When you’re wrapping up a great hangout, you want an exit that feels smooth and sincere. In English, we naturally reach for "See you later" or "Catch you next time."
In Korean, the perfect way to keep that connection going is 다음에 봐 (Da-eume bwa).
To understand why this phrase feels so natural, let's look at the pieces:
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다음 (Da-eum): This simply means "next."
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봐 (Bwa): This comes from the verb 보다 (Bo-da), which means "to see."
When you put them together, you're literally telling your friend, "See you next time." It’s easy, friendly, and low-pressure.
- It keeps the door open: It doesn't lock you into a specific time or place, but it signals that you definitely want to hang out again.
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It’s versatile: You can use it after a coffee date, a long dinner, or even a quick chat on the street.
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It’s effortless: It’s the ultimate "low-effort, high-impact" way to end a conversation.
Once you know that 봐 (bwa) means "see," you can swap out the time to fit your plans! For example, if you know you’ll see them the very next day at school or work, you can say:
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내일 봐 (Nae-il bwa) — "See you tomorrow."
As we always say at InWorld Korea, adding 요 (-yo) is your magic ticket to being polite.
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Casual (Friends/Siblings): 다음에 봐 (Da-eume bwa)
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Polite (Acquaintances/Elders): 다음에 봐요 (Da-eume bwa-yo)
Pro-Tip: If you aren't 100% sure if you should be casual yet, just add the 요. It’s the safest way to show respect while staying friendly.
In Korea, saying goodbye isn't just about leaving; it’s about nurturing Jeong (정)—that deep sense of social connection. By saying Da-eume bwa, you aren't just ending a meeting; you’re acknowledging that this person is part of your circle. It’s a small verbal way to maintain harmony and warmth.
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