Essential Korean Phrases for Travelers: Beyond Basics

When visiting Korea, knowing a few basic Korean phrases can make your trip smoother and more enjoyable. While many young Koreans speak some English, it's still common to encounter language barriers in restaurants, small shops, or rural areas. This guide offers practical Korean expressions that go beyond "hello" and "thank you," helping you navigate real-life situations like ordering food, asking for directions, shopping, or seeking help.

1. Common Phrases for Daily Use

  • Hello: 안녕하세요 (Annyeonghaseyo)
  • Thank you: 감사합니다 (Gamsahamnida)
  • Sorry / Excuse me: 죄송합니다 (Joesonghamnida)
  • How much is it?: 얼마예요? (Eolmayeyo?)
  • Where is ?: ___ 어디에요? ( eodi-eyo?)

2. Eating Out Like a Local

  • Please recommend something: 무엇이 추천해 주세요? (Mueos-i chucheonhae juseyo?)
  • Less spicy, please: 덜 맵게 해주세요 (Deo mankeum anmaepge juseyo)
  • I’m vegetarian: 채식주의자입니다 (Chae-sikju-uija-imnida)

3. Getting Around

  • Where is the subway station?: 지하철역이 어디에요? (Jihacheol-yeok-i eodieyo?)
  • How many stops left?: 몇 정거장 남았어요? (Myeot jeong-geo-jang namasseoyo?)

4. Shopping in Korea

  • Can I try this on?: 시스템 입어도 되나요? (Siseuteum ibeodo doenaeyo?)
  • Do you have this in another color?: 다른 색상으로 있나요? (Dareun saeksang-eulo itsnayo?)
  • Can I get a discount?: 추가 제고 되나요? (Chuga jega doenaeyo?)
  • Please give me a discount: 깎아주세요 (Kkak-ajuseyo)
  • It's expensive: 비싸요 (Bissayo)
  • It's good: 좋아요 (Joaayo)

5. Emergencies

  • Help me!: 도와주세요! (Dowajuseyo!)
  • I need a doctor: 의사가 필요해요 (Uisaga piryohaeyo)
  • Call the police: 경찰을 불러주세요 (Gyeongchal-eul bulleojuseyo)

6. Politeness and Culture

  • Excuse me (to get attention): 실례합니다 (Sillyehamnida)
  • Great job / Thank you for your work: 수고하셨어요 (Sugohasyeosseoyo)

Final Tips

  • Always speak with a smile and a slight bow. Politeness goes a long way in Korean culture.
  • Using even simple Korean makes a strong positive impression.

By learning just a few of these phrases, you’ll not only ease your journey but also connect more meaningfully with locals. Happy travels!