How to Start and End Korean Business Emails Politely (Without Sounding Awkward)

Writing business emails in Korean can feel overwhelming—especially when you're worried about sounding rude or too casual. The beginning and ending of your email carry the most weight, and they often decide how the rest of your message will be received.

How to Start and End Korean Business Emails Politely

This guide will teach you how to start and end Korean business emails politely, clearly, and naturally—just like native speakers do at work.

 

We’ll walk through respectful greetings (인사말 insamal), formal closing phrases (맺음말 maejeummal), and real-life examples used in Korean offices every day. Whether you’re writing to a team lead, HR, or a business partner, knowing the correct expressions will help you avoid awkwardness and build professional trust.

 

You'll not only learn what to say—but when and why to say it.

 

Let’s start with the most essential part: how to open your Korean business email the right way, no matter who you're writing to.

📝 Polite Korean Email Greetings

Starting a Korean business email with the right greeting (인사말, insamal) sets the tone for the entire message. In Korean corporate culture, formality and hierarchy are taken seriously, and choosing the wrong phrase—even slightly—can make your message feel cold or disrespectful.

 

Unlike in English, where a simple "Hi" or "Dear" works across most situations, Korean greetings change depending on the time of day, your relationship with the recipient, and the context of the conversation. These greetings are not just polite add-ons—they’re essential cues that signal deference and respect.

 

The most universally accepted greeting for business emails is "안녕하세요" (annyeong haseyo, "Hello"), but this can feel too casual in highly formal environments. A more refined option would be "안녕하십니까" (annyeong hasimnikka), especially when writing to clients, executives, or unfamiliar contacts.

 

Time-based greetings are also widely used. For instance, "좋은 아침입니다" (joeun achimimnida, "Good morning") is common when sending emails early in the day, especially if it's the first contact of the day. Similarly, "좋은 하루 되세요" (joeun haru doeseyo, "Have a good day") may appear toward the end of the email or as a greeting when the focus is light and casual.

 

For recurring communications, many Korean professionals begin their emails with a phrase of appreciation like "항상 감사드립니다" (hangsang gamsadeurimnida, "Thank you always") or "늘 도움 주셔서 감사합니다" (neul doum jusyeoseo gamsahamnida, "Thank you for your continued support"). This instantly creates a warm and cooperative tone.

 

When following up or continuing an existing email thread, the greeting might include a reference to a previous message. For example, "지난 메일 잘 받았습니다" (jinan meil jal badatseumnida, "I received your last email well") shows continuity and attentiveness, which are both respected traits in Korean business culture.

 

Some greetings may include your name and title, especially in B2B introductions. 

For example, "OO회사 마케팅팀 김민준 대리입니다" (OO hoesa maketing tim Kim Minjun daeri imnida, "This is Assistant Manager Kim Minjun from the Marketing Team at OO Company"). Introducing yourself clearly before starting your message is seen as respectful and efficient.

 

Foreigners often overuse casual phrases like "안녕하세요" (annyeong haseyo) or mistakenly write greetings in overly direct forms, which can seem abrupt. I’ve seen cases where native Korean recipients quietly felt uncomfortable but didn’t say anything. This is why using standardized yet soft greetings is a safe strategy.

 

Even in internal emails among coworkers, it’s common to keep greetings polite. 

For instance, writing "수고 많으십니다" (sugo maneusimnida, "Thank you for your hard work") is a small yet impactful way to show appreciation at the start of a message. This helps maintain harmony and shows team spirit.

 

In my opinion, learning the rhythm and tone of Korean greetings was the turning point in my email writing. Once I got them right, I noticed faster responses and even compliments on how natural my emails sounded. That small shift changed how Korean colleagues interacted with me.

 

Here’s a table summarizing the most common and safe greetings you can use depending on your situation. These expressions are widely accepted and won’t make you sound robotic or overly formal.

 

📨 Common Korean Email Greetings

Korean Romanization Meaning
안녕하세요 annyeong haseyo Hello (polite)
안녕하십니까 annyeong hasimnikka Hello (formal)
좋은 아침입니다 joeun achimimnida Good morning
항상 감사드립니다 hangsang gamsadeurimnida Thank you always
수고 많으십니다 sugo maneusimnida Thank you for your hard work

 

You can mix and match these greetings depending on your comfort level and how formal the situation is. When in doubt, always choose the more polite option. Korean professionals deeply appreciate the effort to follow etiquette—even if it’s not perfect.

 

Next, let's look at how to finish your email with clarity and respect, so your message ends just as strong as it began.

 

📩 Effective Email Closings

Closing a Korean business email professionally is just as important as how you begin. While the greeting sets the tone, the final lines leave a lasting impression—and in many cases, they determine whether the recipient replies promptly or at all.

 

A well-chosen closing phrase shows respect, wraps up your message clearly, and signals the action you expect from the reader.

 

Korean closings often include appreciation, a brief hope for well-being, and sometimes a request. 

For example, phrases like "확인 부탁드립니다" (hwagin butak deurimnida, "Please confirm") or "검토 후 회신 부탁드립니다" (geomto hu hoeshin butak deurimnida, "Please review and reply") are clear, respectful, and frequently used in formal settings.

 

Just saying "Thanks" or "Best regards" in English may not be enough, especially in Korean workplace culture where email tone can imply your level of professionalism.

 

Another common mistake among non-native speakers is ending abruptly, without a formal goodbye or polite phrase. This can sound cold or dismissive, even if you didn’t mean it that way. That’s why using set expressions like "감사합니다" (gamsahamnida, "Thank you") or "좋은 하루 되세요" (joeun haru doeseyo, "Have a good day") is a safe and smart choice.

 

For more formal scenarios—especially when addressing unfamiliar clients or executives—closings like "항상 건강하시길 바랍니다" (hangsang geongang hasigil baramnida, "Wishing you continued health") or "도움 주셔서 감사합니다" (doum jusyeoseo gamsahamnida, "Thank you for your assistance") convey professionalism and warmth.

 

In internal company emails, coworkers often end with lighter closings such as "수고하세요" (sugo haseyo, "Keep up the good work") or "편한 하루 되세요" (pyeonhan haru doeseyo, "Have a relaxing day"). These phrases keep the relationship friendly while still maintaining a respectful tone.

 

Also, the structure of the ending matters. A typical professional closing in Korean may look like this: a final action phrase → expression of thanks → sender name and job title. 

For example:

"검토 후 회신 부탁드립니다. (geomto hu hoeshin butak deurimnida)
감사합니다. (gamsahamnida)
ABC회사 인사팀 김수진 드림 (ABC hoesa insatim Kim Sujin deurim)"

 

The word “드림” (deurim) literally means "offered humbly" and is used in formal closings under your name. It's the standard way to finish a formal email and should not be omitted when writing to a superior or external contact.

 

You can also adjust the tone depending on your relationship. For peers, you might use "올림" (ollim), which is slightly less formal but still polite. For example, "홍길동 올림" is often used in internal announcements or thank-you messages among colleagues.

 

In situations where you're applying for a job or making a request, it’s wise to use more deferential expressions like "잘 부탁드립니다" (jal butak deurimnida, "I sincerely ask for your support"). This shows that you're humble, aware of Korean hierarchy, and considerate of the recipient's time.

 

Let’s summarize the most essential Korean email closing phrases and when to use them. The table below gives you a clear starting point, whether you're emailing HR, a supervisor, or a teammate.

 

📮 Common Korean Email Closings

Korean Romanization Meaning
감사합니다 gamsahamnida Thank you
수고하세요 sugo haseyo Keep up the good work
좋은 하루 되세요 joeun haru doeseyo Have a good day
잘 부탁드립니다 jal butak deurimnida I sincerely ask for your support
김민수 드림 Kim Minsu deurim Sincerely (formal email ending)

 

Mastering email closings will give you more confidence and help you build stronger relationships in Korean professional settings.

 

Next, we’ll look at when to use these greetings and closings—based on timing, context, and who you’re writing to.

 

⏰ When and How to Use Greetings

Knowing how to start and end your email is important—but knowing when to use certain greetings can make all the difference in sounding natural and confident in Korean. In Korean work culture, timing and context aren't just important—they're essential for reading the room, even through a screen.

 

If you use a “Good morning” greeting at 5 p.m., it can make your email feel disconnected or copied. That’s why Korean professionals are very aware of greetings tied to time, day, and situation.

 

For emails sent before noon, a greeting like "좋은 아침입니다" (joeun achimimnida, "Good morning") is appreciated and shows that you're mindful of the workday start. For later hours, phrases like "남은 하루 잘 보내세요" (nameun haru jal bonaeseyo, "Have a good rest of the day") sound more appropriate.

 

When replying to emails after a long delay, it’s polite to acknowledge it. You might start with: "답장이 늦어 죄송합니다" (dapjangi neujeo joesonghamnida, "Sorry for the late reply"). It doesn’t just show etiquette—it rebuilds rapport in ongoing communication.

 

For Monday emails, a common opener is "한 주 잘 시작하셨나요?" (han ju jal sijak hasyeotnayo, "Did your week start off well?"). For Fridays, try "편안한 주말 보내시길 바랍니다" (pyeonanan jumal bonaesigil baramnida, "I hope you have a relaxing weekend").

 

These greetings go beyond language—they express shared rhythm, acknowledgment of busyness, and social intelligence.

 

When sending emails during holidays, you can include seasonal greetings. 

For example, before Chuseok: "풍성한 한가위 보내세요" (pungseonghan hangawi bonaeseyo, "Wishing you a bountiful Chuseok"). These are small touches that show you understand Korean culture beyond grammar books.

 

Avoid copying and pasting the same greeting across every email. Repetitive phrases can sound robotic, especially in Korean where nuance is valued over efficiency. Adjusting your greeting by time of day or relationship shows attention to detail and emotional intelligence.

 

Here’s one trick I learned: check the time stamp of the previous email you received. If the other person wrote at 8:00 a.m. and said “좋은 아침입니다,” it’s safe to mirror that in your reply—or switch to a time-appropriate version depending on when you respond.

 

Also, greetings in threaded email replies are often shortened or adjusted. Instead of repeating a full greeting like "안녕하십니까," many people simply begin with appreciation: "메일 잘 받았습니다" (meil jal badatseumnida, "I received your email well"). This keeps the flow smooth and avoids formality overload.

 

Let’s look at a table of greetings you can use in specific contexts—based on time, relationship, and message purpose.

 

🕐 Greeting Examples by Timing

Context Korean Romanization Meaning
Morning Email 좋은 아침입니다 joeun achimimnida Good morning
Afternoon Email 남은 하루 잘 보내세요 nameun haru jal bonaeseyo Have a great rest of your day
After Delay 답장이 늦어 죄송합니다 dapjangi neujeo joesonghamnida Sorry for the late reply
Friday Email 편안한 주말 되세요 pyeonanan jumal doeseyo Have a relaxing weekend
Holiday Season 풍성한 한가위 보내세요 pungseonghan hangawi bonaeseyo Happy Chuseok

 

Choosing the right greeting for the right moment is one of the easiest ways to build connection in Korean business communication. It says you care, you’re aware, and you belong.

 

Next up, we’ll explore tone—how to balance being polite without sounding distant or stiff in your email.

 

🎯 Maintaining a Respectful Tone

In Korean business emails, your tone can speak louder than your actual words. Even if your grammar is perfect, the overall feel of your message—its softness, respect, and humility—plays a huge role in how it's received. Getting the tone right is what separates a “textbook correct” email from one that sounds truly professional.

 

Respectful tone in Korean is achieved through a mix of formal verb endings, indirect language, and softening expressions that reflect humility.

 

The highest level of politeness is often used in business emails. For example, verb endings like "~습니다" (~seumnida) or "~드립니다" (~deurimnida) are essential. Avoid casual endings like "~요" (~yo) unless you’re very familiar with the recipient. Using “~요” to a supervisor may come across as careless, even if your message is positive.

 

Indirect language is also key. Instead of saying “I need the report,” a softer form would be “보고서를 보내주실 수 있을까요?” (bogoseoreul bonaejusil su isseulkkayo?, "Would you be able to send the report?"). This not only sounds more polite—it shows respect for the other person’s time and choice.

 

Humility is a big part of Korean communication. Rather than “I finished it,” you’d say, “완료했습니다” (wallyo haetseumnida, "It has been completed"). The subject 'I' is often omitted, keeping the tone focused on the work, not the sender.

 

Another trick is using buffer phrases to soften requests. For example, before asking for something, write “죄송하지만” (joesonghajiman, "I'm sorry, but") or “번거로우시겠지만” (beongeorousigessjiman, "I know it’s a hassle, but"). These are often used even when the request is reasonable.

 

Here’s a before-and-after example: 

Direct: 파일 주세요. (pail juseyo, "Give me the file.") 

Polite: 파일을 전달해주시면 감사하겠습니다. (paireul jeondalhaejusimyeon gamsahagetseumnida, "I’d appreciate it if you could send the file.")

 

This change in tone can completely transform how your message is perceived. What sounded like a command becomes a request—and what was plain becomes polished.

 

In addition, don’t forget title usage. Addressing someone with their title shows that you understand their role and status. For instance, saying “과장님” (gwajangnim, "Manager") or “팀장님” (timjangnim, "Team Leader") instead of just their name is expected in most Korean companies.

 

The tone you use is a reflection of how well you read the social structure. The more you adapt your email to show awareness of rank and relationship, the more professional your message will feel.

 

Let’s compare some common phrases in their neutral and respectful forms, so you can see exactly how to level up your tone.

 

🔎 Tone Upgrade Examples

Neutral Korean Upgraded Korean Romanization Meaning
보내주세요 전달해주시면 감사하겠습니다 jeondalhaejusimyeon gamsahagetseumnida Please send it
도와주세요 도움 주시면 감사하겠습니다 doum jusimyeon gamsahagetseumnida Please help
알겠습니다 확인하였습니다 hwagin haetseumnida Understood
보내요 보내드리겠습니다 bonaedeurigetseumnida I will send it

 

If you're unsure, it's better to err on the side of being too polite than too casual. Korean professionals appreciate that effort, and it builds a strong foundation of trust and respect.

 

Coming up: sample templates you can copy and adapt for different situations—whether you're applying for a job or following up with your manager.

 

🧾 Useful Greeting and Closing Templates

Learning the logic of Korean business emails is important—but having ready-to-use templates makes real communication faster, easier, and way less stressful. In this section, you'll find example openings and closings you can copy, customize, and use in actual work settings.

 

Each template includes both Korean and Romanized forms, so you can pronounce and understand what you're sending.

 

These examples are divided into different contexts: job applications, internal communication, client outreach, and polite follow-ups. You’ll notice how phrasing and formality shift depending on who you're addressing and why.

 

For a job application email, the greeting might be: 안녕하십니까. ABC회사 마케팅팀 지원자 김서연입니다. (annyeong hasimnikka. ABC hoesa maketing tim jiwonja Kim Seoyeon imnida) Translation: "Hello. I am Kim Seoyeon, an applicant for the Marketing Team at ABC Company."

 

And the closing: 검토해 주셔서 감사합니다. 좋은 하루 보내시길 바랍니다. 김서연 드림. (geomtohae jusyeoseo gamsahamnida. joeun haru bonaesigil baramnida. Kim Seoyeon deurim) Translation: "Thank you for your review. I hope you have a good day. Sincerely, Kim Seoyeon."

 

For internal follow-up emails: 메일 잘 받았습니다. 지난 자료 관련하여 검토 부탁드립니다. (meil jal badatseumnida. jinan jaryo gwallyeonhayeo geomto butak deurimnida) Translation: "I received your email. Please review the attached materials."

 

Closing can be short but warm: 수고 많으십니다. 이진우 드림. (sugo maneusimnida. Lee Jinwoo deurim)

 

For reaching out to a client: 안녕하십니까. OO회사 홍보팀 김예린입니다. 지난 미팅에 감사드립니다. (annyeong hasimnikka. OO hoesa hongbo tim Kim Yerin imnida. jinan miting-e gamsadeurimnida) Translation: "Hello. This is Yerin Kim from the PR team at OO Company. Thank you for the recent meeting."

 

Closing: 다음 일정 관련하여 회신 주시면 감사하겠습니다. 김예린 드림. (daeum iljeong gwallyeonhayeo hoeshin jusimyeon gamsahagetseumnida. Kim Yerin deurim)

 

Need a polite reminder? Try this: 혹시 검토가 어려우시다면 일정 조정도 가능하니 말씀 부탁드립니다. (hoksi geomtoga eoryeousidamyeon iljeong jojeongdo ganeunghani malsseum butak deurimnida) Translation: "If reviewing is difficult, I’d be happy to adjust the schedule. Please let me know."

 

🧰 Template Summary Table

Scenario Korean Phrase Romanization
Job Application Greeting ABC회사 지원자 김서연입니다 ABC hoesa jiwonja Kim Seoyeon imnida
Client Thank You 지난 미팅에 감사드립니다 jinan miting-e gamsadeurimnida
Internal Follow-Up 자료 검토 부탁드립니다 jaryo geomto butak deurimnida
Flexible Reminder 일정 조정도 가능하니 말씀 부탁드립니다 iljeong jojeongdo ganeunghani malsseum butak deurimnida

 

Use these templates as a base, then tweak based on tone, timing, and who you're speaking to. The more emails you write, the more natural this process will become.

 

Next, let’s explore cultural details that explain *why* Korean business emails are so structured—and what to keep in mind to avoid unintentional mistakes.

 

🌏 Cultural Nuances in Email Etiquette

Writing a polite email in Korean isn't just about the words—it’s about understanding the cultural layers behind those words. Korea has a deeply rooted hierarchy system that affects how people speak, write, and interact, especially in formal or business settings.

 

Every greeting, verb ending, and closing in Korean business emails reflects a larger social value: respect for age, status, and harmony.

 

For example, using “드림” (deurim) at the end of your email shows that you're offering the message humbly, especially to someone above you. It doesn’t have a direct equivalent in English, but it feels like saying “with sincere respect.”

 

Another concept is “눈치” (nunchi), which means situational awareness. This unspoken cultural rule helps guide when and how to follow up, how quickly to respond, and whether a short reply is appropriate or too blunt. Failing to read the air, so to speak, can make an otherwise polite message feel cold or pushy.

 

Korean work culture also values group harmony over individual expression. This means that even if you're frustrated, direct complaints or demanding language in an email are frowned upon. It's better to suggest: “혹시 검토가 가능하실까요?” (hoksi geomtoga ganeunghasilkka-yo?, "Would it be possible to review this?") rather than “I need you to check this ASAP.”

 

Silence can also mean different things. A non-response might signal that the person is busy, not offended. Korean professionals may not reply with “got it” or “thank you” every time—especially if they’re higher up in rank.

 

In English-speaking work cultures, efficiency and brevity are often praised. But in Korea, adding an extra line to acknowledge someone's help—even if it’s formulaic—is seen as thoughtful and respectful. Ending with “항상 감사드립니다” (hangsang gamsadeurimnida) helps maintain that professional warmth.

 

One common mistake foreigners make is translating English email habits directly into Korean. Saying “Hi” to your boss in an email (even translated as “안녕하세요”) may come off too casual. Direct translations rarely capture the emotional and social nuance Korean expects in formality.

 

Sometimes, even punctuation matters. Koreans tend to avoid using exclamation marks in formal emails, as they can feel overly enthusiastic or informal. Stick to clean, calm tones unless you're writing an internal message to someone you know well.

 

Here’s one cultural trick: if someone sends you a file or report, don’t just say “감사합니다 (gamsahamnida)”. Add “잘 확인하겠습니다” (jal hwagin hagetseumnida, "I will review it carefully"). This tells them you value their effort and will take the content seriously.

 

Let’s look at a table comparing some Western vs Korean email habits, so you can avoid misunderstandings and show deeper cultural understanding in your communication.

 

🌐 Cultural Comparison: Email Habits

Western Habit Korean Alternative Romanization Why it Matters
Hi, John 안녕하십니까, 과장님 annyeong hasimnikka, gwajangnim Shows rank & respect
Just checking in! 검토 부탁드립니다 geomto butak deurimnida Soft and professional
Thanks! 항상 감사드립니다 hangsang gamsadeurimnida Appreciation + humility
Let me know 말씀 부탁드립니다 malsseum butak deurimnida Gives power to reader

 

Understanding these cultural differences will help you write Korean business emails that feel natural, respectful, and trustworthy.

 

Next, we’ll dive into the most frequently asked questions learners have—real questions from real email situations.

 

📚 FAQ

Q1. Can I start a Korean business email with “안녕하세요”? (annyeong haseyo)

A1. Technically yes, but it may sound too casual in formal settings. “안녕하십니까” (annyeong hasimnikka) is a better choice for professional emails.

 

Q2. Is it okay to end my email with just “감사합니다”?

A2. “감사합니다” (gamsahamnida, “Thank you”) is acceptable, but adding your name and “드림” (deurim) makes it more polite and complete.

 

Q3. What’s the Korean equivalent of “Dear Mr./Ms.” in email?

A3. Use their job title + 님. For example, “과장님” (gwajangnim, “Manager”) instead of just their name. Avoid using only a person’s name without a title.

 

Q4. How do I say “Best regards” in Korean?

A4. Phrases like “감사드립니다” (gamsadeurimnida, “Thank you”) or “좋은 하루 되시길 바랍니다” (joeun haru doesigil baramnida, “Have a great day”) are appropriate formal closings.

 

Q5. Do I always need to use honorifics in company emails?

A5. Yes, especially when writing to superiors or people you don’t know well. Even for colleagues, honorifics are a safe default.

 

Q6. What does “드림” at the end of an email mean?

A6. “드림” (deurim) means “humbly offered” and is used after your name to politely close a formal email. It’s equivalent to “Sincerely” but more deferential.

 

Q7. Should I include my job title in every email?

A7. Yes, especially in first-time or external communication. For example: “김영수 대리 드림” (Kim Youngsu daeri deurim, “Assistant Manager Kim Youngsu”).

 

Q8. Is it rude to not use a greeting in reply emails?

A8. In short threads, skipping a greeting is acceptable. But including a brief “메일 잘 받았습니다” (meil jal badatseumnida, “I received your email”) shows thoughtfulness.

 

Q9. Can I use “안녕히 계세요” to close an email?

A9. No, “안녕히 계세요” (annyeonghi gyeseyo) is used for in-person goodbyes, not emails. Stick to professional phrases like “감사합니다” or “좋은 하루 되세요”.

 

Q10. How do I say “Please reply” politely in Korean?

A10. Use “회신 부탁드립니다” (hoeshin butak deurimnida), which means “I kindly request your reply.” It’s standard and respectful in business emails.

 

Q11. What if I don’t know the recipient’s title?

A11. If you’re unsure, use the company name and department: “OO회사 마케팅팀 담당자님” (OO hoesa maketing tim damdangja-nim, “To the marketing team representative”).

 

Q12. How can I soften a request in Korean email?

A12. Add phrases like “죄송하지만” (joesonghajiman, “I’m sorry but...”) or “번거로우시겠지만” (beongeorousigessjiman, “I know this may be inconvenient...”) before your request.

 

Q13. How do I say “I’m following up” politely?

A13. Say “관련하여 다시 연락드립니다” (gwallyeonhayeo dasi yeollak deurimnida), meaning “I’m contacting you again regarding this matter.”

 

Q14. Is it okay to use emojis in Korean business emails?

A14. No. Emojis are considered informal and unprofessional in Korean workplace emails. Avoid them completely.

 

Q15. How do I apologize for a delayed response?

A15. Use “답장이 늦어 죄송합니다” (dapjangi neujeo joesonghamnida), which means “Sorry for the delayed reply.”

 

Q16. What’s a good phrase for “I’ve attached the file”?

A16. “파일을 첨부드립니다” (paireul cheombu deurimnida) is the standard, polite way to say “I’ve attached the file.”

 

Q17. Should I use first-person pronouns like “I” in Korean emails?

A17. Rarely. Korean email style avoids direct “I” statements. Use passive or humble expressions instead.

 

Q18. How do I say “Looking forward to your response”?

A18. Use “회신 주시면 감사하겠습니다” (hoeshin jusimyeon gamsahagetseumnida). It shows both expectation and respect.

 

Q19. Can I use “감사해요” instead of “감사합니다”?

A19. No. “감사해요” (gamsahaeyo) is semi-formal and not suitable for business emails. Stick to “감사합니다” (gamsahamnida).

 

Q20. How can I politely request feedback?

A20. Try “검토 후 의견 주시면 감사하겠습니다” (geomto hu uigyeon jusimyeon gamsahagetseumnida), meaning “I’d appreciate your feedback after review.”

 

Q21. What is the most respectful way to say “I will send it”?

A21. Use “보내드리겠습니다” (bonaedeurigetseumnida), which includes the humble form “드리다” for formal communication.

 

Q22. How do I write “I received it” in a formal tone?

A22. Say “확인하였습니다” (hwagin haetseumnida) or “잘 받았습니다” (jal badatseumnida). Both are polite and professional.

 

Q23. How do I reply with “Understood” in Korean?

A23. Use “알겠습니다” (algetseumnida) or the more formal “내용 확인하였습니다” (naeyong hwagin haetseumnida, “I’ve reviewed the content”).

 

Q24. What’s the polite way to say “Let me know if you have questions”?

A24. Try “추가 문의 있으시면 말씀 부탁드립니다” (chuga munui isseusimyeon malsseum butak deurimnida).

 

Q25. How do I end an email to my team?

A25. Use a softer tone like “수고 많으십니다” (sugo maneusimnida, “Thank you for your efforts”) followed by your name and “올림” (ollim).

 

Q26. Should I mirror the other person’s tone?

A26. Yes. If they write formally, reply formally. If they shift to a casual tone and you’re of equal rank, you can gradually adjust—but err on the side of politeness.

 

Q27. How can I show gratitude for someone’s help?

A27. Use “도움 주셔서 감사합니다” (doum jusyeoseo gamsahamnida), meaning “Thank you for your help.”

 

Q28. Can I write emails in casual speech to coworkers?

A28. It depends on your company culture. In most workplaces, formal or semi-formal tone is still used even among teammates.

 

Q29. Is it necessary to include “좋은 하루 되세요”?

A29. Not required, but highly recommended. “좋은 하루 되세요” (joeun haru doeseyo, “Have a nice day”) adds warmth and politeness.

 

Q30. What does “올림” mean in email closings?

A30. “올림” (ollim) means “humbly offered” and is used after your name in formal or respectful internal emails—similar to “Respectfully yours.”

 

Disclaimer: This article is intended for language learning purposes only. All phrases and examples are provided to support learners of Korean in building communication skills in business contexts. Cultural explanations are based on generalized practices and may vary depending on company, region, and individual relationships.

 

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