Essential Korean Phrases for Graduation and School Ceremonies

Graduation and entrance ceremonies are deeply rooted in Korean culture — not just as school events, but as emotional milestones that mark life’s turning points. Whether it's a high school graduation, university entrance, or even a kindergarten ceremony, each moment is filled with speeches, songs, and tears.

If you're learning Korean, understanding the language and customs behind these events will help you sound more natural and culturally aware. From how to congratulate someone to what to say when giving a speech, these expressions are essential for connecting with Korean classmates, teachers, or friends during these once-in-a-lifetime moments.

 

This guide breaks down the must-know Korean phrases, cultural gestures, and vocabulary used in school ceremonies — all with clear Romanization and real-life examples. Whether you’re a student, teacher, or language lover, this post will prepare you to speak with confidence and respect on graduation day.

🎓 Graduation in Korean Culture

Graduation in Korea is called “졸업” (joreop), and it holds significant emotional and social value. Unlike some Western graduations that focus primarily on certificates and diplomas, Korean graduations emphasize reflection, farewell, and a sense of community. From elementary school to university, each level has its own tradition and mood.

 

Most schools hold graduation ceremonies in February, marking the end of the Korean academic year. The event usually includes speeches by the principal, awards for top-performing students, and a song performance or video montage highlighting memories from the past year.

 

One unique cultural detail is that students wear school uniforms, even in university. Graduation gowns are more common in higher education, but for younger students, the school uniform with a corsage pinned to the chest is standard. These corsages are usually handmade or gifted by classmates.

 

In Korean, to say “I graduated,” you can say: “저 졸업했어요.” (jeo joreophaesseoyo). Friends may also say, “졸업 축하해!” (joreop chukhahae / Congratulations on graduating!).

 

After the ceremony, it's common for classmates to go out to eat, take group photos, or exchange personal letters. High school and university graduations often include emotional tears as friends head off in different directions — to jobs, the military, or overseas.

 

One very Korean tradition is the use of egg and flour throwing for high school graduates. On graduation day, some students ambush their friends with raw eggs, whipped cream, and flour — a playful but messy celebration to mark the end of their school journey.

 

Teachers are often given flowers and handwritten thank-you notes. A typical message might be: “선생님 감사합니다. 평생 기억할게요.” (seonsaengnim gamsahamnida. pyeongsaeng gieokhalgeyo / Thank you, teacher. I will remember you forever).

 

School anthems, called “교가” (gyoga), are sometimes sung as a final gesture. This can be a very nostalgic moment, especially for students who’ve been at the same school for many years.

 

Family also plays a big role. Parents often attend the ceremony and take dozens of photos. They may give flowers, money, or small gifts to celebrate the milestone. Some families go out for a special dinner afterward.

 

If you're invited to a Korean graduation ceremony, a simple “축하해요” (chukhahaeyo / Congratulations) and a small gift like a card or a pen would be greatly appreciated.

 

🎓 Graduation Phrase Chart

Korean	Romanization	Meaning
졸업	joreop	Graduation
졸업 축하해!	joreop chukhahae!	Congratulations on your graduation!
선생님 감사합니다	seonsaengnim gamsahamnida	Thank you, teacher
교가	gyoga	School anthem
축하해요	chukhahaeyo	Congratulations

 

🎒 Entrance Ceremony Traditions in Korea

In Korean culture, entrance ceremonies — known as “입학식” (iphaksik) — are just as important as graduation ceremonies. These events mark a new beginning, often filled with hope, curiosity, and a touch of nervousness. They take place in early March, signaling the start of the Korean school year.

 

Compared to graduation, entrance ceremonies feel more festive and optimistic, focusing on new opportunities rather than farewells. Schools decorate the halls, play cheerful music, and sometimes invite older students to perform welcome songs or skits.

 

To say “I entered school” in Korean, use “입학했어요” (iphakhaesseoyo). A teacher might say, “입학을 축하합니다!” (iphageul chukhahamnida / Congratulations on your entrance!). These are formal, but warm phrases often used during the event.

 

In elementary schools, entrance ceremonies are often adorable — new first-graders walk into the auditorium in tidy uniforms, greeted by flowers and applause. Parents proudly film the entire event while tearing up over their child’s first step into formal education.

 

Middle and high schools may include an orientation on school rules, a pledge ceremony, and group photos with homeroom teachers. The tone is a little more serious, but still positive and encouraging.

 

University entrance ceremonies can range from simple to elaborate. Some schools organize large halls for speeches by the president, musical performances, and welcome kits for first-year students. Students often take selfies or photos with classmates to capture their first day on campus.

 

Parents usually attend their child's entrance ceremony, especially for elementary or university. It's a proud moment — they dress up, bring flowers, and take endless photos to celebrate this milestone.

 

Principals or teachers often end their speeches with uplifting lines like: “멋진 시작이 되길 바랍니다.” (meotjin sijagi doegil baramnida / I hope this will be a wonderful beginning).

 

If you're living or studying in Korea, understanding the atmosphere and key expressions used during 입학식 (iphaksik) can help you feel more prepared — and allow you to better connect with your classmates and teachers.

 

🎒 Entrance Ceremony Phrase Chart

Korean	Romanization	Meaning
입학식	iphaksik	Entrance ceremony
입학했어요	iphakhaesseoyo	I entered school
입학을 축하합니다	iphageul chukhahamnida	Congratulations on your entrance
멋진 시작이 되길 바랍니다	meotjin sijagi doegil baramnida	Wishing you a great start
환영합니다	hwanyeonghamnida	Welcome

 

🎓 Common Graduation Phrases and How to Use Them

Knowing how to congratulate someone on their graduation in Korean goes a long way — not just for language learners, but also for those wanting to show appreciation in a culturally meaningful way. In Korea, certain expressions are commonly used at 졸업식 (joreopsik / graduation ceremonies) to show pride, encouragement, and gratitude.

 

The most common phrase is “졸업 축하해요!” (joreop chukhahaeyo / Congratulations on your graduation!). It’s polite and appropriate for most situations, whether you're congratulating a classmate, a friend, or a relative.

 

In more formal contexts, such as a teacher speaking to students or a speech given at a ceremony, the phrase “졸업을 진심으로 축하드립니다.” (joreobeul jinsimeuro chukhadeurimnida / I sincerely congratulate you on your graduation) is used.

 

If you're writing a card or social media post, a heartfelt message like “앞으로의 모든 걸음에 행복이 함께하길 바래요.” (apeuro-ui modeun georeume haengboki hamkkehagil baraeyo / I hope happiness walks with you in every step from now on) adds a warm touch.

 

There are also casual expressions for friends, like: “드디어 끝났네~ 수고했어!” (deudieo kkeunnanne~ sugohaesseo! / Finally done~ Great job!). This is commonly used in text messages or casual conversations between peers.

 

Students might also say goodbye to their school using nostalgic phrases like “이 학교에서의 추억은 평생 잊지 못할 거야.” (i hakgyoeseoui chueogeun pyeongsaeng itji mothal geoya / I’ll never forget my memories at this school).

 

If you're the one graduating, you can humbly say: “졸업하게 되어 감사합니다.” (joreophage doeeo gamsahamnida / I’m thankful to be graduating). This is polite and often used when giving a speech or writing thank-you notes.

 

Graduation speeches often include words of encouragement. For example: “여러분의 앞날에 빛나는 미래가 함께하길 바랍니다.” (yeoreobunui apnare binnaneun miraega hamkkehagil baramnida / I hope a bright future is with you all).

 

When giving flowers, a simple line like “작은 선물이지만, 마음을 담았어요.” (jageun seonmurijiman, maeumeul damasseoyo / It's a small gift, but filled with my heart) is appreciated and often heard at graduation parties.

 

It’s also common for students to post or share these phrases on social media, either written on banners, captions, or even cake decorations. Knowing how to use these expressions properly helps you sound thoughtful and engaged.

 

📘 Graduation Phrase Chart

Korean	Romanization	Meaning
졸업 축하해요	joreop chukhahaeyo	Congratulations on your graduation
앞으로의 걸음에 행복이 함께하길	apeuro-ui georeume haengboki hamkkehagil	May happiness follow your path
수고했어	sugohaesseo	Good job
추억은 잊지 못할 거야	chueogeun itji motal geoya	I’ll never forget the memories
감사합니다	gamsahamnida	Thank you

 

🎁 Gift-Giving Traditions and Messages for School Ceremonies

In Korea, giving small gifts or messages during graduation (졸업 / joreop) and entrance (입학 / iphak) ceremonies is a thoughtful and common gesture. It’s less about the cost, and more about showing care and encouragement as someone enters a new life stage.

 

Flowers (꽃 / kkot) are the go-to gift. Bouquets are usually handed to graduates by family or friends after the ceremony. Carnations and bright seasonal flowers are especially popular, and many parents prepare them as a surprise.

 

Another common present is a pen (펜 / pen), symbolizing knowledge and a bright academic future. High school or university students might receive a fountain pen or personalized stationery, while younger students get cute school supplies like notebooks and pencil cases.

 

Close relatives often give small cash gifts, though it's rarely called anything specific in conversation. Rather than naming it, people simply pass an envelope with a short phrase like: “맛있는 거 사 먹어~” (masinneun geo sa meogeo~ / Go eat something tasty!) or “수고했어~” (sugohaesseo~ / You did well~).

 

Thank-you cards and handwritten letters are especially meaningful in Korean culture. Whether it’s a parent writing to their child, or a student thanking a teacher, heartfelt words are deeply appreciated. A student might write: “늘 응원해줘서 고마워요.” (neul eungwonhaejwoseo gomawoyo / Thanks for always cheering me on).

 

If you’re congratulating a friend, keep it light and warm. Say things like: “와, 드디어 졸업이라니! 축하해!” (wa, deudieo joreopirani! chukahae! / Wow, you finally graduated! Congrats!) or “새로운 학교 생활 기대돼~” (saerowoon hakgyo saenghwal gidaedwae~ / I’m excited for your new school life~).

 

In many schools, especially public ones, students are discouraged from giving material gifts to teachers. A short thank-you note or even a digital message is best. One popular phrase is: “선생님 덕분에 많이 배웠어요.” (seonsaengnim deokbune mani baewosseoyo / I learned so much thanks to you).

 

Whether it's a flower, a pen, or just a few sincere words, the heart behind the gift matters most in Korean school culture. Showing support through these simple actions helps make ceremonies more memorable for everyone involved.

 

🌼 Gift & Message Phrases in Real Use

Korean	Romanization	Meaning
꽃	kkot	Flower
수고했어	sugohaesseo	You did well
맛있는 거 사 먹어	masinneun geo sa meogeo	Go buy something delicious
새로운 학교 생활 기대돼	saerowoon hakgyo saenghwal gidaedwae	I’m looking forward to your new school life
선생님 덕분에 많이 배웠어요	seonsaengnim deokbune mani baewosseoyo	I learned a lot thanks to you

 

🎎 Cultural Etiquette for Ceremonies in Korea

In Korean culture, ceremonies like graduation (졸업식 / joreopsik) and entrance (입학식 / iphaksik) are treated as formal events — even at a young age. Attending one isn’t just about showing up; it's also about behaving respectfully, dressing appropriately, and understanding unspoken rules.

 

Dress code matters. Most people wear tidy, semi-formal clothes. For students, school uniforms are usually required. Parents often dress in neat casual or even suits. Overdressing is rare, but so is underdressing — it’s best to avoid ripped jeans, graphic t-shirts, or anything too flashy.

 

Punctuality is essential. Korean ceremonies are scheduled tightly, and arriving late might mean missing the most important parts — like name announcements, speeches, or the group photo. It’s common for families to arrive early to secure good seats and take pictures in front of school signs.

 

Photos are a big part of the day. There’s usually a designated area for commemorative shots — in front of the school sign, a photo wall, or near flower displays. When taking photos, it’s polite to take turns, avoid blocking others, and say “죄송합니다” (joesonghamnida / excuse me) when stepping into or out of a crowd.

 

Silence during speeches is expected. Whether it's the principal, a guest speaker, or a student representative, people listen respectfully. Whispering, using your phone, or moving around during this time is considered rude — even for young students.

 

After the ceremony, people often mingle outside or take part in a casual celebration. This could be lunch with family, taking more photos, or even just chatting with classmates one last time. At university graduations, it’s common for friends to take funny photos with signs or balloons and give playful gifts like headbands or mini bouquets.

 

Teachers are usually approached respectfully, even in casual settings. If you want to say thank you, a simple bow and a short message like “감사합니다, 선생님!” (gamsahamnida, seonsaengnim! / Thank you, teacher!) is more than enough. Physical gifts may be avoided due to school policies.

 

Cleanliness is also observed. After all the fun and pictures, students or family members often help clean up programs, confetti, or seating areas — especially in elementary and middle schools. It shows appreciation and responsibility, values that Korean schools emphasize.

 

If you’re a foreigner invited to a ceremony, showing interest and adapting to these small courtesies will leave a great impression. Koreans appreciate when someone tries to understand and respect their traditions — even if you don’t speak the language perfectly.

 

🎓 Real Phrases from Ceremony Etiquette Section

Korean	Romanization	Meaning
죄송합니다	joesonghamnida	Excuse me
감사합니다, 선생님!	gamsahamnida, seonsaengnim!	Thank you, teacher!

 

🎤 Student Speeches and What to Say in Korean

In both graduation and entrance ceremonies in Korea, student speeches play a key role. Whether it's the top graduate delivering final remarks or a freshman representative welcoming their peers, these moments are filled with emotion, gratitude, and inspiration.

 

Many Korean schools select one or two students to speak during the ceremony. These speeches are often prepared with the help of teachers, and they follow a respectful and emotional tone. Knowing how to construct a basic Korean speech can be a huge plus for learners who want to understand cultural nuance and practice formal language.

 

Here’s a breakdown of common elements in Korean student speeches and useful expressions:

 

1. Greeting the audience
"안녕하십니까?" (annyeonghasimnikka?) – A formal “Hello everyone,” used at the beginning of any formal speech.

 

2. Stating your name and position
"저는 졸업생 대표, 김하늘입니다." (jeoneun joreopsaeng daepyo, Kim Haneur-imnida.) – “I’m Kim Haneul, the student representative.”

 

3. Expressing gratitude
"그동안 가르쳐주신 선생님들께 진심으로 감사드립니다." (geudongan gareuchyeojusin seonsaengnimdeul-kke jinsimeuro gamsadeurimnida.) – “I sincerely thank all the teachers who have guided us.”

 

4. Sharing feelings and experiences
"이 순간이 오기까지 많은 노력이 있었습니다." (i sungani ogikkaji maneun noryeogi isseotsseumnida.) – “It took a lot of effort to reach this moment.”

 

5. Offering encouragement
"여러분의 앞날에 축복이 가득하길 바랍니다." (yeoreobun-ui apnarae chukboki gadeuk-hagil baramnida.) – “I wish you all the best in your future.”

 

6. Ending politely
"감사합니다." (gamsahamnida) – The respectful way to end a speech in almost any setting.

 

These phrases follow a very formal structure, which is typical in Korean school settings. Even if you’re not giving a speech, recognizing these expressions can help you better understand what's happening during the ceremony. It’s also a great way to practice high-level Korean sentence construction and honorifics.

 

In some schools, students even write their own speeches and practice them like a performance. Delivery, posture, and even how long to bow are part of the preparation. It’s not just what you say — it’s how you say it that matters in Korean culture.

 

So next time you hear a student give a speech at a ceremony, try to listen for phrases like "감사드립니다" or "여러분." They are great markers of respectful tone and can become useful tools in your own language journey.

 

🎤 Key Korean Speech Expressions

Korean	Romanization	Meaning
안녕하십니까?	annyeonghasimnikka?	Hello everyone (formal)
저는 졸업생 대표, 김하늘입니다.	jeoneun joreopsaeng daepyo, Kim Haneur-imnida.	I am Kim Haneul, student representative.
진심으로 감사드립니다.	jinsimeuro gamsadeurimnida.	I sincerely thank you.
이 순간이 오기까지 많은 노력이 있었습니다.	i sungani ogikkaji maneun noryeogi isseotsseumnida.	It took a lot of effort to reach this moment.
앞날에 축복이 가득하길 바랍니다.	apnarae chukboki gadeuk-hagil baramnida.	Wishing you blessings in your future.

 

📌 FAQ: Korean Graduation & Entrance Ceremonies

Q1. How do I say “Congratulations on your graduation” in Korean?

A1. "졸업 축하해!" (joreop chukhahae!) is casual. In formal situations, use "졸업을 진심으로 축하드립니다." (joreobeul jinsimeuro chukhadeurimnida).

 

Q2. What’s the most common phrase during entrance ceremonies?

A2. "입학을 축하합니다!" (iphageul chukhahamnida!) is the standard formal greeting at such events.

 

Q3. How do you say “first day of school” in Korean?

A3. "첫 등교" (cheot deunggyo) means “first day of school,” especially used by students starting a new year or school.

 

Q4. What do students usually wear for graduation?

A4. Students typically wear uniforms or neat outfits. This is called "단정한 복장" (danjeonghan bokjang).

 

Q5. Are parents allowed to attend ceremonies?

A5. Yes! Parents often attend to take photos. In Korean: "입학식/졸업식에 부모님 참석" (iphaksik/joreopsike bumonim chamseok).

 

Q6. What is “homeroom teacher” in Korean?

A6. It’s "담임 선생님" (damim seonsaengnim), used in both elementary and secondary schools.

 

Q7. Can I give gifts to teachers?

A7. Small gifts are appreciated, especially hand-written notes. Saying "감사합니다" (gamsahamnida) with sincerity goes a long way.

 

Q8. How do you say “This is a new beginning” in Korean?

A8. "새로운 출발을 축하합니다!" (saeroun chulbareul chukhahamnida!) is a formal and natural expression often heard at ceremonies.

 

Q9. What should I say when giving a speech?

A9. Open with "안녕하십니까?" (annyeonghasimnikka?) and end with "감사합니다." (gamsahamnida). Use formal tone throughout.

 

Q10. How do Korean schools start the entrance ceremony?

A10. Typically with the national anthem: "애국가 제창" (aegukga jechang), followed by speeches from staff and students.

 

Q11. How do you say “I’m nervous” before a ceremony?

A11. "떨려요." (tteollyeoyo) means “I’m nervous.” You can also say "긴장돼요." (ginjangdwaeyo).

 

Q12. What does “학사모” mean?

A12. "학사모" (haksamo) is the Korean word for a graduation cap (mortarboard).

 

Q13. What’s the Korean word for diploma?

A13. "졸업장" (joreopjang) is used for “diploma” or “graduation certificate.”

 

Q14. How do you say “I’m proud of you” in Korean?

A14. "자랑스러워." (jarangseureowo) is casual, and "정말 자랑스럽습니다." (jeongmal jarangseureopseumnida) is formal.

 

Q15. What’s a common way to encourage a new student?

A15. "화이팅!" (hwaiting!) or "열심히 해!" (yeolsimhi hae!) both mean “You can do it!”

 

Q16. What do teachers usually say at graduation?

A16. Teachers often say "앞으로도 멋진 길을 가길 바랍니다." (apeurodo meotjin gireul gagil baramnida) – “I hope you walk a wonderful path ahead.”

 

Q17. Can I say “Good luck” in Korean?

A17. Yes! Say "행운을 빌어요." (haenguneul bireoyo) or formally, "행운을 빕니다." (haenguneul bimnida).

 

Q18. How do I ask “What’s your homeroom?” in Korean?

A18. Ask: "몇 반이야?" (myeot ban-iya?) for casual or "몇 반이에요?" (myeot ban-ieyo?) for polite speech.

 

Q19. What do students say when receiving a diploma?

A19. Most students bow and say "감사합니다." (gamsahamnida) to the principal or teacher.

 

Q20. How do you say “Let’s take a photo together” in Korean?

A20. "같이 사진 찍자!" (gachi sajin jjikja!) is casual; polite version is "같이 사진 찍어요!" (gachi sajin jjigeoyo!).

 

Q21. What do friends say to each other after graduation?

A21. They often say "연락하자!" (yeonrak haja!) — “Let’s keep in touch!” or "우리 자주 보자!" (uri jaju boja!) — “Let’s meet often!”

 

Q22. How do you say “farewell” formally in Korean?

A22. "안녕히 계세요." (annyeonghi gyeseyo) — if you're leaving. "안녕히 가세요." (annyeonghi gaseyo) — if the other person is leaving.

 

Q23. What’s the Korean word for “ceremony”?

A23. "식" (sik) means “ceremony” and is used in words like "졸업식" (joreopsik, graduation ceremony) and "입학식" (iphaksik, entrance ceremony).

 

Q24. What do students usually say to teachers on graduation day?

A24. "그동안 감사했습니다!" (geudongan gamsa-haetsseumnida!) — “Thank you for everything!” is a common heartfelt phrase.

 

Q25. How do you say “new semester” in Korean?

A25. It’s "새 학기" (sae hakgi). Students often say “새 학기 시작이다!” (sae hakgi sijak-ida) — “New semester begins!”

 

Q26. What’s a funny thing students might say at graduation?

A26. "이제 진짜 사회인이야?" (ije jinjja sahoe-in-iya?) — “Am I really part of society now?” often said jokingly among friends.

 

Q27. Can I say “It was a great memory” in Korean?

A27. Yes! "좋은 추억이었어." (joeun chueok-ieosseo) — casual or "좋은 추억이었습니다." (joeun chueok-ieotsseumnida) — formal.

 

Q28. How do I ask someone when they graduate?

A28. Say "언제 졸업해?" (eonje joreophae?) — casual or "언제 졸업하세요?" (eonje joreophaseyo?) — polite.

 

Q29. What’s a common compliment for graduates?

A29. "고생 많았어!" (gosaeng manasseo!) — “You worked so hard!” is warm and encouraging.

 

Q30. How do you say “I’ll miss you” in Korean?

A30. "보고 싶을 거야." (bogo sipeul geoya) — casual. "보고 싶겠습니다." (bogo sipgetseumnida) — formal.

 

Disclaimer: This blog post is intended for educational and cultural learning purposes only. All expressions and translations are based on standard Korean usage and may vary depending on context, region, or formality.