Are you planning your first adventure to Seoul? Don’t let the language barrier keep you from exploring! While many people in tourist areas speak some English, knowing a few key phrases will open doors, earn you extra smiles, and make your trip much smoother.Here are the top 10 essential phrases every traveler should have in their pocket.
These are the building blocks of any polite conversation in Korea.
- 안녕하세요 (An-nyeong-ha-se-yo) — Hello / Good morning / Good evening.
- 감사합니다 (Gam-sa-ham-ni-da) — Thank you.
- 죄송합니다 (Joe-song-ham-ni-da) — I’m sorry.
- 네 / 아니요 (Ne / A-ni-yo) — Yes and No.
- 저는 한국말 잘 못해요 (Jeo-neun Han-gung-mal jal mot-hae-yo) — I’m not good at Korean. (Use this if someone starts speaking too fast!)
Whether you are at a street food stall in Myeongdong or a boutique in Gangnam, you’ll use these constantly.
- 이거 뭐예요? (I-geo mwo-ye-yo?) — What is this?
-
얼마예요? (Eol-ma-ye-yo?) — How much is it?
-
주세요 (Ju-se-yo) — Please give me… (Just point at what you want and say this!)
-
저기요 (Jeo-gi-yo) — Excuse me. (Perfect for getting a waiter’s attention.)
-
화장실 어디예요? (Hwa-jang-sil eo-di-ye-yo?) — Where is the bathroom?
Memorizing these ten phrases will help you order delicious food, shop for souvenirs comfortably, and navigate the city with confidence. Even if your pronunciation isn’t perfect, locals will truly appreciate the effort! Want to dive deeper?
Visit
InWorldKorea.com for more simple travel phrases, video tutorials, and free printables to take on your trip.
