeness feel 100% authentic. Also, if you are giving or receiving a business card or money, always use two hands!

🗣 Practice Dialogue: Polite Inquiries

A: 안녕하세요! (Hello!)

B: 안녕하세요. 무엇을 도와드릴까요? (Hello. How can I help you?)

A: 이거 얼마예요? (How much is this?)

B: 15,000원이에요. (It is 15,000 won.)

A: 감사합니다! (Thank you!)

💡 Did You Know? "Gomawo" vs "Gamsahae"

While 감사합니다 (Gamsahamnida) and 고맙습니다 (Gomapseumnida) both mean "Thank you," the former has Chinese roots (Hanja) and is considered slightly more formal. For beginners, Gamsahamnida is always a safe and respectful choice!

Want to Master Polite Conversation?

Don't be afraid of making mistakes! Book a 1:1 "Polite & Respectful Korean" session with Hoon on italki. We'll practice real-life etiquette—from restaurants to meeting your in-laws—until you feel like a natural part of Korean society.

🚀 Master Manners with Hoon

Related Beginner Lessons:
Simple Greetings | Particles 은/는 Guide