🕊️ Writing Formal Condolences in Korean — Say the Right Words with Respect
🕊️ Writing Formal Condolences in Korean — Say the Right Words with Respect
.jpg "Korean Condolences — Honorific phrases, respectful tone, and etiquette")
Many learners worry about saying the wrong thing in a painful moment. In Korean, a few respectful words go further than long explanations. In a minute, you’ll see **exact one-line templates**—but first, avoid the most common mistake.
▸ Open Contents (Essentials • Templates • Culture • Mini Drills • Tips • FAQ)
Condolence Essentials short & dignified
Honorific endings -습니다
Formal · concise
Shows respect clearly
삼가 · 애도 · 유가족
Calm · humble
Casual endings / advice
Keep it to one sentence; focus on the deceased’s peace and the family’s comfort.
One-Line Templates copy & adjust
Optional: add the deceased’s title (“선친”, “모친”) only if you’re sure.
Culture & Etiquette what to expect
Hospital funeral hall
Plain white envelope
Black · simple
Two bows · short words
Common tradition
Porridge/noodles
No photos
Advice/causes
Micro-habit: Before sending, read your one line aloud once and check the ending is “-습니다”. Reward: mark it done on your phone.
Make it obvious • attractive • easy • satisfying.
Bias Guard: Check 3 things → deceased’s proper title · family relationship · avoid mentioning causes. (Don’t let WYSIATI rush you.)
Mini Drills 1-minute
- Fill-in: “삼가 고인의 _____을 빕니다.”
- Choose: Which ending is correct? (-요 / -습니다)
- Make: Write one line for a colleague’s parent.
Show answers
1) 명복 · 2) -습니다 · 3) ex) “삼가 고인의 명복을 빌며 깊은 애도를 전합니다.”
👩🏫 Teacher’s Tips — sound respectful, stay brief
1) Use one sentence only.
One calm line communicates care better than a long message.
한 문장으로 차분하게 전하면 더 진심이 전달돼요.
2) Choose a safe verb.
“위로의 말씀을 드립니다 / 명복을 빕니다” are safest.
“위로의 말씀을 드립니다 / 명복을 빕니다”가 가장 안전해요.
Short Quotes
- “You do not rise to the level of your goals. You fall to the level of your systems.” — James Clear
- “Faced with a difficult question, we often answer an easier one instead.” — Daniel Kahneman
❓ FAQ
Can I mention religion in my message?
Only if you’re sure it matches the family’s beliefs.
유가족의 종교를 확실히 알 때만 언급하세요.
Is English okay?
A short English line is acceptable; add a simple Korean line if possible.
짧은 영어 문장 가능해요. 간단한 한국어 한 줄을 덧붙이면 좋아요.
What should I avoid?
Advice, causes of death, and casual tone.
조언, 사망 원인 언급, 가벼운 말투는 피하세요.
📝 Need a careful review? 15-minute wording check with honorifics. italki → teacher/7916559
We’ll keep it respectful, brief, and appropriate for your situation.
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