Learning Korean can be an enriching experience, especially if you start with the basic vocabulary used in daily communication. Here’s a list of essential Korean words that will help you navigate through everyday conversations.
안녕하세요 (Annyeonghaseyo) – Hello
오늘 기분이 어떠세요? 안녕하세요!
This is probably the first word that every Korean language learner picks up. It’s a formal and polite way to greet someone.
감사합니다 (Gamsahamnida) – Thank you
도움을 주셔서 감사합니다.
Expressing gratitude is important in every culture, and in Korean, ‘감사합니다’ is the most common way to say thank you.
죄송합니다 (Joesonghamnida) – Sorry
불편을 드려서 죄송합니다.
A formal apology, this phrase is used in situations where you might have inconvenienced someone or made a mistake.
예 (Ye) – Yes
이것이 맞습니까? 예, 맞습니다.
A simple affirmation, ‘예’ is used in formal conversations. In informal settings, you might hear ‘응 (eung)’ used instead.
아니요 (Aniyo) – No
더 필요하신 것 있으세요? 아니요, 괜찮습니다.
This is the formal way to say no in Korean. It’s polite and can be used in both professional and casual contexts.
제 이름은 (Je ireumeun) – My name is
안녕하세요, 제 이름은 미카엘입니다.
When introducing yourself, this phrase can be followed by your name to tell someone what you’re called.
어떻게 지내세요? (Eotteoke jinaeseyo?) – How are you?
오랜만이에요, 어떻게 지내세요?
This is a polite way to ask someone about their well-being, commonly used among acquaintances.
잘 지냈어요 (Jal jinaesseoyo) – I am fine
네, 저는 잘 지냈어요. 감사합니다!
A response to ‘어떻게 지내세요?’, this phrase is used to indicate that one is doing well.
이것은 무엇입니까? (Igeoseun mueosimnikka?) – What is this?
이것은 무엇입니까? 이건 한국의 전통 음식입니다.
When you’re curious about an object or need more information, this question comes in handy.
얼마예요? (Eolmayeyo?) – How much is it?
이 가방은 얼마예요?
This is a critical phrase to know when shopping. It helps you find out the price of items.
화장실이 어디에 있어요? (Hwajangshiri eodie isseoyo?) – Where is the bathroom?
실례합니다, 화장실이 어디에 있어요?
A practical question that is essential in navigating everyday life, whether you’re in a restaurant, shopping mall, or just about anywhere.
도와주세요 (Dowajuseyo) – Help me
잠시 도와주세요, 이 짐이 너무 무거워요.
If you find yourself in a situation where you need assistance, this phrase is vital.
좋아요 (Joayo) – It’s good
이 음식은 정말 좋아요!
Used to express satisfaction or approval, this can refer to anything from food to a plan.
싫어요 (Sileoyo) – I don’t like it
이 옷은 싫어요, 다른 걸 볼게요.
Express your dislike or dissatisfaction with something using this phrase.
모르겠어요 (Moreugesseoyo) – I don’t know
이 질문에 대한 답을 모르겠어요.
When you’re unsure about an answer or need to express ignorance on a matter, this phrase is used.
먹고 싶어요 (Meokgo sipeoyo) – I want to eat
저는 지금 김치를 먹고 싶어요.
When hunger strikes and you want to express your desire for food, this phrase will be useful.
자고 싶어요 (Jago sipeoyo) – I want to sleep
오늘은 정말 피곤해요, 자고 싶어요.
Use this phrase when you’re feeling tired and need to rest.
By learning these essential Korean phrases, you’ll be better equipped to engage in simple conversations and navigate your way around Korean-speaking environments. Remember, practice is key in mastering any new language, so make sure to use these phrases as much as possible in your daily communications.
