Traveling to Korea offers an exciting mix of tradition, modernity, and warm hospitality.
However, navigating daily interactions without understanding the language can pose challenges—particularly outside major cities. Learning a few basic Korean language for travelers not only makes your trip smoother but also shows respect for local culture, which is deeply appreciated.
Whether you're ordering a dish in a bustling market, asking for directions on the subway, or simply greeting a host, having a set of go-to phrases can be immensely helpful. And if you're planning to dive deeper, it's worthwhile to master Korean with confidence.
While English is spoken in many tourist areas of Seoul and Busan, it's not widely used in rural regions or by older generations.
According to the Korea Tourism Organisation, understanding even a handful of Korean expressions significantly improves the quality of interactions with locals (VisitKorea).
Below is a practical guide to essential Korean expressions by situation.
1. Greetings & Basic Etiquette
Greeting someone properly sets the tone for respectful communication.
English
Korean
Pronunciation
Hello
안녕하세요
Annyeong-haseyo
Goodbye (you’re leaving)
안녕히 계세요
Annyeonghi gyeseyo
Goodbye (they’re leaving)
안녕히 가세요
Annyeonghi gaseyo
Thank you
감사합니다
Gamsahamnida
Yes / No
네 / 아니요
Ne / Aniyo
Cultural tip: A slight bow while greeting is considered polite and customary.
2. Getting Around
Whether you're in a taxi or lost in a subway station, these phrases can help.
English
Korean
Pronunciation
Where is ___?
___ 어디예요?
___ eodi-eyo?
Please take me to this address.
이 주소로 가 주세요.
I jusoro ga juseyo
How much is the fare?
요금이 얼마예요?
Yogeumi eolma-eyo?
I’m lost.
길을 잃었어요.
Gil-eul ilheosseoyo
Use Google Maps with public transport info, but don’t rely on it alone—offline phrases like these are still vital in many places.
Source: Depositphotos.
3. Ordering Food & Dining Out
Trying local cuisine is a highlight of any trip to Korea, but menus often aren’t translated.
English
Korean
Pronunciation
One bibimbap, please.
비빔밥 하나 주세요.
Bibimbap hana juseyo
No spicy, please.
안 맵게 해 주세요.
An maepge hae juseyo
I’m allergic to ___.
___ 알레르기가 있어요.
___ allergiga isseoyo
Water, please.
물 주세요.
Mul juseyo
It was delicious!
맛있었어요!
Masisseosseoyo!
Quick tip: Always check spice levels—Korean dishes can be intensely spicy by default.
4. Shopping & Markets
From night markets to department stores, knowing what to say can lead to better deals and friendlier service.
English
Korean
Pronunciation
How much is it?
얼마예요?
Eolma-eyo?
Can you give me a discount?
깎아 주세요.
Kkakka juseyo
I want this one.
이거 주세요.
Igeo juseyo
Do you accept credit cards?
카드 돼요?
Kadeu dwaeyo?
Quick tip: Haggling is more acceptable in street markets than in stores. Politeness often gets better results.
5. Emergencies & Help
Being able to ask for help or explain a problem is essential.
English
Korean
Pronunciation
Help!
도와주세요!
Dowajuseyo!
Call the police.
경찰을 불러 주세요.
Gyeongchareul bulleo juseyo
I’m sick.
아파요.
Apayo
Where is the hospital?
병원이 어디예요?
Byeongwon-i eodieyo?
In emergencies, use 119 (ambulance/fire) or 112 (police). These numbers work anywhere in Korea.
6. Korean Etiquette for Travelers
Source: Depositphotos.
Koreans value modesty, respect, and hierarchy. Here are a few cultural norms to bear in mind:
Use two hands when giving or receiving items, especially money or gifts.
Avoid touching strangers, particularly the head or shoulders.
Don’t stick chopsticks upright in a bowl—this resembles a funeral rite.
Always show appreciation when someone helps, even if it's just with a bow and a “감사합니다.”
Understanding these basic customs goes a long way in creating positive experiences.
Conclusion
Source: Depositphotos.
Learning a few essential Korean phrases before your trip isn’t just practical—it shows appreciation for the culture and enhances your travel experience.
While fluency takes time, even a basic grasp of greetings, directions, and dining vocabulary can make you feel more confident and connected during your stay.
Whether you're preparing for a short holiday or a business trip, it's worth taking the time to master Korean with confidence. With the right words at your fingertips, you'll not only navigate Korea more easily but also earn the respect and goodwill of the people you meet.
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