The History of Hangeul

Koreans use their own unique alphabet called Hangul. It is considered to be one of the
most efficient alphabets in the world and has garnered unanimous praise from language experts
for its scientific design and excellence.

Hangul was created under King Sejong during the Chosun Dynasty (1393-1910). In 1446,
the first Korean alphabet was proclaimed under the original name Hunmin chong-um, which
literally meant "the correct sounds for the instruction of the people."
King Sejong, the creator of Hangul, is considered to be one of the greatest rulers in the
history of Korea. Highly respected for his benevolent disposition and diligence, King Sejong was
also a passionate scholar whose knowledge and natural talent in all fields of study astounded
even the most learned experts.
During his reign, King Sejong always deplored the fact that the common people, ignorant of
the complicated Chinese characters that were being used by the educated, were not able to read
and write. He understood their frustration in not being able to read or to communicate their
thoughts and feelings in written words.

King Sejong
 The Hangeul Alphabet
Hangul, (Korean: “Great Script”)also spelled Hangeul or Han’gŭl, alphabetic system
used for writing the Korean language. The system, known as Chosŏn muntcha in North
Korea, consists of 24 letters (originally 28), including 14 consonants and 10 vowels. The
consonant characters are formed with curved or angled lines. The vowels are composed of
vertical or horizontal straight lines together with short lines on either side of the main
line.
1. Hangul Practice.
Stacking Rules

It's somewhat hard to explain, but rather something you just kind of have to feel. The entire
concept is really this:

strokes < letters/characters < syllables < words < sentences

This idea is basically the same in every language, but in Korean it is very visible. We're just
gonna focus on how letters relate to syllables.

All you really need to know, is that the placement of letters in a stack all starts with the
vowel.

This is easy, because there may only be one vowel sound per syllable.

If the vowel is horizontal ... put the consonant next to it.

If the vowel is vertical ... put the consonant beneath it.

You'll see that dipthongs (two vowels put together to form one vowel sound) have their
consonants placed to the top left. This helps to illustrate the idea that a vowel may never
begin a syllable.

But what if the syllable is just "a"? Or just "o"?

Easy! You write the syllable exactly as it is on the chart: with the consonant "iûng" (the little
circle guy again) as a silent place holder. You probably know that at the end of a syllable,
"iûng" is pronounced like the "-ng" of "ring". But at the beginning of a syllable, it's just there
to look pretty and complete the block/stack. Otherwise, you just have a loose letter floating
around.

In short, 1 consonant + 1 vowel sound = just like in the chart (but replace "iûng" with
whatever consonant you need).

Speaking of which, what do you do when your syllable has more than one consonant? It
happens all the time. Lots of Korean words have a vowel sandwiched between two
consonants. (ex: HAN instead of HA) Here's a barbaric number chart to show you the main
structures of Korean syllables.

* Remember: always go UP to DOWN, LEFT to RIGHT. (Start in the upper-left hand corner,
and work your way down to the lower-right hand corner). In this chart, 2 is the vowel. 1, 3,
and 4 are consonants. (Korean syllables never begin with two consonants

C = consonant
VV = vertical vowel
HV = horizontal vowel
Vocabulary
Vocabulary
Here’s the comprehensive list of Korean phrases that you’ll need to join in on the fun and
converse in Korean. This is the up-to-date modern version of how Koreans actually talk, so
buckle up and get ready for some fun!

I’m going to get the best phrases out to you on this page, broken down by category.

Forget the dated guidebooks or confusing phrases that don’t make sense, this list will give
you exactly what you need for your next adventure in Korea. We’ll provide the phrases
with the Korean alphabet and romanization.

Below, we’ll give a brief into to formal vs. informal, then get right into with with the most
important phrases. After those, the phrases are broken down by situation.

Formal vs Informal
Korean has many levels of formality within the language. Because of this, saying simple things
can seem extremely complex because of the social hierarchies.
If you’re learning Korean but you don’t have Korean ancestry in your family, then you’re in
the clear! You can get by with the standard forms of the language and you’ll still be
considered polite. That way you can learn some simple phrases without having to know all of
the intricacies of the language.
Since there are different forms of Korean, you may occasionally hear more formal versions of
the phrases below. However, we’ll give you the 20% of the phrases you’ll hear 80% of the
time so you can learn Korean fast.
The Basics
If you’ve only got a short time to learn some phrases, then best to stick with the basics.
These expressions are the 80/20 of what you need to know (20% that will give you 80% of
the results).

Essential Korean Phrases

Need the bare minimum for talking in Korean? These are the phrases you’ll want to get down
to make sure your time in Korea is smooth sailing!
You might notice that that there area few ways of saying some common phrases, such as
“excuse me” and “goodbye”. In English, these phrases are much more multi-purpose. In
Korean, there are specific phrases that you’ll use for certain situations.
English 한국어(Korean) Romanization

Thank You 고맙습니다 gomapseumnida

Don’t mention it 천만에요 cheonmaneyo

Sorry 미안합니다 mianhamnida

That’s OK 괜찮아요 gwaenchanayo

Hello 안녕하세요? annyeonghaseyo?

Excuse me (to get attention) 저기요 jeogiyo

Excuse me (to apologize) 실례합니다 sillyehamnida

Excuse me (to pass someone) 잠시만요 jamsimanyo

Hello (on phone) 여보세요 yeoboseyo

Good morning 안녕하세요? annyeonghaseyo?

Good evening 안녕하세요? annyeonghaseyo?

Sleep well 잘자요 jal jayo

Sweet dreams 좋은꿈꿔요 joeun kkum kkwoyo

Goodbye (to person leaving) 안녕히가세요 annyeonghi gaseyo

Goodbye (to person staying) 안녕히계세요 annyeonghi gyeseyo

Get home safely 잘가요 jal gayo

Have a nice day 좋은하루보내세요 joeun haru bonaeseyo

Have a good trip! 여행잘하세요 yeohaeng jalhaseyo

Welcome 환영합니다 hwanyeonghamnida

 English 한국어(Korean) Romanization

Yes 네 ne

No 아니오 anio

Maybe 아마도 amado

Just a moment! 잠깐만요! jamkkanmanyo!

I feel sick 아파요 apayo

I need a doctor 의사가필요해요 uisaga pillyohaeyo

Take me to the hospital (to taxi) 병원에가주세요 byeongwone gajuseyo

Essential Korean Phrases

You might notice that that there area few ways of saying some common phrases, such as
“excuse me” and “goodbye”. In English, these phrases are much more multi-purpose. In
Korean, there are specific phrases that you’ll use for certain situations.

English 한국어(Korean) Romanization

Thank You 고맙습니다 gomapseumnida

Don’t mention it 천만에요 cheonmaneyo

Sorry 미안합니다 mianhamnida

That’s OK 괜찮아요 gwaenchanayo

Hello 안녕하세요? annyeonghaseyo?

Excuse me (to get attention) 저기요 jeogiyo

Excuse me (to apologize) 실례합니다 sillyehamnida

Excuse me (to pass someone) 잠시만요 jamsimanyo

 English 한국어(Korean) Romanization

Hello (on phone) 여보세요 yeoboseyo

Good morning 안녕하세요? annyeonghaseyo?

Good evening 안녕하세요? annyeonghaseyo?

Sleep well 잘자요 jal jayo

Sweet dreams 좋은꿈꿔요 joeun kkum kkwoyo

Goodbye (to person leaving) 안녕히가세요 annyeonghi gaseyo

Goodbye (to person staying) 안녕히계세요 annyeonghi gyeseyo

Get home safely 잘가요 jal gayo

Have a nice day 좋은하루보내세요 joeun haru bonaeseyo

Have a good trip! 여행잘하세요 yeohaeng jalhaseyo

Welcome 환영합니다 hwanyeonghamnida

Yes 네 ne

No 아니오 anio

Maybe 아마도 amado

Just a moment! 잠깐만요! jamkkanmanyo!

I feel sick 아파요 apayo

I need a doctor 의사가필요해요 uisaga pillyohaeyo

Take me to the hospital (to taxi) 병원에가주세요 byeongwone gajuseyo

Everyday Korean Phrases

As you learn the lay of the land with your Korean learning, you’ll want to setup up from the
essentials to phrases that you’ll need on a daily basis.
When you’re asking questions in Korean, make sure to direct your intonation upwards
towards the end of the sentences, as if you’re unsure.
You’ve got the phrases necessary to have simple interactions, so now’s the time to put them
to use!
English 한국어(Korean) Romanization

Where is the bathroom? 화장실은어디에있어요? hwajangsireun eodie

isseoyo?

Please repeat that 다시말해주세요 dasi malhae juseyo

Please speak slowly 천천히말해주세요 cheoncheonhi malhae juseyo

Please write it down 적어주세요 jeogeo juseyo

I understand 이해해요 ihaehaeyo

I don’t understand 이해못해요 ihae mothaeyo

I don’t know 몰라요 mollayo

I know 알아요 arayo

Can you speak Korean? 한국말을할수있어요? hangungmareul hal su

isseoyo?

I can speak a little Korean 한국말을조금할수있어요 hangungmareul jogeum hal

su isseoyo

I can’t speak Korean 한국말을못해요 hangungmareul mothaeyo

How do you say _______ in Korean? _______이한국말로뭐예요? _______i hangungmallo

mwoyeyo?

How much is this? 이거얼마예요? igeo eolmayeyo?

I’ll be right back! 금방갔다올거예요! geumbang gatda olgeoyeyo!

What is this? 이게뭐예요 ige mwoyeyo

Don’t worry! 걱정하지마세요! geokjeong haji maseyo!

No problem! 문제없어요 munje eopseoyo

 English 한국어(Korean) Romanization

Good 좋아요 joayo

Bad 안좋아요 an joayo

So-so 그저그래요 geujeo geuraeyo

Places
Use these phrases at various place. They’re broken up by different locations, so get your
Korean skills up one spot at a time!

Restaurant Korean Phrases

If you’ve had Korean food before, then you know why Koreans can’t live without it when they
go abroad. A Korean meal is not just any ordinary culinary experience. It’s a symphony of
various side dishes, main dishes, drinks, appetizers, and desserts that will make you wonder
how you’ve lived without it for so long.
Korean cuisine is not only strong on variety, but it also is strong on taste! You’ll experience
meat, vegetables, noodles, rice, and other seasonings in a way that you might not have had
before. But beware, some of these may catch you off guard! Koreans love to spice things up, so
don’t be surprised if you find yourself reaching for the ice water more than normal.
English 한국어(Korean) Romanization

Do you have a table for 4 people? 네명자리있어요? nemyeong jari isseoyo?

Please give me a menu 메뉴판주세요 menyupan juseyo

Do you have vegetarian dishes? 채식주의자용식사있어요? chaesikjuuijayong siksa

isseoyo?

Is this spicy? 이거매워요? igeo maewoyo?

 English 한국어(Korean) Romanization

Please do not make this spicy 맵지않게요리해주세요 maepji anke yorihae juseyo

Please give me 4 orders of galbi 갈비사인분주세요 galbi sainbun juseyo

Please give me 1 bottle of soju 소주한병주세요 soju hanbyeong juseyo

Please give me 3 glasses 유리잔세개주세요 yurijan segae juseyo

It’s delicious! 맛있어요! masisseoyo!

I don’t like it 맛없어요 maseopseoyo

It was a delicious meal! 잘먹었습니다! jal meogeotseumnida!

What time do you close? 몇시에문닫아요? myeotsie mun dadayo?

Do you take credit cards? 카드돼요? kadeu dwaeyo?

Cafe & Coffee Shop Korean Phrases

If you’ve been to Seoul before, then you know you can go more than a few minutes in each
direction without running into a cafe. Korea has a massive coffee-drinking culture, and it’s
continuing to spread!
When you order at a cafe, there are some unique Korean cafe phrases that might be
surprising to English speakers. For example, the way you ask for your order to go will be
different depending on whether you order only a drink or if you order food with your drink.
Although Koreans think this is normal, even they get surprised when they think about the
intricacies of Korean!
Use these phrases to get the caffeine boost that will supercharge your day.
English 한국어(Korean) Romanization

Please give me 1 hot coffee 따뜻한아메리카노한잔주세요 ttatteuthan amerikano

hanjan juseyo

Please give me 2 ice coffees 아이스아메리카노두잔주세요 aiseu amerikano dujan

juseyo

Do you have non-caffeinated 카페인없는음료있어요? kapein eomneun eumnyo

drinks? isseoyo?

I’d like to eat here 여기서먹고갈게요 yeogiseo meokgo galgeyo

 English 한국어(Korean) Romanization

I’d like this to go (drink only) 테이크아웃이에요 teikeu ausieyo

I’d like this to go (food and drink) 포장해주세요 pojanghae juseyo

Please throw away my receipt 영수증은버려주세요 yeongsujeungeun beoryeo

juseyo

Do you have wifi here? 와이파이있어요? waipai isseoyo?

What is the wifi password? 비밀번호알려주세요 bimil beonho allyeo juseyo

Do you have electrical outlets? 콘센트있어요? konsenteu isseoyo?

Where are your electrical outlets? 콘센트어디에있어요? konsenteu eodie isseoyo?

Shopping Korean Phrases

If you’re out in Dongadaemun, Garosul-gil, or Myeongdong, you are definitely going to need
some phrases to help you shop!
Korea has it’s own specialized vocabulary terms when it comes to shopping, so make sure you
know these before you head out for the next shopping spree. For example, did you know that
some Korean credit cards give you the choice of paying for your purchase over one month or
multiple month installments? The installment plans have interest fees, so plan accordingly!
Be ready for this question, since some stores will ask you if you want your purchase to be put
through as “일시불”.
Use these Korean phrases to add even more fun to your shopping experience.
English 한국어(Korean) Romanization

Throw away the receipt 영수증은버려주세요 yeongsujeungeun beoryeo

juseyo

Please give me a receipt 영수증주세요 yeongsujeung juseyo

Put it in a bag 봉투에넣어주세요 bongtue neoeo juseyo

Please give me a discount 좀깎아주세요 jom kkakka juseyo

How much is it? 얼마예요? eolmayeyo?

 English 한국어(Korean) Romanization

Please give me _______ _______ 주세요 _______ juseyo

Do you have _______? _______ 있어요? _______ isseoyo?

Can I pay with credit card? 카드돼요? kadeu dwaeyo?

Please give me a refund 환불해주세요 hwanbulhae juseyo

Please exchange this 교환해주세요 gyohwanhae juseyo

Please wrap it for me 포장해주세요 pojanghae juseyo

One-time payment 일시불 ilsibul

3 month installments 3개월할부 3gaewol halbu

Dry Cleaner Korean Phrases

Looking sharp and stylish doesn’t happen by accident. Koreans are extremely image-
conscious, and go to great lengths to make sure their appearance is the best it can be at all
times.
If you feel the same about your clothing, then you know the dry cleaners is your best friend!
Ordinary shirts, trousers, skirts, and suits make your clothing look new again. Not only that,
but you can save some of your clothing from certain doom. We all know what it feels like
when you put your favorite sweater in the dryer and it comes out three sizes too small!
Best to leave the care of your finest threads to the professionals. The next time you stop by
your friendly neighborhood dry cleaner in Korea, use these phrases to insure you get exactly
what you want.
English 한국어(Korean) Romanization

Please dry clean this for me 드라이해주세요 deurai hae juseyo

Please iron this for me 다림질해주세요 darimjil hae juseyo

Please make this longer 기장을늘려주세요. gijangeul neullyeo juseyo.

Please make this shorter 기장을줄여주세요. gijangeul jullyeo juseyo.

Please sew on this button 단추붙여주세요 danchu butyeojuseyo

 English 한국어(Korean) Romanization

Can you remove this stain? 얼룩뺄수있어요? eolluk ppael su isseoyo?

When can I pick up my clothes? 옷을언제받을수있어요? oseul eonje badeul su

isseoyo?

I’m here to pick up my clothes 제옷을찾으러왔어요 je oseul chajeureo wasseoyo

How much is it? 얼마예요? eolmayeyo?

How much is the total? 모두얼마예요? modu eolmayeyo?

Bank Korean Phrases

Maybe you’re tired of fumbling around with hand gestures and sentence fragments at the
bank. Or perhaps you want to get your banking done at the local branch instead of heading
into the one across town that has English speakers.
We got you covered!
Grab your stacks of 오만원bills, pack them in your briefcase, and head down to your friendly
neighborhood bank. Hopefully they have a big enough vault for you!
Use these at the bank to confidently, quickly, and seamlessly get your banking biz taken care
of.
Cha-Ching!
English 한국어(Korean) Romanization

I would like to open a new bank 통장을만들고싶어요 tongjangeul mandeulgo

account sipeoyo

I would like an ATM card 체크카드를만들고싶어요 chekeu kadeureul

mandeulgo sipeoyo

I need to reset my password 비밀번호를재발급하고싶어요 bimilbeonhoreul jaebalgeup

hago sipeoyo

Are there monthly fees? 수수료있어요? susuryo isseoyo?

Do you have an ID card 신분증있어요? sinbunjeung isseoyo?

Please give me your ID card 신분증주세요 sinbunjeung juseyo

Do you need internet banking? 인터넷뱅킹필요해요? inteonet baengking

pillyohaeyo?
 English 한국어(Korean) Romanization

I would like to apply for a public 공인인증서발급하고싶어요 gongininjeungseo

certificate balgeupago sipeoyo

I want to send money to _______ _______에돈보내려고왔어요 _______e don bonaeryeogo

wasseoyo

I need to make a deposit 입금해주세요 ipgeum haejuseyo

I need to make a withdrawal 출금해주세요 chulgeum haejuseyo

How much is the wire transfer 송금수수료는얼마예요? songgeum susuryoneun

charge? eolmayeyo?

Can I apply for a credit card? 신용카드신청할수있어요? sinyong kadeu sincheonghal

su isseoyo?

Hospital Korean Phrases

Nobody likes going to the hospital, but it sure it sure is a relief to see a doctor when you aren’t
feeling well!
Use these phrases below to explain to the doctor what the problem is.
Even if the doctor speaks English, you may find these phrases handy to use with the nurse or
the receptionist who takes your name down and asks what is bothering you.
If you get a prescription, they will usually be a pharmacy nearby. Sometimes, there will be
pharmacy inside the hospital!
English 한국어(Korean) Romanization

I need to see a doctor 진찰을받고싶어요 jinchareul batgo sipeoyo

I have health insurance 건강보험있어요 geongang boheom isseoyo

My body aches all over 몸살났어요 momsal nasseoyo

I have a headache 머리가아파요 meoriga apayo

I have a sore throat 목이아파요 mogi apayo

I have a stomachache 배가아파요 baega apayo

I have diarrhea 설사를해요 seolsareul haeyo

 English 한국어(Korean) Romanization

I have indigestion 소화불량체했어요 sohwabullyang

chehaesseoyo

My nose is runny 자꾸콧물이나요 jakku konmuri nayo

My nose is stuffy 코가막혔어요 koga makyeosseoyo

I don’t have any allergies 알레르기가없어요 allereugiga eopseoyo

I am allergic to _______ _______에알레르기가있어요 _______e allereugiga isseoyo

Where can I get this prescription 어디에서약을조제할수있어요? eodieseo yageul jojehal su

filled? isseoyo?

I have a prescription to fill 처방전을받아왔어요 cheobangjeoneul bada

wasseoyo

Pharmacy Korean Phrases

If you’re not feeling well and you don’t think it’s quite worth a doctor visit, then you might
want to swing by your local pharmacy in Korea.
The pharmacists in Korea are very helpful. Explain what the problem is, and they’ll give you
the recommended medicine to get you back to your former glorious self.
Or, maybe you went to the hospital and now you’ve got that piece of paper with the cure to
your sickness. You’ll be on your way with your prescription filled in no time!
English 한국어(Korean) Romanization

Do you have Tylenol? 타이레놀있어요? tairenol isseoyo?

I have a cold 감기에걸렸어요 gamgie geollyeosseoyo

I have a stuffy nose 코가막혔어요. koga makyeosseoyo.

I have a runny nose 자꾸콧물이나요 jakku konmuri nayo

I have a headache 머리가아파요 meoriga apayo

I have a sore throat 목이아파요 mogi apayo

I have a stomachache 배가아파요 baega apayo

 English 한국어(Korean) Romanization

My body aches all over 몸살났어요 momsal nasseoyo

I have been sick for two days 이틀동안아팠어요 iteul dongan apasseoyo

Take one pill twice a day 하루에두번한알씩드세요 harue du beon han alssik
deuseyo

Take one pill three times a day 하루에세번식사할때마다한알씩드세요 harue se beon siksahal
with meals ttaemada han alssik deuseyo

I don’t have any allergies 알레르기가없어요 allereugiga eopseoyo

I am allergic to _______ _______에알레르기가있어요 _______e allereugiga isseoyo

I have a prescription to fill 처방전을받아왔어요 cheobangjeoneul bada

wasseoyo

Dentist Korean Phrases

It’s about that time to take care of that movie star smile!
If you’re afraid of the dentist, you’re not alone. Not to worry, we’ve got some phrases you can
use at the dentist office to make sure your visit is a smooth one.
In Korean, people use the term “scaling” (스케일링) for cleaning. If the dentist starts talking
about scaling your teeth, don’t be surprised, it’s a good thing!
Most of the dentists in Korea speak English, so you likely won’t have to worry about a heavy
langauge barrier. However, their assistants may not be as able to communicate, so having
some Korean phrases may come in handy.
The dentists in Korea are really good, so sit back and relax, it should be a painless and
carefree visit!
English 한국어(Korean) Romanization

I’m here to make an appointment 예약하려고왔는데요 yeyakaryeogo wanneundeyo

How long do I have to wait? 얼마나기다려야해요? eolmana gidaryeoyahaeyo?

My last checkup was 1 year ago 마지막치과검진한지1년됐어요 majimak chigwa

geomjinhanji 1nyeon
dwaesseoyo

My last cleaning was 6 months ago 마지막스케일링한지6개월됐어요 majimak seukeillinghanji

6gaewol dwaesseoyo
 English 한국어(Korean) Romanization

I am here for a cleaning 스케일링하러왔어요 seukeilling hareo wasseoyo

I'm here for a dental checkup 치과검진하러왔어요 chigwa geomjin hareo

wasseoyo

My upper tooth hurts 윗니가아파요 winniga apayo

My lower tooth is senstive 아랫니가시려요 araenniga siryeoyo

My gums hurt 잇몸이아파요 inmomi apayo

I think I have a cavity 충치가생긴것같아요 chungchiga saenggin geot

gatayo

I don’t have dental insurance 치과보험없어요 chigwa boheom eopseoyo

I have dental insurance 치과보험있어요 chigwa boheom isseoyo

Can I pay with a credit card? 카드돼요? kadeu dwaeyo?

Hair Salon Korean Phrases

Ready to head out to the salon?
Or, the “미용실” as they call in it Korean?
You may be worried about the stylist chopping away at you gorgeous locks of hair. After all,
it’s really easy to miscommunicate when you’re talking in a foreign language!
And nobody likes to be reassured with the phrase “don’t worry, it will grow back.”
Unlikely it will grow back in time for your big date on Saturday night!
Thankfully, there are hair salon phrases to help you get exactly the hairstyle that you want.
Study up, and get ready to show off that new hairdo!
English 한국어(Korean) Romanization

Please give me a haircut 커트해주세요 keoteu haejuseyo

Please dye my hair 염색해주세요 yeomsaek haejuseyo

Dye only my roots please 뿌리염색해주세요(뿌염해주세요) ppuri yeomsaek hae juseyo

(ppuyeom haejuseyo)

Dye my hair this color please 이색깔로염색해주세요 i saekkkallo yeomsaek hae

juseyo
 English 한국어(Korean) Romanization

Please perm my hair 파마해주세요 pama haejuseyo

How much does a haircut cost? 머리커트얼마예요? meori keoteu eolmayeyo?

How long will it take? 시간얼마나걸려요? sigan eolmana geollyeoyo?

Please don’t cut it too short 너무짧게자르지마세요 neomu jjalge jareuji maseyo

Please cut it a little shorter here 여기조금더잘라주세요 yeogi jogeum deo jalla juseyo

Please just trim my hair 좀다듬어주세요 jom dadeumeo juseyo

Please just trim my bangs 앞머리만다듬어주세요 ammeoriman dadeumeo

juseyo

Please trim the sides and even out 위에는그냥두고옆에만다듬어주세요 wieneun geunyang dugo
the top yeopeman dadeumeojuseyo

Leave the back long 뒷머리는길게남겨두세요 dwinmeorineun gilge

namgyeo duseyo

I’d like to make an appointment 내일오후2시로예약을하고싶은데요 naeil ohu 2siro yeyageul

tomorrow at 2pm hagosipeundeyo

I’d like my hair like this person in 사진에있는사람처럼머리를잘라주세요 sajine inneun

the picture saramcheoreom meorireul
jalla juseyo

Make it about this long 이정도로길게해주세요 i jeongdoro gilge hae juseyo

Movie Theater & Cinema

No matter what time of year, what time of day, or what the weather is like, it’s always a good
time to go see a movie in Korea!
There are a variety of movie theaters, some of the popular being CGV, Lotte Cinema, and
Megabox.
There are a few great things about going to the movies in Korea.
First of all, you can easily reserve tickets for a movie through smartphone apps. If some
problem with your schedule comes up, many theaters have a refund policy if you cancel
before the movie starts (depending on the movie theater).
Secondly, many of the theaters have movies that start well into midnight. You may find
yourself going to a movie at 3:00am!
Thirdly, you can cuddle up with your significant other during your movie by reserving couple
seats, often on the top row. CGV calls them “Sweetbox” seats, and they have a foldable armrest
for a loveseat-style feeling at the movies.
English 한국어(Korean) Romanization

Are there any seats available for 7시반상영자리있어요? 7siban sangyeong jari
the 7:30pm showing? isseoyo?

Are there subtitles for this movie? 영화자막있어요? yeonghwa jamak isseoyo?

What time is X movie showing? X 영화는언제상영해요? X yeonghwaneun eonje

sangyeonghaeyo?

What is the genre of the movie? 영화는무슨장르에요? yeonghwaneun museun

jangneueyo?

How long is the movie? 영화상영시간이얼마나돼요? yeonghwa sangyeong sigani

eolmana dwaeyo?

Where is Theater 12 영화관12관어디에있어요? yeonghwagwan12gwan

eodie isseoyo?

Where is the concession stand? 매점은어디있어요? maejeomeun eodi isseoyo?

I’d like two tickets for X movie X 영화는2장주세요 X yeonghwaneun 2jang

juseyo

How much are the Sweetbox 스위트박스자리는얼마예요? seuwiteubakseu jarineun

seats? eolmayeyo?

Do you give discounts to students? 학생할인돼요? haksaeng harin dwaeyo?

When is the last move playing? 마지막영화는언제예요? majimak yeonghwaneun

eonjeyeyo?

Post Office Korean Phrases

Thinking about sending Mom a letter?

Or maybe you have to mail a birthday gift to a best friend.

Better head to the post office!

The post offices in Korea have a wide variety of services, from regular domestic shipments
to international air mail. Most locations also have shipping supplies right at the post office,
so you can do all of your packing and shipping in one spot!
English 한국어 (Korean) Romanization

How much is it to send by air hanggongupyeoneuro

항공우편으로 얼마예요?
mail? eolmayeyo?

How much is the least jeil ssan upyeon bangbeop

제일 싼 우편 방법 얼마예요?
expensive shipping option? eolmayeyo?

segwan seoryu
Do I need a customs form? 세관 서류 필요해요?
pillyohaeyo?

Please send this package by deunggiro sopo

등기로 소포 보내주세요
registered mail bonaejuseyo

캐나다에 봉투우편으로 kaenadae

Please send this envelope to
bongtuupyeoneuro
Canada by regular mail 보내주세요 bonaejuseyo

upyoneun eodieseo sal su

Where can I buy stamps? 우표는 어디에서 살 수 있어요?
isseoyo?

Please give me 3 stamps 우표 3장 주세요 upyo 3jang juseyo

Do you sell envelopes? 편지 봉투 팔아요? pyeonji bongtu parayo?

How long will it take to be baesonggiganeun

배송기간은 얼마나 걸려요?
delivered? eolmana geollyeoyo?

What is the zip code for this i jusoui upyeonbeonhoga

이 주소의 우편번호가 뭐예요?
address? mwoyeyo?

Please give me one size 3 box 3호 박스 1개 주세요 3ho bakseu 1gae juseyo

Please give me some bubble

뽁뽁이 좀 주세요 ppokppogi jom juseyo
wrap

Travel and Transportation

Pack your bags! We’re hitting the road and going to put some Korean phrases to the test.
Use these expressions to help you communicate as you travel and take trips throughout
Korea.

Asking for Directions Korean Phrases

Pack your bags, it’s time to do some traveling within Korea!
Of course we want to make this experience as smooth as possible, so we’ll give you some
phrases you can use in case you get lost or need directions.
Whether you’re in the big city or quiet countryside, use these Korean phrases to ask the locals
where something is.
Start things off with a simple “잠시만요”, and then get to chatting!
English 한국어(Korean) Romanization

Excuse me (asking for help 실례합니다 sillyehamnida

politely)

Excuse me (asking for help) 저기요 jeogiyo

I’m lost 길을잃어버렸어요 gireul ileobeoryeosseoyo

Do you know where _______ is? _______ 어디인지아세요? _______ eodiinji aseyo?

How far is it from here? 여기에서얼마나걸리는지아세요? yeogieseo eolmana

geollineunji aseyo?

Is it far from here? 여기에서멀어요? yeogieseo meoreoyo?

It’s quite far 꽤멀어요 kkwae meoreoyo

It’s not far 멀지않아요 meolji anayo

It’s close 가까워요 gakkawoyo

It’s not within walking distance 걸어갈만한거리가아니예요 georeogal manhan georiga

aniyeyo

It’s about 1 kilometer from here 여기에서1킬로정도멀어요 yeogieseo 1killojeongdo

meoreoyo

Can you show me on the map? 지도로보여주시겠어요? jidoro boyeo jusigesseoyo?

I’m sorry, I’m not from around 미안하지만저는이근처사람이아니예요 mianhajiman jeoneun i

here geuncheo sarami aniyeyo
 English 한국어(Korean) Romanization

It’s that way 그쪽으로가세요 geu jjogeuro gaseyo

Go left 왼쪽가세요 oenjjok gaseyo

Go right 오른쪽에가세요 oreunjjoge gaseyo

Go straight 쭉가세요 jjuk gaseyo

Hotel and Pension Korean Phrases

Use these phrases to help you at hotels and pensions (B&Bs) in Korea!
English 한국어(Korean) Romanization

Do you have any rooms available? 빈방있어요? binbang isseoyo?

I would like to make a reservation 예약을하고싶어요 yeyageul hago sipeoyo

Did you have a reservation? 예약은하셨습니까? yeyageun

hasyeotseumnikka?

I have a reservation 네, 예약했어요 ne, yeyakaesseoyo

I don’t have a reservation 아직예약을하지않았어요 ajik yeyageul haji anasseoyo

How much is a room for one 하루에방이얼마예요? harue bangi eolmayeyo?

night?

Is breakfast included with the 요금에조식은포함되어있어요? yogeume josigeun

room? pohamdoeeo isseoyo?

How long would you like to stay? 몇박을하실겁니까? myeot bageul hasil
geomnikka?

May I see the room first? 방을먼저봐도돼요? bangeul meonjeo bwado

dwaeyo?

I will stay for _____ night(s) _____ 일묵겠어요 _____ il mukgesseoyo

May I have your name? 성함을말씀해주세요 seonghameul

malsseumhaejuseyo
 English 한국어(Korean) Romanization

Can you wake me at _____? _____ 시에깨워주시겠어요? _____ sie

kkaewojusigesseoyo?

I want to check out now 지금체크아웃하고싶어요 jigeum chekeu authago

sipeoyo

Bus Korean Phrases

The Korean bus system is one of the best systems in the world.
The buses are fast, clean, and on time. This goes for the smaller local buses (마을버스), the
regular city buses, and even the express buses (고속버스).
At many bus stops in Seoul, there is a digital display that shows which buses are coming and
what time they will arrive. It’s very accurate!
If you really want to dial in your schedule down to the minute, you can download applications
to tell you which bus will arrive at at certain times. That way, you can check the bus arrival
times before you get to the bus stop. This is especially useful when during the winter. You
may want to stay in that warm cafe or restaurant as long as possible, and walk out to your bus
right as it arrives.
The phrases below will help you with regular city buses. There are also phrases to help you
book bus tickets from different parts of the country at the various terminals around Korea.
Charge up your T-Money card, and go for a ride!
English 한국어(Korean) Romanization

Please stop the bus here 여기서세워주세요 yeogiseo sewo juseyo

Please open the bus door 버스문열어주세요 beoseu mun yeoreo juseyo

What time is the last bus? 마지막버스언제예요? majimak beoseu eonjeyeyo?

How much is the bus fare? 버스요금얼마예요? beoseu yogeum eolmayeyo?

Where can I charge my bus card? 버스카드어디에충전할수있어요? beoseu kadeu eodie

chungjeonhal su isseoyo?

How much is a bus ticket to _____? _____에가는버스표가얼마예요? _____e ganeun beoseu pyoga
eolmayeyo?

One ticket to _____, please _____에가는표한장주세요 _____e ganeun pyo han jang
juseyo
 English 한국어(Korean) Romanization

Where does this bus go? 이버스는어디로가요? i beoseuneun eodiro gayo?

Where is the bus to _____? _____에가는버스는어디에있어요? _____e ganeun beoseuneun

eodie isseoyo?

Are there tickets available for the 3시_____에가는버스자리있어요? 3si _____e ganeun beoseu jari
3pm bus to _____? isseoyo?

Does this bus stop in _____? 이버스는_____에서요? i beoseuneun _____e seoyo?

When does the bus for _____ leave? _____에가는버스는언제출발해요? _____e ganeun beoseuneun
eonje chulbalhaeyo?

When does bus number _______ _____번버스는언제도착해요? _____beon beoseuneun eonje

arrive? dochakaeyo?

When will this bus arrive in _____? 이버스는_____에언제도착해요? i beoseuneun _____e eonje
dochakaeyo?

Situations
Here are some fantastic phrases you can use for different social situations.

Dinner Table Korean Phrases

Korea has a strong food culture. Along with that, comes a wide range of interesting phrases
that will allow you to express your feelings in unique ways.
For example, you say “I will eat well” before eating your meal. This is the way that Koreans
show gratitude toward the person who cooked the meal. Then, instead of saying “thank you”,
you’d simply say “잘먹었습니다”, which means “I ate well.”
Also, don’t be surprised if you get some shocked looks when telling Koreans that you’re
vegetarian! For Koreans, barbecuing meat is almost a religion. It’s hard for them to imagine
living without that tasty part of their cuisine.
English 한국어(Korean) Romanization

Bon appétit 맛있게드세요 masitge deuseyo

Eat up! 많이먹어요 mani meogeoyo

I will eat well! 잘먹겠습니다 jal meokgetseumnida

 English 한국어(Korean) Romanization

I ate well 잘먹었습니다 jal meogeotseumnida

It’s delicious! 맛있어요! masisseoyo!

It doesn’t taste good 맛없어요 maseopseoyo

I’m hungry 배고파요 baegopayo

I’m thirsty 목말라요 mok mallayo

Give me _______ please _______ 주세요 _______ juseyo

I’m a vegetarian 저는채식주의자예요 jeoneun chaesikjuuijayeyo

I don’t eat meat 저는고기를못먹어요 jeoneun gogireul mot

meogeoyo

I can eat anything 다먹을수있어요 da meogeul su isseoyo

Getting to Know You Korean Phrases

Concerned about first impressions?
Well, that’s great news! Koreans are very image conscious, so it’s best to start things off on the
right foot.
And what better way of doing that than to know some small talk phrases!
You’re on your way to breaking the ice in Korean.
English 한국어(Korean) Romanization

Nice to meet you 만나서반가워요 mannaseo bangawoyo

What is your name? 이름이뭐예요? ireumi mwoyeyo?

My name is _______ 제이름은_______이에요 je ireumeun _______ieyo

Where are you from? 어디에서왔어요? eodieseo wasseoyo?

I’m from _______ 저는_______에서왔어요 jeoneun _______eseo

wasseoyo
 English 한국어(Korean) Romanization

How old are you? 몇살이에요? myeot sarieyo?

I’m _______ years old 저는_______살이에요 jeoneun _______sarieyo

I can’t speak Korean well 한국말잘못해요 hangungmal jal mothaeyo

I’m learning Korean these days 요즘한국말배워요 yojeum hangungmal

baewoyo

What is your job? 직업이뭐예요? jigeobi mwoyeyo?

My job is _______ 제직업은_______이에요 je jigeobeun _______ieyo

Really? 정말요? jeongmallyo?

Where do you live? 어디에사세요? eodie saseyo?

Are you married? 결혼했어요? gyeolhonhaesseoyo?

Do you like _______? _______를좋아해요? _______reul joahaeyo?

I like _______ _______를좋아해요 _______reul joahaeyo

Meeting Friends Korean Phrases

Imagine that you run into your long-time Korean friend:
“How long has it been?
Have you lost weight? You look great!
I don’t think we’ve seen each other since….well, it’s been way too long!
Are you free for a few minutes? Let’s catch up!”
If you study the phrases below, you’ll have a lot to talk about.
English 한국어(Korean) Romanization

Long time no see 오랜만이에요 oraenmanieyo

Have you eaten? (showing 밥먹었어요? bap meogeosseoyo?

concern)

How are you? 잘지내요? jal jinaeyo?

 English 한국어(Korean) Romanization

How have you been? 잘지냈어요? jal jinaesseoyo?

What have you been up to? 어떻게지냈어요? eotteoke jinaesseoyo?

Where shall we go? 어디로갈까요? eodiro galkkayo?

Say hi to _______ for me _______한테안부전해주세요 _______hante anbu jeonhae

juseyo

Get home safely 집에잘들어가요 jibe jal deureogayo

Special Occasion Korean Phrases

Use these to express yourself on special occasions
If you’ve been to or lived in Korea, then you know that Koreans love to celebrate!
The big cities stay open all night long, with people roaming the streets until the sun comes
up—and even after.
The next time you’re along for the celebration, use these phrases to fit in with the group.
As you go over the phrases, you’ll notice that some of them are Konglish and some are specific
to the Korean language. For example, “Merry Christmas” is sounded out in Hangul. On the
other hand, “Happy New Year” does not sound like the English phrase at all. Instead, it
directly translates to “I hope you will receive a lot of good luck next year”.
If you’re looking for more phrases for special occasions, check out:
 Korean Valentine’s Day Phrases You Will Love.
English 한국어(Korean) Romanization

Happy Birthday 생일축하해요 saengil chukahaeyo

Merry Christmas 메리크리스마스 meri keuriseumaseu

Happy New Year! 새해복많이받으세요! saehae bok mani badeuseyo!

Happy Chuseok! 즐거운추석보내세요 jeulgeoun chuseok bonaeseyo

Happy Valentine's Day! 해피발렌타인데이! haepi ballentain dei!

 English 한국어(Korean) Romanization

Cheers! 건배! geonbae!

Congratulations! 축하해요 chukahaeyo

Phone Call Korean Phrases

How often do you pick up the phone and hear Korean being spoken on the other end?
If you’re living in Korea, chance are quite often!
Speaking on the phone can be challenging, especially since you can’t rely on body language or
visuals to help make out words. For many, it is the part of language learning that gives them
the most trouble.
Well, today we will help you get a few steps ahead of the game by giving you some common
expressions that people use on the phone.
The phrases below are written in the common form. Not only is it polite, but you can use it
comfortably with those older and younger than you. You may hear the other person using
slightly more formal versions of these phrases, but it largely depends on who you are talking
to. Most often this happens when you call into a office or company.
The next time you get or make a phone call with the other person speaking Korean, you can
chat with confidence!
English 한국어(Korean) Romanization

Hello? (on phone) 여보세요? yeoboseyo?

Who is calling please? 누구세요? nuguseyo?

Can I speak to _______ please? _______씨와통화할수있을까요? _______ssiwa tonghwa hal su

isseulkkayo?

Just a moment please 잠시만기다려주세요 jamsiman gidaryeo juseyo

_______ isn’t in at the moment _______씨가자리를비웠어요 _______ssiga jarireul

biwosseoyo

Should I tell _______ to call you _______씨에게다시전화하라고할까요? _______ssiege dasi

back? jeonhwaharago halkkayo?

Would you like to leave a 메시지를남기시겠어요? mesijireul namgisigesseoyo?

message?

Can I take a message? 메시지를받을수있어요? mesijireul badeul su isseoyo?

 English 한국어(Korean) Romanization

I will connect you 제가연결해드릴게요 jega yeongyeolhae

deurilgeyo

Please repeat that for me 다시말해주세요 dasi malhae juseyo

Please speak up a little for me 좀더크게말해주세요 jom deo keuge malhae

juseyo

I will call you back 제가다시걸게요 jega dasi geolgeyo

When shall I call? 언제쯤통화가가능할까요? eonjejjeum tonghwaga

ganeunghalkkayo?

Mobile Phone Korean Phrases

“If you were stranded on a deserted island, what three items (besides food and clothing)
would you take?”
When asked this question, most people reply with “cell phone!” as their first response. How
could they ever live without it? It’s an important part of most people’s lives.
Whether or not you feel the same way, you’ll like come across times where you’ll need to take
care of your mobile phone. Below are some common Korean expressions that you can use to
help you keep your phone powered up and data-charged!
English 한국어(Korean) Romanization

Do you have electrical outlets? 콘센트있어요? konsenteu isseoyo?

Where are your electrical outlets? 콘센트어디에있어요? konsenteu eodie isseoyo?

Please charge my mobile for me 휴대폰충전해주세요 hyudaepon chungjeonhae

juseyo

Do you sell mobile phone cases? 휴대폰케이스팔아요? hyudaepon keiseu parayo?

Do you sell cell phone chargers? 휴대폰충전기팔아요? hyudaepon chungjeongi

parayo?

Can I buy a data plan for my 휴대폰데이터플랜랜살수있어요? hyudaepon deiteo

phone? peullaellaen sal su isseoyo?

How much time is remaining on 휴대폰약정얼마나남았어요? hyudaepon yakjeong

my contract? eolmana namasseoyo?

Please add minutes to my phone 휴대폰데이터충전해주세요 hyudaepon deiteo

chungjeonhae juseyo
 English 한국어(Korean) Romanization

Can you repair my mobile phone? 휴대폰고칠수있어요? hyudaepon gochil su

isseoyo?

How much will the repair cost? 고치는비용얼마예요? gochineun biyong

eolmayeyo?

When can I pick up my phone? 휴대폰언제찾으러올수있어요? hyudaepon eonje chajeureo

ol su isseoyo?

Korean Exclamations
Remember your art teacher back in elementary school? She always encouraged you to
express yourself, but maybe you didn’t know exactly how.
Well, we have good news for you! Not only will you learn how to express your emotions, but
you’ll also know how to express those emotions in Korean!
Use these exclamations to express your emotions in Korean. 아싸!

English 한국어(Korean) Romanization

Amazing! or Unbelievable! 대박! daebak!

What?! or Oh my god! 헐! heol!

Yay! or Hurray! 아싸! assa!

Oh my goodness! 아이고! aigo!

Unbelievable! or Impossible! 말도안돼요! maldo andwaeyo!

Really?! 진짜요? jinjjayo?

Ouch! 아야! aya!

Impress the Locals

Korea has a phrase called “빨리 빨리”, which means “quickly, quickly”. It’s ingrained into the
personalities, activities, and mindsets of the people and the culture as a whole. Korea rapidly
developed in a short time period. It has a massive economy compared to the size of it’s land
and population thanks to their ability to change, adapt, and get things done quickly.
How did they do it so fast? Well, they certainly didn’t waste time with unnecessary
vocabulary!
One thing you’ll notice while talking with Koreans is that they make efforts to shorten the way
they speak. Abbreviations and word blending is common.
Below is a list of phrases that Koreans use commonly today but you won’t find in regular
textbooks. They’re all rated “G”, so use them freely without worry. Don’t be surprised if you
get some shocked looks from Koreans. Be prepared to explain how you know how to speak
like a local!
English 한국어(Korean) Romanization

Self-camera 셀카 selka

Company dinner 회식 hoesik

Bomb drink (i.e. boilermaker or 폭탄주 poktanju

soju bomb)

Soju and beer 소맥 somaek

Chimek (chicken and beer) 치맥 chimaek

Membership training (retreat) 엠티 emti

Part-time job 알바 alba

Of course! 당근! danggeun!

Starbucks 별다방 byeoldabang

Boyfriend 남친 namchin

Girlfriend 여친 yeochin

Free item at restaurant or store 서비스 seobiseu

Talking with the Landlord Korean Phrases

Not matter if you found your apartment yourself or your employer set you up with housing,
you’re going to have to talk with your landlord at some point.
In most cases, the landlords are from the older Korean generation and don’t speak English.
Therefore, simple things like asking if a package arrived for you or asking for a repair can
seem like a dreadful task. You either have to ask a Korean friend, you have to fumble around
with basic Korean and body language.
But you don’t roll like that!
Instead, make life easier for everyone by using these handy landlord Korean phrases. Your
landlord will appreciate the effort and you can get your housing business handled. Most
importantly, you can spend your time talking to your Korean friend about the crazy day you
had yesterday instead of the broken light in the hall.
Everyone is a winner!
 English 한국어(Korean) Romanization

Did a package arrive for me? 소포왔어요? sopo wasseoyo?

I expect a package tomorrow 내일소포가올거예요 naeil sopoga olgeoyeyo

My _______ is broken 제_______ 고장났어요 je _______ gojangnasseoyo

I’ll be on vacation from _______ to _______부터_______까지휴가갈거예요 _______buteo _______kkaji

_______ hyuga galgeoyeyo

My hot water doesn’t work 뜨거운물이안나와요 tteugeoun muri an nawayo

My hot water heater is broken 보일러가고장났어요 boilleoga gojangnasseoyo

My sink is clogged 제싱크대가막혔어요 je singkeudaega

makyeosseoyo

My toilet is clogged 제변기막혔어요 je byeongi makyeosseoyo

The water doesn’t work 수돗물이안나와요 sudonmuri an nawayo

The lights don’t work 불이안켜져요 buri an kyeojyeoyo

The air conditioning isn’t cold 에어컨이안시원해요 eeokeoni an siwonhaeyo

The neighbors are too loud 이웃이너무시끄러워요 iusi neomu sikkeureowoyo

The neighbors dog keeps barking 이웃집강아지가계속짖어요 iutjip gangajiga gyesok

jijeoyo

Apartment Search Korean Phrases

If you’ve have the pleasure of going out to find your own apartment in Korea, then you know
what it’s like to be at the real estate office!
The 부동산 (real estate office) agents are hustlers. Most of them don’t speak English, but they
will usually do their best with what they know to help you find a place.
You can help move the process along by using a few of these key expressions below. The real
estate agents will appreciate your efforts, and you’ll have a better chance of finding exactly
what you are looking for.
Make your house search a smooth and fun process so you can focus on your 집들이
(housewarming)!
 English 한국어(Korean) Romanization

I would like to find housing 이근처의집을구하고싶어요 i geuncheoui jibeul guhago

around here sipeoyo

I would like to find housing near _______에서근처의집구하고싶어요 _______eseo geuncheoui jip

_______ guhago sipeoyo

I would like to find a studio 원룸구하고싶어요 wollum guhago sipeoyo

apartment

I would like to find a one bedroom 투룸구하고싶어요 turum guhago sipeoyo

apartment

How much is the monthly rent? 월세얼마예요? wolse eolmayeyo?

How much is the deposit? 보증금얼마예요? bojeunggeum eolmayeyo?

How far is it from the subway 지하철역에서얼마나걸려요? jihacheollyeogeseo eolmana

station? geollyeoyo?

This is too small 너무작아요 neomu jagayo

This is too big 너무커요 neomu keoyo

This is too expensive 너무비싸요 neomu bissayo

I don’t really like it 별로안좋아요 byeollo an joayo

I like this place a lot 이집마음들어요 i jip maeum deureoyo

Dating & Romance Korean Phrases

Big date with a Korean coming up this weekend?
Or maybe you have a special someone in mind who you want to meet up with, but you’re not
quite sure how to ask?
We’ve got you covered! Use the phrases below to set up your date, pay a compliment, or help
move the relationship forward.
If you need more dating and relationship expressions, stop by our Korean Love Phrases page
for a complete list of things to say.
화이팅!

English 한국어(Korean) Romanization

What is your phone number? 핸드폰번호가뭐예요? haendeupon beonhoga

mwoyeyo?
 English 한국어(Korean) Romanization

Let’s talk on KakaoTalk 우리카카오톡해요 uri kakaotok haeyo

Do you have time this weekend? 주말에시간있어요? 주말에시간있어요?

Are you available ________? ________에시간있어요? ________e sigan isseoyo?

I’m busy on________ ________에바빠요 ________e bappayo

Shall we go on a date together? 우리데이트할까요? uri deiteu halkkayo?

Shall we get dinner together 언제우리같이저녁먹을까요? eonje uri gachi jeonyeok

sometime? meogeulkkayo?

You are pretty! 예쁘네요! yeppeuneyo!

You are handsome! 잘생겼어요! jal saenggyeosseoyo!

You are charming! 매력적이네요! maeryeokjeogineyo!

That was a great evening 즐거운저녁이었어요 jeulgeoun jeonyeogieosseoyo

When shall we meet again? 언제다시볼까요? eonje dasi bolkkayo?

Will you be my 우리사귈래요? uri sagwillaeyo?

boyfriend/girlfriend?

Taxi Korean Phrases

If you’re living in Korea, then you know how great the taxi system is. The cars are clean, the
fares are inexpensive, and it’s usually quite easy to find one.
If you’re not living in Korea and you’re planning a visit, then you can make your trip go even
smoother by learning a few taxi phrases.
Although some areas have international taxis that speak foreign languages, the majority of the
taxi drivers still mainly speak Korean. They may know a few words in English, Japanese, and
Chinese, but it can sometimes be challenging to tell the driver where to go if you don’t speak
the same language. This goes doubly if you live in an area with many twisty side streets—
something that Korea is quite famous for!
Take a few minutes and get acquainted with some of the common taxi phrases. Not only will
you make sure you get to your destination smoothly, but you’ll likely have a more interesting
experience. Taxi drivers are usually friendly, so by showing that you speak a bit of Korean,
you’ll often have an fun conversation on the ride there!
 English 한국어(Korean) Romanization

Where shall I go? 어디로갈까요? eodiro galkkayo?

Please take me to _______ _______으로가주세요 _______euro gajuseyo

I will give you the address 주소를알려드릴게요 jusoreul allyeo deurilgeyo

Please go left at _______ _______에서좌회전해주세요 _______eseo jwahoejeon

haejuseyo

Please go right at _______ _______에서우회전해주세요 _______eseo uhoejeon

haejuseyo

Please go straight at _______ _______에서직진해주세요 _______eseo jikjin haejuseyo

Please make a u-turn at _______ _______에서유턴해주세요 _______eseo yuteon haejuseyo

Please stop at _______ _______에서세워주세요 _______eseo sewo juseyo

Please stop in front of _______ _______앞에세워주세요 _______ape sewo juseyo

Please stop before _______ _______전에세워주세요 _______전에세워주세요

Please stop before _______ _______전에세워주세요 _______전에세워주세요

Please stop after _______ _______후에세워주세요 _______hue sewo juseyo

Goodbye (to the person leaving) 안녕히가세요 안녕히가세요

Taxi driver 기사님 gisanim

Emergency Korean Phrases

Korea is a very safe country, so hopefully you will have a safe and pleasant time here.
However, emergencies do happen, and it’s always good to know a few key phrases to help
make sure that you navigate through them smoothly!
Below are some important emergency Korean phrases. Memorize them so you have them
ready in case of an emergency.
English 한국어(Korean) Romanization

This is an emergency 아주급해요 aju geupaeyo

 English 한국어(Korean) Romanization

Where is the nearest police 제일가까운경찰서는어디예요? jeil gakkaun

station? gyeongchalseoneun
eodiyeyo?

Where is the closest hospital? 가장가까운병원은어디예요? gajang gakkaun

byeongwoneun eodiyeyo?

Please call an ambulance 구급차를불러주세요 gugeupchareul bulleo juseyo

Please take me to the hospital 병원에데려가주세요 byeongwone deryeoga

juseyo

Please help me 도와주세요 dowajuseyo

Please call the US Embassy 즉시미국대사관으로전화해주세요 jeuksi miguk daesagwaneuro

immediately jeonhwahae juseyo

Where can I get help? 어디에서도움을구할수있어요? eodieseo doumeul guhal su

isseoyo?

I am a diabetic 저는당뇨가있어요 jeoneun dangnyoga isseoyo

I am allergic to _____ 나는_____ 알레르기가있어요. naneun _____ allereugiga

isseoyo.

Encouragement Korean Phrases

Everyone faces challenges or gets down and out at times. In those situations, you may want to
cheer up a freind or show encouragement to a loved one. Luckily, there are plenty of Korean
phases of encouragement to do just that!
Here is a list of encouraging Korean phrases.
English 한국어(Korean) Romanization

Persevere! (cheer) 화이팅! hwaiting!

Cheer up 힘내세요 himnaeseyo

Don’t give up 포기하지마세요 pogi hajimaseyo

Don’t worry 걱정하지마세요 geokjeong hajimaseyo

It’s OK 괜찮아요 gwaenchanayo

 English 한국어(Korean) Romanization

You can do it! 잘할수있어요! jalhal su isseoyo!

Special
These are super fun! We have onomatopoeia in English already, but mimetic words are
something new. Give them a try and express yourself on another level!

Mimetic
In Korean, there are a special kind of vocabulary words that are used to help paint vivid
pictures of situations of moments. They’re called 의태어, or mimetic words in English.
These types of words are similar to onomatopoeia, except they take it a step further by
describing movement instead of just a sound.
For example, you might want to talk about how hot the weather was outside. You can
describing the hot sun with words such as “scorching” or “blazing”. Or in Korean, you can
spice things up by saying the sun was 쨍쨍blazing hot. Think of the 쨍쨍as describing the
movement of the suns rays on a hot summer day. That extra 쨍쨍may help you get the tan you
were looking for!
English 한국어(Korean) Romanization

Twinkling or glittering 반짝반짝 banjjakbanjjak

Heart throbbing 두근두근 dugeundugeun

Streaming or dripping water 주룩주룩 jurukjuruk

Thump noises 쿵쿵 kungkung

Blazing hot sun 쨍쨍 jjaengjjaeng

Gentle soft breeze 솔솔 solsol

Soft and chewy food 말랑말랑 mallangmallang

Moving up and down 들썩들썩 deulsseokdeulsseok

Cringe 오글오글 ogeurogeul

Sneaking in 살금살금 salgeumsalgeum

Onomatopoeia
Raise your hand if you know what the word ‘onomatopoeia’ means!
It seems like a long word, but really it’s just a fancy name for a word that imitates common
sounds that we hear.
In Korean, the word for onomatopoeia is 의성어. Here, we will go over some onomatopoeia
Korean phrases.
Some of the most common onomatopoeia we hear from when we are kids are those of farm
animals. Anyone know what sound a cow makes? How about a pig?
Well, Korean has these words, too! They’re really fun words to learn because you can
compare them to the sounds of the animals from your native language and see if they’re the
same.
In addition to animal sounds, there are also words for everyday sounds such as snoring,
crying, and a doorbell ringing.
English 한국어(Korean) Romanization

shushing 쉿 swit

knocking 똑똑 ttokttok

doorbell ringing 딩동 dingdong

car honking 빵빵 ppangppang

kissing 쪽 jjok

heart beating 두근두근 dugeundugeun

sneezing 에취 echwi

crying 엉엉 eongeong

laughing 하하하 hahaha

snoring 드르렁드르렁 deureureongdeureureong

pig oinking 꿀꿀꿀 kkulkkulkkul

dog barking 멍멍 meongmeong

cat meowing 야옹 yaong

English 한국어(Korean) Romanization

pigeon sound 구구 gugu

cow or sheep sound 음메 eumme

duck quacking 꽥꽥 kkwaekkkwaek

mouse squeaking 찍찍 jjikjjik