8 phrases you’ll rely on in Korea

Estimated reading time: 3 minutes

You’ve planned a trip to South Korea and are eager to experience the culture, cuisine, scenery, and entertainment that the country has to offer.

Here are eight phrases to aid you after you land, so read them before you flash your passport and go on an amazing holiday!

감사합니다 Gam-sa-ham-ni-da is the romanization.
Translation: I’m grateful.
Thank goodness that folks like your mother are watching if you’re going abroad. It’s advisable to keep with this formal style when traveling because respect is frequently shown through language in Korean.

棄憡故狈狤
Romanization: ham-ni-da-joe-song
Translation: I apologize.
When traveling, knowing how to say “I’m sorry” can come in handy. It’s appropriate to use the formal form of this phrase as well; for further courtesy, you may even include a tiny bow. (You can also use this body language to communicate “hey” and “thank you.)

싹기세요 / 미세요
Translation: mi-se-yo / dang-gi-se-yo
Translation: Pull and push
It is possible to determine if a door wants to be pulled or pushed just by giving it a try. However, don’t undervalue the assurance that comes from being aware of this beforehand.

주세요 Ju-se-yo romanization
Translation: When placing an order, mention this after the item’s name: Please provide (or please may I have). Or, if you’re stuck on terminology, point or display a picture from your phone and add 주세요. This practical expression is quite useful in cafes and retailers.

쌀박
Lovemaking: Dae-bak
Translation: Fantastic, wonderful, cool, and jackpot

A colloquial expression of happiness and enthusiasm! There are hints of sudden surprise in this word as well. So, reserve it for times when you’re so happy and amazed by your good fortune that you can’t contain your emotions.