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80+ Basic Korean Travel Phrases – Phrases to Learn Before Visiting Korea

Getting around Korea these days is pretty easy – even if you know now Korean at all. There is a large amount of English signage, most menus have English captions, and many locals know at least basic English. It’s entirely possible to visit Korea without knowing any Korean.

However, knowing at least some basic Korean phrases will make your trip much easier. It’s also much more polite – if you’re visiting Korea you should at least try to learn and use some basic phrases. Not only that, but often locals will be impressed and very happy if you speak Korean – even if it’s only the simplest Korean!

Something that many people don’t realise is that learning the Korean alphabet (hangul) is actually extremely easy. If you set aside a few hours you can easily learn how to read. There are also some fantastic platforms out there to help such as 90 Day Korean and How To Study Korean .

If you don’t have the time to learn some basic Korean or would prefer to just know the vital Korean travel phrases, then this post is for you. In it, I cover basic phrases that you need to know. Everything from basic introductory phrases to asking if food is vegan is covered!

This article contains affiliate links. Affiliate links provide me with a percentage of purchases made from links on this page. This comes at no extra cost to you – for more information, please refer to my affiliate disclaimer .

Please note that the Korean examples in this article may not be totally grammatically correct. While all of the sentences and phrases in this article make sense and will be understood, some of them aren’t perfect. This was done in order to make the phrases as easy to use as possible. It’s better to get an understandable sentence across than to worry about all of the details.

On top of this, Korean has respect levels that are very important to take into account. To avoid complications, I have only used the formal/semi-formal versions of words and phrases in this article. You can say all of these phrases without worry – it’s better to speak only formal than only informal!

Korean Sentence Structure

Image from this fantastic guide .

Before getting into the essential Korean travel phrases that you need to know, I want to briefly touch on Korean sentence structures. I am not a language expert and I don’t want to go too in-depth here, but I would like to mention the structural differences as it will help a lot throughout this article. If you do want to learn about Korean sentences in-depth, check out Glossika .

English follows the SVO (subject, verb, object) structure. In other words, an English sentence is formed like this:

I walked to school – I (subject) walked (verb) to school (object)

However, Korean sentences are formed using the slightly different SOV (subject, object, verb) structure. This can take a while to get used to and even today I forget sometimes!

저는 학교에 걸어요 – 저는 (subject) 학교에 (object) 걸어요 (verb) – I (subject) school (object) walked (verb).

This is a very simple sentence and in reality the differences are much more complex. However, knowing this difference will greatly help with your understanding of Korean in the future! It will also help to explain a lot of the sentences in this article.

Korean Phrases For Travel

Basic Korean Introduction Phrases

1. Hello – 안녕하세요 – Ahn-yeong-ha-sae-yo

Hello – an essential in every language! 안녕하세요 (Ahn-yeong-ha-sae-yo) is a word that you will hear every day. It’s worth noting that while you should use 안녕하세요 for all adults, you can say 안녕 (ahn-yeong) to children or animals (if you sometimes say ‘hi’ to dogs like me!). This is the lower-formality level of ‘hello’.

Two interesting points about 안녕하세요. Firstly, it’s not used on the phone. If you are answering the phone, you should use 여보세요 (yeo-bo-sae-yo). However, make sure to only use it on the phone! Secondly, when entering restaurants, convenience stores, or other areas you will often hear 어서 오세요 (eo-seo o-sae-yo). This means ‘welcome’ and you can reply to it by saying 안녕하세요!

2. Goodbye – 안녕히 가세요/안녕히 계세요 – ahn-yeong-hi ga-sae-yo/ahn-yeong-hi gye-sae-yo

This is an interesting one as it often confuses people who are new to Korea. Korea’s standard goodbye has two forms, one for the person who is leaving and one for the person who is staying. For example, if you visit a friend’s house you would say 안녕히 계세요 when it’s time to leave (as you are leaving). They would say 안녕히 가세요 as they are staying.

안녕히 가세요 (ahn-yeong-hi ga-sae-yo) is for the person staying. However, if both people are leaving (say you went to watch a movie together and are now departing back to your houses) then both parties would say 안녕히 가세요. This may seem a bit confusing at first, but you’ll quickly get used to it!

3. Nice to Meet You – 만나서 반갑습니다 – Man-na-seo ban-gap-sueb-ni-da

This is the most common way to say ‘nice to meet you’ that you will find in Korea. 만나서 반갑습니다  (Man-na-seo ban-gap-sueb-ni-da) is very common and can be used whenever you are meeting someone for the first time. Some people will also just say 반갑습니다 – really, it’s up to you as either is fine.

4. My Name Is (name) – 제 이름은 (name)입니다 – Je ee-reum-eun (name) ib-ni-da

If you want to introduce yourself and tell someone your name you can simply put your name in the sentence 제 이름은 (name)입니다 (Je ee-reum-eun (name) ib-ni-da). For example, in my case I would say 제 이름은 Ethan입니다. Or, if I wanted to make it easier to pronounce I would say 제 이름은 이든입니다 (이든 = E-deun, or Ethan!)

5. I am from (country/city) – 저는 (country/city) 에서 왔어요 – jo-neun (country/city) ee-seo wass-eo-yo

If you want to tell someone where you are from then you can use the basic phrase 저는 (country/city) 에서 왔어요 (jo-neun (country/city) ee-seo wass-eo-yo). Korean tends to have its own words for countries, but cities usually have very similar names! I have included a table below with some countries – if I missed your country I am sorry, I had to keep the table somewhat manageable…

For me, I am from New Zealand. To tell someone where I am from I would simply add the word for New Zealand (뉴질랜드 – nyu-jil-laen-deu) to the sentence 저는 (country/city) 에서 왔어요. This would make my sentence 저는 뉴질랜드에서 왔어요

Korean Country Words

6. I am (age) years old – (age)살 입니다 – (age)sal ib-ni-da

There are a few different ways to introduce your age in Korean, but the simplest way is to say (age)살 입니다. What makes this a little bit more complicated is that you need to know a few Korean numbers – and Korea has two different counting systems. Luckily, you only need to know one for age. I have included the table of all numbers up to 100 below!

If you want to make a number like 27 just combine 20 (스물) with 7 (일곱). For example, 스물(20)일곱(7)살 입니다. Or, in English, I am 27. The same goes for every other number. If you happen to be an age that is a multiple of 10 you can just use the words directly from the table below.

Korean Numbers

8. How are you? – 어떻게 지내세요? – eo-tteoh-gae ji-nae-se-yo?

How are you (어떻게 지내세요) is a word that you probably won’t want to use when visiting Korea. However, I know people will ask so I included it. With that being said, you shouldn’t use it unless you are meeting an old friend.

The phrase ‘how are you’ is not something that is really used in Korea – and definitely not with strangers. If you are meeting a friend who you have met before, however, it’s okay to ask. While 어떻게 지내세요 is a more direct translation, 잘 지내세요 (jal ji-nae-se-yo) is more commonly used and it literally means ‘have you been well?’.

9. I am (profession/job) – 저는 (profession/job)입니다 – joe-neun (profession/job) ib-ni-da

If you want to express your profession or job then 저는 (profession/job)입니다 is the easiest Korean phrase to use. You can put a variety of words in the gap. For me, I usually put the word ‘student’ there as I am a student at Korea University ! The word for ‘student’ is 학생 (hag-saeng), so I would say 저는 학생입니다. I’ve included a short table with some common jobs below!

Korean Professions

10. I’ve been in Korea for (time) – 한국에 온 지 (time) 됐어요 – han-gug-ae on ji (time) dwaess-eo-yo

Whether you’ve been in Korea for one month, one week, one day, or even only one hour you might want to tell someone! This sentence is a little bit more complicated as you also need to know some words like hour, day, week, month, and year. However, the basic sentence structure is 한국에 온 지 (time) 됐어요.

To use this sentence properly you will want to say 한국에 온 지 (number + counter) 됐어요. For example, if you have been in Korea for one week you will want to say the number 1 (일) + the word for week (주) therefore, the complete sentence would be 한국에 온 지 일주 됐어요.

Korean Time Words

11. I study (major) – 제 전공은 (major)입니다 – je Jeon-gong-eun (major) ib-ni-da

This one might seem a bit unusual at first, but if you are younger you will likely be asked what you study or what your major is. Education is very important in South Korea, and you can expect to see and hear a lot about it. For that reason, knowing how to say your major is very helpful!

There are a ton of majors and I can’t include them all. However, I’ve included some common majors below. To complete the sentence, simply insert your major in 제 전공은 (major)입니다. For example, if you study political science (정치학 – jeong-chi-hak) then you can say 제 전공은 정치학입니다!

Korean University Majors

General Korean Phrases

12. Yes – 네 – ne

Yes, or 네 in Korean is a word that you definitely should know (it’s also worth knowing ‘no’!). While there are many ways to say yes, 네 is the most common. The term most simply means yes and shows agreement. While all you need to know is 네, you may also see 예 (ye). This is very handy because it sounds similar to ‘yeah’ in English and it’s also formal!

13. No – 아니요 – a-ni-yo

아니요 simply means no! There’s not much more to it.

14. Thank you – 감사합니다 – gam-sa-hab-ni-da

감사합니다 is the most common form of ‘thank you’ that you will hear every day in Korea. You can use it in almost all of the same situations that you would in English. However, foreigners in Korea tend to use it a lot more than locals.

15. Excuse me – 실례합니다 – sil-lye-hab-ni-da

If you find yourself in a situation where you need to say ‘excuse me’, for example, if you need to push past someone on Seoul’s fantastic public transport , you can simply say 실례합니다!

16. I understand – 알겠습니다 – al-gess-seub-ni-da

알겠습니다 shows that you have understood something or that you agree with it. For example, if you were to ask for directions you could say 알겠습니다 to show that you have understood what the other speaker said.

17. I don’t understand – 잘 모르겠어요 – jal mo-reu-gess-eo-yo

If you don’t understand something that someone has said, you can say 잘 모르겠어요! This simply indicates that you don’t understand what the other person is saying or has said.

18. Wait a second – 잠시만요 – jam-si-man-yo

잠시만요 is one of my favourite Korean words. It’s extremely useful and means something along the lines of ‘wait a second’ or ‘wait a minute’. If you need a minute to look at the menu before ordering, or if you need a second to get out your phone to translate a word, you can say 잠시만요!

19. I don’t speak Korean – 전 한국말 할 줄 몰라요 – jeon han-gug-mal hal jul mol-la-yo

20. Do you speak English? – 영어 할 줄 아세요? – yeong-eo Hal jul a-se-yo

21. I like (thing) – (thing) 좋아해요 – (thing) joh-a-hae-yo

If you would like to say that you like a thing, person, or otherwise, you can just add 좋아해요 after any word! If you don’t know the name of the item, but can see it, you can say ‘이것 좋아해요’ (I like this).

22. I don’t like (thing) – (thing) 좋아하지 않아요 – (time) joh-a-ha-ji ahn-a-yo

On the other hand, you can also say that you don’t like something by putting any word before 좋아하지 않아요. This does not mean that you hate something, just that you don’t like it.

23. Please give me (item) – (item) 주세요 – (item) ju-se-yo

주세요 is a very important word and probably one of the five most important Korean words to know before coming to Korea. It simply means ‘give me’ and you can use it after almost any word. While in English ‘please’ is often said, you can omit this in Korean.

주세요 will be covered in more detail in the cafe & restaurant phrases section as it’s very important in those cases!

24. Are you okay? – 괜찮아요? – gwaen-chan-a-yo?

When asking someone if they are okay, you can 괜찮아요? To make it a question, just raise your intonation towards the end of the word. The ‘yo’ at the end of the word should be emphasised to turn the word into a question. Otherwise, it just means ‘I am okay’.

25. I am okay – 괜찮아요 – gwaen-chan-a-yo

26. I am sorry – 죄송합니다 – chwae-seong-hab-ni-da

27. I don’t know – 몰라요 – mul-la-yo

28. Good – 좋아요 – joh-a-yo

While 좋아요 usually means ‘good’ it can also be used to show agreement. For example, if your friend asks you if you want to go to the cinema to see a movie you can reply simply with ‘좋아요’. This means ‘good!’ but in this case can be interpreted as ‘yes!’

29. Take care – 잘 지내세요 – jal jin-nae-se-yo

This means ‘live well’ and it isn’t often used in the same situation that ‘take care’ is in English. However, you may still want to use it and it is probably the closest translation of ‘take care’. If you won’t be seeing someone for a long time, 잘 지내세요 is a nice phrase to use.

30. What is this? – 이게 뭐예요? – I-ge mwo-ye-yo?

A very universal phrase, 이게 뭐예요 can be used to ask what anything is! Just make sure to also point at the thing in question to make sure that you are understood.

Korean Phrases for Restaurants & Cafes

The below three sentences will allow you to ask if a cafe or restaurant has an item or dish. If they do, you can then go ahead and ask to order it! Korea has a fantastic coffee culture , so I highly recommend checking out some of the fantastic cafes in Seoul and other cities .

31. Can I have (item)? – (Item) 주세요 – (Item) ju-sae-yo

주세요 simply means ‘give me’. However, while this may not should polite in English it’s the normal way to ask for something in Korean. You can use 주세요 with anything that you need at a cafe or restaurant.

32. Do you have (item)?  – (item) 있나요? – (Item) iss-na-yo

Before asking for an item, you might want to ask if that store, restaurant, or cafe actually has it! For example, you can ask 라떼 (la-ddae) 있나요? in a cafe to ask if they sell lattes!

33. How much is (item)? – (item) 얼마에요? – (item) eol-ma-e-yo

‘How much is this’? is an extremely useful term. If you are unsure of the word for the item that you are asking about, and if the item is visible, you can just point at it and ask ‘이것 (I-goet) 얼마에요?’ which means ‘how much is this’?

Can I have (drink) – (drink) 주세요

Luckily, you will notice that nearly all Korean coffee words are very similar to their English counterparts.

Can I have (item) – (item) 주세요

If you want more of something but you don’t know the word, you can just point at what you want more of and say 이것 더 주시겠어요? (I-goet deo ju-si-gess-eo-yo – can I have more of this?).

34. I would like (size/flavour/etc) – (size/flavour/etc) 주세요 – (size/flavour/etc) ju-sae-yo

Similar to asking for an item or product in the tables above, you can also use 주세요 to ask for a specific flavour or size (and much more) of an item.

35. To go/take out – 포장해주세요 – po-jang-hae-ju-sae-yo

If you want a coffee or some food to go then just use the phrase 포장해주세요! The server will instantly know that you want the product to go. Further, if you are using an ordering machine and you see the phrase it means that you are ordering to go.

36. I will eat here – 여기서 먹고 갈게요 – yeo-gi-seo meog-go gal-ge-yo

On the other hand, if you want to eat/drink in you can 여기서 먹고 갈게요 to show that you intend to enjoy your meal/drink there!

37. Do you accept cash? – 현금 결제 되나요? – hyeon-geum gyeol-je dwi-na-yo

Some places in Korea may only accept cards or mobile payments. If you are wondering if somewhere accepts cash, just ask 현금 결제 되나요? Alternatively, you can ask if a location accepts cards by asking 카드 (ka-deu) 결제 되나요?

If you are enjoying drinking on a night out you can say 건배 to mean cheers! While it’s not as common to say this in Korea, it can be handy to know.

38. Can I have the menu? – 메뉴판 좀 보여주시겠어요? – me-nyu-pan jom bo-yeo-ju-si-gess-eo-yo

While you normally won’t need to ask for the menu (often it will be already given to you or can be found on the wall), you can use 메뉴판 좀 보여주시겠어요? if needed.

39. Is this spicy? – 이게 맵나요? – I-ge maeb-na-yo

40. Make it not spicy – 안 맵게 해주세요 – an maeb-ge hae-ju-se-yo

If you want something to be specifically not spicy you can ask 안 맵게 해주세요 (essential please make it not spicy). If you a less spicy option (but potentially still spicy) you can say 덜 맵게 해주세요 (deol maeb-ge hae-ju-se-yo).

41. Does this have (food) in? – 여기에 (food) 이 들어있나요? – yea-gi-e (food) i deul-eo-iss-na-yo

If there is a specific food that you are trying to avoid eating, or perhaps that you are allergic to, you can ask 여기에 (food) 이 들어있나요? Just put the ingredient/food that you are wondering about in the gap.

42. I am allergic to (food) – 저는 (food) 알레르기가 있어요 – joe-neun (food) al-le-leu-gi-ga iss-eo-yo

If you want to let a restaurant or cafe know that you are allergic to something you can insert the food/ingredient from the table below into the blank.

Does this have (food) in (common allergies/foods that are avoided)

43. Is this (halal/vegan) – 이게 (halal/vegan) 인가요? – I-ge (halal/vegan) in-ga-yo

If you have specific dietary needs then you can use the words below and put them in the gap. For example, if you are looking for vegan food you can ask 이게 채식 인가요?

44. Do you have (halal/vegan food)? – (halal/vegan food) 가 있나요? – (halal/vegan food) ga iss-na-yo

If you would like to ask a restaurant if they have halal, vegan, vegetarian, or dairy-free food you can use the sentence _ 가 있나요? with a word or phrase from the table below.

Is this (halal/vegan/dairy free)

45. Hey, excuse me! – 저기요 – Jeo-gi-yo

저기요 is a combination between ‘hey’ and ‘excuse me’ that should only be used in restaurants when you need service. If you are wanting to order more food, need a fork, or otherwise, you can call a waiter by yelling out 저기요!

잠시만요 (jam-si-man-yo) which literally means ‘wait a minute’, and 여기요 (yeo-go-yo, literally ‘here’) also work when you are in need of service.

46. I would like this – 이것으로 주세요 – I-goet-eu-ro ju-se-yo

If you want something that is in a cabinet or on the menu you can simply point to it and say 이것으로 주세요! I would like this!

47. What’s in this? – 여기 뭐가 들어갔나요? – yeo-gi mwo-ga deul-eo-gass-na-yo

여기 뭐가 들어갔나요 can be used to ask what ingredients or foods are in a dish. While the response is most likely to be in Korean, the phrase may be useful at times.

48. What is good/delicious here? – 여기 추천 메뉴가 있나요? – yeo-gi chu-cheon me-nyu-ga iss-na-yo

Visiting a restaurant or cafe but can’t decide what to order? Then you can ask what the waiter would recommend! Another way to ask a similar question is to say 보통 어떻게 주문하나요? (bu-tong eo-deohh-ge ju-mun-ha-na-yo) which literally means ‘what do people usually order?’.

49. Please bring me some water – 물 좀 주세요 – mul jom ju-se-yo

주세요 (give me) was already covered in detail above but it’s worth mentioning again as it’s very important!

50. Do you have any food without (ingredient) – 여기 (ingredient) 가 안들어간 음식이 있나요? – yeo-gi (ingredient) ga an-deul-eo-gan eun-sik-i iss-na-yo

If you need to avoid certain food or ingredient you can use the sentence 여기 (ingredient) 가 안들어간 음식이 있나요? Just place a word from the table below into the blank or search for the word online if it isn’t included.

51. Don’t give me (food) – (food) 빼주세요 – (food) bae-ju-se-yo

This sentence might seem a bit out of place, however, I’ve found it to have one great use. Ordering sandwiches at Subway! (food) 빼주세요 is a simple way to say what vegetables you don’t want on your sandwich. Of course, this sentence has some uses outside of Subway too!

52. Cheers – 건배 – geon-bae

Korean Navigation Phrases

53. Where is (location)? – (location) 가 어디에 있나요? – (location) ga eo-di-e iss-na-yo

(location) 가 어디에 있나요? Is an easy-to-use sentence that will allow you to ask where any location is. Whether you are looking for the local metro station or a good place to shop it will work!

54. How can I get to (location)?  – (location) 에 어떻게 가나요? – (location) e eo-deoh-ge ga-na-yo

55. Is there a (location) near here? – 여기 근처에 (location) 가 있나요? – yeo-gi gun-cho-e (location) ga iss-na-yo

Common Korean Location Names

56. Take me to (location) – (location) 에 데려다 주세요 – (location) e de-ryeo-da ju-se-yo

If you are taking a taxi the the sentence (location) 에 데려다 주세요 will be very helpful. You can put a hotel name in the blank, or a subway station that you would like to go to.

57. Where is the closest subway station? – 여기서 제일 가까운 지하철역이 어디에 있나요? – yeo-gi-seo je-il ga-gga-un ji-ha-cheol-yeog-i eo-di-ae iss-na-yo

58. I am lost – 저 길을 잃었어요 – jeo jil-eul ilh-eoss-eo-yo

59. Where can I get a taxi? – 택시 어디서 타면 되나요? – taek-si eo-di-seo ta-myeon dwi-na-yo

60. Does this bus go to (location)? – 이 버스가 (location) 에 가나요? – I beo-seu-ga (location) e ga-na-yo

61. Does this train go to (location)? – 이 기차가 (location) 에 가나요? – I gi-cha-ga (location) e ga-na-yo

Korean Shopping Phrases

62. How much is (item)? – (item) 얼마에요? – (item) eol-ma-e-yo

얼마에요 literally means ‘how much’ and this word can be used with any item to ask how much it costs. This is one of the best phrases to know when you visit Korea and it’s invaluable.

63. Do you have (item)? – (item) 이 있나요? – (item) I iss-na-yo

64. Where can I buy (item)? – (item) 어디서 살 수 있나요? – (item) eo-di-seo sal su iss-na-yo

If you visit a store but it doesn’t have the item that you need you can ask where you can find the missing item. Otherwise, if you are struggling to find a specific store you can always ask someone on the street!

65. Please give me a receipt – 영수증 좀 주세요 – yeong-su-jeung jom ju-se-yo

While receipts may seem like a thing of the past for many people, there’s an important caveat here. Receipts are often needed for tax-returns if you are looking to shop at duty-free stores. For this reason, knowing the Korean phrase to ask for a receipt is very handy.

66. I need a bag – 봉지 좀 주세요 – bong-ji jom ju-se-yo

If you need a bag to carry your purchases in you can use 봉지 좀 주세요. Keep in mind that this sentence just applies to plastic bags.

67. Can I pay with cash? – 현금으로 계산해도 되나요? – hyeon-geum-eu-ro gye-san-hae-do dwi-na-yo

68. Can I pay with card? – 카드로 계산해도 되나요? – ka-deu-ro gye-san-hae-do dwi-na-yo

69. Do you have a bigger size? – 더 큰 사이즈가 있나요? – deo keun sa-i-jeu-ga iss-na-yo

70. Do you have a smaller size? – 더 작은 사이즈가 있나요? – deo jag-eun sa-i-jeu-ga iss-na-yo

71. Do you have a different colour? – 다른 색깔이 있나요? – da-reun saeg-ggal-i iss-na-yo

72. It’s too expensive – 너무 비싸요 – neo-mu bi-ssa-yo

너무 비싸요 may seem a bit rude at first, but it does have some usefulness. While most stores in Korea have fixed prices, you may also find yourself shopping at markets . If you do find yourself at a market such as Namdaemun , Yongsan, or Gwangjang some of the prices are somewhat flexible. In these cases, the phrase 너무 비싸요 may lead to a drop in prices.

73. I will think about it – 생각해볼게요 – saeng-gak-hae-bol-ge-yo

We’ve all had that experience where a shop assistant won’t leave you alone! If this happens in Korea you can say 생각해볼게요 – I will think about it. This should let you escape the store and allows for more time to think.

74. Is this for sale? – 이거 파는건가요? – I-goe pa-neun-geon-ga-yo

75. Is cash cheaper? – 현금 계산은 더 싼가요? – hyeon-geum gye-san-eun deo ssan-ga-yo

‘현금 계산은 더 싼가요?’ may seem like a bit of an odd question to ask, but it’s especially useful in markets. Often, markets in Korea will offer a 10% discount to those who use cash. This is especially true in Yongsan electronics market . If you are shopping at a market it’s worth asking ‘현금 계산은 더 싼가요?’ to see if you can get the 10% discount!

76. I am just looking – 그냥 좀 보는 중이에요 – gue-nyang jom bo-neun jung-i-e-yo

Simile to point 73, this one can help you escape from a store if you are feeling pressured.

77. Where is a (blank) store? – (blank) 가게는 어디에 있나요? – (blank) ga-ge-neun eo-di-e iss-na-yo

78. Can I try this on? – 이거 입어봐도 되나요? – I-goe ib-eo-bwa-do dwi-na-yo

79. Please give me a discount – 가격을 깎아 주세요 – ga-gyeog-eul ggagg-a ju-se-yo

가격을 깎아 주세요 is not something that you would usually ask in stores, but as with some of the other Korean phrases on this list, it can work great at markets. Often sellers can drop their price by 5-10% and asking for a discount may save you a bit of money!

80. Please give me (number) – (number)개 주세요 – (number)gae ju-se-yo

If you want more than one of something, you can ask for (number) + 개 주세요. For example, if I wanted to buy three pencils I could say 연필 3개 주세요 (yeon-pil sam-gae ju-se-yo). While Korean has different counters for animals, glasses, people and more, 개 is the easiest counter to learn and people will understand if you use it.

The numbers that you should use for this sentence are actually a bit different from the numbers that are used to introduce your age. You can use the numbers from the table below followed by 개 주세요 to indicate how many of an item you would like!

Korean Numbers 1-10

Learn More Korean Words & Phrases

I hope that this list has helped you pick up some basic Korean phrases for traveling and living in Korea. However, this list is far from exhaustive. If you are going to visit Korea for a longer time, or if you want to practice more Korean then I highly recommend studying some more Korean. There are many great platforms that will help you study Korean .

For anyone seriously wanting to study Korean (even if only to pick up the basics) I recommend checking out 90 Day Korean . They offer a strong curriculum and aim to allow users to have a basic conversation within 3 months. In conjunction with a memorisation platform such as Glossika you can pick up the basics of Korean in no time!

Essential Korean Travel Phrases FAQ

What are the 5 most important korean travel phrases.

Give me _____ = _____ 주세요 = _____ ju-sae-yo How much does _____ cost? = _____ 얼마에요? = _____ eol-ma-e-yo? Where is _____? = _____ 가 어디에 있나요? = _____ ga eo-di-e iss-na-yo? Do you have _____? = _____ 이 있나요? = _____ i iss-na-yo? How can I get to _____? = _____ 에 어떻게 가나요? = _____ e eo-deoh-ge ga-na-yo?

What Korean Phrases Do I Need for Ordering Food?

Do you have _____? = _____ 이 있나요? = _____ i iss-na-yo? Give me _____ = _____ 주세요 = _____ ju-sae-yo I would like take-out = 포장해주세요 = po-jang-hae-ju-sae-yo Excuse me (for service) = 저기요 = Jeo-gi-yo

How Can I Learn More Korean?

If you are looking to learn more Korean past basic phrases then I recommend checking out this post on the best ways to learn Korean .

Do I Need to Learn Korean Before Visiting Korea?

It isn’t essential to learn Korean before visiting Korea. However, learning even basic Korean will make your trip that much better. Not only will it make communication easier, but it’s always polite to learn the language of the country that you are visiting.

What Korean Phrases Do I Need for Shopping?

Give me _____ = _____ 주세요 = _____ ju-sae-yo How much does _____ cost? = _____ 얼마에요? = _____ eol-ma-e-yo? Do you have _____? = _____ 이 있나요? = _____ i iss-na-yo? Where can I buy _____? = _____ 어디서 살 수 있나요? = _____ eo-di-seo sal su iss-na-yo?

What Korean Phrases Do I Need for Introducing Myself?

Nice to meet you = 만나서 반갑습니다 = man-na-seo ban-gab-seub-ni-da My name is _____ = 제 이름은 _____ 입니다 = je i-reum-eun _____ ib-ni-da I am from _____ = 저는 _____ 에서 왔어요 = joe-neun _____ e-seo wass-eo-yo I am _____ years old = _____ 살 입니다 = _____ sal ib-ni-da

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Korean Language 101: Basic Phrases For Travelers

• July 9, 2023

Are you planning a trip to Korea? Whether it’s for business or pleasure, learning some basic Korean phrases can greatly enhance your travel experience. While many Koreans speak English, knowing even a few key phrases in the local language can help you navigate transportation, order food, and connect with locals on a deeper level.

In this article, we will provide you with essential Korean phrases that every traveler should know. From greetings and introductions to emergency situations and cultural etiquette, we’ll cover all the bases so that you feel confident communicating in Korean during your travels. So let’s dive in and start learning!

Greetings and Introductions

Before you start exploring Korea, it’s important to learn some basic greetings and introductions like ‘annyeonghaseyo’ for hello and ‘jal jinaeseyo’ for goodbye. These common expressions are essential in establishing a friendly connection with the locals. In Korean culture, showing respect is highly valued, so using the appropriate greeting depending on the time of day is crucial. For instance, saying ‘annyeonghaseyo’ in the morning and ‘annyeonghi gyeseyo’ in the afternoon and evening shows your politeness.

Greetings also involve a bowing gesture that varies depending on who you’re talking to. If you’re meeting someone older or higher in rank than you, bowing deeper than them is respectful. However, if they initiate the bow first, following their lead by reciprocating with a similar depth is appropriate. These cultural nuances may seem overwhelming at first but understanding them can make your communication more effective.

Introducing yourself is also vital when meeting new people. The phrase “jeoneun [name] imnida”means “My name is [name],”which can be used when introducing yourself formally. Koreans usually ask about each other’s age as it determines how they address each other respectfully using honorifics or casual language. So don’t be surprised if someone asks your age during an introduction!

Knowing these basic phrases will help create a positive impression among locals while traveling around Korea. Now that you’ve learned about greetings and introductions let’s move on to directions and transportation without any further delay!

Directions and Transportation

In this discussion, you will learn about asking for directions, taking a taxi or bus, and buying tickets. Asking for directions is an important skill when navigating a new city or country, and we will cover key phrases to help you communicate effectively with locals. Taking a taxi or bus can be convenient ways to get around, but it’s important to know the local customs and procedures. Finally, we will discuss how to buy tickets efficiently and avoid common mistakes that travelers make. With these skills in hand, you can confidently explore your destination with ease.

Asking for Directions

If you’re lost in South Korea, don’t hesitate to approach locals and ask for directions using phrases like ‘어디에 있나요?'(Where is it?) or ‘이 길을 따라가면 되나요?'(Should I follow this road?). Koreans are generally friendly and willing to help, so don’t be shy about asking. However, keep in mind that not all locals may speak English fluently. It would be helpful to have a map or a translation app ready just in case.

Here are some tips to make the process of asking for directions smoother:

• Familiarize yourself with common landmarks near your destination.
• Using public restrooms can also serve as a way to confirm if you’re headed in the right direction.
• Be specific when asking for directions and provide context (e.g., “I’m looking for the nearest subway station”).
• Repeat important information back to the person giving you directions to ensure understanding.
• Thank them after they’ve given you directions and consider offering a small token of appreciation like candy or gum.

When navigating around South Korea, taking a taxi or bus can also be an option.

Taking a Taxi or Bus

To navigate around South Korea efficiently, you may want to consider taking a taxi or bus. When taking a taxi, it’s important to be aware of the local customs and etiquette. For example, it is customary to sit in the back seat and not engage in conversation with the driver unless necessary. Additionally, it’s common practice to pay with cash rather than credit card.

If you prefer public transportation, buses are a great option as they are readily available and affordable. However, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the bus schedules and routes beforehand as they can be quite complex. Be sure to check the destination signs on the front of each bus before boarding and have exact change ready when paying your fare. With these tips in mind, navigating through South Korea should be a breeze.

Transitioning into the subsequent section about buying tickets: Once you’ve decided on your mode of transportation, be it by taxi or bus, the next step would be to purchase tickets for your journey.

Buying Tickets

When you’re ready to travel in South Korea, it’s important to know how to purchase your transportation tickets. Whether you’re taking a train, bus, or subway, buying tickets is easy and convenient. Most ticket offices have English instructions available, so there’s no need to worry about the language barrier. If you have trouble navigating the system, don’t hesitate to ask for help from the staff.

If you’re arriving from another country and need transportation from the airport, look for information desks or kiosks that provide shuttle services or taxis. They will usually provide guidance on how to find accommodations and other tourist attractions as well. Once you’ve arrived at your destination and settled in, don’t forget to explore local cuisine by ordering food at restaurants or street vendors.

Ordering Food

When ordering food in Korea, it’s important to have a basic understanding of food vocabulary. This will help you navigate menus and communicate your preferences to restaurant staff. Additionally, knowing how to order at a restaurant can make the experience much smoother and enjoyable. Finally, if you have any dietary restrictions or allergies, it’s crucial to know how to communicate these effectively in Korean.

Basic Food Vocabulary

Craving for some delicious Korean food? You’ll want to know these basic food vocabulary words before ordering your next meal! Traditional Korean dishes, such as bibimbap and bulgogi, are popular among locals and tourists alike. Bibimbap is a rice dish topped with vegetables, meat, and egg while bulgogi is marinated beef or pork grilled to perfection.

If you’re looking for something quick and easy to eat on the go, popular street foods like tteokbokki (spicy rice cake), kimbap (rice rolls), and fried chicken are great options. Tteokbokki is a must-try for those who love spicy food. It’s made with chewy rice cakes in a spicy sauce that packs a punch. Kimbap is similar to sushi but with ingredients like ham, cheese, or tuna instead of raw fish. Fried chicken may not be traditionally Korean but it has become a popular snack in recent years.

Now that you know some basic food vocabulary words, it’s time to learn how to order at a restaurant.

Ordering at a Restaurant

To successfully order at a restaurant in Korea, it’s important to familiarize yourself with common menu items and phrases. Popular Korean dishes include bibimbap, bulgogi, kimchi jjigae, and samgyeopsal. When ordering, it’s polite to use the honorific form of speech by adding “-yo”at the end of your sentences. For example, instead of saying “I want bibimbap,”say “bibimbap juseyo”which translates to “please give me bibimbap.”Additionally, it’s customary to wait for everyone at your table to receive their food before starting to eat.

Restaurant etiquette is also an important aspect when ordering in Korea. It’s considered rude to call out or snap your fingers at servers. Instead, try raising your hand slightly or making eye contact with them. When paying for your meal, it’s common for one person in the group to pay for everyone else as a sign of respect and generosity. Remembering these small gestures can go a long way in showing appreciation for the culture and cuisine of Korea.

As you move on to learning about dietary restrictions in Korean cuisine, keep in mind that many traditional dishes contain meat or seafood products. However, there are still plenty of options available for vegetarians and those with other dietary needs.

Dietary Restrictions

If you have certain dietary restrictions, it’s important to be aware of the ingredients used in Korean cuisine and communicate your needs clearly when ordering at a restaurant. Vegetarian options are available in some restaurants, but it’s important to double-check with the server if any meat or seafood-based products were used in the preparation of the dish. You can say “Chae-sikjuui”which means ‘vegetarian’ or “Sa-seuji”which means ‘vegan’ to let them know about your preferences.

If you have allergies and intolerances, it is crucial to inform the servers about your condition. Some common allergens such as peanuts, shellfish, soy, and wheat are present in many Korean dishes. Therefore, it is essential to ask for recommendations on what dishes are safe for you to consume. The phrase “Jeonjibulmyeon”means ‘I have an allergy,’ while “Jeonjisaeng-gakhaeju-seyo”means ‘Please be careful because I have an allergy.’ Remember that being clear with your requests will help ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable dining experience in Korea.

When shopping and bargaining in Korea…

Shopping and Bargaining

When shopping in Korea, it is important to know how to ask for prices, negotiate prices, and make purchases. To ask for prices, use the phrase “얼마예요?”(eolmayeyo?) which means “How much does it cost?”When negotiating prices, keep in mind that bargaining is not common practice in Korea and may be seen as impolite. Finally, when making a purchase be sure to say “감사합니다”(gamsahamnida) which means “Thank you.”

Asking for Prices

Want to know how much something costs? Just ask the vendor using simple Korean phrases like ‘이거 얼마예요?'(How much is this?) or ‘얼마에요?'(How much does it cost?). Here are some tips to help you when asking for prices:

• Be polite and respectful while asking for prices.
• Use the correct form of politeness based on your relationship with the seller.
• Pointing at the item you want can help convey your message more clearly.
• Ask if there is any discount available if you plan on buying multiple items.
• Comparing prices from different vendors before making a purchase can help you get a better deal.

Asking for prices is only one part of shopping in Korea. If you’re interested in negotiating deals and getting discounts, stay tuned for our next section where we’ll give you some tips on how to negotiate effectively.

Negotiating Prices

To effectively negotiate prices in Korea, it’s essential to understand the cultural differences and customs surrounding bargaining. Unlike Western cultures where haggling is often seen as confrontational, in Korea, it’s considered a way of building relationships and showing respect for the seller. Therefore, it’s important to approach negotiations with a friendly attitude, keeping in mind that maintaining harmony is crucial.

When negotiating prices in Korea, start by expressing interest in the item or service you want to purchase. Ask questions about its quality and features while showing appreciation for the seller’s workmanship. Then, politely inquire about the price and offer a lower amount while explaining your reasoning. Be open to counteroffers and don’t be afraid to walk away if you can’t reach an agreement. Remember that successful negotiations are based on mutual respect and understanding.

As you become more comfortable with negotiating prices in Korea, making purchases will become easier. Keep these techniques in mind as we move onto the next section about making transactions without any language barriers.

Making Purchases

You can easily make purchases in Korea by understanding the cultural customs and using friendly negotiation techniques. When shopping in Korea, haggling is common practice, especially in markets or small shops. However, it’s important to keep in mind that there are certain local shopping customs to follow.

To successfully negotiate prices in Korea, try these haggling techniques:

• Start with a lower price than what you’re willing to pay.
• This allows for room to negotiate and reach a mutually beneficial price.
• Be friendly and polite.
• Building rapport with the seller can go a long way.

Additionally, it’s customary to remove your shoes when entering some Korean stores. You may also be expected to bow slightly when greeting the shopkeeper or thanking them for their service. By following these local customs, you can show respect and build trust with the seller.

Understanding these cultural nuances will help ensure successful transactions during your travels in Korea. In the next section about ‘numbers and money’, we’ll dive deeper into the specifics of making payments while abroad.

Numbers and Money

In this subtopic, you will learn about counting and basic math, currency exchange, and tipping. These three key points are essential for any traveler who wants to navigate the shopping scene smoothly. You will need to be familiar with numbers and basic math skills for bargaining, as well as knowing how to exchange your currency efficiently. Additionally, tipping is a cultural practice that varies from country to country, so it’s important to know what is expected of you in each place you visit.

Counting and Basic Math

Counting and doing basic math is essential for any traveler in Korea, so make sure to brush up on your skills before heading out! In addition to knowing numbers for currency exchange, it’s important to be able to count items when shopping or ordering food. Here are three mathematical skills you may need during your trip:

• Counting objects: When buying souvenirs or snacks at a market, you’ll want to know how many of an item you’re getting. Practice counting in Korean with small objects like candies or coins.
• Adding prices: Basic math for shopping is necessary when calculating the total cost of your purchases. Memorize common numbers like 10,000 won (about $9 USD) and practice adding them together.
• Telling time: Knowing how to tell time in Korean will help keep you on schedule during your trip. Learn the words for hours and minutes and practice saying different times throughout the day.

Now that you’ve mastered some basic counting and math skills, let’s move onto currency exchange.

Currency Exchange

Let’s delve into currency exchange and make sure to get the most out of our money while traveling in Korea! As a traveler, it is important to find the best exchange rate possible. Before exchanging your money, research the current exchange rates online or at a local bank. Keep in mind that many banks in Korea are closed on weekends, so plan accordingly.

When exchanging currency, be aware of any restrictions on foreign currency. In Korea, there are limits on how much foreign currency can be exchanged without proper documentation. Additionally, some places may not accept certain currencies such as coins or older bills. To avoid any complications, it is best to carry cash in larger denominations and convert them at reputable banks or exchange offices.

Now that we have covered the basics of currency exchange, let’s move on to tipping etiquette in Korea.

Now that you know how to exchange currency in Korea, let’s move on to another important aspect of Korean culture – tipping. In general, tipping is not a common practice in Korea and may even be considered rude or unnecessary in certain situations. However, there are some instances where it is appropriate to leave a tip.

When it comes to etiquette for tipping in Korea, it is important to understand the different types of tipping practices. For example, at restaurants or cafes, service charges are usually included in the bill so leaving an additional tip is not necessary. However, if you receive exceptional service or want to show appreciation for your server, leaving a small amount as a token of thanks is acceptable. On the other hand, when using services such as hair salons or spas, it is common to leave a small tip for your stylist or masseuse.

Moving forward from this topic of tipping etiquette , it’s crucial for travelers to also familiarize themselves with emergency situations while traveling in Korea.

Emergency Situations

In emergency situations, it is important to know how to ask for help in Korean. If you experience a medical emergency, it is crucial to be able to communicate your symptoms and condition accurately. In the unfortunate event of a crime, knowing how to report it properly can aid in resolving the situation quickly and efficiently.

Asking for Help

If you ever find yourself lost or in need of assistance during your travels in Korea, don’t hesitate to ask for help using these basic phrases. If you’re looking for directions, you can say “어디에 있나요?”(Eodie innayo?) which means “Where is it?”or “길을 잃었어요”(Gireul ilheosseoyo) which means “I’m lost.”You can also ask for general help by saying “도와주세요”(Dowajuseyo) which simply means “Please help me.”

Asking for emergency help or seeking medical assistance may require more specific language. In case of an emergency, dial 119 and say “화재입니다”(Hwajeoimnida) if there’s a fire or “도와주세요”(Dowajuseyo) if it’s another type of emergency. To seek medical assistance, say “의사를 부르세요”(Uisareul bureuseyo) which means “Call a doctor.”Remember that asking for help is always better than staying silent and potentially jeopardizing your safety.

In the event of a medical emergency, it’s important to know how to communicate your needs clearly. Let’s take a look at some useful phrases in the next section.

Medical Emergencies

Be prepared to communicate your medical needs clearly in case of an emergency by learning these useful phrases. If you have insurance coverage, make sure you know how to express this in Korean so that medical providers understand what treatments and services are covered. You may need to contact your embassy for further assistance if you require significant medical attention or hospitalization.

When seeking medical help, it’s important to be able to explain your symptoms and any medications you’re taking accurately. Useful phrases include “저는 아프다”(jeoneun apeuda) which means “I am sick,”and “의사를 불러주세요”(uisareul bulleo juseyo) which means “Please call a doctor.”If you need medication, ask for a prescription by saying “처방전이 필요해요”(cheobangjeoni piryohaeyo). Remember that clear communication is crucial in a medical emergency, so take the time now to learn these essential phrases.

Reporting a crime is another important aspect of staying safe during travel.

Reporting a Crime

To ensure your safety while abroad, it is important to know how to report a crime in case of an emergency. The following steps will help you understand the process of reporting a crime and assist you in getting the help that you need.

• Contact local authorities immediately: Dial 112 for police or 119 for ambulance/fire.
• Provide detailed information about the incident: Try to remember as many details as possible about what happened, when it occurred, who was involved, and any other relevant information.
• Contact your embassy or consulate: They can provide assistance with legal matters and communicate with local authorities on your behalf if necessary.
• Follow up with authorities and keep records: Make sure to follow up with local authorities regarding the status of your case. Keep copies of any reports or documentation related to the incident.

It is essential to have emergency contacts readily available at all times during your trip. In addition to knowing how to report a crime, make sure you have contact information for your embassy or consulate in case of other emergencies such as natural disasters or medical emergencies. Being prepared can make all the difference in ensuring a safe and enjoyable trip.

Moving forward into cultural etiquette, understanding cultural differences can enhance your experience while traveling.

Cultural Etiquette

Understanding cultural etiquette in Korea can greatly enhance your travel experience and show respect for the local customs. One of the most important aspects of Korean culture is bowing. Bowing is used to show respect, gratitude, apologies, and greetings. The depth and length of the bow depends on the occasion and the status of the person you are addressing. Generally speaking, a slight nod or a shallow bow is enough for casual interactions while deeper bows are reserved for more formal occasions.

Another essential aspect of Korean culture is politeness levels. Koreans use different levels of honorifics based on age, status, and familiarity with each other. It’s crucial to use appropriate titles when addressing someone older or higher in rank than you are. Also, using polite language shows respect towards others and enhances your chances of receiving good service.

Showing respect in interactions goes beyond verbal communication; it also involves body language and gestures. For example, avoid pointing with your index finger as it’s considered rude; instead, use an open hand gesture to indicate direction or location. Furthermore, removing shoes indoors is customary in Korea as it helps keep floors clean from outside dirt and dust.

Lastly, table manners play a significant role in Korean culture. Before eating at a traditional restaurant or someone’s home, wait until everyone has received their food before starting to eat; this shows consideration towards others’ needs first. Additionally, slurping noodles or soup loudly is acceptable as it indicates enjoyment but burping at the table is not.

Understanding cultural etiquette in Korea can help you navigate social situations confidently while showing respect for local customs. As you explore this fascinating country further into its technology and communication realm where smartphones have become ubiquitous among locals…

Technology and Communication

When traveling to Korea, it is important to be aware of the country’s technological landscape. Wi-Fi and internet access are widely available in most areas, including hotels and cafes. To make phone calls, you may need to purchase a SIM card or use a rental phone service, but international calling apps such as Skype and WhatsApp can also be used over Wi-Fi. For messaging, popular apps include KakaoTalk and Line which allow for free texting, voice messages and video calls.

Wi-Fi and Internet

You can easily connect to Wi-Fi and stay connected to the internet throughout your travels in Korea. Most hotels, cafes, restaurants, and public places have free Wi-Fi available for customers. You can also find free Wi-Fi hotspots at major tourist attractions and subway stations.

If you don’t have access to Wi-Fi, there are many internet cafes in Korea where you can use a computer and pay by the hour. These cafes usually have fast internet speeds, so it’s a good option if you need to download large files or stream videos. Just make sure to bring your passport with you as it’s required for registration at most internet cafes.

Now that you know how to stay connected online during your trip, let’s move on to making phone calls.

Making Phone Calls

If staying in touch with loved ones is a priority for you while traveling in Korea, then making phone calls will be an essential part of your trip. To make local and international calls, there are several options available to you.

• Using public telephones may be the most economical choice, but it can also be the most challenging. You will need to purchase a T-money card or cash card from convenience stores or vending machines before using a payphone. Instructions on how to use these phones are typically in Korean only.
• Renting a mobile phone at the airport or purchasing a prepaid SIM card may be more convenient, especially if you plan on using data services during your stay.
• Calling through hotel phones is another option, but it can often come with extra fees added onto your bill.
• There are also many telephone booths scattered throughout major cities that allow you to make domestic and international calls with ease.
• Finally, consider using popular messaging apps such as Line or KakaoTalk which offer free voice and video calls over Wi-Fi.

When it comes to making international calls from Korea, dialing out can get confusing due to different country codes and area codes. However, most Korean telecommunications companies have English-speaking customer service lines that can assist you with any issues that arise. If calling back home isn’t urgent, we recommend taking advantage of Wi-Fi calling through messaging apps instead of paying high roaming charges. Speaking of messaging apps…

Sending Messages

To stay connected with your loved ones while traveling in Korea, try using messaging apps like Line or KakaoTalk which offer free voice and video calls over Wi-Fi. These apps are widely used in Korea and are available for download on both Android and iOS devices. With these apps, you can also send text messages to your friends and family back home.

When sending messages in Korean, it’s important to be familiar with common abbreviations used in texting. For example, “ㅇㅇ”is often used as a short form of “yes”or “I understand”, while “ㄴㄴ”means “no”. Additionally, Korean emojis are popular among locals and can help convey emotions that may be difficult to express through words alone. By adding a few simple Korean phrases to your vocabulary and utilizing these common texting methods, you can easily communicate with the people you care about while exploring all that Korea has to offer.

Moving on to useful phrases that will come in handy during your travels…

Useful Phrases

When traveling in a foreign country, it is important to be able to express gratitude, apologize, and ask for assistance when needed. You may find yourself in situations where you need help or want to show appreciation for someone’s kindness. Knowing key phrases such as “thank you,””I’m sorry,”and “can you help me?”can go a long way in making your travels smoother and more enjoyable. By mastering these basic expressions, you will be better equipped to navigate unfamiliar situations with confidence and courtesy.

Expressing Gratitude

Gratitude is a fundamental aspect of Korean culture, so it’s essential to learn how to express thanks in Korean. Here are some common phrases that you can use to show your appreciation:

• 감사합니다 (gamsahamnida) – This is the most common way to say thank you in Korean. It’s polite and formal, so you can use it in any situation.
• 고맙습니다 (gomapseumnida) – This phrase is also used to express gratitude, but it’s a bit less formal than 감사합니다. You can use this with friends or people who are younger than you.
• 정말 감사합니다 (jeongmal gamsahamnida) – This phrase means “thank you very much.”Use this when someone has done something very kind for you.

Expressing gratitude is important because it shows that you appreciate what others have done for you. In Korean culture, showing gratitude is also a sign of respect and humility. When someone does something nice for you, take the time to thank them using one of these phrases.

Moving on from expressing gratitude, another important aspect of communication is apologizing.

Apologizing

If you accidentally offend someone, it is important to express your regret and apologize sincerely. In Korean culture, formal apologies are highly valued and can help to resolve conflicts quickly. You can use common phrases like ‘미안해요'(mianhaeyo) or ‘죄송합니다'(joesonghamnida) to convey your remorse.

When apologizing, it is important to use a polite tone and make eye contact with the person you are speaking to. Additionally, you should avoid making excuses or shifting blame onto others. Instead, take responsibility for your actions and offer a sincere apology. By doing so, you can demonstrate respect for Korean customs and show that you are committed to building positive relationships with those around you.

Asking for assistance in a foreign country can be daunting, but don’t be afraid to ask for help if you need it.

Asking for Assistance

Don’t hesitate to reach out for help if you need it while traveling in a foreign country, as locals are often happy to assist you. In South Korea, asking for assistance is not uncommon since the people are friendly and hospitable. If you’re lost or unsure about something, don’t be afraid to approach someone and ask for directions or clarification.

To make the most out of your trip to South Korea, it’s important to know how to ask for assistance in Korean. Here are three phrases that may come in handy:

• “숙소를 찾고 있어요.”(Sugso-reul chaj-go i-sseo-yo.) – This means “I’m looking for accommodations”and can be useful when asking locals for help finding a place to stay.
• “공항을 어떻게 가나요?”(Gong-hang-eul eo-ddeoh-ke ga-na-yo?) – This translates to “How do I get to the airport?”and is helpful when navigating through unfamiliar territory.
• “도와주세요.”(Do-wa-ju-se-yo.) – This is a simple yet effective phrase that means “Please help me.”You can use this whenever you need assistance with anything during your travels in Korea.

In conclusion, mastering basic Korean phrases can greatly enhance one’s travel experience in South Korea. From greetings and introductions to ordering food and navigating transportation, knowing how to communicate effectively can make a big difference in making connections with locals and getting around the country. Additionally, understanding cultural etiquette and emergency situations can be crucial for any traveler.

When it comes to technology and communication, knowing key phrases like “Wi-Fi password”or “Can you help me find my way?”can be extremely helpful when navigating unfamiliar territory. And of course, having a grasp on numbers and money is essential when shopping or bargaining.

Overall, taking the time to learn some basic Korean phrases before embarking on a trip to South Korea can not only make for a smoother journey but also show respect for the local culture. With these tools at your disposal, you’ll be able to confidently navigate through any situation that arises during your travels in this beautiful country.

James Yeong

Once a quaint dweller of the English countryside, James is now a vibrant voice narrating his adventures in the bustling heart of South Korea. Since relocating to Seoul in 2019, James has immersed himself in the dynamic tapestry of Korean culture, from the serene temples tucked away in mountainous terrains to the neon-lit streets of modern cities.

This blog has become a haven for those seeking an outsider's yet intimate perspective on South Korea, often shedding light on hidden gems and local favourites rather than just the typical tourist hotspots. With a keen eye for detail and a writing style dripping with wit and warmth, James has managed to amass a devoted readership from all corners of the globe.

Whether you're planning a trip to the Seoul, the surrounding cities or just vicariously traveling from the comfort of your couch, Jame's tales of exploration and discovery are sure to ignite a passion for the Land of the Morning Calm.

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101 Basic Korean Words for Travel in South Korea

Erin E. Honigman

When you visit South Korea, you'll find that English is quite common in big international cities like Seoul or Busan. English academies and immersion schools have been flourishing for decades, so it's safe to say you'll be able to get by without speaking much Korean.

However, if you want to explore more of the Korean peninsula (and trust me, you definitely do), be sure to practice a few basic traveling phrases in Korean. Not only will knowing some Korean phrases help you avoid an awkward situation -like sitting in someone's reserved seat or ordering squid as snack- but it will also impress the locals. Korean people will definitely appreciate your attempt to communicate in their language. If you know some basic traveling phrases, it shows respect for Korean culture.

So, whether you're planning to take a trip to South Korea or even if you're just curious about Korean culture , use our list of 101 basic Korean phrases to improve you Korean speaking and listening skills.

Why Visit South Korea?

Most people don't immediately think of South Korea when planning a trip to Asia. Isntead, they opt for the more popular beaches of Thailand and the rolling rice hills in Vietnam.

But guess what. Korea has both of these things, and more. South Korea is truly a unique country to visit, and it has something to offer for every tourist's preference.

Although small in land area, the country is rich in regional and geographical diversity. Surrounded by the sea on three sides, South Korea has miles of beautiful beaches . Hiking more your thing? Then Korea is the perfect place to go. Over 70% of South Korea is covered in mountains, so you won't miss out on the beautiful nature.

If you're not really a nature person, don't worry. You'll be captivated by Korean culture and history. After all, Korea is home to 11 Unesco World Heritage sites , including temples and fortresses from ancient dynasties. You can also spend hours shopping, or my personal favorite: indulge in delicious Korean delicacies that vary across the country.

Have I enticed you to visit South Korea yet? Even if you can't take a trip overseas soon, learning Korean travel phrases will help expand your Korean vocabulary and prepare you for any future travels.

Basic Korean Phrases for South Korea Travel

It's important to note that Koreans use different verb conjugations depending on the person they are speaking to. The different conjugations imply various levels of respect and politeness. For the purpose of traveling in Korea, it's okay to use either the formal or polite form of the verb, and that's what will be included on this list. Koreans won't expect foreingers to understand the sublte nuances of Korean honorifics, so just being polite is the best way to go.

Also, you might notice several phrases are listed more than once. That's because unlike in English, Koreans have different variations of words and phrases for very specific situations.

Now, let's learn some basic Korean phrases for travel!

The Most Basic Korean Words You Must Know

• An-nyeong ha-se-yo (안녕하세요) :Hello. This is the most common way to greet someone at anytime of the day. You'll be greeted any time you enter a shop, restaurant, taxi- well anywhere, really. So you should learn how to say hello in response.
• An-nyeong-hi ga-se-yo (안녕히 가세요): Goodbye. This is the goodbye to use if someone else is leaving. "Ga-se-yo" means to go,so you are basically telling someone to go peacefully.
• An-nyeong-hi gye-se-yo (안녕히 계세요): Goodbye. This is the goodbye to use when YOU are leaving. There is a slight difference in the endings of the two goodbyes; however, don't worry too much if you don't remember the difference. You can always just say "an-nyeong."
• Ne (네): Yes
• A-ni-yo (아니요): No
• A-ma-do (아마도): Maybe
• Mol-la-yo (몰라요): I don't know.
• Jam-shi-man-yo (잠시만요): Excuse me./Just a moment. You can use this phrase to get the attention of others, for example if you need someone to move out of your way. You can also use this to mean "wait a minute."
• Jeo-gi-yo (저기요): Excuse me. Use this version of "excuse me" to get attention in a restaurant or business.
• Sil-lye-hab-ni-da (실례합니다): Excuse me. This version of excuse me is used to apologize, like if you accidentally bump into someone.
• Mi-an-hab-ni-da (미안합니다): Sorry.
• Gam-sa-hab-ni-da(감사합니다): Thank you.
• Gwaen-chan-ayo(괜찮아요): It's alright/never mind/it's okay.
• Cheon-man-e-yo(천만에요): You're welcome/don't mention it.
• Shi (씨): Add this at the end of someone's name to be polite. It means Mr./Ms. regardless of gender or marital status.
• Eo-je (어제): Yesterday.
• Oh-neul (오늘): Today.
• Nae-il (내일): Tomorrow.
• Ji-guem (지금): Right now.
• Na-jung-eh (나중에): Later.
• Eol-ma-ye-yo?(얼마예요?): How much is it?
• I-geo ju-se-yo.(이거 주세요.): Give me this, please.

Introducing Yourself

• Ee-reum-ee mo-eh-yo(이름이 뭐에요?): What's your name?
• Je ileum-eun (your name)ibnida.(제 이름은 (your name)입니다.): My name is _________.
• Jeo-neun (country)e-seo wass-eo- yo. (저는 country에서 왔어요): : I'm from ____________. For a list of countries, click here .

Making Yourself Understood

Of course, if you are not Korean, you might stick out as a foreigner in smaller cities. Still, some locals might mistake you for a expat living in South korea and assume you can communicate well. Use these Korean phrases to make yourself understood.

• Han-guk-mal mot hae-yo.(한국말 못 해요.): I can't speak Korean.
• Han-guk-mal jo-geum mal hal su iss-eoyo. (한국말 조금 말 할 수 있어요.): I can speak a little Korean.
• I-hae mos hae-yo. (이해 못 해요): I don't understand.
• Cheon-cheon-hi mal-hae-jus-eyo. (천천히 말해주세요): Please speak slowly.
• Da-si han beon mal-hae-jus-eyo(다시 한 번 말해주세요.): Please say it again.
• Yeong-eo ha-se-yo? (영어 하세요?): Do you speak English?

Asking for Help

If you're traveling in a country that doesn't speak your language, there's probably going to be several times that you need to ask for help. Whether it's an emergency situation or you're just looking for a toilet (which, okay is also an emergency sometimes), here are basic Korean phrases to ask for help.

• Do-wa-ju-se-yo (도와주세요) : Help me!
• Gyeong-chal-eul bul-eu-se-yo.(경찰을 부르세요): Call the police.
• Eung-geub sang-hwang-i-e-yo! (응급 상황이에요): It's an emergency.
• Ui-sa-ga pil-yo hae-yo. (의사가 필요 해요): I need a doctor.
• Gu-geub-cha-leul bul-leo ju-se-yo. (구급차를 불러 주세요): Call an ambulance.
• Ah-pa-yo. (아파요): I feel sick.
• Jil-mun-i is-seub-ni-da. (질문이 있습니다): : I have a question.
• Byeong-won (병원): : Hospital
• Gyeong-chal-seo (경찰서): Police station
• Yag-guk (약국): Pharmacy
• Eun-haeng (은행): Bank
• Hwa-jang-sil (화장실): Bathroom
• __eh ga-ya hay-yo ( __ 에 가야 해요): This sentence means, I have to go to the (place). So, you can, say "byeonh-won-eh ga-ya hay-yo," to mean "I have to go to the hospital.
• Eo-di-ye-yo? (어디예요?): Where is it? You can also add the place in front of the question. So, if you ask "Hwa-jang-sil eo-di-ye-yo?," you're asking where the bathroom is.

Transportaion

Lucky for travelers, getting around South Korea is cheap and easy. You can use applications on your phone for accurate bus times and maps. South Korea has a renowned public transportation system. It's clean, cheap, and efficient, so you can get from one end of the country to the other in no time at all. Although most travel hubs have some English, you still might need to use these phrases when getting around the country. Use the term "where" (#45) to make questiosn with some of these words.

• Beo-su(버스): Bus
• Beo-seu jeong-lyu-jang (버스 정류장): Bus stop
• I beo-seu (place) ga-na-yo?(이 버스 place name 가나요?): Does this bus go to ___ ?
• Da-eum beo-seu-neun eon-je iss-eo-yo?(다음 버스는 언제 있어요?): When is the next bus?
• Gi-cha(기차): Train. It's important to note here that the high speed train in Korea is called the KTX , so if you say "KTX," you will be understood.
• Ji-hae-chol (지하철): Subway
• Ji-hae-chol yeog (지하철역): Subway station
• Bi-haeng-gi (비행기): Airplane
• Gong-hang (공항): Airport
• Taek-si (택시): Taxi. For an easier way to hail a taxi, you can use this phone app .
• Seoull-yeoge ga-go si-peun-de-yo.(서울역에 가고 싶은데요.): I'd like to go to Seoul Station. Of course, if you're in a taxi, you can interchange any location with the word Seoul.
• Pyo (표): Ticket
• Bal-gwon-gi (발권기): : Ticketing machine

• Dong (동): East
• Seo (서): West
• Nam (남): South
• Buk (북): Buk
• Yeo-gi (여기): Here
• Geo-gi (거기): There
• Jeo-gi (저기): Over there
• O-leun-jjog-eulo ga-se-yo. (오른쪽으로 가세요): Turn right.
• Oen-jjog-eu-lo ga-se-yo. (왼쪽으로 가세요): Turn left.
• Jig-jin-ha-se-yo. (직진하세요.): Go straight.

Accomodation

Although you can definitely find five star hotels in Korea, there are a number of more affordalbe - and more unique- options to look at while you travel around the country. 69. Sa-u-na (사우나): Sauna. Did you know that you can sleep on the floor of a sauna? This is the cheapest place to stay, usually under 10,000 Korean won. You'll be given a mat on a warm floor. 70. Ho-seu-tel (호스텔): Hostel. 71. Min-bak (민박): Min-bak. A minbak usually is a simple room with access to a kitchen and a private bathroom. They can range from anything like a motel to a room in the owners' house. 72. Mo-tel (모텔): Motel. Motels in Korea are often themed and geard toward lovers, so if you go with this option, make sure you find one that's nice and clean. 73. Gue-su-tu Ha-oe-seu (게스트 하우스): Guesthouse. 74. Ho-tel (호텔): Hotel. 75. Pen-sion (펜션): Pension. Pensions are like partially furnished houses or apartments that you can rent. They're affordable and usually quite beautiful, as most are in the countryside or in a scenic area. 76. Ri-jor-teu (리조트): Resort. 77. Bin-bang iss-eo-yo?(빈방 있어요?): Do you have any vacancies? 78. I-il mug-gess-eo-yo(이일 묵겠어요): I'm staying for two days. In this case, the first syllable "i" is the number for 2. You can use other numbers if you plan to stay longer. 79. I in-yong chim-dae (이 인용 침대): A bed for two people. 80. Ye-yag-eul ha-go sip-eoyo. (예약을 하고 싶어요): I'd like to make a reservation.

At the Cafe or Restaurant

• Bae-go-pa-yo. (배고파요): I'm hungry.
• Ka-deu bad-euse-yo? (카드 받으세요?): Do you accept cards? A lot of Korean restaurants are still cash only, so it's best to carry some Korean money or check before ordering. If you forget, don't worry. There are ATM's on almost every street
• Ttalo-ttalo gye-san-hal-ge-yo. (따로따로 계산할게요): Please split the bill. Most Koreans share the meal and one person pays the bill. Again, it's best to carry cash so you and your companions can all contribute if necessary.
• Po-jang-hae jus-e-yo. (포장해주세요): Please make it to go.
• Wai-pai iss-eo-yo?(와이파이 있어요?): Do you have wifi?
• Bi-mil beon-ho all-yeo ju-seyo. (비밀 번호 알려 주세요): Please tell me the wifi password.
• Kon-sen-teu is-seo-yo?(콘센트 있어요?): Do you have electrical outlets?
• Chae-sig men-yu iss-eo-yo?(채식 메뉴 있어요?): Do you have a vegetarian menu?
• Da meo-geul su is-seo-yo. (다 먹을 수 있어요): I can eat anything.
• Mwo-ga mas-iss-eo-yo?(뭐가 맛있어요?): What is delicious?
• All-eo-ji iss-eo-yo. (알러지 있어요.): I have an allergy.
• (이거 매워요?): Is it spicy? Now, I suppose spice tolerance is subjective. However, often times Koreans will worry about the level of spice foreigners can handle. They think kimchi is very spicy. In my experience, Korean "spice" is a little sweet, and it's delicious. If you're like me, you won't find it spicy at all, so ask for more pepper.
• Mas-is-seo-yo!(맛있어요!): It's delicious.

Miscellaneous

• Geon-be! (건배!) : Cheers!
• A-ya! (아야!): Ouch!
• Jo-ah-yo. (좋아요): Good/I like it.
• An jo-ah-yo. (안 좋아요): Bad.
• Sel-ka (셀카): Selfie
• Seo-bis-eau (서비스): Service. This refers to a free item at a restuarant or store.
• Hwa-i-ting! (화이팅!): You can do it! Fighting!
• Meong meong (멍멍): This is the sound of a dog barking in Korean. Cute, right?

Practice Makes Perfect

While these words look simple on paper, you might want to practice speaking them outloud to make sure your pronunciation is perfect. Lucky for you, Speechling coaches are here to help. Try Speechling's Freestyle Mode! You can input and listen to any Korean traveling phrase, then record your own pronunciation. Speechling's dedicated coaches will give you personalized feedback. Your pronunciation will be like a native speaker's in no time at all!

Speechling is a nonprofit app and website that combines human coaching with technology to improve your foreign language speaking.

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Travel Tips

K-Talk: Handy Travel Phrases For Travelling Across Korea

From greetings to seeking directions, master these essential korean phrases to navigate the country with ease..

By: Esha Dasgupta Published: Dec 11, 2023 02:00 PM IST

As the Hallyu effect has taken over the world, it’s no surprise that South Korea is on the travel radar of many. While bingeing K-dramas and K-pop may have taught you a few words like saranghe and yobo , our guide to essential Korean phrases is here to enhance your travel experience. Whether you’re greeting people, asking for directions, seeking a vegetarian menu, or offering an apology, this language guide provides a plethora of practical phrases that will not only assist you in navigating daily situations but also open doors to authentic experiences, allowing you to connect with the vibrant vibe of Korea.

It is noteworthy that Koreans use different verb conjugations to convey varying levels of respect, based on who they are speaking to. For travellers in Korea unfamiliar with the language, using either the polite or formal form of communication is generally acceptable. 

Korean for travellers: List of essential Korean phrases

• Hello: An-nyeong-ha-se-yo

The most common way of greeting someone, is applicable at any time of the day. This can also be used as a response. 

• Goodbye: An-nyeong-hi ga-se-yo

When someone is leaving before you. 

• Goodbye: An-nyeong-hi gye-se-yo

If you are leaving first and want to bid farewell to the others.

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• No: A-ni-yo
• I don’t know: Mol-la-yo

A casual but polite way of conveying a lack of information about a certain topic.

• Thank you: Kam-sa-ham-ni-da

A formal way to express gratitude, particularly suitable for interactions with strangers. 

• Please: Ju-se-yo

While there is no direct translation for ‘please’ in Korean, using this phrase adds politeness when ordering food or asking for directions.

• Excuse me: Jam-shi-man-yo

When you need somebody’s attention or want them to get out of your way.

• Sorry: Mi-an-hab-ni-da

A versatile apology suitable for various situations, both formal and informal.

• It’s ok/Never mind: Gwaen-chan-ayo

Use it to console someone or indicate everything is alright.

• Mr./Ms.: Shi

A general honorific to convey respect, regardless of marital status or gender. 

• How are you: Eott-eoh-ge jina-ese-yo

A common greeting when meeting someone or entering a store.

• Nice to meet you: manna-seo banga-woyo

A standard and less formal way of greeting someone, applicable at meetings. 

• I’m sorry: Chway-seong-ham-ni-da

The most formal way of apologising in Korean. 

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• Where is: Eo-di-ye-yo

Use to ask for directions or the exact location of a place by adding the name at the end.

• I’m lost: Gil-eul ilh-uht-suh-yo

If you are unable to find your way, use this phrase to ask for help.

• How much is it: Eol-ma-ye-yo

Perfect for shopping in places without price tags, such as flea markets or Korean local shops . 

• Yesterday: Eo-je
• Today: Oh-neul
• Tomorrow: Nae-il
• Help me/I need help: Do-wa-ju-se-yo

A polite way of asking for help from a local.

• I need a doctor: Ui-sa-ga pil-yo hae-yo
• Police station: Gyeong-chal-seo
• Bathroom: Hwa-jang-sil

Use this when you are looking for a toilet. Use ‘Yok-shil’ if looking for a bathhouse.

• Bus: Beo-su

Inquire about buses. As for the bus stop, use ‘beo-seu jeon-gly-ujang’.

• Train: Gi-cha or KTX

High-speed trains are referred to as KTX in Korea. Simply say KTX if that’s where you are headed.

• Subway: Ji-hae-chol
• Ticket: Pyo
• Do you have a vegetarian menu : Chae-sig men-yu iss-eo-yo?

Use this to indicate your preference for meat- and egg-free dishes when dining out. 

(Feature image credit: LJ Mears/Flickr)

Related: The Most Beautiful Places To Visit In South Korea

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

-What are some common Korean words for beginners? Here are some essential Korean phrases for beginners:

Hello: An-nyeong-ha-se-yo Yes: Ye No: A-ni-yo Thank you: Kam-sa-ham-ni-da Please: Ju-se-yo Excuse me: Jam-shi-man-yo

-How do I greet someone in Korean? To greet someone in Korean, say “An-nyeong-ha-se-yo”, which means “hello”.

-What is the polite way to say “thank you” in Korean? Politely thank someone in Korean by saying “Kam-sa-ham-ni-da”.

-How do I ask “How are you?” in Korean? To ask “How are you?” in Korean, say “Eott-eoh-ge jina-ese-yo”.

-How do I apologise in Korean? When you want to apologise in Korean, say “Mi-an-hab-ni-da”.

-What are common dining phrases in Korean? Some common dining phrases in Korean include: 

Do you have the menu in English: Yeongeoro doen menyupan innayo? Is this very spicy: Geo mani maewoyo? What do you recommend: Eotteon geo chucheonhasinayo?

-How do I ask for directions in Korean? Ask for directions in Korean by saying Eo-di-ye-yo and adding the name of the place at the end.

-How do I count in Korean? Here are the numbers 1 to 10 in Korean:

1 – Hana 2 – Dul 3 – Set 4 – Net 5 – Dausut 6 – Yeosut 7 – Ilgup 8 – Yeodul 9 – Ah-hope 10 – Yuhl

• south korea travel

Esha Dasgupta

Esha is a traveller at heart, with a penchant for exploring the unchartered. She has previously worked with TravelTriangle and Internet Moguls. When not in work mode, she can be found downing endless cups of coffee while reading Enid Blyton/Sidney Sheldon.

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100+ Korean Phrases You’ll Need for Smooth Travel

One often-overlooked aspect of preparing for travel is learning a bit of the local language. 

While English will get you quite far in South Korea (especially in the bigger cities), nothing can replace learning a little Korean to get around. It can make things easier for you, and the natives will appreciate the effort!

Here’s a list of essential phrases to get you started.

Basic Greetings

Common courtesy, communicating in korean, important places, navigating around, transportation, accommodations, tourist attractions, emergency situations, travel essentials, miscellaneous, and one more thing....

Download: This blog post is available as a convenient and portable PDF that you can take anywhere. Click here to get a copy. (Download)

The bare fundamentals, a simple “Hello” or “Goodbye,” can be much appreciated by any native speaker.

안녕하세요 — Hello

This can be said at any point in the day, and you can reply to this in exactly the same manner.

반갑습니다 —  Nice to meet you

If you meet someone, especially someone of importance, you can illustrate your respect with this short phrase.

어떻게 지내세요? —  How are you?

잘 지내요 — I am good

A positive response to the above question of “How are you?” 

이름이 뭐예요?   — What is your name?

This is a polite way to ask, but if you want to be more casual, you can say 이름이 뭐야? instead.

제 이름은 _____  — My name is _____

안녕 / 안녕히 계세요   / 안녕히 가세요   — Goodbye

“Goodbye” comes in different flavors in Korean.  안녕  is informal and should be used for friends and closer acquaintances.  안녕히 계세요 (lit. “Please stay well”) is specifically for when you are leaving the premises, but the other person is staying. Conversely,  안녕히 가세요 (Please leave well) is when you are staying, but the other person is leaving.

좋은 아침   — Good morning

If it’s your first time seeing someone in the morning (up until 11 AM), you can greet them with this since it’s pretty common. 

좋은 저녁 —  Good afternoon

좋은 저녁 —   Good evening

These two phrases aren’t used as much as a general 안녕하세요  (Hello), but you’re more likely to come across them in formal situations, such as a work event. 

South Korea holds courtesy in high regard, so you’ll definitely want to learn some ways to express gratitude and respect. Doing so, especially when you’re a foreigner, will help you leave a good impression on those you interact with.

감사합니다 —  Thank you

This is a formal, all-around safe way to offer your gratitude . Alternatively, you may say 고맙습니다 .

천만에요 — You’re welcome (formal)

It’s not often that Koreans actually respond to a “Thank you” with a “You’re welcome,” but if you wish to be extra polite, then you can throw in this phrase. Normally, you can respond to thanks with a simple, humble 아닙니다 , which means “It’s nothing.”

실례합니다 (polite) / 잠시만요  — Excuse me

실례합니다  is a very polite phrase used to get someone’s attention, such as for when you approach a stranger for help.  잠시만요  more or less means “Wait a moment” but can be used for situations such as when you need to push past or be a minor physical hindrance to people.

여기요 — Over here

Use this phrase with a raised hand or some kind of physical gesture to get someone to come over to you. This can also be used to flag down a waiter in a restaurant.

죄송합니다 / 미안합니다  — I’m sorry

Used for any situation where you need to excuse your behavior. Both ways of saying sorry are formal and have an almost equal amount of weight (are interchangeable).

[object] + _____ 주세요 — Please give _____  

Use this if you’re politely requesting an object from another person. This can be said alone, or follow after you specify what you want.

To learn more about how to be polite in Korean—and listen to how some of the super common situations in this post sound in real life—you can use a learning program like FluentU . 

Getting confused is an unavoidable experience when traveling to another country that speaks a different language! By knowing some key vocabulary, though, you can make communication easier. 

잘 모르겠네요 — I don’t understand

한국말 잘 못해요 — I don’t speak Korean well

It’s highly likely that you won’t understand every word of Korean you hear, and it’s best to let whoever’s talking to you know that! Many will be kind enough to try and simplify their message for your comprehension.

영어 할 수 있어요? — Do you speak English?

Most Korean natives know some English to be able to help you out in a tough spot, so don’t be afraid to ask!

천천히 말씀해 주세요 — Please speak slowly

다시 한 번 말해주시겠어요? — Can you please say that again?

Korean is a rather quickly-spoken language, especially when the speaker is quite emotional ( Korean dramas , anyone?), so keep these two phrases in mind just in case. 

종이에 적어 주세요 — Please write it down

This is essential when you’re asking about the name of a place or getting someone’s phone number.  

Wherever you’re going in Korea, some of the most helpful vocabulary to know would be place names: 

• 지하철역 — Subway station
• 기차역 — Train station
• 버스 정류장 — Bus station
• 공항 — Airport
• 호스텔 — Hostel
• 식당 — Restaurant
• 관광 안내소 — Tourist information center
• 박물관 — Museum
• 시장 — Market
• 약국 — Pharmacy
• 편의점 — Convenience store
• 쇼핑 센터 —  Shopping center

Even if you go off-track at some point or lose your way, don’t worry — getting lost can make for a great adventure in your travels and be a perfect opportunity for you to practice your Korean with locals.

왼쪽 / 오른쪽 / 직진 — left / right / straight

북쪽 / 남쪽 / 동쪽 / 서쪽 — north / south / east / west

These direction words are self-explanatory, and if you’re asking for directions, you’ll most definitely be hearing these words. Make sure to be familiar with them so you can at least pick up general directions.

근처에 _____ 이(가) 있나요? —  Is there a _____ nearby? 

This will tell any native that you’ll need some navigation help. Follow up with something that will indicate where you’d like to go.

_____이(가) 어디인지 아세요? — Do you know where _____ is?

어떻게 _____ 에 가나요? —  How do I get to…?

Ask any of these two phrases for specific directions.  

_____이(가) 얼마나 먼가요? —  How far is _____? 

_____ 까지 얼마나 걸려요? —  How long does it take to get to _____ ?

It might feel quite different from English, but you’d put the name of the place at the start. You can use the table in the previous section as a reference!

_____ (으)로 가 주세요 —  Please take me to _____

If you need a guiding hand, then this will be the phrase to use. You can quickly find people willing to direct you to where you need to go. This phrase can also be used to inform a taxi driver of your destination. (When the place name ends with a consonant, use “으로,” otherwise use “로.”)

화장실이 어디예요? —  Where is the bathroom?

Because in the world of travel, being able to find a bathroom is essential. Note that 어디예요 ,   by itself, means “where is it.”

South Korea has a convenient transportation system that also makes it easy to travel from city to city. Here are the main forms of transportation: 

• 지하철 —  subway
• KTX — high-speed train

These phrases will help you get around: 

버스 정류장이 어디에 있나요? — Where is the bus station? 기차역이 어디에 있나요? — Where is the train station? 지하철역이 어디에 있나요? — Where is the subway station? 

Bus stations are pretty much everywhere, while subway stations are only in major cities like Seoul, Busan and Daegu. Train stations are inter-city and meant for long-distance trips so they’re a bit more spread out.  

표를 예매하고 싶어요 —  I want to book a ticket

Aside from a simple ticket, you can also get a transportation card ( 교통 카드 ), which covers both train and bus trips. 

표는 어디서 살 수 있나요? —  Where can I buy tickets?

Bus or train stations usually have ticket machines, but tickets are available online too, which might be more convenient.  

버스가 몇 시에 도착하나요 ? —  What time does the bus arrive?

버스는 몇 시에 출발하나요? —  What time does the bus depart?

다음 버스는 몇 시에 있나요? —  What time is the next bus? 

You can replace 버스 (bus) in these sentences with 기차 (train) or 지하철 (subway). For real-time bus or train scheduling updates, locals often check apps like Kakao Map and Naver Map .

[place] + 로 가려면 어떤 버스를 타야 하나요? —  Which bus should I take to go to [place]? 

이 버스는 _____ (으)로 가나요? —  Does this bus go to _____ ? 

It’s not uncommon to get lost! The bus system in Korea can be confusing at first because it uses numbers to represent routes. 

You’d mainly say this when riding a taxi. For extra politeness, you can add 주세요 , which means “please,” at the end.  

택시 요금은 얼마예요? — How much is the taxi fare? 

Most taxis use the meter to track payment, but to avoid confusion, it’s best to ask the driver before you get in around how much it’ll cost. Remember too that you don’t have to tip taxi drivers in Korea!

Settle into your accommodations more quickly and move on to exploring with the practical phrases below: 

체크아웃 / 체크인 시간은 언제인가요? —  What time is check-out / check in? 

룸 서비스를 이용하고 싶어요 — I would like to use room service 

Depending on the hotel, 룸 서비스  usually means food from the in-hotel restaurant, amenities like towels and blanket and sometimes laundry service. 

추가 비용이 있나요? —  Is there an additional charge? 

Sometimes this isn’t obvious, such as when you’re getting drinks from the minibar. 

_____을(를) 추가로 받을 수 있을까요? —  Can I have more _____ ?

You can usually ask for items like 타올 (towels), 물 (water), 이불 (blankets), 베개 (pillows), 샴푸 (shampoo), 비누 (soap), 칫솔 (toothbrush) and 치약 (toothpaste). 

전기 변압기가 필요해요 —  I need an electrical adapter

Most hotels have extra adapters on hand since it’s a common request. 

방을 변경하고 싶어요 — I would like to change my room

택시를 부르고 싶어요 — I would like to call a taxi

와이파이 비밀번호가 무엇인가요? —  What is the wi-fi password?

Having internet access is pretty much invaluable when you’re in a foreign city, so this is worth remembering not just for hotels, but also for when you’re out and about.  

Whether you’re going to a heritage site, museum, theme park or traditional village, these phrases will let you make the most out of your visit. 

이곳은 언제까지 열려 있나요? — Until what time is this open? 

가이드 투어가 있나요? —  Is there a guided tour available? 

Major museums, palaces and cultural heritage sites often have guided tours in English, such as Gyeongbokgung Palace ( 경복궁 ) and National Museum of Korea ( 국립중앙박물관 ). 

사진 찍어 주실 수 있나요? — Can you take a photo of us? 

Unless you have a lengthy selfie stick, you’ll likely have to make this request to strangers. If you’re not sure whether you can take photos, you can ask the staff 사진을 찍어도 되나요? to confirm. 

입장료는 얼마예요? — How much is the admission fee? 

This works for pretty much any tourist attraction and even performances and concerts. 

티켓을 구매하고 싶어요 —  I would like to purchase a ticket 

_____ 장 주세요 —   _____ ticket/s, please 

When buying tickets, just place the number before 장 주세요 . For example, for one ticket, you’d say 한 장 주세요 , while for two or three tickets, it’d be 두 장 주세요 or 세 장 주세요  respectively. 

할인 티켓이 있나요? —  Do you have any discounted tickets?

어린이 요금이 어떻게 되나요? —  What is the children’s fare?

경로 요금이 어떻게 되나요? —  What is the senior’s fare?

If you’re buying tickets as a group or you’re with children or seniors (60 years old and above), you might get a discount. 

안내 지도를 얻을 수 있을까요? —  Can I get a map?

명소를 추천해 주실 수 있나요? —  Can you recommend some attractions?

근처에 추천해 줄 식당이 있나요? —  Can you recommend any restaurants nearby?

Asking locals for recommendations can point you to cool spots that you won’t find easily online, and they might give you practical tips too.  

South Korea is a food-lover’s paradise . On every street, you’ll find indoor and outdoor food venues, selling everything from traditional Korean meals to trendy snack foods. These phrases will help you when you’re up for some indulgent dining .

_____ 주세요 — Please give me _____  

To order your meal, simply state it and tack on  주세요  afterwards. Short and simple!

메뉴 주세요 — Menu, please

More often than not, Korean restaurants won’t have the menu out on the tables. To get one, simply raise your hand and state this phrase.

계산서 주세요 — Bill, please

Waiters in Korean restaurants often will not personally ask if you’ve finished your meal, so once your stomach is satisfied and you’re ready to head out, ask for the bill!

싸 주세요 — Please wrap / It’s to-go

If you want wrapped leftovers, you definitely have to let your servers know as they probably will assume otherwise. Note that you’ll likely only get your meal, not any side dishes, packed up.

제가 알레르기가 있어요 — I have an allergy

If you have an allergy, then you must say so, preferably in Korean so that they know exactly what to exclude.

어떤 음식을 추천하시나요? —  What food do you recommend?

Asking for the staff’s recommendations is one of the surest ways to try what’s good in a restaurant. 

영어 메뉴가 있나요? —  Is there an English menu?

Restaurants that get plenty of travelers are likely to have English menus. 

좀 덜 맵게 해 주세요 —  Please make this dish less spicy

Korean food can be quite spicy, so you can make this request if you prefer milder flavors. To minimize the spiciness, you can even say 안 맵게 해 주세요 — Please make this dish not spicy. 

예약했어요 —  I made a reservation for a meal

따로 계산해 주세요 — Please separate the bill. 

This is for when you want to split the bill and get separate receipts for less hassle. 

물 한 잔 주세요 —  Please give me a glass of water

A lot of Korean restaurants have water stations or dispensers so you can get water whenever you want. In case there’s none, though,  you can ask the staff directly since it’s usually free.

얼마나 기다려야 하나요? —  How long do I have to wait ? 

Thankfully, once you’re at the table, 반찬  or side dishes tend to be served pretty quickly, so you can munch on something while waiting for your order. 

젓가락 하나 더 주세요 —  Please give me an extra pair of chopsticks

숟가락 하나 주세요 — Please give me a spoon

Chopsticks and spoons are the main utensils in restaurants in Korea. Note that 포크 or forks are less common in traditional restaurants!

Since eating out is likely going to be a major part of your itinerary, here are some more survival Korean expressions for ordering food:

With its plethora of food establishments, South Korea also has a huge variety of shopping outlets. You definitely won’t get bored by what’s available for purchase, so you’ll want to know what exactly to say when something catches your eye and makes you reach for your wallet.

_____ 있어요?  — Do you have _____?

얼마예요? — How much is it?

It’s highly recommended to know how numbers work in Korean , as there are two distinct systems that are used in different contexts. However, if you’re not overly familiar with them, it’s probable that the cashier will be able to tell you the price in English.

카드 받으세요? — Do you take credit cards? 

South Korea has a high credit card usage rate, so you shouldn’t have a problem if you’re strapped for cash and only have your card on hand.

환불해 주세요 — Please give me a refund

Be prepared with a good reason for your request! Even if you’re a foreigner, you’ll still need to explain yourself (and explain well!) to the store employee.

교환해 주세요 — Please give me an exchange

If your shopping purchase is damaged or needs to be switched to fit your needs, then use this phrase to notify the employee. You shouldn’t have a hard time with this request, especially if you have a valid reason.

할인해 주실 수 있나요? — Is there a discount?

You never know when there might be a sale or promo!

이거 더 작은 사이즈로 있나요? —  Do you have this in a smaller size?

이거 더 큰 사이즈로 있나요? — Do you have this in a bigger size? 

Korea’s size system for clothes can seem very familiar at first because it also uses letters like S, M and L. Sizes can be different from those in other countries, though, so you’ll definitely want to try on the clothes first before buying them! Some stores have free alteration services too. 

피팅룸은 어디에 있나요? —  Where are the fitting rooms? 

이거 살게요 —  I’ll buy this 

When you’re done at the fitting room and you’re satisfied with the clothes, then you can let the store employee know. 

In the event that an urgent situation pops up and you’re in need of direct, quick help, you’ll need some quick phrases to get proper attention.

도와주세요! — Help!

A straightforward call for assistance. This literally means “Give me help,” to which a proper response might be 도와줄게요 , which means “I will give you help.”

긴급 상황이에요 — It’s an emergency

Whatever the nature of your problem, this phrase will get you rapid assistance. Consider who exactly you need to help you, whether it’s the police or the paramedics, for example.

경찰 / 경찰을 부르세요 — Police / Call the police

It’s helpful to know that in South Korea, the phone number to contact the police is 112. But in case you don’t have a phone or are in quick need of legal service, saying the above phrase to a native will most likely get the help you need.

병원 — Hospital

If you say this phrase alone to a native, that could be enough of an alert for them to aid you. If you need quick medical attention and know you need care at a hospital, then use this phrase.

여기가 아파요 — It hurts here

This is useful for any injury you receive that needs to be treated. Along with this phrase, point to where exactly you feel pain.

의사가 필요해요 — I need a doctor

Along with the word for hospital, this is good to know if there’s ever a possibility that you need professional care. It’s possible someone will call an ambulance for you, should the situation be dire, but you should also know that the Korean phone number for the fire brigade and ambulance services is 119.

Your passport is the most important document to have while traveling, so here’s some helpful vocabulary: 

여권 —  Passport

This can be useful to know how to say in Korean because some places — like hotels and bars — might look for your passport. A related word is 비자 (visa). 

여권 잃어버렸는데, 보셨나요? —  I lost my passport, have you seen it? 

Fingers crossed that this won’t actually happen! If you lose something else, you can replace 여권   (passport) in this sentence. Other valuables are 지갑 (wallet),  핸드폰   (mobile phone), 신용카드 (credit card) or 가방  (bag). 

[Your country] 대사관은 어디에 있나요? —  Where is the… embassy?

If you lose your passport or get visa-related issues, then you’ll have to head to your country’s embassy in Korea.

환전소는 어디에 있나요? —  Where is the currency exchange? 

Aside from banks, you can get currency exchange done at the airport, hotel and major shopping centers. Look for signs that say 환전 or 외화 교환 , which both mean currency exchange.

Here are some phrases you may hear anywhere, anytime, and aren’t necessarily attached to any one context.

화이팅! / 파이팅! — Fighting!

Slang used for encouragement, you can passionately exclaim this to boost one’s morale. It’s usually accompanied nu a firm shake of the fist.

괜찮아요 — It’s okay

The equivalent to the English “It’s fine.” You can say this in a multitude of situations, such as expressing the state of your physical health or accepting a certain circumstance.

진짜요? — Really?

Just in case you need some extra affirmation about something. This phrase is also commonly used as an exclamatory statement.

안 돼요 — It doesn’t work/It cannot (be)/No way

This phrase differs slightly in meaning depending on the context. You can use it for a variety of situations, from talking about a dysfunctional washing machine to adamantly denying a particular circumstance.

재미있어요 — It’s fun

Of course, if you’re having fun and want to say so, then by all means you should! This phrase will be relevant quite frequently while you’re out and about adventuring in Korea.

With these phrases as part of your mental luggage, you’ll be more confident and have a more satisfying trip to Korea.

Safe travels, or as you would say in Korean, 여행 잘 하세요, 조심해서 가세요 !

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Travel Tips

Mastering the basics: essential Korean phrases for your first visit

By Jisong Seo

Jisong is a South Korean contributor born and raised in Seoul. Having lived and worked in Lisbon and London, she brings a unique perspective bridging the countries' cultures, languages and latest trends. Her interests also include food, history and travel.

Published on Oct 27, 2023

Are you planning a trip to Korea? Very good choice! 

As you begin to plan your trip, one thing that can be quite intimidating is the language. But fear not! While the Korean alphabet system may look intimidating, it is surprisingly easy to learn. 

Don’t take my word for it. See for yourself. 

So, can you work out what 바나나 means? 

Yep, banana. Just like that, you’ve learned your first Korean word! 

But that was just a warm-up. Read on for your essential beginner’s guide to Korean phrases and words, that will help you to have the best experience, impress the locals and better understand Korean culture in the process. 

Feeling inspired?

South Korean Soul

Ju-se-yo (please give; 주세요) .

From the moment you arrive in Korea, this Korean phrase will be super useful. The literal translation of ‘ju-se-yo’ is ‘please give’ or more naturally, ‘please can I have’. You can add this after any item to order or ask for it. For example, in a café, you can say ‘A-A (pronounced ‘ah-ah’) ju-se-yo’, and you will receive an iced americano. 

If you’re not sure of the Korean word for the item, you can simply point and say ‘i-geo (this; 이거)’ or ‘jeo-geo (that; 저거)’ before ‘ju-se-yo’. Now you can ask for whatever you want! 

Image source: Getty Images / unsplash

Eol-ma-ye-yo? (How much is it; 얼마예요)

Once you’ve placed your order, the next step is to ask for the price and pay. One of many cultural differences you’ll encounter in Korea is that you always pay the cheque on your way out, not at your table. When you’re ready to go, head up to the till and ask ‘Eol-ma-ye-yo?’.

If they ask a follow-up question, it’s probably whether you want to pay with ‘kaa-du (card; 카드)’ or ‘hyun-gum (cash; 현금)’ or if you need a ‘yong-su-jung (receipt; 영수증)’. Be prepared, often when you’re eating with Koreans, they will really insist on paying, or even sneakily settle up while you’re not looking. 

Jal-mok-gget-sseum-ni-da (Bon appétit; 잘먹겠습니다)

Another essential Korean phrase you need to remember is ‘jal-mok-gget-sseum-ni-da’, the Korean version of ‘bon appétit’. The literal meaning is ‘(I) will eat it well (thanks to you)’. In Korean culture, food plays a vital role, and many cultural traditions have developed around the table. It is important in Korea that you express appreciation to people who have given you food, before and after each meal. Once everyone has finished, say ‘jal-mo-ggot-sseum-ni-da’, meaning ‘I have eaten well’, to thank them for the delicious meal. 

Hidden wonders: 12 interesting facts about Seoul

Mae-wo-yo (is it spicy; 매워요).

Can you handle the heat? If not, this Korean phrase could be a lifeline for you. You may have heard of the ‘spicy chicken noodle challenge (불닭볶음면 챌린지)’, which drew the attention of spice fiends around the world. In general, Koreans love spicy food and see it as a stress-reliever. If you’re a fan of Korean dramas, you may have seen dishes like ‘tteok-bok-ki’, ‘Korean fried chicken’ and ‘army stew’, which are all covered with Korean Cheongyang chillies or chilli-based sauces, like gochujang. If you don’t need any extra spice in your life, you can double-check the spice level by asking ‘mae-wo-yo?’.

Image source: Jisong Seo

Gwen-chan-a-yo (alright; 괜찮아요)

‘Gwen-chan-a-yo’ is a versatile phrase that can be handy in many situations. Meaning ‘alright’, it is used both as a question and a response depending on the intonation, similar to in English: ‘All good?’, ‘Yeah, all good’.

It’s not always affirmative though. If you were offered more ‘banchan (side dishes)’ in a restaurant, you might say ‘gwen-chan-a-yo’ to politely refuse, as in, ‘no thanks, I’m good. Banchan are complimentary in Korean restaurants by the way, so you should definitely take advantage of them! 

10 best things to do in Jeonju: your insider’s guide to the city’s top attractions and experiences

Sajin, jjik-eo-ju-se-yo (please take a photo; 사진 찍어주세요).

Koreans are serious about photos. If you ask anyone on the street to take a quick picture of you, they’ll be happy to oblige. But it might feel more like you’ve paid for a photo shoot – especially when they lie down on a floor to find the perfect angle and composition. 

Beauty standards are quite different in Korea. If your photographer says you have a small face, or large eyes, don’t be offended – it’s a compliment! 

If you want a photo with your new Korean friend as a souvenir, ask to take one together (gachi) – ‘gachi sajin jjik-eo-ju-se-yo’!

Hwa-ee-ting (Good luck; 화이팅)

If you’ve watched K-Dramas before, you might have heard this Korean phrase a lot. ‘Hwa-ee-ting’ is actually borrowed from the English word, fighting. 

It’s not a violent or aggressive phrase though, but a positive exclamation of encouragement. The natural translation is ‘good luck’ or ‘you’ve got this’, and the phrase is often used to encourage others (or yourself) in a competitive or difficult situation. 

For example, you can shout ‘hwa-ee-ting’ to support your favourite baseball team or even say it to your friend who is completely exhausted from walking around Seoul! Even to yourself, whenever feeling low, try clenching your first and saying ‘Hwa-ee-ting’ out loud. You might get a sudden burst of energy.

Image source: Valery Rabchenyuk / unsplash

 Mi-an-ham-ni-da (I am sorry; 미안합니다)

It is always useful to learn how to say ‘I am sorry’ to avoid any misunderstanding in a foreign country. Although many people will understand ‘sorry’ in English, making an effort in Korean will seem much more sincere. In addition, Korean people will bow when saying hello (anyoung-ha-se-yo), thank you (gamsa-ham-ni-da) or sorry (mi-an-ham-ni-da) to show respect, especially to older people or strangers. If you ever find yourself needing to apologize, a small bow and ‘mi-an-ham-ni-da’ will do the trick. 

Yo-gi-yo (Here please; 여기요)

Have you ever struggled to get your server’s attention to order or get the cheque? The good news is that you don’t need to wait awkwardly in Korea, as it is not seen as rude or disrespectful to call restaurant staff over to your table. ‘Yo-gi-yo’ means ‘here please’, which effectively implies ‘here I am ready’. These days, many restaurants have a button on your table to call staff over instantly, but if not, don’t feel scared to shout out! 

20 best things to do in South Korea on your first trip

Chae-go (the best; 최고).

Let’s finish on a positive, and very useful Korean word – ‘Chae-go’! When you’ve really enjoyed the food or experience, this is how to tell your friends you’re having the BEST time. 

If you say ‘chae-go’ with a thumbs up, you’re sure to impress the locals, and they might even throw some freebies your way. You can use this one generously on your travels. I wish you a ‘chae-go’ time in Korea!

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10 Important Korean Phrases You Must Absolutely Learn Before Visiting Korea

K-Pop fans dream of visiting Korea at least once in their lifetime. It can be difficult, however, to get around without knowing some basic Korean. Here is a list of 10 Korean phrases you should know before you visit Korea!

1. “Hello (안녕하세요)”

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First things first, the most basic phrase we can start off with is “Hello (안녕하세요)” , pronounced “ahn young ha say yo” . Knowing how to say hello can be useful, especially when trying to get someone’s attention in a store or a restaurant. Of course, it’s always nice to say hello to people in general. Locals will appreciate the effort for trying to greet them in Korean as well.

2. “Nice to meet you (반갑습니다)”

This phrase often follows right after “Hello” if you are meeting the person for the first time. “Nice to meet you (반갑습니다)” is pronounced “bah-n gawp soom knee dah”.  Together, “Hello, nice to meet you” would make a fine introduction if you meet someone new while at the accommodation or at an event.

3. “I’m sorry (죄송합니다)”

Messing up because you’re not used to the way things work in Korea? Running into people on a jammed subway during Seoul’s traffic hours? When stuck in an unfavorable situation, remember the phrase, “I’m sorry (죄송합니다)” pronounced “jo-eh song haw-m knee dah”.  A quick apology may just get you the help you need.

4. “Please give me — (주세요)”

To ask for something in the store, or to order an item off the menu, try this simplified version of requesting something. The magic phrase is “Please (주세요)” pronounced “joo say yo”.  Simply by adding this phrase to the end of the item, like “Set A joo say yo” or “Ticket joo say yo” , you’d sound more polite and the locals will appreciate it!

5. “One second (잠시만요)”

This phrase, “One second (잠시만요)” , can be used in countless situations. It can be used to put someone on hold on the phone. It can be used to ask someone to wait up. It can be used to earn yourself some time to check something. It can even be used in replacement of “Excuse me” when passing through a crowded area! This useful phrase is pronounced “jaw-m she mon yo” .

6. “Thank you (감사합니다)”

“Thank you (감사합니다)” , pronounced “gah-m sa haw-m knee dah” , is an essential phrase to travel around Korea. Whenever a service is provided, try showing appreciation with this phrase. The locals will love it!

7. “Where is —? (어디예요)”

With this phrase, you’ll be able to get help even if you get lost on Korean streets! If you’re looking for a specific place and you don’t know how to get there, don’t be afraid to ask, “Where is — ?(— 어디예요?)”  pronounced “uh dee yay yo” .  Simply name the place you are looking for, followed by the phrase. For example, if you’re looking for Namsan Tower, you would say “Namsan Tower uh dee yay yo?”

8. “How much is —? (얼마예요)”

“How much is —? (얼마예요?)” , pronounced “uh-l ma yay yo” , works exactly like the previous phrase. If you are looking to buy something, but there is no tag showing how much it costs, simply name the item and say this phrase right after to check the price. To ask how much a plate of spicy rice cakes costs, you would say “Tteokbokki uh-l ma yay yo?”

9. “This (이거)”

When you don’t know how to read something on the menu, but you like the picture that you see, you can still point out what you want with “This (이거)” , pronounced “ego” . This would go best with “Please (주세요)”, especially at a restaurant! So  “ego joo say yo”  would mean “This, please.” This word can be combined with previous phrases too! For example,  “How much is this?” would be “ego uh-l ma yay yo?”

10. “My Korean isn’t good (한국말 잘 못해요)”

Finally, if you ever feel like you will struggle to remember all these phrases, but someone approaches you to talk, you can simply say, “My Korean isn’t good (한국말 잘 못해요)” , pronounced “han-guk-mal jal mot-hey-yo” . Koreans will understand and either try to explain in English or get someone else who can help you!

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Top 10 Korean Phrases to Know when Traveling to Korea

• January 22, 2024

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Top 10 korean phrases to know, hello – ahn yeong haseyo, thank you – kam sa ham nida, how much is it – ol ma yeh yo, sorry – chway seong ham nida , yes/no – neh/ ahn ni ye yo, please give me ___ – ___ joo seh yo , do you have ___ – ___ iss seo yo.

• Where is ___? – ___ Oh Di Yeh Yo? 

I can’t speak Korean – Han Guk Mal Jal Mo Thae Yo

Excuse me – jeo gi yo, 10 key korean phrases.

Korean phrases are very easy to learn. The Korean language is surprisingly easy to learn, but for those looking for a quick guide to Korean phrases to know , SEOULSPACE has just the infographic for you. These ten phrases are pretty much all you need to know if you are traveling to Korea for a short period of time . It will only take about 1-2 hours to fully memorize these Korean phrases . Getting around Korea for tourists can be difficult without knowing the basic Korean phrases. So take some time to memorize these phrases and practice speaking them as quickly as possible. The faster you speak it, the more natural you will sound.

The list is based on the phrases you will use the most. If you are traveling to Korea, these are the Korean phrases to know that will help you in everyday situations. So start with #1 and work your way down. Koreans will give you extra service if you are a foreigner once they find out you have taken some time to learn the Korean language.

For a more detailed list, you can check out this article here . 

Used when meeting, greeting, arriving, seeing someone, entering a store, etc. You will be staying this constantly as you meet people.

Used the same way as the English would for the phrase “thank you.” Like Ahn Yeong Haseyo, try to say this as often as possible to show respect. 

Make sure you point to something and ask, “How much is it?”. Then the store owner will either respond in Korean or English or show you the price using a calculator. 

This can be used when accidentally bumping into someone or making a mistake. 

This will be the same context as in English. 

Remember to replace the ___ with what you want to ask for at a store, street food stand, or restaurant. For example, “Please give me water ” would be Mul Joo Seh Yo.

Remember to replace ___ with what you want to ask is available. For example, “Do you have kimchi ?” is Kimchi Iss Seo Yeo?

Where is ___? – ___ Oh Di Yeh Yo?  

Remember to replace the ___ with the place you are looking for. For example, “Where is the bathroom ?” is Hwa-jang-shil Oh Di Yeh Yo? 

If someone starts talking to you in Korean, saying this will let them know you’re not good at speaking Korean. 

This Korean phrase is used when you want to get someone’s attention or when you want to call a waiter at a restaurant.

These ten key Korean phrases will allow you to get through a week in Korea without issues. You will be fine if you know the bare minimum for simple conversations with people. These are the top 10 basic Korean phrases to ensure your time in Korea is as easy as possible!

There are many ways to say Korean phrases, such as “excuse me” and “thank you.” Also, there are specific phrases that you’ll use for certain situations. It’s important to know when to use these basic Korean phrases, especially in South Korea. These different situations make learning the Korean language fun and interesting. 

You can use Google Translate or Naver translate to hear the word in Hangul to hear the correct pronunciation. To learn more about the phrases in detail, click on the English equivalent of the phrase. 

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Korean Phrases: How To Say I WANT in Korean. Part 10

Welcome to Part 10! (Part 9 here )

What do you want to do in Korean? Eat? Sleep? Watch TV? Here you will learn how to say: I WANT in Korean. More specifically, you will…

• Learn how to say “I want” in Korean
• Learn some want phrases in Korean with English translations
• Be able to say what you want (leave a comment)

And if you REALLY want to learn Korean with effective audio & video lessons by real teachers – Sign up at KoreanClass101 (click here) and start learning!

Saying what you want to do in Korean is pretty easy. You need to add 고 싶어요 (go shippeoyo ) –   고 (go) 싶어요 (shippeoyo) – to any verb stem. In Korean, – 고 (go) is a connector and the auxiliary adjective, 싶어요, is used to express the a person’s wants.

Note: Koreans don’t really say “I want (NOUN) .” They mostly “I want (VERB)+(NOUN).” So, “I want to eat cake” (good ✓ ).  NOT “I want cake.” (bad x )

Got it? So for example, you want to say:

I want to learn Korean in Korean. How would you say that in Korean?

• The verb “to learn” is – 배우다 – baeuda, right?
• So, you drop the “다 – da” and get the verb stem –  배우 – baeu.
• Then, add the “고 (go)” and add the word for “want” –  싶어요 (shippeoyo).
• And you have: baeugo shippeoyo – I want to learn.

And the full sentence is… see below with list of 10 “want” phrases that you can use right now.

101. I want to learn Korean.

• I want to learn Korean.
• 한국어를 배우고 싶어요.
• Han-guk-eo-reul bae-u-go shi-ppeo-yo

102. I want to read a book

• I want to read a book
• chaeg-eul ilg-go shi-ppeo-yo

103. I want to live in Korea.

• I want to live in Korea

저는 한국에서 살고 싶어요

• jeo-neun hanguk-eseo salgo shippeoyo

104. I want to sleep.

• I want to sleep
• naneun jago shippeoyo

105. I want to meet at Starbucks

• I want to meet at Starbucks
• 스타벅스에 만나고 싶어요
• seutabeogseue mannago shippeoyo

106. I want to eat a hamburger.

• I want to eat a hamburger
• haembeogeo meokgo shippeoyo

107. I want to make a lot of friends.

• 친구들 많이 사귀고 싶어요
• chingudeul manh-i sagwigo shippeoyo
• I want to make a lot of friends

108. I want to eat.

• I want to eat
• meokgo shippeoyo

109. I want to see you (I miss you).

• neoleul bogo shippeoyo

110. I want to become a great person.

• 훌륭한 사람 되고 싶어요.
• hullyung-han saram doego sipeoyo.
• I want to become a great person.

So, what do you think?

By now you should be able to say I want in Korean and express your desires. All you need now are the nouns and verb stems to add the go shippeoyo/sipeoyo to.

Remember this rule:

Verb Stem + 고 싶어요 (go shippeoyo) = Want to Verb

There are only 10 I want in Korean phrases here . Do you know any more? Now that you know the grammar rule, write down what you want in Korean in the comments!

I read them all and will add it to my list.

Hope you enjoyed this!

– The Main Junkie

Joint to discussion

one thing as well but why do some sentences have naneun in front of it and some dont?

What if you want to say “I want to be happy”? How do you use to be with want?

Hello thank you for this post. Your explanation is very clear and easy to apply! I have just a question about the following sentence.

Why in this case do we use both prepositions 에서? If I had to think this sentence on my own, I would have only used 에.

Thank you in advance 🙂

선생님, 감사합니다!

“저는 한국어 빨리 배우고 싶어요! 한국에 빨리 가고 싶어요!”

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8 Korean Travel Phrases You Need to Know for an Effortless Travel in Korea!

• September 2, 2019
• By Mikayla Kaur
• Blog , Language Learning , Travel & Living

Got a trip coming up to Korea? Anxious that the locals wouldn’t understand you? Don’t panic! We are here to teach you 8 basic Korean travel phrases that will not only help you navigate around the bustling streets of Korea and interact at social settings but it will also help you disguise as a local among the real Koreans!

Here’s a little tip before we dive right into these simple Korean phrases. You might just want to write down these words in your “Notes” application on your phone or if you love the old school way of writing on a piece of paper, just scribble these words in your little notebook. Now you won’t ever forget these 8 basic easy-peasy words!

1.      안녕하세요 (An-nyeong-ha-se-yo) – Hello.   

Every conversation begins with a hello! Although the word sounds pretty basic, this phrase is mandatory for me to include. This word is beyond any doubt the most regular word you would hear people in Korea say.

If you want to sound like the Koreans, the trick is to say the word quickly. By the way, it is totally normal for the Koreans to bow when they say 안녕하세요 “ Annyeong haseyo.” You can try it too while you are there!

2.     감사합니다 (Kam-sa-ham-ni-da) – Thank you.

감사합니다 “Kamsahamnida” is another basic word but it is probably going to be your most used expression while you travel in Korea. You can also slightly nod while saying it as it conveys respect to the person you are talking too.

You can say it when someone directs your way, hands your food at a restaurant or even when you don’t quite understand what the adorable smiley face grandma who's sitting next to you in the subway is saying. Just smile and say 감사합니다 “Kamsahamnida”.

3.     어디예요 (Eo-di-ye-yo…?) – Where is the…?

Unless you are like Patrick Star from SpongeBob SquarePants who enjoys living under the rock and doing nothing, chances are you will be using this term as you move about the city.

You can use it to find the nearest bathroom, subway, restaurant, your favorite clothing store at the mall or to hunt down the best Kimchi spot! As an example, you can say is 호텔 어디예요 “Hotel Eodiyeyo”?

4.      얼마예요 (Eol-ma-ye-yo?) – How much is it?

If you are a shopaholic, 얼마예요 “Eol-ma-ye-yo” is all you need to know before you splurge all your money on the Korean goodies! Let’s say it again! 얼마예요 “Eolmayeyo”

There is no need to worry about all the numbers and price as most of local vendors already have their calculators ready in their hands to help you with the digits!

5. 깎아주세요 (Kka-kka-ju-se-yo) – Give me a discount.

First of all, don’t use this at your local grocery store or at a mall. However, if you are at the traditional local market, you can definitely try bargaining. 

If you can learn to pronounce the word like a real Korean, you will not only be able to disguise as a local but you can also save your bank account.

6.     있어요 – (iss-seo-yo?) – Do you have?

This verb is probably one of the most solid and useful in the Korean language. If you want to use it as a statement simply say (there is a ___) or if you want to use it as a question (is there a ___?) i.e: 빙수 있어요 “ Bingsu issseoyo?” (Do you have shaved ice?).

A predictable situation would be, you in a grocery store looking for a Coke but you can’t find it. In this case, you just say 콜라 있어요 “Coke issseoyo?”

7.     주세요 (ju-seh-yo.) – Please give.

Use 주세요 “jusehyo” as a sign of politeness when you are requesting someone to pass you an object. You can say “juhsehyo” just by its own or you can say it after you have addressed what you want.

A typical situation would be you wanting to ask for the menu at a Korean restaurant because often times, you might find that the menu is not placed on the table. To ask for the menu, simply raise your hands and say 메뉴 주세요 “ mehnyu  jusehyo”.

8. 사랑해 (Sa-rang-hae.) – I love you.

If you watch a lot of Korean dramas, you probably have already figured that 사랑해 “Saranghae” is the most frequent expression used by the actors.  사랑해 “Saranghae” is an informal way people express their love to their loved ones.

If someone happens to tell you they love you in Korean, you can reply with 나도 사랑해 “Na-do sa-rang-hae” which simply means “I love you too.” If you want to know if someone loves you, you simply ask the question by raising the intonation of your voice. 사랑해?  (Sa-rang-hae?)

Lastly,  if you meet someone you happen to love so much in Korea, don't hesitate to tell them 사랑해 “Saranghae”.

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Home » Articles » 30 Korean Phrases for Beginners and Travelers

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written by Caitlin Sacasas

Language: Korean

Reading time: 12 minutes

Published: Sep 18, 2020

Updated: Sep 17, 2021

30 Korean Phrases for Beginners and Travelers

Preparing for a trip to South Korea? The best way to get ready is to learn a few common Korean phrases before you go!

Why should you learn some basic Korean greetings and words? Because it will help you get the most from your travels! It’s amazing what doors open when you learn a few essential travel phrases .

A lot of Koreans aren’t very comfortable with English, and they know that it’s difficult to speak their language. But that means they’ll be more patient and understanding and appreciate your efforts. So you don’t have to be nervous about trying!

Besides that, you’ll have more opportunities to connect with Korean people. You can make new friends and experience South Korea more like a local and less like a tourist.

So here’s what we’re going to cover below:

• Essential Korean greetings and phrases
• Common Korean phrases for getting around
• Informal Korean phrases and slang

I’m confident you can learn these phrases with ease and make the most of your adventures in Korea!

I’ll first list the phrases as a “quick guide”, then I’ll go in-depth on when to use the phrases.

A quick note here: I’ve included the Hangul, the Korean writing system, so you can get used to seeing the language. If you’re only learning Korean for a quick trip, don’t worry about this too much. Focus on speaking. But if you’re learning Korean because you want to become fluent, then you need to learn how to read Hangul! Check out this article for how to read and write Korean Hangul .

Now, let’s learn Korean. 공부하자! ( gongbuhaja , “Let’s study!”)

Korean Phrases – Quick Guide

• “Hi” – 안녕하세요 ( annyeong haseyo )
• “Nice to Meet You” – 반갑습니다 ( bangapseubnida )
• “My Name is…” – 제 이름은… ( je ileum-eun )
• “Yes” – 예 ( ye )
• “No” – 아니 ( ani ).
• “Bye” – 안녕 ( annyeong )
• “Good Morning” – 좋은아침이에요 ( joeun achimieyo )
• “Goodnight” – 안녕히 주무세요 ( annyeonghi jumuseyo )
• “Please” – 주세요 ( juseyo )
• “Thank You” – 감사합니다 ( gamsahabnida )
• “Excuse Me” – 실례합니다 ( sillyehabnida )
• “I’m Sorry” – 미안해요 ( mianhaeyo ) / 죄송해요 ( joesonghaeyo )
• “Okay” – 괜찮아요 ( gwaenchanayo )
• “Left” – 왼쪽 ( oenjjok )
• “Right” – 오른쪽 ( oleunjjok )
• Straight – 직진 ( jigjin )
• “Please go to…” – …(으)로가주세요 ( (eu)lo gajuseyo )
• “Where is…” – …이어디예요 ( i eodiyeyo )
• “I don’t know” – 몰라요 ( mollayo )

“I want to speak in Korean” – 한국어를하고 싶습니다 ( Hangukeo-leul hago sipseubnida )

• “Please speak slowly” – 천천히 말씀해 주세요 ( cheoncheonhi malsseumhae juseyo )
• “The menu, please” – 메뉴주세요 ( menyu juseyo )
• “Bill, please” – 계산서주세요 ( gyesanseo juseyo )
• “I have an allergy to…” – …알레르기가 있습니다. ( alleleugiga issseubnida )
• “How much is it?” – 얼마에요? ( eolmayeyo )
• Do you have…” – …있어요? ( isseoyo )
• “What’s Up?” – 요즘 어때? ( yojeum eottae )

“Awesome” – 대박 ( daebak )

“one with the force” – 포스 있다 ( poseu itda ), essential korean greetings and phrases.

Now for more details on the above phrases. Let’s begin with the essentials. If you learn nothing else from this list, this section here will be most helpful to you during your travels. That’s because these phrases will help you be polite, respectful, and kind. So these are #1 priority!

“Hi” in Korean – 안녕하세요 ( annyeong haseyo )

In Korean, the phrase 안녕하세요 ( annyeong haseyo ) is a polite way to greet anyone.

But — funny story. I learned “hi” in Korean from watching Arrested Development . But on the show, they just say 안녕 ( annyeong ).

That’s become 안녕 is the informal version, and is more casual. There are actually many ways to say “hi” based on formality, and there are more tiered levels of respect than we have in English. (I explain this more in this article about how to say “hello” in Korean if you want to know more.)

But if you’re ever unsure which to use, 안녕하세요 ( annyeong haseyo ) is the way to go.

“How are you?” In Korean – 어떻게 지내세요? ( eotteohge jinaeseyo )

You can also use 안녕하세요? ( annyeong haseyo? ) to ask “How are you” in Korean, to which you would get a yes or no reply. That’s because 안녕하세요 ( annyeong haseyo ) literally means “are you at peace?”

But 어떻게 지내세요? ( eotteohge jinaeseyo ) is a bit deeper. It’s asking if your friend is really okay, how they’re really doing.

“Nice to Meet You” in Korean – 반갑습니다 ( bangapseubnida )

When you meet someone for the first time, it’s polite to use the phrase 반갑습니다 ( bangapseubnida ) to say “nice to meet you.” Note here that the romanized version says bangapseu b nida . But in reality, the “b” is pronounced more like an “m.” Bahn-gahp-suem-knee-dah.

This is the most common way to hear it. But there is a more polite version: 만나서 반갑습니다 ( mannaseo bangapseubnida ) This longer version only makes it more formal.

There’s another similar phrase that you’ll often hear when you meet someone for the first time. This phrase is 잘부탁드립니다 ( jalbutag deurimnida ). It doesn’t translate well into English, but it means something like “please look after me” or “thank you, please take care of it.” It’s used in many ways, but these are the two main uses.

The first usage is meeting someone for the first time and asking them to “please look after you”, as in, please keep in contact and have a good relationship.

The second usage is when you ask a favor of someone, and you ask them to handle it with care. It’s like “Thanks, I’ll leave it to you.”

Either way, if you say 반갑습니다 ( bangapseubnida ) to someone, they’ll likely respond with 저야말로 잘 부탁드립니다 ( jeoyamallo jalbutag deurimnida , lLikewise, nice to meet you.”)

“My Name is…” in Korean – 제 이름은… ( je ileum-eun )

이름 ( ileum ) is the Korean word for “name.” 제 ( je ) is “my” and 은 ( eun ) is the particle marker. So, you’ll add your name, plus the verb 이다 ( ida , “to be”).

So, if I want to introduce myself, I would say: 제 이름은 케이틀린입니다. ( je ileum-eun keiteullin-ibnida ) “My name is Caitlin.”

To make it more casual, you’d change the formal ending of 이다 ( ida ) from 입니다 ( ibnida ) to 이에요 ( ieyo ). That makes it less formal.

To simplify it even more, you could just say “I’m (name)”.

나는케이틀린이에요. ( na neun keiteullin-ieyo ) “I’m Caitlin.”

Yes and No in Korean

Yes and no are super easy to remember in Korean. Yes is 예 ( ye ) and no is 아니 ( ani ).

예 ( ye ) sounds a lot like “yes”. And 아니 ( ani ) reminds me of “anti-”, meaning something is negative or against something.

“Bye” in Korean – 안녕 ( annyeong )

That’s right, “goodbye” in Korean is the same as “hello”! But only in its casual form. Think of this as “bye” or “see ya” versus “goodbye”.

For a polite “goodbye”, there are two forms: 안녕히 계세요 ( annyeonghi gyeseyo ) and 안녕히 가세요 ( annyeonghi gaseyo ).

To be honest, these phrases sound nearly identical to the untrained ear.

But the change from gyeseyo to gaseyo changes the meaning. You use 안녕히 계세요 ( annyeonghi gyeseyo ) when you’re the one leaving . But if you’re staying, and the other person is leaving, you reply with 안녕히 가세요 ( annyeonghi gaseyo ).

“Good Morning” in Korean – 좋은아침이에요 ( joeun achimieyo )

In Korea it’s actually most common to use 안녕 ( annyeong ) for “good morning. (See how handy this one phrase is?) But sometimes you’ll hear 좋은아침이에요 ( joeun achimieyo ) to say “good morning”.

“Goodnight” in Korean – 안녕히 주무세요 ( annyeonghi jumuseyo )

That’s right, it’s annyeong again! This time, 안녕히 ( annyeonghi ) means “peacefully” and jumuseyo is the formal form of the verb “to sleep”, 자다 ( jada ). So it means “sleep peacefully”.

But that’s pretty formal. To say it casually, the phrase is 잘 자요 ( jal jayo ), which means “sleep well.”

“Please” in Korean – 주세요 ( juseyo )

Like many of the phrases here, “please” in Korean has a few different ways to say it, based on the level of formality. But 주세요 ( juseyo ) is the most standard one that you can use in everyday situations. Just add it to the end of your sentence.

“Thank You” in Korean – 감사합니다 ( gamsahabnida )

This is the formal way to say “thank you”. But if you’re thanking a friend, you could say it casually with 고마워요 ( gomawoyo ).

“You’re Welcome” in Korean – 천만에요 ( cheonmaneyo )

천만에요 ( cheonmaneyo ) is used to say “you’re welcome”, but it’s more like saying “don’t mention it.” Likewise, you can say 아니에요 ( anieyo ), which means “no” but it’s more like “no worries.”

“Excuse Me” in Korean – 실례합니다 ( sillyehabnida )

Need to get someone’s attention or ask them if you can squeeze by? Use 실례합니다 ( sillyehabnida ), which means “excuse me”. It’s a formal phrase, so it’s appropriate to use with strangers. (Who you’d usually be saying it to, anyway.)

“I’m Sorry” in Korean – 미안해요 ( mianhaeyo ) / 죄송해요 ( joesonghaeyo )

Both 미안해요 ( mianhaeyo ) and 죄송해요 ( joesonghaeyo ) are polite ways to say “I’m sorry” in Korean. They’re nearly identical in usage and formality, but 죄송해요 ( joesonghaeyo ) is a bit more polite.

Like the other phrases, you can make this more polite by changing haeyo to habnida , the more formal verb ending.

“Okay” in Korean – 괜찮아요 ( gwaenchanayo )

괜찮아요 ( gwaenchanayo ) means “okay” in Korean as in, “it’s okay” or “it’s not bad.” If you raise the intonation at the end of the phrase, it becomes: “Are you okay?”

But if you want to answer “okay” to something, you can use “yes” in Korean (예, ye ).

Common Korean Phrases for Getting Around

This next section, I’ll teach you a few helpful phrases for getting around in Korea. These are handy for asking directions, getting a taxi, or trying to converse with the locals. There are also a few phrases for dining and shopping, too.

Direction Words in Korean

If you’re trying to find your way around, you need to know the basic directions words. Left is 왼쪽 ( oenjjok ). Right is 오른쪽 ( oleunjjok ). And straight is 직진 ( jigjin ).

So for instance, you might hear 왼쪽으로 돌아 ( oenjjok-eulo dola ) which means “Turn left”.

“Please go to…” in Korean – _ (으)로가주세요 ( (eu)lo gajuseyo )

This one is a simple phrase to play with. 가주세요 ( gajuseyo ) is a combo of the verb 가다 ( gada , “to go”) and 주세요 ( juseyo ) which is “please”.

All you have to do is put the place you want to go to at the beginning and add the direction particle 로 ( lo ) or 으로 ( eulo ). If the word that comes before the particle ends in a consonant, use 으로 ( eulo ). But if the word ends with a vowel, you use 로 ( lo ).

“Where is…” in Korean – _ _ 이어디예요 ( i eodiyeyo )

Fill in the blank with what you’re looking for. Here’s an important one:

화장실이어디예요? ( hwajangsil-i eodiyeyo? ) “Where is the bathroom?”

“I don’t know” in Korean – 몰라요 ( mollayo )

If you don’t know the answer to something, you can say 몰라요 ( mollayo ) for “I don’t know.” This is in its standard polite form, but you could always make it more or less polite.

To contrast, “I know” is 알아요 ( arayo ).

If you’re traveling with the intent to learn the language, this one is for you. Speaking from day one is key to learning the language. But sometimes, you may come across people who really try to push you to fall back to your English instead (sometimes out of kindness, sometimes because they want English practice!).

Either way, let them know of your intent with this phrase.

“Please speak slowly” in Korean – 천천히 말씀해 주세요 ( cheoncheonhi malsseumhae juseyo )

Another key phrase that comes in handy often. If someone is speaking too fast for you to understand, ask them to slow it down with this phrase: 천천히 말씀해 주세요 ( cheoncheonhi malsseumhae juseyo )

“Please tell me one more time” is another helpful phrase in these situations. It’s 한 번 더 말씀해 주세요 ( han beon deo malsseumhae juseyo ) in Korean. Just remember for these two longer phrases: You already learned that end word, juseyo . It’s “please”! So these phrases aren’t so bad when you already know a tiny bit.

“The menu, please” in Korean – 메뉴주세요 ( menyu juseyo )

“Menu” is taken from English, so it’s 메뉴 ( menyu ). Makes it easy! And a lot of words are taken from English like that, which helps to understand the language as a beginner.

“Bill, please” in Korean – 계산서주세요 ( gyesanseo juseyo )

To ask for the bill, the word is 계산서 ( gyesanseo ). You can really ask for anything with this format. When you order food, ask for the item and add 주세요 ( juseyo ). Same with asking for a drink, or picking an item in a shop.

“I have an allergy to…” in Korean – _ 알레르기가 있습니다. ( alleleugiga issseubnida )

If you have a food allergy, memorize this one. You’ll need to look up the word for your allergy in Korean. Then add it to the beginning of the sentence, followed by the particle 에 ( e ), which means “for” or “to”.

For example, I’m allergic to gluten and have to be gluten-free. Here’s how I’d say this:

글루텐에 알레르기가 있습니다. ( geulluten-e alleleugiga issseubnida ) “I’m allergic to gluten.”

“How much is it?” in Korean – 얼마에요? ( eolmayeyo )

If you’re out shopping and don’t understand how Korean numbers and prices work yet, ask 얼마에요? ( eolmayeyo ). You can also add on 영어로 말해 줄래? ( yeong-eolo malhae jullae ) which means “Can you tell me in English?”

“Do you have…” in Korean – _ 있어요? ( isseoyo )

If you’re looking for something in particular, you can take any noun and add it before the verb “to have”, which is 있어요 ( isseoyo ).

Informal Korean Phrases and Slang

You may not think of these as everyday Korean phrases for travelers. But these phrases below are quite common to hear. And if you throw out one of these cool phrases, your Korean friends will for sure be impressed with your efforts.

“What’s Up?” in Korean – 요즘 어때? ( yojeum eottae )

With friends, you could say 요즘 어때? (yojeum eottae?) which is a very casual way to say “What’s up.” There’s also this phrase: 밥 먹었어? (bab meogeoss-eo?). It means “Did you eat?” It’s always good to check in with a friend and see if they need food!

“Fighting!” in Korean – 화이팅! ( hwaiting! )

This phrase is used as an exclamation of encouragement to keep doing your best. It’s often used as encouragement between students before an exam, between teammates before a game, or between friends whenever someone has to tackle something tough. It basically means “good luck” or “keep going!”

“It’s the honey jam” – 꿀잼 ( kkuljaem )

This phrase literally translates as “honey jam” but it really means something is funny or interesting. It’s the honey jam. The bread and butter. The good stuff.

This phrase is used all the time for a lot of different things. It can be “amazing”, “awesome”, or “wow”. Use it as an exclamation to anything exciting or shocking.

When I learned this was a thing, it quickly became my favorite Korean slang phrase!

Yes, this phrase literally means “to have the Force” or “to be one with the Force,” and it comes from Star Wars!

It’s used to describe people who have a strong aura or sense of self.

Enjoy Your Korean Adventures!

We covered a lot of essential Korean phrases to start off your travels! Now start practicing and preparing for that first conversation in Korean. You’ll be ready for your trip in no time. 화이팅! ( hwaiting! )

Caitlin Sacasas

Content Writer, Fluent in 3 Months

Caitlin is a copywriter, content strategist, and language learner. Besides languages, her passions are fitness, books, and Star Wars. Connect with her: Twitter | LinkedIn

Speaks: English, Japanese, Korean, Spanish

Have a 15-minute conversation in your new language after 90 days

How To Say “Travel” In Korean

Last modified: Aug 21, 2023 | 7 min read | By Laura Toyryla

Today we will go over how to say “travel” in Korean . Raise your hand if you also love to travel! It wouldn’t be a surprise if many of you did, in fact, raise your hands just now; even if, in general, you may not be the biggest friend of travel, you’ve likely got some fun travel plans for South Korea cooking up. 

And since you’re already learning Korean, it’s only natural to then learn how to say travel in Korean – as well as all the vocabulary that goes along with it!

In this article, we’ll also teach you other related vocabulary, from transportation words to anything having to do with culture, for example. Once you have a hold of this vocabulary, you can have an exciting conversation with your Korean friends about your upcoming trips, be that to South Korea or elsewhere!

Read on for explanations, associations, and usage examples. Or just get the 80/20 below! If you want to learn more great Korean vocabulary with us , we’re happy to help!

• 1.1 “Travel” in Korean (Noun)
• 1.2 “Travel” in Korean (Verb)
• 2 Association for “Travel” in Korean
• 3.1 Vocabulary for types of travelers and travels in Korean
• 3.2 Vocabulary list for types of travels and travelers
• 3.3 Vocabulary for modes of transportation in Korean
• 3.4 Vocabulary list for transportation in Korean
• 3.5 Miscellaneous words related to travel
• 3.6 How to say “Have a nice trip” in Korean
• 4 A word of caution about Romanization

How to Say “Travel” in Korean

There are two ways to say “travel” in Korean, depending if you’ll use it as a noun or a verb . You’ll also find some sample sentences that can be of aid in learning how to use this vocabulary in Korean sentences.

“Travel” in Korean (Noun)

The word for how to say “travel” in Korean, as a noun, is 여행 (yeohaeng) . 

일본에 벚꽃을 보러 가려면 여행하 기 위해 필요한 표와 호텔방 일찍 예약하세요. (ilbone beotkkocheul boreo garyeomyeon yeohaenghagi wihae pillyohan pyowa hotelbang iljjik yeyakaseyo.)

If you want to go see the cherry blossoms in Japan , you should book early everything you need for your trip.

여행  잘 다녀와요! (yeohaeng jal danyeowayo!)

Have a nice trip!

비행기에서 일등석을 타고 여행 을 다녀본 적 있어? (bihaenggieseo ildeungseogeul tago yeohaengeul danyeobon jeok isseo?)

Do you have experience traveling in the first class of an airplane?

다음에 언제 여행 떠나?  (daeume eonje yeohaeng tteona?)

When do you next go travel?

여행 일정을 어떻게 짰어? (yeohaeng iljeongeul eotteoke jjasseo?)

How did you plan your trip?

난 지난주에 여행 에서 돌아왔어. (nan jinanjue yeohaengeseo dorawasseo.)

I came back from my trip last week.

여행  잘 다녀왔어? (yeohaeng jal danyeowasseo?)

How was your trip?

“Travel” in Korean (Verb)

“Travel” in Korean is typically used in its verb form, either as 여행하다 (yeohaenghada) , which translates simply to “to travel,” or as 여행 가다 (yeohaeng gada) , which has a meaning closer to “to go on a trip.”

You may also replace 하다 (hada) and 가다 (gada) with 다니다 (danida) and 돌아다니다 (doradanida).

Sample sentences:

어디로 여행 가요? (eodiro yeohaenggayo?)

Where are you traveling to?

여행 가는 것을 좋아해요? (yeohaeng ganeun geoseul joahaeyo?)

Do you like to travel?

대학교를 졸업하자마자 취직하기 전에 1년 동안 여행했 어. (daehakgyoreul joreopajamaja chwijikagi jeone ilnyeon dongan yeohaenghaesseo.)

As soon as I graduated from university, I traveled for one year before finding a job.

제 꿈은 세계 여행하 는 것이에요. (je kkumeun segyeyeohaenghaneun geosieyo.)

My dream is to travel around the world.

내일 여행 가니까 오늘은 일찍 잡시다.  (naeil yeohaeng ganikka oneureun iljjik japsida.)

Since we’re traveling tomorrow, let’s sleep early today.

나는 국내 여행 갈 때마다 버스만 타요. (naneun gungnae yeohaeng gal ttaemada beoseuman tayo.)

I only travel by bus whenever I travel inside the country .

우리는 그 결혼식 위해 파리까지 여행 갔 어요. (urineun geu gyeolhonsik wihae parikkaji yeohaeng gasseoyo.)

We traveled all the way to Paris for that wedding.

Association for “Travel” in Korean

To remember how to say “travel” in Korean, we’ll create an English association for it. This can be any word, phrase, or image that helps you recall the Korean word and its meaning .

How to remember (association):

     When I travel , I tell my friends, “ Yo , let’s hang “ . ( 여행 | yeohaeng )

*80/20 Pareto Principle – The 20% you should learn that will give you 80% of the results.

Essential vocabulary related to travel in Korean

Right away, let’s look at some vocabulary in relation to travel. For your convenience, we’ve divided them into separate categories.

Vocabulary for types of travelers and travels in Korean

Here we have a section for different types of trips you can take and a different type of traveler you can be. These can be incredibly handy when describing the type of travel you like to do or plan to do.

“Backpacker” in Korean

The word for “backpacker” in Korean is 백패커 (baekpaekeo). As you know, the word for “backpack” in Korean is 백팩 (baekpaek), so just like in English, the term for backpacker is directly derived from it. The word for hiker in Korean, on the other hand, is 등산객 (deungsangaek).

“Cruise” in Korean

The word for “cruise” in Korean is 크루즈 여행 (keurujeu yeohaeng). There are at least half a dozen different types of travelers that may go on a cruise. For example, for some, the below-mentioned luxury travel can mean a cruise around the Caribbean islands.

나는 크루즈를 타본 적이 없어요. (naneun keurujeureol tabon jeogi eopseoyo.)

I have never been on a cruise.

“Luxury travel” in Korean

The word for “luxury travel” in Korean is 호화 여행 (hohwa yeohaeng). There is no specific term for luxury traveler, but you can perhaps say it as 호화 여행객 (hohwa yeohaenggaek), as 여행객 means “traveler.”

“Tourist” in Korean

The word for “tourist” in Korean is 관광객 (gwangwanggaek). Alternatively, you may also opt to describe yourself as a traveler as opposed to tourist. As mentioned above, the word 여행객 means traveler. Another word for traveler in Korean is 여행자 (yeohaengja).

어떤 종류의 여행자예요? (eotteon jongnyuui yeohaengjayeyo?)

What kind of traveler are you?

Vocabulary list for types of travels and travelers

Vocabulary for modes of transportation in korean.

Previously, we have already covered extensively the vocabulary for car in Korean and train in Korean. In addition, we also have an article that’ll teach you all about using the bus in Korea ! Thus, in this section, we will shortly highlight some other types of transportation, although they may not be as commonly used in comparison.

“Ship” in Korean

The most common word for “ship” in Korean is 배 (bae). However, in some cases, different words may apply. For example, a mail steamer, which is a boat carrying post and mail, is called 우편선 (upyeonseon) in Korean. Meanwhile, a cruise ship, which is the type of ship you’d use during your travels, is called 유람선 (yuramseon). And the word for “ferry” in Korean is 연락선 (yeollakseon).

“Airport” in Korean

You can say “airport” in Korean as 공항 (gonghang). Here, you’ll be able to ride an airplane which is called 비행기 (bihaenggi) in Korean.

The word for “flight” in Korean is 비행 (bihaeng). The word for “domestic flight” is 국내선 (gungnaeseon), and for “international flight,” it is 국제선 (gukjeseon).

하와이에 정말 가고 싶은데 비행기 타는 게 무서워요. (hawaie jeongmal gago sipeunde bihaenggi taneun ge museowoyo.)

I want to go to Hawaii, but I’m scared to go on an airplane.

Vocabulary list for transportation in Korean

Miscellaneous words related to travel.

Here’s one more list of travel-related vocabulary that you may find useful. They may consider any area of travel.

“Passport” in Korean

The word for “passport” in Korean is 여권 (yeogwon). Never leave for the airport without it!

여권이 만료돼서 새로 만들어야 할 것 같아요. (yeogwoni mallyodwaeseo saero mandeureoya hal geot gatayo.)

Seems like my passport has expired, and I need to make a new one.

How to say “Have a nice trip” in Korean

If you have a friend or family that will be traveling soon, here’s how you can wish them a nice trip. Listen carefully to learn how to say this phrase correctly!

A word of caution about Romanization

While it is possible for you to study the words in this article simply by reading their Romanized versions, it will come in handy for you to be able to read Hangeul if you ever wish to come to Korea . Hangeul is the Korean alphabet, and not difficult to learn. In fact, you can learn it in just 90 minutes .

After you’ve familiarized yourself with Hangeul, life in Korea will suddenly seem so much easier, and the country won’t appear so foreign to you. So, if you’re serious about learning Korean, why not learn Hangeul today?

Here’s how you can learn Hangeul before you eat your next meal.

So, do you like to travel? What kind of traveler are you? Let us know below in the comments with the newly learned vocabulary! Next, let’s learn about the weather and seasons in Korean !

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4 thoughts on “How To Say “Travel” In Korean”

What is the meaning of Yeohaengsa?

Hello! 여행사 means “travel agency.” ^^

How do you say ‘I was on tour’ since I’m a bit confused here. Also your website has been of so much help. 감사합니다! ????

Hi, It’s Me! You can say “저는 여행 중이었어요.” ^^

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How do you say this in Korean? i want to visit this place in korea See a translation

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나는 한국의 이 곳을 방문하고 싶어요.

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나는 한국에서 이 곳을 방문하고 싶어요

I / want to visit / this place / in Korea. 나는 / 방문하기를 원한다 or 가기를 원한다 or 가고싶다 / 이 장소에 or 이 곳에 / 한국에서 나는 한국에서 이 곳에 가고싶다

난 한국의 이곳을 방문하고 싶어

한국에 가면 여기에 가보고 싶어

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How to Say “To See” in Korean: A Comprehensive Guide

Welcome to our comprehensive guide on how to say “to see” in Korean! In this article, we will explore the formal and informal ways to express this verb, while providing tips, examples, and even covering regional variations where necessary. So, let’s dive right in!

Formal Ways to Say “To See” in Korean

When speaking formally or politely, you can use the verb “보다” (boda) to convey the meaning of “to see” in Korean. Here are a few phrases and grammar tips you can keep in mind:

1. Basic Formal Phrase:

“보다” (boda)”

The above phrase is the most common and straightforward way of expressing “to see” in formal situations. For example:

• Example 1: 저는 그 영화를 볼 거예요. (Jeoneun geu yeonghwareul bol geoyeyo.) – I will watch that movie.
• Example 2: 저는 그 분을 오늘 보겠습니다. (Jeoneun geu buneul oneul bogessseumnida.) – I will meet that person today.

2. Using the Formal Polite Suffix “습니다” (seumnida):

In formal settings, you can add the polite suffix “습니다” (seumnida) to the verb “보다” (boda) to show respect. This form is commonly used when speaking to someone older or in higher positions. An example would be:

• Example 3: 이 선생님을 한 번 뵙겠습니다. (I seonsaengnim-eul han beon boepgessseumnida.) – I will see this teacher once.

Here, “뵙다” (boepda) is an honorific form of “보다” (boda), often used to show respect towards someone.

Informal Ways to Say “To See” in Korean

Now let’s explore informal ways of expressing “to see” in Korean, which are generally used among friends, peers, or family members. Here are some phrases and grammar tips:

1. Basic Informal Phrase:

“보다” (boda)

The verb “보다” (boda) remains the same as the formal version, but the speech style changes to informal. Here are a couple of examples:

• Example 4: 그 영화 볼래? (Geu yeonghwa bollae?) – Do you want to watch that movie?
• Example 5: 오늘 친구를 봐야 해. (Oneul chingureul bwaya hae.) – I have to see my friend today.

2. Using the Casual Polite Suffix “요” (yo):

When speaking in informal but polite situations, you can add the casual polite suffix “요” (yo) to the verb “보다” (boda). This form is often used when talking to someone of a similar age or lower social status. For instance:

• Example 6: 그 분 좀 봐도 될까요? (Geu bun jom bwado doelkkayo?) – Can I see that person for a moment?

The use of “봐도 될까요” (bwado doelkkayo) adds politeness without being too formal.

Regional Variations

While Korean is generally standard across South Korea, there are some regional variations in certain vocabulary, pronunciation, and grammar. However, for the verb “to see,” there aren’t notable regional variations that drastically change its meaning or usage. The variations mentioned above can be used universally throughout South Korea.

Tips to Enhance Your Understanding

Here are some tips that will help you improve your understanding of how to say “to see” in Korean:

1. Study Sentence Patterns:

Learn sentence patterns or phrases that commonly include the verb “보다” (boda). This way, you’ll become more familiar with its usage and can easily incorporate it into your conversations.

2. Practice Listening:

Listen to various Korean conversations, dramas, or songs to expose yourself to different contexts where “보다” (boda) is used. This will help you become more comfortable with its pronunciation and usage.

3. Watch Korean Movies or TV Shows:

Watching movies or TV shows in Korean can provide you with visual and auditory examples of how “to see” is used in everyday situations, helping you grasp its nuances better.

4. Engage in Conversations:

Find opportunities to speak with native Korean speakers. Practice using the verb “to see” in various forms and contexts to increase your fluency and confidence.

In conclusion, learning how to say “to see” in Korean provides an essential foundation for building your language skills. Use the phrases and examples provided in this guide to develop your understanding of both formal and informal expressions. Remember to consider the appropriate circumstances when using each form, and continue practicing to gain fluency in this versatile verb. Now, go out there and immerse yourself in the Korean language!

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The Correct Way To Say Korea In Korean

If you’re a fan of Korea and all things Korean then you will probably find it useful to learn how to say Korea in Korean. Below, not only will you learn how to say Korea in Korean, but we will also teach you some related words such as South Korea , North Korea , Korean language , and Korean person .

To teach you these words, we will use both Hangul (Korean characters) and romanized letters. If you’ve not learned the Korean alphabet yet, check out our complete guide on how to read the Korean alphabet .

How To Say Korea In Korean

The Korean word for Korea is 한국 which is pronounced [han-guk]. This word is commonly used by Koreans to refer to the whole of Korea. Here are some useful example sentences using this word for ‘Korea’ in Korean:

• 한국에 가고 싶어요. [han-gu-ge ga-go si-peo-yo] = I want to go to Korea.
• 저는 한국에 있어요. [jeo-neun han-gu-ge i-sseo-yo] = I am in Korea.
• 저는 한국을 좋아해요. [jeo-neun han-gu-geul jo-a-hae-yo] = I like Korea.

South Korea In Korean

South Korea in Korean is 남한 [nam-han] which is made up of the words 남 (south) and 한 (Korea). However, it is much more common for South Koreans to refer to South Korea as 대한민국 [dae-han-min-guk]. This word is used to refer to the Republic Of Korea. If you’ve ever watched a Korean team compete in the Olympics or another international event, you’ve probably heard the Korean supporters chanting “ 대한민국 !” [dae-han-min-guk].

North Korea In Korean

North Korea in Korean is 북한 which is pronounced [bu-kan]. 북 [buk] means ‘North’ and 한 [han] is the word used to refer to Korea. So together, 북한 is literally ‘North Korea’ in Korean.

Related Words

Here are some related words and examples you may find useful:

Korean Language In Korean

The word for ‘Korean language’ in Korean is 한국어 which is pronounced [han-gu-geo]. This is made up of the word 한국 (Korea) and the word 어 (language). Here are some useful example sentences using the word for Korean language in Korean:

• 저는 한국어 공부하고 있어요. [jeo-neun han-gu-geo gong-bu-ha-go i-sseo-yo] = I am studying Korean.
• 한국어는 너무 어려워요. [han-gu-geo-neun neo-mu eo-ryeo-wo-yo] = Korean is too difficult.
• 저는 한국어를 잘 못해요. [jeo-neun han-gu-geo-reul jal mo-tae-yo] = I am not good at Korean.

Korean Person In Korean

When you want to say ‘Korean’ as in ‘Korean person’ in Korean you can say 한국 사람 [han-guk sa-ram] or 한국인 [han-guk-in]. Both of these words literally mean ‘Korean person’ in Korean. The difference between 한국 사람 and 한국인 is that 한국 사람 uses the native Korean word for ‘person’ ( 사람 ) whereas 한국인 uses the Sino-Korean character 인 to say ‘person’. Here are some useful example sentences using the word for ‘Korean person’ in Korean:

• 한국 사람이에요? [han-guk sa-ra-mi-e-yo?] = Are you Korean?
• 그 학생 한국인이에요. [geu hak-saeng han-gu-gi-ni-e-yo] = That student is Korean.

Thanks for reading. I hope you have a better understanding of how to say ‘Korea” in Korean. Before you go, don’t forget to check out our other lessons on Korean FAQ and Korean Phrases to learn more useful Korean you can use in everyday life.

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How to say "I want to" in Korean -고 싶다

Hi everyone!

I would like to introduce the usage of ‘-고 싶다’ to all. This phrase is commonly used to express the desire of the subject. Adding ‘-고 싶다’ to the action verb gives it the meaning of “I want to ____.” See the examples below:

차를 마시고 싶다 – (I) want to drink a cup of tea

한국어를 배우고 싶다 – (I) want to learn the Korean Language

피자를 먹고 싶다 – (I) want to eat pizza

With second person, the same meaning can be delivered in a question format.

차를 마시고 싶어요? - Do you want to drink a cup of tea?

한국어를 배우고 싶어요? - Do you want to learn the Korean language?

피자를 먹고 싶어요? - Do you want to eat pizza?

With third person, the phrase changes a bit from '-고 싶다' to '-고 싶어한다.' 톰은 차를 마시고 싶어 한다

- Tom wants to drink a cup of tea

톰은 한국어를 배우고 싶어 한다 - Tom wants to learn the Korean language

톰은 피자를 먹고 싶어 한다 - Tom wants to eat pizza

I hope this article helps your study. Please feel free to leave a comment if you have any further questions. Also, check out our Twitter for the latest news on Korea.  

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Cece · 5/20/2014 8:43:05 AM

Very informative! Love this since I haven't been diligent in enrolling in classes since SEPT...

Kimberly · 9/18/2015 9:19:19 AM

This is very useful, i always search for examples on sentence structure and this is is perfect, Thank you!!!

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Sun, Apr 14, 2024 page5

Top officials stress ‘new chapter’ in china-n korea ties.

China’s top legislator and a senior North Korean official emphasized opening a “new chapter” of Beijing-Pyongyang relations, the North’s state media said yesterday, as they met for one of the most high-level talks between the allies in years.

Beijing’s third highest-ranking official, Chinese National People’s Congress Standing Committee Chairman Zhao Leji (趙樂際), is on a goodwill visit to the nuclear-armed North as the two countries mark 75 years of diplomatic ties.

China is North Korea’s most important economic benefactor and diplomatic ally, obstructing US-led efforts at the UN Security Council alongside Russia to impose stricter sanctions on North Korean leader Kim Jong-un’s government in response to its increased weapons tests.

Chinese National People’s Congress Standing Committee Chairman Zhao Leji, left, speaks with North Korean Supreme People’s Assembly Standing Committee Chairman Choe Ryong-hae during a reception at the Mansudae Assembly Hall in Pyongyang on Thursday.

Photo: Korean Central News Agency via EPA-EFE

Zhao and North Korean Supreme People’s Assembly Standing Committee Chairman Choe Ryong-hae attended an opening ceremony for the “year of DPRK-China friendship” in Pyongyang on Friday, the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) said, using the acronym for the North’s official name, the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea.

In a speech, Zhao said it is the “consistent strategic policy” of Beijing to “successfully defend, consolidate and develop” China-North Korea relations, KCNA reported.

China is willing to “thoroughly implement the important common understanding” of the two countries and “open up a new chapter of China-DPRK friendship along with the times,” he added.

Choe said the two countries’ relationship “has greeted a new heyday under the wise leadership” of their leaders, KCNA said.

Choe and Zhao were seen sitting next to each other watching performances by what KCNA said were “prestigious art troupes” of the two nations at the East Pyongyang Grand Theatre, Agence France-Presse footage showed.

Some performers wore colorful traditional Korean and Chinese garments, and what appeared to be the final moment of the event highlighted a massive image of the countries’ flags, accompanied by the phrase “eternal friendship.”

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The life and music of Amy Winehouse, through the journey of adolescence to adulthood and the creation of one of the best-selling albums of our time. The life and music of Amy Winehouse, through the journey of adolescence to adulthood and the creation of one of the best-selling albums of our time. The life and music of Amy Winehouse, through the journey of adolescence to adulthood and the creation of one of the best-selling albums of our time.

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