Author
H.D. PARK
Table of Contents
Most Koreans are welcoming toward tourists, and even if they don’t speak English, they’ll appreciate your effort. In this post, I’ll share 10 must-know Korean phrases for tourists visiting Korea, with pronunciation tips, cultural context, and when to use them in real-life situations—whether you’re exploring Seoul, eating at a local BBQ spot, or navigating public transport.
Do you need to speak Korean to travel Korea? Not really. But learning just a few simple expressions will make your travels smoother, friendlier, and far more enjoyable.
1. 안녕하세요 (Annyeong-haseyo) – Hello
Korean greetings are rich with meaning. 안녕하세요 is the most common and polite way to say hello. But did you know that the Korean greeting literally means “Are you at peace?“
- 안녕 (annyeong) = peace
- ~하세요 = polite honorific form
Whether you’re walking into a shop, meeting someone for the first time, or checking into your hotel, this phrase is your go-to. Koreans appreciate this respectful opener—and you’ll hear it everywhere.
Tip: Use it with a slight bow or smile for extra politeness.
2. 감사합니다 (Gamsahamnida) – Thank You
Saying thank you in Korea isn’t just polite—it’s powerful.
감사합니다 is the formal and respectful way to say “thank you,” and using it can soften interactions, build rapport, and even lead to small gestures of kindness—like a free refill or an extra side dish at a restaurant.
Gratitude is an important part of Korean social culture, so sprinkle this phrase often, especially when:
- You receive your food or drink
- Someone gives you directions
- You’re checking out of a store
Tip: You can also say 고맙습니다 (gomapseumnida)—also formal, but slightly less common.
3. 죄송합니다 (Joesonghamnida) – I’m Sorry / Excuse Me
In crowded subways or busy markets, 죄송합니다 is your key phrase to politely say “excuse me” or “sorry.”
- Bump into someone? Say 죄송합니다.
- Need to pass through a tight space? 죄송합니다.
- Accidentally spill something? Definitely 죄송합니다.
It’s also great when you want to show humility or apologize politely, even if it’s a very minor situation. Being considerate in public spaces is a big part of daily life in Korea.
4. 이거 얼마예요? (Igeo eolmayeyo?) – How Much Is This?
Shopping in Korea is fun, especially at markets and street stalls. This phrase means “How much is this?” and is great for pointing to anything you’re curious about.
Breakdown:
- 이거 (igeo) = this
- 얼마예요? (eolmayeyo) = how much is it?
Whether you’re buying souvenirs in Insadong, snacks at a convenience store, or clothing at a local boutique, this phrase will definitely come in handy.
Pair it with a polite smile and 감사합니다 after you hear the price.
5. 화장실 어디예요? (Hwajangsil eodieyo?) – Where Is the Restroom?
An essential question when traveling anywhere.
화장실(Hwajangsil) means restroom, and 어디예요(eodieyo)? means “where is it?”
Public restrooms in Korea are usually clean, free, and easy to find in malls, subway stations, and cafés. This phrase will help you locate one without panic.
Tip: In subway stations, restrooms are usually located outside the ticket gates—look for the signs.
6. 여기요 (Yeogiyo) – Excuse Me / Over Here!
You’ll hear 여기요 a lot in Korean restaurants. It’s used to get someone’s attention, especially waitstaff.
In Korea, servers don’t usually check in with you unless you call them. Just raise your hand slightly and say 여기요(Yeogiyo) when you need to order, get more water, or ask for something.
It’s polite and totally normal—even expected!
Tip: You can also use 여기요 in shops or cafés if someone’s not at the counter.
7. 주세요 (Juseyo) – Please Give Me…
This is your magic phrase for ordering anything politely.
Just say the item name + 주세요(Juseyo), and you’re good to go:
- 물 주세요(Mul Juseyo) – Water, please
- 맥주 주세요 (Maekju Juseyo) – Beer, please
- 이거 주세요(Igeo Juseyo) – This, please
It’s flexible, polite, and universally understood—perfect for restaurants, cafés, or convenience stores.
Tip: Combine this with pointing for bonus clarity.
8. 괜찮아요 (Gwaenchanayo) – It’s Okay / No Thanks / I’m Good
괜찮아요 is a useful phrase with multiple meanings:
- Declining politely? Say 괜찮아요.
- Someone bumps into you? 괜찮아요.
- Asked if you need a bag or receipt? 괜찮아요.
It means “It’s okay” or “No, thank you,” depending on your tone. Use it often—it keeps interactions smooth and friendly.
Tip: 괜찮아 (gwaenchana) : (used only among friends or younger people)
9. 계산서 주세요 (Gyesanseo juseyo) – The Check, Please
Here’s a cultural tip: in most Korean restaurants, you don’t ask for the bill at your table. Instead, when you’re done eating, you get up and walk to the cashier near the exit—that signals you’re ready to pay.
Still, if you’re not sure or you need to clarify, say 계산서 주세요(Gyesanseo juseyo), which means “Please give me the bill.”
Tip: If no one notices you, simply say 여기요 near the counter to get their attention.
10. 도와주세요! (Dowajuseyo!) – Please Help!
Hopefully you’ll never need this—but just in case, it’s good to know.
도와주세요 means “Please help!” and can be used in emergencies or when you’re really stuck.
If you’re lost, hurt, or confused in a high-stress situation, this will let people know you need immediate assistance. Koreans are often helpful and quick to respond when someone clearly needs help.
Tip: Pair with hand gestures or show your map/phone for quick understanding.
Final Thoughts: Learn a Little, Gain a Lot
You don’t need to memorize an entire Korean phrasebook to enjoy your trip—but learning these basic Korean phrases for travelers will help you feel more confident, respectful, and connected.
Even if your pronunciation isn’t perfect, most Koreans will smile, nod, and even go out of their way to help you. It shows respect—and that effort often comes back to you in the form of kindness, better service, or even new friendships.
