Lost in Conversation? How to Say “I Don’t Understand” in Korean Politely

You’re listening carefully… but the words just don’t make sense. Maybe the grammar feels unfamiliar. Maybe the sentence was too long. Or maybe your brain simply froze for a second. Every Korean learner reaches that moment where they think, “I don’t understand.”

The problem isn’t not understanding — that’s completely normal. The real challenge is knowing how to say it naturally and politely in Korean. Instead of staying silent or pretending to follow the conversation, you can use the right expressions to ask for clarification without sounding rude or embarrassed.

 

In this guide, you’ll learn how to say “I don’t understand” in Korean using phrases that are practical, respectful, and commonly used by native speakers. These expressions will help you stay confident and keep conversations moving forward — even when you’re confused.

🤔 Why Saying “I Don’t Understand” Matters in Korean

There’s a big difference between not hearing something and not understanding it. In the previous lesson, we focused on asking someone to repeat themselves. But what if you heard every word clearly… and still didn’t understand the meaning?

 

This is one of the most important survival skills in Korean conversation. Being able to say “I don’t understand” politely allows you to clarify meaning, ask for explanation, and avoid misunderstandings before they grow into bigger problems.

 

Imagine you’re in a Korean language class and your teacher explains a grammar rule quickly. You heard the explanation, but the structure feels confusing. In that moment, staying silent may seem easier — but it slows your progress. Speaking up helps you learn faster.

 

In Korean culture, communication values clarity and group harmony. If you pretend to understand and later make a mistake, it may create more confusion. Politely admitting confusion is seen as responsible, not embarrassing.

 

For example, if someone gives you directions and you’re unsure about one part, you might say “이해가 잘 안 돼요.” (ihaega jal an dwaeyo)
→ “I don’t understand it very well.”

 

This phrase softens the statement. Instead of bluntly saying “I don’t get it,” you’re saying “It doesn’t understand well,” which sounds more natural in Korean structure.

 

Another situation: You’re discussing weekend plans with a coworker, and they mention a cultural event you’ve never heard of. You can respond with “무슨 말인지 잘 모르겠어요.” (museun marinji jal moreugesseoyo)
→ “I’m not sure what you mean.”

 

Notice how both examples focus on your understanding, not on blaming the speaker. That’s a key cultural difference. Korean expressions often shift responsibility toward the listener in a humble way.

 

This humility makes conversations smoother. It signals that you’re trying and that you respect the other person’s effort to communicate.

 

Saying you don’t understand can also invite further explanation. Many Koreans will immediately rephrase their sentence in simpler terms or provide examples once they realize you’re confused.

 

If you’re traveling in Korea and someone explains transportation routes with complex vocabulary, saying nothing could lead you to the wrong place. Using a phrase that clearly expresses confusion prevents practical mistakes.

 

Confidence in language learning does not mean understanding everything — it means knowing how to respond when you don’t.

 

The ability to say “I don’t understand” naturally will make your Korean sound more mature and communicative. It keeps conversations honest and productive instead of awkward and silent.

 

📝 Essential Korean Phrases for Saying “I Don’t Understand”

Korean	Romanization	Meaning
이해가 잘 안 돼요	ihaega jal an dwaeyo	I don’t understand it very well
무슨 말인지 잘 모르겠어요	museun marinji jal moreugesseoyo	I’m not sure what you mean
잘 모르겠어요	jal moreugesseoyo	I’m not sure / I don’t really know
이해가 안 돼요	ihaega an dwaeyo	I don’t understand
무슨 뜻이에요?	museun tteusieyo?	What does it mean?

 

These phrases allow you to clearly express confusion without sounding rude. Practice saying them with a calm tone to maintain respectful and natural communication.

 

📌 The Basic Phrase: 이해 못 했어요 (ihae mot haesseoyo) vs 이해 안 돼요 (ihae an dwaeyo)

At first glance, both “이해 못 했어요” (ihae mot haesseoyo) and “이해 안 돼요” (ihae an dwaeyo) seem to mean the same thing: “I don’t understand.” However, they are used in slightly different situations and carry different emotional tones.

 

Understanding the nuance between these two phrases will instantly make your Korean sound more natural. Even though the translations look identical in English, the grammar structure and context change how they feel in conversation.

 

Let’s start with “이해 못 했어요” (ihae mot haesseoyo). This literally means “I was not able to understand.” The verb form 못 했어요 indicates inability in the past tense. It suggests that you tried, but failed to understand something specific.

 

For example, during a lecture you might say:
“방금 설명을 이해 못 했어요.” (banggeum seolmyeongeul ihae mot haesseoyo)
→ “I didn’t understand the explanation just now.”

 

This feels situational and focused on one moment. It implies effort. You’re saying the problem happened at a particular time.

 

Now look at “이해 안 돼요” (ihae an dwaeyo). This structure uses 안 되다, meaning “it doesn’t work” or “it doesn’t make sense.” Instead of focusing on your ability, it focuses on the situation not making sense to you.

 

For instance:
“이 문장이 이해 안 돼요.” (i munjangi ihae an dwaeyo)
→ “This sentence doesn’t make sense to me.”

 

Notice the shift in perspective. The first phrase highlights your difficulty. The second highlights the confusing content itself.

 

In daily conversation, “이해 안 돼요” is slightly more common because it feels softer. It sounds less like a personal failure and more like shared confusion.

 

If your coworker explains a complicated system, you might respond:
“아직 이해 안 돼요.” (ajik ihae an dwaeyo)
→ “I still don’t understand.”

 

On the other hand, if you missed a specific instruction in a cooking class, saying:
“그 부분을 이해 못 했어요.” (geu bubuneul ihae mot haesseoyo)
→ “I didn’t understand that part.”
feels more precise.

 

Choosing between these two depends on whether you want to emphasize the moment of failure or the ongoing confusion.

 

Both are polite forms ending in -요, making them safe for most conversations. As a beginner, mastering these two variations alone will cover most real-life situations when you need to admit confusion respectfully.

 

🔎 Understanding the Difference: 이해 못 했어요 vs 이해 안 돼요

Korean	Romanization	Meaning	Usage Nuance
이해 못 했어요	ihae mot haesseoyo	I didn’t understand	Focuses on a specific past moment of not understanding
이해 안 돼요	ihae an dwaeyo	I don’t understand / It doesn’t make sense	Emphasizes ongoing confusion or that something doesn’t make sense
아직 이해 안 돼요	ajik ihae an dwaeyo	I still don’t understand	Used when confusion continues after explanation
그 부분을 이해 못 했어요	geu bubuneul ihae mot haesseoyo	I didn’t understand that part	Points to a specific section or detail

 

If you’re unsure which one to use, choose based on context: Was it a single moment you missed, or does the idea still feel unclear? Making this distinction will help you sound more fluent and culturally aware.

 

🙇 More Polite Ways to Say You Don’t Understand

Sometimes simply saying “I don’t understand” is not enough. In formal situations — such as meetings, interviews, customer service conversations, or speaking with elders — you may need softer and more respectful alternatives.

 

Politeness in Korean is not just about grammar; it’s about emotional tone and social awareness. Choosing the right expression can completely change how your message is received.

 

One refined expression you can use is “제가 잘 이해하지 못한 것 같습니다.” (jega jal ihaehaji motan geot gatsseumnida)
→ “It seems that I did not understand well.”

 

Notice how this sentence includes 것 같습니다, meaning “it seems.” This structure softens the statement and avoids sounding blunt. It subtly suggests that the misunderstanding may be on your side.

 

Another very polite option is “설명을 조금 더 해 주실 수 있을까요?” (seolmyeongeul jogeum deo hae jusil su isseulkkayo?)
→ “Could you explain a bit more?”

 

This approach doesn’t even directly say you don’t understand. Instead, it invites further clarification in a respectful way. It works especially well in professional or academic settings.

 

In a business meeting, for example, if a colleague presents a proposal that feels unclear, you could say:
“제가 정확히 이해했는지 확실하지 않습니다.” (jega jeonghwakhi ihaehaenneunji hwaksilhaji anseumnida)
→ “I’m not sure if I understood correctly.”

 

This phrasing shows professionalism and humility. You are not rejecting the explanation — you are asking for confirmation.

 

Another soft alternative is:
“다시 한 번 설명해 주시면 감사하겠습니다.” (dasi han beon seolmyeonghae jusimyeon gamsahagetseumnida)
→ “I would appreciate it if you could explain it once more.”

 

The phrase 감사하겠습니다 adds gratitude in advance, making the request extremely polite.

 

In academic contexts, such as speaking with a professor, you might say:
“제가 개념을 완전히 이해하지 못했습니다.” (jega gaenyeomeul wanjeonhi ihaehaji mothaetsseumnida)
→ “I did not fully understand the concept.”

 

This sounds mature and responsible, especially when discussing complex ideas.

 

High-level polite expressions like these signal effort, respect, and professionalism. Even if your grammar isn’t perfect, using this structure shows cultural awareness.

 

When in doubt in formal settings, it’s always safer to choose a longer, softer expression. In Korean, longer sentences often feel more respectful than short, direct ones.

 

🏢 Formal & Polite Ways to Express Confusion

Korean	Romanization	Meaning	When to Use
제가 잘 이해하지 못한 것 같습니다	jega jal ihaehaji motan geot gatsseumnida	It seems I did not understand well	Formal meetings, presentations
설명을 조금 더 해 주실 수 있을까요?	seolmyeongeul jogeum deo hae jusil su isseulkkayo?	Could you explain a bit more?	Professional or academic settings
제가 정확히 이해했는지 확실하지 않습니다	jega jeonghwakhi ihaehaenneunji hwaksilhaji anseumnida	I’m not sure if I understood correctly	Business discussions
다시 한 번 설명해 주시면 감사하겠습니다	dasi han beon seolmyeonghae jusimyeon gamsahagetseumnida	I would appreciate it if you could explain again	Very formal situations
제가 개념을 완전히 이해하지 못했습니다	jega gaenyeomeul wanjeonhi ihaehaji mothaetsseumnida	I did not fully understand the concept	Academic explanations

 

Using longer and softer structures in formal settings shows maturity and respect. When speaking to professors, managers, or clients, these expressions create a professional impression while keeping communication clear.

 

😄 Casual Expressions Among Friends

When speaking with close friends, classmates, siblings, or people younger than you, the tone changes dramatically. Formal endings disappear, sentences become shorter, and emotional nuance becomes more direct.

 

Casual Korean is not just informal grammar — it reflects closeness and shared comfort. Using overly polite expressions in a relaxed setting can actually create distance.

 

A very common casual way to say “I don’t understand” is “이해 못 했어.” (ihae mot haesseo)
→ “I didn’t understand.”

 

Notice how the polite ending -요 is removed. This instantly shifts the tone into friendly territory.

 

Another natural expression is “무슨 말이야?” (museun mariya?)
→ “What do you mean?”

 

This phrase doesn’t directly say you don’t understand. Instead, it asks for clarification in a relaxed way. It’s extremely common in daily speech and text messages.

 

If a friend explains something complicated, you might respond with:
“아직도 잘 모르겠어.” (ajikdo jal moreugesseo)
→ “I still don’t really get it.”

 

Among very close friends, you’ll sometimes hear:
“이게 말이 돼?” (ige mari dwae?)
→ “Does that even make sense?”

 

This one carries emotion — surprise, disbelief, or playful confusion. Tone is everything here.

 

In group chats, people often shorten phrases even more. For example:
“이해 안 감.” (ihae an gam)
→ “Doesn’t make sense.” (slang form)

 

Slang versions like this should only be used with close friends. Using them in professional settings would sound immature.

 

Another casual reaction when confused is simply:
“엥?” (eng?)
→ “Huh?” (expressing confusion or surprise)

 

This is very common among younger speakers and often paired with laughter emojis online.

 

The key rule in casual speech is matching the relationship level. If the other person is using informal endings with you, it’s safe to mirror them. If not, stay polite.

 

Understanding casual confusion expressions helps you feel included in real Korean conversations. It makes your speech sound natural instead of textbook-perfect but distant.

 

💬 Casual Korean Expressions for Confusion

Korean	Romanization	Meaning	Tone / Usage
이해 못 했어	ihae mot haesseo	I didn’t understand	Casual, between close friends
무슨 말이야?	museun mariya?	What do you mean?	Friendly clarification request
아직도 잘 모르겠어	ajikdo jal moreugesseo	I still don’t really get it	Ongoing confusion among peers
이게 말이 돼?	ige mari dwae?	Does that make sense?	Expressing disbelief or surprise
이해 안 감	ihae an gam	Doesn’t make sense (slang)	Text message slang, very informal
엥?	eng?	Huh?	Light surprise or confusion

 

Casual expressions add warmth and natural flow to Korean conversations. The key is matching your tone to the relationship. When used correctly, these phrases make you sound relaxed and socially aware.

 

🗣️ How Native Speakers Express Confusion Naturally

Textbook Korean teaches you clear, structured sentences. Real-life Korean, however, is often softer, shorter, and shaped by tone. Native speakers rarely say “I don’t understand” in a rigid, textbook way.

 

Instead of directly stating confusion, they often hint at it. This subtlety keeps conversations smooth and socially balanced.

 

One very common natural phrase is:
“제가 잘 따라가지 못하겠어요.” (jega jal ttaragaji mothagetseoyo)
→ “I’m having trouble keeping up.”

 

This expression is often used in meetings, lectures, or fast discussions. Instead of saying “I don’t understand,” it focuses on pace and processing ability.

 

Another soft expression is:
“조금 헷갈려요.” (jogeum hetgallyeoyo)
→ “I’m a little confused.”

 

This phrase is extremely common and feels very natural. It reduces the emotional weight of confusion and sounds collaborative rather than negative.

 

In professional settings, someone might say:
“제가 놓친 부분이 있는 것 같습니다.” (jega nochin bubuni inneun geot gatsseumnida)
→ “It seems I may have missed something.”

 

Notice again how responsibility is gently placed on the speaker. Korean communication often prefers this humility-based framing.

 

During casual conversation, a native speaker may simply say:
“잠깐, 그게 무슨 의미야?” (jamkkan, geuge museun uimiya?)
→ “Wait, what does that mean?”

 

This keeps the flow natural and conversational rather than abrupt.

 

In study groups, you might hear:
“나 이 부분 좀 이해가 안 가.” (na i bubun jom ihaega an ga)
→ “I’m not quite getting this part.”

 

Native speakers frequently soften confusion with words like 조금 (a little) or 좀 (a bit). These small additions make a big difference in tone.

 

Another subtle expression is:
“설명이 조금 어려운 것 같아요.” (seolmyeongi jogeum eoryeoun geot gatayo)
→ “The explanation seems a bit difficult.”

 

Instead of saying “I don’t understand,” this shifts the focus to the explanation itself. It feels less confrontational.

 

The key to sounding natural in Korean is learning these indirect patterns. Direct statements exist, but softer phrasing builds smoother social harmony.

 

🎙️ How Koreans Naturally Show Confusion

Korean	Romanization	Meaning	Natural Tone
제가 잘 따라가지 못하겠어요	jega jal ttaragaji mothagetseoyo	I’m having trouble keeping up	Used in fast discussions or lectures
조금 헷갈려요	jogeum hetgallyeoyo	I’m a little confused	Soft and collaborative tone
제가 놓친 부분이 있는 것 같습니다	jega nochin bubuni inneun geot gatsseumnida	It seems I may have missed something	Professional humility expression
잠깐, 그게 무슨 의미야?	jamkkan, geuge museun uimiya?	Wait, what does that mean?	Casual clarification among peers
나 이 부분 좀 이해가 안 가	na i bubun jom ihaega an ga	I’m not quite getting this part	Friendly group discussion tone
설명이 조금 어려운 것 같아요	seolmyeongi jogeum eoryeoun geot gatayo	The explanation seems a bit difficult	Indirect and socially smooth

 

These patterns show that natural Korean conversation often softens confusion rather than stating it directly. Adding words like 조금 or framing confusion as a shared issue makes your speech sound more culturally fluent.

 

🎭 Practice Dialogues: Real Situations When You Don’t Understand

Knowing the phrases is one thing. Using them naturally in conversation is another. Below are realistic dialogue scenarios where you may need to say you don’t understand in Korean.

 

📌 Scene 1: In a Language Class

Teacher: “이 표현은 비유적인 의미로 사용돼요.” (i pyohyeoneun biyujeogin uimiro sayongdwaeyo)
→ “This expression is used figuratively.”

Student: “죄송하지만, 예를 하나 들어 주실 수 있나요?” (joesonghajiman, yereul hana deureo jusil su innayo?)
→ “Sorry, could you give an example?”

Teacher: “예를 들어, 이런 상황에서 써요.” (yereul deureo, ireon sanghwangeseo sseoyo)
→ “For example, you use it in this situation.”

 

📌 Scene 2: At Work

Manager: “이번 프로젝트는 기존 방식과 다르게 진행됩니다.” (ibeon peurojekteuneun gizon bangsikgwa dareuge jinhaengdoemnida)
→ “This project will proceed differently from the existing method.”

You: “차이점을 조금 더 구체적으로 말씀해 주시겠어요?” (chai jeomeul jogeum deo guchejeogeuro malsseumhae jusigesseoyo?)
→ “Could you explain the differences more specifically?”

Manager: “기존에는 외주를 줬지만, 이번에는 내부에서 처리합니다.” (gijoneneun oeju-reul jwotjiman, ibeoneneun naebu-eseo cheorihamnida)
→ “Previously we outsourced it, but this time we’ll handle it internally.”

 

📌 Scene 3: Hanging Out with Friends

Friend: “걔가 갑자기 연락을 끊었다니까?” (gyaega gapjagi yeollageul kkeunneotdanikka?)
→ “I told you, they suddenly cut off contact.”

You: “왜 그런 건데?” (wae geureon geonde?)
→ “Why would that be?”

Friend: “나도 이유는 정확히 몰라.” (nado iyuneun jeonghwakhi molla)
→ “I don’t know the exact reason either.”

 

📌 Scene 4: Watching a Korean Drama Together

Character: “이건 네가 감당해야 할 일이야.” (igeon nega gamdanghaeya hal iriya)
→ “This is something you have to handle.”

You: “감당하다가 무슨 뜻이야?” (gamdanghada-ga museun tteusiya?)
→ “What does ‘gamdanghada’ mean?”

Friend: “책임지고 처리한다는 뜻이야.” (chaegimjigo cheorihandaneun tteusiya)
→ “It means to take responsibility and deal with it.”

 

These dialogues show that expressing confusion doesn’t have to stop the conversation. Instead, it keeps communication active and collaborative.

 

When you respond naturally, people are usually happy to clarify. The key is choosing the right tone — formal when necessary, casual when appropriate, and always respectful.

 

🧩 Real-Life Confusion Expressions from Practice Dialogues

Korean	Romanization	Meaning	Situation
예를 하나 들어 주실 수 있나요?	yereul hana deureo jusil su innayo?	Could you give an example?	Classroom clarification
차이점을 조금 더 구체적으로 말씀해 주시겠어요?	chai jeomeul jogeum deo guchejeogeuro malsseumhae jusigesseoyo?	Could you explain the differences more specifically?	Workplace discussion
왜 그런 건데?	wae geureon geonde?	Why is that?	Casual conversation
감당하다가 무슨 뜻이야?	gamdanghada-ga museun tteusiya?	What does “gamdanghada” mean?	Vocabulary clarification
책임지고 처리한다는 뜻이야	chaegimjigo cheorihandaneun tteusiya	It means to take responsibility and handle it	Explaining meaning

 

These dialogue-based expressions show that confusion can be handled smoothly in any context — academic, professional, or casual. The more you practice these structures, the more natural your Korean interactions will feel.

 

❓ FAQ: 30 Common Questions

Q1. What is the most basic way to say “I don’t understand” in Korean?

A1. You can say “이해 안 돼요” (ihae an dwaeyo), meaning “I don’t understand.”

 

Q2. What’s the difference between 이해 못 했어요 and 이해 안 돼요?

A2. “이해 못 했어요” (ihae mot haesseoyo) refers to a specific past moment. “이해 안 돼요” (ihae an dwaeyo) suggests ongoing confusion.

 

Q3. Is it rude to say I don’t understand in Korea?

A3. No. When phrased politely, expressing confusion is considered responsible and respectful.

 

Q4. How can I sound softer when I’m confused?

A4. Use “조금 헷갈려요” (jogeum hetgallyeoyo), meaning “I’m a little confused.”

 

Q5. What’s a formal way to say I may have misunderstood?

A5. Say “제가 잘 이해하지 못한 것 같습니다” (jega jal ihaehaji motan geot gatsseumnida).

 

Q6. How do I ask for more explanation politely?

A6. Try “설명을 조금 더 해 주실 수 있을까요?” (seolmyeongeul jogeum deo hae jusil su isseulkkayo?).

 

Q7. Can I use casual forms with friends?

A7. Yes. “이해 못 했어” (ihae mot haesseo) works well among close friends.

 

Q8. What if I’m confused during a meeting?

A8. Use “제가 잘 따라가지 못하겠어요” (jega jal ttaragaji mothagetseoyo).

 

Q9. How do I say I might have missed something?

A9. Say “제가 놓친 부분이 있는 것 같습니다” (jega nochin bubuni inneun geot gatsseumnida).

 

Q10. Is it better to be direct or indirect?

A10. Indirect expressions often sound more natural in Korean culture.

 

Q11. How do I ask what something means?

A11. Use “무슨 뜻이에요?” (museun tteusieyo?).

 

Q12. What’s a slang way to say it doesn’t make sense?

A12. Among friends, “이해 안 감” (ihae an gam) is common in text.

 

Q13. How do I clarify vocabulary specifically?

A13. Ask “이 단어가 무슨 의미예요?” (i daneoga museun uimiyeyo?).

 

Q14. What if I’m still confused after explanation?

A14. You can say “아직 잘 모르겠어요” (ajik jal moreugesseoyo).

 

Q15. Is tone important?

A15. Yes. Even correct grammar can sound rude if the tone is harsh.

 

Q16. How do I say the explanation is difficult?

A16. Say “설명이 조금 어려운 것 같아요” (seolmyeongi jogeum eoryeoun geot gatayo).

 

Q17. Can I blame the explanation?

A17. It’s better to soften it and focus on your understanding.

 

Q18. What’s a good phrase in academic settings?

A18. “제가 개념을 완전히 이해하지 못했습니다” (jega gaenyeomeul wanjeonhi ihaehaji mothaetsseumnida).

 

Q19. Is saying “왜?” too direct?

A19. Alone, yes. It can sound abrupt depending on tone.

 

Q20. How do I ask for clarification gently?

A20. Try “조금 더 자세히 말씀해 주세요” (jogeum deo jasehi malsseumhae juseyo).

 

Q21. Should beginners memorize long sentences?

A21. Start with short polite forms, then expand gradually.

 

Q22. Is it okay to admit confusion?

A22. Absolutely. It improves communication and learning.

 

Q23. What if I only partially understand?

A23. Say “조금 이해했어요” (jogeum ihaehaesseoyo) — “I understood a little.”

 

Q24. How do I sound more natural?

A24. Add softeners like 조금 (jogeum) or 좀 (jom).

 

Q25. Can silence replace saying I don’t understand?

A25. Silence may cause confusion. It’s better to speak up politely.

 

Q26. What’s a safe phrase in any setting?

A26. “잘 이해가 안 됩니다” (jal ihaega an doemnida) is formal and safe.

 

Q27. How do I check if I understood correctly?

A27. Say “제가 이해한 게 맞나요?” (jega ihaehan ge mannayo?).

 

Q28. Is “헷갈려” informal?

A28. Yes. “헷갈려” (hetgallyeo) is casual and used with friends.

 

Q29. How do I sound more professional?

A29. Use -습니다 (-seumnida) endings for higher formality.

 

Q30. What’s the key to mastering these expressions?

A30. Practice real dialogues and pay attention to tone, not just grammar.