If you’ve ever dreamed of speaking natural Korean like a local in Seoul or Gyeonggi Province, you’re in the right place! This guide introduces the most commonly used polite expressions you'll hear every day in South Korea’s capital region.
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Politeness is the heart of Korean communication, especially in Seoul and the surrounding Gyeonggi area, where most media, education, and business interactions take place. The language spoken here is considered the neutral and standard form of Korean, making it the perfect foundation for all learners.
In this post, you'll learn how to say everyday phrases the polite way, using language that fits daily life—whether you're greeting someone at a café in Gangnam or asking for directions in Suwon. We’ll walk you through everything step by step, including how to pronounce each phrase with Romanization support!
👋 Polite Greetings in the Capital Region
In Seoul and Gyeonggi, greetings are not just a matter of manners—they are a reflection of respect, social awareness, and harmony. Saying hello properly can leave a lasting impression and open the door to smoother communication in daily life.
The most common and polite way to greet someone is "안녕하세요 (annyeonghaseyo)". This phrase literally means "Are you at peace?" and is used universally regardless of age, gender, or time of day. Whether you're entering a store or greeting your co-worker in the morning, it’s the go-to expression in the capital area.
When meeting someone for the first time, it’s customary to say "처음 뵙겠습니다 (cheoeum boepgetseumnida)", which means "Nice to meet you." This is especially appropriate in business or formal settings, such as interviews, orientations, or social events with elders.
In casual settings, younger people often wave while still using formal speech. Even friends in Seoul and Gyeonggi might say "안녕하세요" during first meetings until they mutually decide to speak more casually.
There’s also a polite way to say goodbye. "안녕히 가세요 (annyeonghi gaseyo)" is used when the other person is leaving. If you're the one leaving, you’d say "안녕히 계세요 (annyeonghi gyeseyo)". This distinction is considered basic knowledge among Koreans and shows your cultural awareness.
When answering the phone, it's common to say “여보세요 (yeoboseyo),” a neutral and polite phone greeting not used in person. People in Gyeonggi also use it exactly the same, especially for business or delivery calls.
In Korean culture, greetings often include a bow. Even a slight nod with eye contact is appreciated in Seoul and surrounding cities. In traditional or formal events like weddings or funerals, deeper bows show greater respect.
Younger people commonly greet elders with both a bow and verbal greeting. If you enter a house or workplace, it’s polite to greet everyone—even if they are strangers. Skipping greetings might come off as distant or even rude.
Some locals from Seoul may shorten greetings to “안녕 (annyeong)” with close friends or peers, but this is only for informal situations. For language learners, sticking to polite versions builds trust and prevents awkwardness.
Using the right greeting in the right context is not just about being polite—it’s about showing that you understand Korean society and want to be part of it. These subtle choices carry a lot of weight in everyday life.
📋 Greeting Expressions Table
| Korean | Romanization | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 안녕하세요 | annyeonghaseyo | Hello (formal) |
| 처음 뵙겠습니다 | cheoeum boepgetseumnida | Nice to meet you |
| 안녕히 가세요 | annyeonghi gaseyo | Goodbye (to someone leaving) |
| 안녕히 계세요 | annyeonghi gyeseyo | Goodbye (when you’re leaving) |
| 여보세요 | yeoboseyo | Hello (on the phone) |
Now that you’ve mastered greetings, you're ready to move forward with polite questions—the key to navigating conversations like a Seoul local!
❓ Asking Questions Politely
In Korea’s capital region, asking questions the right way is just as important as the answers themselves. Whether you’re requesting directions, making a purchase, or speaking with someone older, tone and formality matter.
A common and polite way to begin a question is by using “실례합니다 (sillyehamnida)”, meaning “Excuse me.” It prepares the listener for a respectful inquiry, and is often used before asking something in public, like at a subway station or in a cafe.
When asking for help, Seoulites often say “질문 좀 드려도 될까요? (jilmun jom deuryeodo doelkkayo?)” which means “May I ask a question?” This phrasing is gentle and respectful, especially when approaching strangers or employees.
To ask “Where is...” you can say “...어디에 있어요? (...eodie isseoyo?)”. For instance, “화장실 어디에 있어요?” means “Where is the restroom?” Using this with a soft tone and slight bow shows that you understand social etiquette in the region.
For yes-or-no questions, the polite structure ends with “~세요?” or “~입니까?”. For example: “시간 있으세요? (sigan isseuseyo?)” means “Do you have time?” and is common in daily conversation across Seoul and Gyeonggi.
There’s a difference in nuance between casual and polite forms. While “뭐야? (mwoya?)” is direct and casual, “무엇입니까? (mueosipnikka?)” is formal and proper. In public or new environments, always use the polite variation.
When you ask something that might be slightly sensitive or bothersome, people often add “죄송하지만 (joesonghajiman)” meaning “I’m sorry, but…” This softens the request and is considered classy and courteous in Seoul speech.
For those learning Korean, these expressions can make conversations smoother and help avoid awkward silences or misunderstandings. Locals appreciate when foreigners make an effort to speak clearly and respectfully.
In places like subway stations, libraries, and hospitals in Gyeonggi, polite phrasing becomes even more important. Short but respectful expressions like “질문 있어요 (jilmun isseoyo)” are better than overly casual questions.
I remember once in Ilsan, I asked a bus driver for help using formal speech. His surprised smile reminded me that kindness in language really breaks down barriers.
If you're not sure what to say, starting with “실례합니다 (sillyehamnida)” followed by a pause gives you a moment to think. Many Koreans will understand that you're learning and give you time to finish.
Adding “~주세요 (juseyo)” at the end of a question is another way to soften it. For example, “설명해 주세요 (seolmyeonghae juseyo)” means “Please explain.” It’s widely used in Seoul classrooms and offices.
Remember, polite Korean isn't just about grammar—it's about connecting with people respectfully. These little touches show that you're not only learning the language, but also the culture that shapes it.
📋 Polite Questions Table
| Korean | Romanization | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 실례합니다 | sillyehamnida | Excuse me |
| 질문 좀 드려도 될까요? | jilmun jom deuryeodo doelkkayo? | May I ask a question? |
| 어디에 있어요? | eodie isseoyo? | Where is it? |
| 시간 있으세요? | sigan isseuseyo? | Do you have time? |
| 죄송하지만 | joesonghajiman | I’m sorry, but... |
Now that you’ve learned how to ask questions politely, you’re ready to handle real-life situations like shopping in Seoul’s vibrant markets or Gyeonggi’s cozy stores!
🛍 Shopping & Paying Respectfully
Shopping in Korea is more than just exchanging money—it's also a chance to connect with the culture through polite interactions. Especially in Seoul and Gyeonggi, shoppers are expected to maintain a respectful tone, even in casual stores.
When entering a shop, it’s polite to acknowledge the staff with a simple nod or by saying “안녕하세요 (annyeonghaseyo)” with a smile. Many store clerks will greet you first, and responding warmly makes the experience better for both sides.
To ask how much something is, say “이거 얼마예요? (igeo eolmayeyo?)”. This phrase is commonly used in street markets, clothing shops, and cafes. You can point at the item while saying it politely.
If you want to buy something, using “주세요 (juseyo)” is essential. For example, “이거 주세요 (igeo juseyo)” means “I’ll take this, please.” It’s short, polite, and used every day across the capital region by both locals and tourists.
Sometimes, the cashier might ask “현금이세요? 카드세요? (hyeongeum-iseyo? kadeu-seyo?)” meaning “Cash or card?” You can reply with “카드요 (kadeu-yo)” or “현금이요 (hyeongeum-iyo).” Ending with “요” softens the tone.
It’s also polite to say “감사합니다 (gamsahamnida)” after completing your purchase. Even small gestures like this can make workers feel appreciated and respected, especially in small family-run stores in Gyeonggi.
If you want to try something on, say “입어봐도 돼요? (ibeobwado dwaeyo?)” which means “May I try this on?” It’s respectful and useful in clothing shops throughout places like Hongdae or Bundang.
Sometimes, you might want to look around without buying. In that case, politely say “그냥 보고 있어요 (geunyang bogo isseoyo)” meaning “I’m just looking.” Saying it nicely ensures staff won’t pressure you to buy.
Haggling isn’t common in malls or franchises, but in traditional markets like Namdaemun or Suwon’s Paldalmun, you might hear “좀 깎아 주세요 (jom kkakka juseyo)” meaning “Please give me a discount.” Use it with a smile to keep it friendly.
Receipts are usually given by default, but if you need one, you can ask “영수증 주세요 (yeongsujeung juseyo).” In Gyeonggi’s suburban areas, especially in small eateries or convenience stores, it might be printed only when requested.
Shopping in Korea isn’t just a transaction—it’s a social interaction. Your tone, expressions, and respect for the staff can turn a simple purchase into a positive cultural exchange.
📋 Shopping Expressions Table
| Korean | Romanization | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 이거 얼마예요? | igeo eolmayeyo? | How much is this? |
| 이거 주세요 | igeo juseyo | Please give me this |
| 현금이요 / 카드요 | hyeongeum-iyo / kadeu-yo | Cash / Card |
| 입어봐도 돼요? | ibeobwado dwaeyo? | Can I try it on? |
| 좀 깎아 주세요 | jom kkakka juseyo | Please give me a discount |
You’re now equipped to shop and pay with confidence and respect, just like a local! Up next: how to ask for directions in the capital region without sounding like a lost tourist.
🧭 Getting Around Seoul & Gyeonggi Politely
Navigating the capital region of Korea means more than just finding the right train or bus—it’s also about how you interact with people along the way. From Seoul’s crowded stations to Gyeonggi’s suburban bus stops, knowing the right expressions helps you move confidently and politely.
If you need directions, the most useful phrase is “...어디예요? (...eodiyeyo?)” which means “Where is...?” For example, “강남역 어디예요? (Gangnam-yeok eodiyeyo?)” is a respectful and clear way to ask where the Gangnam Station is.
To get someone’s attention politely, especially in busy places like subway platforms, say “저기요 (jeogiyo)” which is similar to “Excuse me.” It’s neutral and safe for any age or situation, whether you’re in Seoul Station or Yongin Terminal.
If you want to know how to get somewhere, ask “...어떻게 가요? (...eotteoke gayo?)” meaning “How do I get to...?” For example, “수원까지 어떻게 가요? (Suwon-kkaji eotteoke gayo?)” is commonly used by travelers and new residents alike.
In Seoul’s metro, it’s polite to speak softly and avoid shouting across train cars. If you ask someone for help, ending with “~주세요 (juseyo)” like “설명해 주세요 (seolmyeonghae juseyo)” shows that you’re being respectful.
In taxis, you can say “이 주소로 가 주세요 (i jusoro ga juseyo)” to mean “Please go to this address.” It’s short, polite, and efficient—perfect for city travel. Drivers in Gyeonggi may not speak English well, so Korean phrases are extra helpful.
Buses in the Gyeonggi area often don’t announce stops in English. Saying “다음 정류장에서 내려 주세요 (daeum jeongryujang-eseo naeryeo juseyo)” meaning “Please let me off at the next stop” can save you confusion.
If you're running late or lost, a polite way to ask for help is “길을 잃었어요 (gireul ilheosseoyo)” — “I’m lost.” Pair this with a smile and locals will often go out of their way to assist you.
Transportation etiquette also includes waiting in line, giving up your seat for the elderly, and keeping volume low. These behaviors, alongside your polite words, complete the picture of cultural respect.
In cities like Suji or Uijeongbu, where things move a bit slower, politeness is even more appreciated. Using gentle tone and phrases will often earn you a thank-you nod or friendly smile in return.
By learning how to politely ask for directions or give simple transportation-related requests, you make navigating Korea not only easier—but also more pleasant for everyone around you.
📋 Transportation Expressions Table
| Korean | Romanization | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| ...어디예요? | ...eodiyeyo? | Where is ...? |
| 저기요 | jeogiyo | Excuse me |
| ...어떻게 가요? | ...eotteoke gayo? | How do I get to...? |
| 이 주소로 가 주세요 | i jusoro ga juseyo | Please go to this address |
| 길을 잃었어요 | gireul ilheosseoyo | I’m lost |
Great job! You're now ready to move around Seoul and Gyeonggi smoothly—and politely. Next, let’s learn how to eat out in style with proper Korean table manners!
🍽 Dining Out with Proper Korean Etiquette
Eating out in Seoul and Gyeonggi is not just about food—it’s a deeply social activity with unspoken rules. Whether you’re grabbing barbecue in Hongdae or enjoying noodles in Suwon, using polite language makes your dining experience smoother and more respectful.
When entering a restaurant, staff usually greet you with a warm “어서 오세요 (eoseo oseyo),” meaning “Welcome.” A simple nod or smile in response, or repeating “안녕하세요 (annyeonghaseyo)” is a good way to return the gesture politely.
After being seated, you’ll often hear “주문하시겠어요? (jumun hasigesseoyo?)” meaning “Are you ready to order?” If you need more time, say “조금만 더 볼게요 (jogeumman deo bolgeyo)” — “I’ll look a little more, please.”
To call a waiter, many Koreans say “저기요 (jeogiyo)” but adding “죄송합니다 (joesonghamnida)” first is extra polite. For example: “죄송합니다, 주문할게요 (joesonghamnida, jumunhalgeyo)” — “Excuse me, I’d like to order.”
When ordering food, you can use “주세요 (juseyo)” after the menu item: “불고기 주세요 (bulgogi juseyo)” means “Please give me bulgogi.” This is the most standard and respectful way to request food.
If you want a recommendation, asking “뭐가 맛있어요? (mwoga masisseoyo?)” meaning “What’s good here?” shows curiosity while remaining polite. Servers often appreciate this and may suggest a house specialty.
During the meal, saying “잘 먹겠습니다 (jal meokgetseumnida)” before eating means “I will eat well.” It’s a form of appreciation toward whoever prepared or served the food. After the meal, say “잘 먹었습니다 (jal meogeosseumnida)” to show thanks.
When asking for more side dishes, use “반찬 좀 더 주세요 (banchan jom deo juseyo).” In most places, especially in Gyeonggi’s local diners, refills are free and expected—just ask nicely.
To ask for water, say “물 좀 주세요 (mul jom juseyo).” It’s polite and commonly heard in both high-end restaurants in Seoul and casual spots near universities like Korea University or Ajou University.
At the end of the meal, instead of asking “Check please,” say “계산서 주세요 (gyesanseo juseyo)” or “계산할게요 (gyesanhalgeyo),” both polite ways to request the bill. Hand gestures are usually not needed.
Understanding polite dining language helps you avoid cultural missteps and makes locals feel more comfortable dining with you. It’s one of the easiest ways to blend in like a Seoulite!
📋 Dining Etiquette Table
| Korean | Romanization | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 어서 오세요 | eoseo oseyo | Welcome |
| 불고기 주세요 | bulgogi juseyo | Please give me bulgogi |
| 잘 먹겠습니다 | jal meokgetseumnida | I will eat well |
| 반찬 좀 더 주세요 | banchan jom deo juseyo | Please give me more side dishes |
| 계산서 주세요 | gyesanseo juseyo | Check, please |
You're now table-ready! Next, let’s explore how to express gratitude and respond graciously in everyday conversations in Seoul and Gyeonggi. 🤝
🙏 Thanking and Responding Graciously
Gratitude is a central part of Korean social life, and knowing how to express it politely makes a huge difference in how locals perceive you. Whether in Seoul’s business districts or Gyeonggi’s residential towns, saying thank you the right way helps build trust and kindness.
The most standard way to say thank you is “감사합니다 (gamsahamnida)”. It’s used in nearly all polite situations—from thanking a bus driver in Bucheon to appreciating a colleague’s help in Gangnam.
A slightly more casual yet still respectful version is “고마워요 (gomawoyo).” This is often used between peers, service staff, or when you're thanking someone slightly younger in Seoul cafés or Gyeonggi shops.
When someone thanks you, replying with “아니에요 (anieyo)” — meaning “It’s nothing” — is a humble way to respond. It’s more polite than simply saying “no problem” and is used frequently in daily conversations.
If someone does something kind, you might say “정말 고마워요 (jeongmal gomawoyo)” to emphasize deeper appreciation. People in Gyeonggi’s smaller communities especially value warm and sincere tones.
To show gratitude for a favor, like someone holding the door open or offering help, many Koreans say “도와주셔서 감사합니다 (dowajusyeoseo gamsahamnida)” — “Thank you for helping me.” It’s formal and polite.
Responding with grace is just as important. “천만에요 (cheonmaneyo)” is a phrase meaning “You’re welcome,” but it’s somewhat formal and rarely used in speech. More natural is just a smile with “아니에요.”
When apologizing and thanking at the same time, such as being late or causing trouble, say “죄송합니다, 감사합니다 (joesonghamnida, gamsahamnida).” This dual expression shows accountability and respect.
In business contexts, such as meetings or presentations in Seoul, ending with “감사드립니다 (gamsadeurimnida)” adds an extra layer of formality. It’s a higher-level phrase used in speeches and corporate emails.
I once thanked a street vendor in Yongin with a cheerful “감사합니다!” and she responded with “많이 파세요 (mani paseyo),” wishing me to buy more. That simple interaction turned into a warm moment of connection.
Being thankful is more than good manners in Korea—it’s how people stay connected. When you express gratitude sincerely, you’re not just speaking Korean. You’re participating in Korean life.
📋 Gratitude Expressions Table
| Korean | Romanization | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 감사합니다 | gamsahamnida | Thank you |
| 고마워요 | gomawoyo | Thanks (polite) |
| 아니에요 | anieyo | It’s nothing |
| 도와주셔서 감사합니다 | dowajusyeoseo gamsahamnida | Thank you for helping |
| 감사드립니다 | gamsadeurimnida | Thank you (formal/business) |
You're now fully equipped with polite Korean expressions used in everyday life across Seoul and Gyeonggi! 🎉 Let's wrap up with 30 essential FAQs that many learners ask next.
❓ FAQ
Q1. How do I say hello politely in Korean?
A1. Say “안녕하세요 (annyeonghaseyo)” — it's the most common formal greeting in Seoul and Gyeonggi.
Q2. What should I say before eating?
A2. “잘 먹겠습니다 (jal meokgetseumnida)” is used to show appreciation before meals.
Q3. How do I ask for help politely?
A3. Use “도와주세요 (dowajuseyo)” or “질문 좀 드려도 될까요? (jilmun jom deuryeodo doelkkayo?)” for respectful tone.
Q4. What's a polite way to say goodbye?
A4. Say “안녕히 계세요 (annyeonghi gyeseyo)” if you are leaving, or “안녕히 가세요 (annyeonghi gaseyo)” if they are.
Q5. Is bowing important when greeting?
A5. Yes! Even a small head nod shows respect, especially in Seoul and Gyeonggi culture.
Q6. How do I say “thank you” politely?
A6. “감사합니다 (gamsahamnida)” is the most widely used polite expression for thanks.
Q7. Can I say “저기요” in a restaurant?
A7. Absolutely. “저기요 (jeogiyo)” is a polite way to call staff, just keep your tone gentle.
Q8. What do I say when I’m lost?
A8. Say “길을 잃었어요 (gireul ilheosseoyo)” which means “I’m lost.” Most people will help kindly.
Q9. How do I ask where the bathroom is?
A9. Ask “화장실 어디예요? (hwajangsil eodiyeyo?)” – polite and clear!
Q10. What if I need a receipt?
A10. Say “영수증 주세요 (yeongsujeung juseyo)” when paying at a shop or restaurant.
Q11. How do I say “I’m just looking” when shopping?
A11. “그냥 보고 있어요 (geunyang bogo isseoyo)” is a polite way to express that.
Q12. Is it rude to speak informally to strangers?
A12. Yes. Always start with formal speech unless invited otherwise.
Q13. How do I say “Excuse me” to pass by someone?
A13. Use “실례합니다 (sillyehamnida)” for formal settings or crowded places.
Q14. Can I ask for a recommendation?
A14. Sure! “뭐가 맛있어요? (mwoga masisseoyo?)” is a friendly way to ask at restaurants.
Q15. What’s the difference between “고마워요” and “감사합니다”?
A15. Both mean thank you. “고마워요 (gomawoyo)” is semi-formal, while “감사합니다 (gamsahamnida)” is more formal.
Q16. How do I politely say I don’t understand?
A16. Say “잘 모르겠어요 (jal moreugesseoyo)” – it’s respectful and honest.
Q17. How do I say “This, please” at a market?
A17. “이거 주세요 (igeo juseyo)” is short and polite.
Q18. Can I ask for water politely?
A18. Yes, just say “물 좀 주세요 (mul jom juseyo).”
Q19. What do Koreans say when someone leaves?
A19. “안녕히 가세요 (annyeonghi gaseyo)” is the polite way to say goodbye to someone leaving.
Q20. How do I sound more respectful in Korean?
A20. Add “~요 (~yo)” at the end of verbs and use phrases like “실례합니다 (sillyehamnida)” and “감사합니다 (gamsahamnida).”
Q21. What’s the polite way to say yes?
A21. “네 (ne)” is the standard polite yes. Use a gentle tone.
Q22. And how about saying no?
A22. “아니요 (aniyo)” is polite and commonly used.
Q23. How do I ask someone to wait?
A23. “잠시만요 (jamsimanyo)” means “Just a moment” — polite and common.
Q24. What if I accidentally bump into someone?
A24. Say “죄송합니다 (joesonghamnida)” quickly. It’s the polite way to apologize.
Q25. How do I ask if someone speaks English?
A25. “영어 하세요? (yeongeo haseyo?)” is polite, but always try Korean first if possible.
Q26. Can I say “미안해요” instead of “죄송합니다”?
A26. Yes, “미안해요 (mianhaeyo)” is less formal but still polite. “죄송합니다 (joesonghamnida)” is safer in formal settings.
Q27. Do I need to bow when thanking?
A27. A small head nod is enough in most daily situations.
Q28. What’s a polite way to refuse something?
A28. “괜찮아요 (gwaenchana-yo)” or “지금은 괜찮습니다 (jigeumeun gwaenchanseumnida)” are soft refusals.
Q29. How do I say “Have a good day” politely?
A29. You can say “좋은 하루 되세요 (joeun haru doeseyo).”
Q30. Where should I start if I’m completely new?
A30. Start with greetings, simple questions, and polite forms like “~요 (~yo)” and “주세요 (juseyo).” Then build from there!
Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only. All phrases and cultural notes are intended to help language learners better understand Korean communication, especially in the Seoul and Gyeonggi regions. It does not replace professional interpretation or academic instruction.
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