If you’re learning Korean or planning a trip to Korea, knowing how to greet people properly can make a significant difference. It’s one of the simplest yet most effective ways to connect with others and demonstrate respect for their culture. This guide covers 15 common Korean greetings, explaining how to say them, when to use them, and what they mean in everyday conversations. The goal is to help you speak more naturally and connect with people in a way that feels genuine and respectful.
The Importance of Greetings in Korean Culture
In Korea, a greeting isn’t just a polite way to say hello. It often reflects the relationship between people, particularly in terms of age and social status. The way you greet someone—both in your words and your body language—can show respect, set the tone, and help build trust. Even a small bow or the choice of a formal phrase can make a big difference.
Understanding Speech Levels in Korean Greetings
Korean greetings vary based on formality:
- Formal Polite (존댓말): Used in most situations, especially with strangers or elders.
- Formal (격식체): Employed in official settings or with superiors.
- Informal (반말): Reserved for close friends or those younger than you.
Selecting the correct level ensures respectful communication and adherence to cultural norms.
1. 안녕하세요 (Annyeonghaseyo) – Hello (Polite)
Pronounced as an-nyeong-ha-se-yo, this is the standard polite greeting used in most situations. Suitable for addressing strangers, elders, or colleagues, it conveys respect and friendliness. The phrase combines “안녕” (peace) with the polite verb ending “하세요” (do), essentially asking, “Are you at peace?” It’s appropriate for use throughout the day, regardless of the time.
2. 안녕하십니까 (Annyeonghasimnikka) – Hello (Formal)
Annyeonghasimnikka is a more formal version of “hello,” often used in official settings, business meetings, or when addressing someone of higher status. Pronounced as an-nyeong-ha-shim-ni-kka, it reflects a higher level of formality and is common in news broadcasts and formal speeches. People often use this greeting to show respect in very formal situations, such as when speaking to someone older or of higher rank. It’s a clear way to acknowledge social roles and show that you understand the importance of proper manners in Korean culture.
3. 안녕 (Annyeong) – Hi (Informal)
Pronounced as an-nyeong, this informal greeting is used among close friends, peers, or those younger than you. It’s casual and should be avoided in formal contexts or when addressing elders. Using “안녕” inappropriately can be perceived as disrespectful; therefore, it’s essential to consider the relationship and setting before using it.
4. 만나서 반갑습니다 (Mannaseo Bangapseumnida) – Nice to Meet You
This polite expression, pronounced as man-na-seo ban-gap-seum-ni-da, is used when meeting someone for the first time. It conveys pleasure in making the acquaintance and is often used in conjunction with a handshake and a slight bow. The phrase means “I am glad to meet you,” reflecting the importance of first impressions in Korean culture.
5. 안녕히 가세요 (Annyeonghi Gaseyo) – Goodbye (to someone leaving)
Used when you’re staying and the other person is leaving, this phrase wishes them a peaceful departure. Pronounced as an-nyeong-hi ga-se-yo, it’s a polite way to say goodbye and is commonly used in various settings, including shops and restaurants. The phrase means “go peacefully,” emphasising the cultural value placed on considerate farewells.
6. 안녕히 계세요 (Annyeonghi Gyeseyo) – Goodbye (to someone staying)
When you’re the one leaving, and the other person is staying, this is the phrase to use. It’s pronounced an-nyeong-hi gye-se-yo and means “stay peacefully.” This slight difference in wording highlights the importance Koreans place on being thoughtful and respectful in everyday conversations.
7. 잘 자요 (Jal Jayo) – Good Night
Pronounced as jal ja-yo, this is a polite way to wish someone a good night’s sleep. Used among friends or in formal situations, it combines “잘” (well) and “자요” (sleep), literally meaning “sleep well.” For informal settings, “잘 자” (jal ja) is used, while “안녕히 주무세요” (annyeonghi jumuseyo) is a more formal version used with elders or in respectful contexts.
8. 좋은 아침이에요 (Joeun Achimieyo) – Good Morning
Although not commonly used in spoken Korean, this phrase translates to “good morning.” Pronounced as jo-eun a-chim-i-e-yo, it combines “좋은” (good) and “아침” (morning). Typically, “안녕하세요” suffices for morning greetings, but “좋은 아침이에요” can be used to add warmth or in more formal written communication.
9. 좋은 하루 보내세요 (Joeun Haru Bonaeseyo) – Have a Nice Day
A polite way to wish someone a pleasant day, this phrase is suitable for various situations, including customer service interactions. Pronounced as jo-eun ha-ru bo-nae-se-yo, it combines “좋은” (good), “하루” (day), and “보내세요” (please spend), literally meaning “please spend a good day.” It’s a thoughtful way to conclude conversations or interactions.
10. 감사합니다 (Gamsahamnida) – Thank You
Pronounced as gam-sa-ham-ni-da, this formal expression of gratitude is appropriate in most situations. It’s widely used and appreciated, reflecting the high-value Koreans place on politeness and respect. For less formal situations, “고마워요” (gomawoyo) or “고마워” (gomawo) can be used among friends or those younger than you.
11. 고맙습니다 (Gomapseumnida) – Thanks (Formal)
Another formal way to say “thank you,” pronounced as go-map-seum-ni-da, is often used interchangeably with “감사합니다.” While both are polite, “감사합니다” is more commonly used in formal settings, whereas “고맙습니다” may convey a slightly more personal tone. Understanding the subtle differences can enhance your appreciation of Korean expressions of gratitude.
12. 잘 지냈어요? (Jal Jinaesseoyo?) – How Have You Been?
This polite inquiry about someone’s well-being is typically used when catching up after a period of time apart. Pronounced as jal ji-nae-sseo-yo, it combines “잘” (well) and “지냈어요” (have you been), literally asking, “Have you been well?” It’s a considerate way to show interest in someone’s life and maintain relationships.
13. 오랜만이에요 (Oraenmanieyo) – Long Time No See
Used when reuniting with someone after a long period, this phrase expresses happiness in seeing them again. Pronounced as o-raen-man-i-e-yo, it means “it’s been a while.” Often used in conjunction with “잘 지냈어요?” to catch up with someone you haven’t seen in a while.
14. 들어오세요 (Deureooseyo) – Come In
A polite invitation to enter is commonly used when welcoming guests into a home or office. Pronounced as deu-reo-o-se-yo, it combines “들어오다” (to enter) with the polite ending “세요.” This phrase reflects the Korean values of hospitality and respect for guests.
15. 식사하셨어요? (Siksahasyeosseoyo?) – Have You Eaten?
A culturally significant greeting that shows care and concern, this phrase is akin to asking about someone’s well-being. You’ll hear this phrase pronounced “shik-sa-ha-shyeo-sseo-yo”, often used in daily life. It means “Have you eaten?” but it’s a way of checking in on someone. In Korean culture, asking about food is one of the most common and caring ways to show concern.
Pronunciation and Romanisation Tips
Korean pronunciation can be challenging for beginners. Familiarising yourself with the Revised Romanisation system can aid in learning. For instance, “안녕하세요” is romanised as “annyeonghaseyo.” Listening to native speakers and practising regularly will improve your pronunciation over time.
Non-Verbal Greeting Etiquette
In Korea, how you move often speaks just as loudly as what you say. A small bow is a common way to show respect when greeting someone. The deeper the bow, the more respect you’re showing, especially in formal situations.
In professional settings, handshakes are common in Korea, especially when meeting someone for the first time. It’s also typical to give a small bow at the same time. When handing something to another person, like a gift or business card, it’s respectful to use both hands or lightly support your right hand with your left. These gestures may seem small, but they’re seen as thoughtful and polite.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
There are a few common slip-ups that learners often make when it comes to greetings in Korean. Being aware of them can help you avoid awkward moments.
One is using casual language too soon. Saying “안녕” to someone older or in a formal setting can come across as disrespectful. Stick with “안녕하세요” until you’re sure it’s okay to speak more casually.
Some people overlook the non-verbal side of greetings, but it’s more important than you might think. Skipping a bow or handing something over with one hand instead of two can come across as careless, even if you didn’t mean it that way.
Pronunciation is another area where a little effort makes a big difference. Saying a word the wrong way, even just a little, can make it hard for others to understand you. In some cases, it might even sound like you’re saying something else entirely. A good way to get better is to listen to how native speakers say things and repeat them out loud. The more you do this, the more natural it’ll start to feel.
Summary Table of Essential Korean Greetings
| Korean Phrase | Romanisation | Meaning | Usage Context | Speech Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 안녕하세요 | annyeonghaseyo | Hello | General polite greeting | Polite |
| 안녕하십니까 | annyeonghasimnikka | Hello (formal) | Formal/business settings | Formal |
| 안녕 | annyeong | Hi | Informal settings | Informal |
| 만나서 반갑습니다 | mannaseo bangapseumnida | Nice to meet you | First meetings | Polite |
| 안녕히 가세요 | annyeonghi gaseyo | Goodbye (to someone leaving) | When the other person is leaving | Polite |
| 안녕히 계세요 | annyeonghi gyeseyo | Goodbye (to someone staying) | When you are leaving | Polite |
| 잘 자요 | jal jayo | Good night | Before bedtime | Polite |
| 좋은 아침이에요 | joeun achimieyo | Good morning | Morning greeting | Polite |
| 좋은 하루 보내세요 | joeun haru bonaeseyo | Have a nice day | Daytime farewell | Polite |
| 감사합니다 | gamsahamnida | Thank you | Expressing gratitude | Formal |
| 고맙습니다 | gomapseumnida | Thanks | Expressing gratitude | Formal |
| 잘 지냈어요? | jal jinaesseoyo? | How have you been? | Catching up | Polite |
| 오랜만이에요 | oraenmanieyo | Long time no see | Reuniting after a while | Polite |
| 들어오세요 | deureooseyo | Come in | Inviting someone in | Polite |
| 식사하셨어요? | siksahasyeosseoyo? | Have you eaten? | Showing care | Polite |
Conclusion
Knowing the right way to greet someone in Korean isn’t just about language. It’s a simple way to show respect for the culture and the people you’re speaking to. Using the right greeting or gesture helps you come across as thoughtful and aware. People appreciate that kind of effort, and it often leads to more genuine, comfortable interactions. For further resources on learning Korean and understanding its cultural nuances, visit English Explorer. Explore our language courses and blog for more insights.
