11+ Ways How to Say Thank You in Korean | Simple Korean Gratitude Words

Last updated: November 11, 2025 at 4:40 pm by ramzanseo23@gmail.com

Have you ever wondered how to say thank you in Korean the right way? 😊 

Whether you’re planning a trip to Seoul, chatting with K-dramas, or simply want to show respect to a Korean friend, learning this simple phrase can open hearts instantly. 

This article is written just for you — someone who wants to sound natural, polite, and confident in Korean! 

By the end, you’ll know not just how to say thank you, but also when and to whom to say it. 

So, let’s dive into the warm and polite world of Korean gratitude! 🌸

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The Most Common Way to Say “Thank You” in Korean

1. 감사합니다 (Gamsahamnida) | The Polite & Universal Way

This is the most common and safest way to say “thank you” in Korean. It’s polite, formal, and can be used in almost any situation — whether you’re thanking a stranger, a shopkeeper, or your teacher.

🗣 Pronunciation: gahm-sah-ham-nee-da
💬 Example:

• English: Thank you for helping me!
  
• Korean: 도와주셔서 감사합니다! (Dowa jusyeoseo gamsahamnida!)
  

👉 Use 감사합니다 when you want to sound respectful and proper — especially in public or formal settings.

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2. 고마워요 (Gomawoyo) | The Polite, Friendly Version

고마워요 is slightly less formal than 감사합니다, but still polite and warm. It’s perfect for casual situations where you’re friendly with the other person, like thanking a colleague, classmate, or a new friend.

🗣 Pronunciation: go-ma-wuh-yo
💬 Example:

• English: Thank you for the coffee!
  
• Korean: 커피 고마워요! (Keopi gomawoyo!)
  

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3. 고마워 (Gomawo) | The Casual Way 💛

If you’re speaking with close friends, siblings, or someone younger than you, 고마워 is your go-to phrase. It’s cute, friendly, and shows closeness.

🗣 Pronunciation: go-ma-wuh
💬 Example:

• English: Thanks, buddy!
  
• Korean: 고마워, 친구야! (Gomawo, chinguya!)
  

⚠️ Caution: Don’t use 고마워 with elders, teachers, or anyone you’re not close with — it can sound rude in formal settings.

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Cultural Tip 🌏

Koreans value respect deeply. The level of politeness in your speech shows how well you understand social hierarchy. That’s why using the correct form of “thank you” matters a lot — it reflects your good manners and cultural awareness.

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When You Want to Sound Extra Thankful

Sometimes, “thank you” isn’t enough. If you want to show deeper gratitude, you can say:

• 정말 감사합니다 (Jeongmal gamsahamnida) — Thank you very much
  
• 진심으로 감사합니다 (Jinsimeuro gamsahamnida) — Thank you sincerely
  

🗣 These are perfect for expressing heartfelt appreciation — like when someone gives you a thoughtful gift or goes out of their way to help you.

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Common Follow Up Phrases to Keep the Conversation Going 💬

English	Korean	Pronunciation
How are you?	잘 지내세요?	jal ji-nae-se-yo?
You’re welcome	천만에요	cheon-man-e-yo
Goodbye (formal)	안녕히 가세요	annyeonghi gaseyo
Goodbye (casual)	안녕	annyeong
See you later	나중에 봐요	najunge bwayo

Just like in English, these phrases help you sound friendly and natural after saying “thank you.” Try combining them — for example, “감사합니다! 안녕히 가세요!” (Thank you! Goodbye!)

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Mini Vocabulary List 📝

Word	Meaning	Pronunciation
감사합니다	Thank you (formal)	gahm-sah-ham-nee-da
고마워요	Thank you (polite)	go-ma-wuh-yo
고마워	Thanks (casual)	go-ma-wuh
미안합니다	I’m sorry (formal)	mi-an-ham-ni-da
부탁합니다	Please (formal)	bu-tak-ham-ni-da

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Conclusion 🌟

Now you know exactly how to say thank you in Korean — and when to use each version! Whether you’re showing respect, warmth, or friendship, each phrase adds a special touch to your Korean conversations. Practice them out loud, listen to native speakers, and soon you’ll sound natural and confident. 💬✨