Understanding Korea 5: Essential Korean Phrases for Travelers

Useful Korean Phrases for a Smoother and Friendlier Travel Experience

Traveling to Korea is an unforgettable experience — but knowing just a few key Korean phrases can make your journey even smoother. Koreans appreciate it when visitors try to speak their language, even if it’s just a few words. Whether you're ordering food, shopping, or asking for directions, these expressions will help you connect more easily and show respect for the culture.

Here are some useful Korean phrases, organized by situation, that you can use during your trip.

Greetings and Polite Basics

• 안녕하세요 (Annyeonghaseyo) – Hello / Hi (formal)
• 감사합니다 (Gamsahamnida) – Thank you
• 죄송합니다 (Joesonghamnida) – I'm sorry
• 네 (Ne) – Yes
• 아니요 (Aniyo) – No
• 괜찮아요 (Gwaenchanayo) – It’s okay / I’m fine

Tip: Always greet shop staff, hotel employees, or elders with “안녕하세요” — it shows basic courtesy.

 

At Restaurants

• 이거 주세요 (I-geo ju-se-yo) – I’d like this, please
• 맛있어요! (Ma-shi-sseo-yo!) – It’s delicious!
• 물 좀 주세요 (Mul jom ju-se-yo) – Please give me some water
• 계산서 주세요 (Gye-san-seo ju-se-yo) – The bill, please

Tip: Most Korean restaurants bring free side dishes. You don’t need to order them separately or pay extra.

 

At Cafés and Shops

• 아메리카노 한 잔 주세요 (A-me-ri-ka-no han jan ju-se-yo) – One Americano, please
• 영수증 주세요 (Yeong-su-jeung ju-se-yo) – Receipt, please
• 포장해 주세요 (Po-jang-hae ju-se-yo) – Please wrap it to go
• 카드 돼요? (Ka-deu dwae-yo?) – Do you take cards?

Tip: Many stores accept credit cards, but it’s good to carry some cash, especially in traditional markets.

 

On the Street or Using Public Transport

• 화장실 어디예요? (Hwa-jang-sil eo-di-ye-yo?) – Where is the restroom?
• 이거 어떻게 가요? (I-geo eo-tteo-ke ga-yo?) – How do I get there?
• 지하철역 어디예요? (Ji-ha-cheol-yeok eo-di-ye-yo?) – Where is the subway station?
• 잠깐만요 (Jam-kkan-man-yo) – Just a moment / Excuse me (when passing people)

Tip: When asking for help, a smile and a polite tone go a long way — even if your Korean isn’t perfect.

 

Quick Expressions for Daily Use

• 천천히 말해 주세요 (Cheon-cheon-hi mal-hae ju-se-yo) – Please speak slowly
• 영어 할 수 있어요? (Yeong-eo hal su i-sseo-yo?) – Can you speak English?
• 알겠어요 (Al-ge-sseo-yo) – Got it / I understand
• 몰라요 (Mol-la-yo) – I don’t know

Tip: Don't be afraid to ask for help. Many young Koreans can speak at least some English.

 

Final Thoughts

Learning Korean doesn’t have to be hard. Just a few words can make your trip more enjoyable and help you connect with locals. Use these phrases with confidence — and don’t worry about mistakes. Koreans will appreciate the effort!

Safe travels, and 화이팅! (Hwa-i-ting!) – You can do it!