Learning to greet someone in Korean can be a fun and exciting first step into the world of Korean language and culture.
If you’ve ever wondered how do you say hi in Korean?, you’re in the right place!
Whether you’re planning a trip to Seoul, chatting with Korean friends online, or just curious about K-dramas, knowing the proper way to greet someone will make a big difference.
In this guide, we’ll explore different ways to say hello, when to use formal vs. casual greetings, and some extra phrases to keep the conversation flowing naturally.
Let’s dive in and make your Korean greetings shine! ✨
Basic Formal Greeting | 안녕하세요 (Annyeonghaseyo)
The most common way to say hi politely in Korean is 안녕하세요 (Annyeonghaseyo). This is suitable for meeting someone older than you, strangers, or in professional settings.
- Pronunciation: Ahn-nyeong-ha-se-yo
- Example: Meeting a colleague:
- “안녕하세요! 만나서 반갑습니다.” (Annyeonghaseyo! Mannaseo bangapseumnida.)
- Translation: “Hello! Nice to meet you.”
- “안녕하세요! 만나서 반갑습니다.” (Annyeonghaseyo! Mannaseo bangapseumnida.)
Just like in English, using a polite greeting shows respect and friendliness.
Casual Greeting | 안녕 (Annyeong)
When chatting with close friends or someone younger than you, 안녕 (Annyeong) works perfectly.
- Pronunciation: Ahn-nyeong
- Example: Talking to a friend:
- “안녕! 오늘 기분 어때?” (Annyeong! Oneul gibun eottae?)
- Translation: “Hi! How are you feeling today?”
- “안녕! 오늘 기분 어때?” (Annyeong! Oneul gibun eottae?)
It’s casual, light, and perfect for relaxed settings. 🌟
Very Formal Greeting | 안녕하십니까 (Annyeonghasimnikka)
In formal or official situations, like presentations or meeting someone very senior, you can use 안녕하십니까 (Annyeonghasimnikka).
- Pronunciation: Ahn-nyeong-ha-shim-ni-kka
- Example: Addressing a group formally:
- “안녕하십니까, 여러분.” (Annyeonghasimnikka, yeoreobun.)
- Translation: “Hello, everyone.”
- “안녕하십니까, 여러분.” (Annyeonghasimnikka, yeoreobun.)
This form is rarely used in casual daily life but is great for making a strong polite impression.
Fun Cultural Note
Did you know that Koreans often bow slightly when greeting, even when saying 안녕하세요? 🤗 It’s a subtle way to show respect. Younger people may just nod or wave with 안녕, while formal situations usually call for a polite bow.
Common Follow Up Phrases
Once you’ve greeted someone, it’s natural to ask how they’re doing or say goodbye:
- How are you? → “잘 지냈어요?” (Jal jinaesseoyo?)
- Goodbye (to someone staying): “안녕히 계세요” (Annyeonghi gyeseyo)
- Goodbye (to someone leaving): “안녕히 가세요” (Annyeonghi gaseyo)
Mini Vocabulary Table 📝
| Korean Phrase | Pronunciation | Use Case |
| 안녕하세요 | Ahn-nyeong-ha-se-yo | Polite greeting |
| 안녕 | Ahn-nyeong | Casual greeting |
| 안녕하십니까 | Ahn-nyeong-ha-shim-ni-kka | Very formal greeting |
| 잘 지냈어요? | Jal jinaesseoyo? | How are you? |
| 안녕히 계세요 | Annyeonghi gyeseyo | Goodbye (staying) |
| 안녕히 가세요 | Annyeonghi gaseyo | Goodbye (leaving) |
Conclusion
Mastering these greetings is your first step into speaking Korean confidently! 🎉 Start by practicing 안녕하세요 for polite situations and 안녕 with friends. Remember, small gestures like a smile or a slight bow go a long way in making your greetings feel natural. Keep practicing, have fun, and soon saying hi in Korean will feel as easy as saying hello in English!
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