Learning Korean can feel overwhelming at first—so many polite forms, new sounds, and unfamiliar letters. But the truth is, you don’t need long textbook sentences to start speaking comfortably. With just a handful of easy Korean phrases, you can connect with people in cafés, shops, and everyday situations. These are expressions Koreans actually use—the ones you’ll hear all the time on the streets of Seoul.
Whether you’re preparing for a future trip, studying Korean from home, or simply curious about Korean culture, these five phrases will make your daily interactions feel warmer and more natural.
Learning a new language feels much easier when you stay curious and observe how locals speak in everyday situations. If you’re in Korea, try listening to short conversations in cafés, convenience stores, and subway stations. Even if you’re studying from abroad, practicing a few real-life expressions a day helps you build confidence and sound more natural.
1. 안녕하세요 (Annyeonghaseyo) – “Hello”
If you learn only one Korean phrase, let it be this one.
안녕하세요 is the friendly, polite “hello” you can use with anyone—baristas, hotel staff, shop owners, or new acquaintances. It’s respectful but not overly formal, which makes it perfect for everyday life.
You might hear:
“안녕하세요, 주문 도와드릴까요?”
Annyeonghaseyo, jumun dowadeurilkkayo?
“Hello, can I help you with your order?”
A warm 안녕하세요 back always brings a smile.
2. 감사합니다 (Gamsahamnida) – “Thank you”
This is the safest and most polite way to say thank you.
You’ll use it everywhere—after receiving your coffee, buying something in a store, or asking for directions.
There’s also a slightly softer version, 고마워요 (gomawoyo), which you can use with someone close in age or in more relaxed situations. But if you’re unsure, 감사합니다 is always the right choice.
3. 죄송합니다 / 미안해요 – “I’m sorry”
Koreans often use apology phrases to be polite, even for very small things like lightly bumping someone or asking someone to move.
- 죄송합니다 (joesonghamnida) – more formal, used in shops or public spaces
- 미안해요 (mianhaeyo) – softer and friendly, good for daily interactions
Example:
“죄송합니다, 길을 잘못 들었어요.”
“I’m sorry, I took the wrong way.”
Using either phrase helps you communicate kindness and respect.
4. 이거 뭐예요? (Igeo mwoyeyo?) – “What is this?”
This one is a lifesaver—especially in restaurants, markets, or convenience stores.
Simply point to a dish, snack, or menu item and ask:
“이거 뭐예요?” – What is this?
It’s polite, natural, and very common. You’ll hear it from locals too, especially when they’re trying something new.
5. 얼마예요? (Eolmayeyo?) – “How much is it?”
Perfect for shopping, cafés, and outdoor markets.
When combined with “이거 (this),” it becomes:
“이거 얼마예요?” – How much is this?
Korean shop staff are used to helping foreigners, so don’t be shy—they’ll often point to the price or even show you on a calculator.
Try One Today – Easy Korean Phrases for Real Life
“This post is a gentle introduction to easy Korean phrases you can actually use in daily conversations.”
Choose just one phrase and try using it today—
say 안녕하세요 to a barista,
감사합니다 to a cashier,
or 이거 뭐예요? when you’re curious about a new dish.
Korean language becomes much more enjoyable when you use it in real moments. With just these five simple phrases, you’ll already sound more natural, confident, and connected.
Warm practice makes warm conversations.
And in Korea, kindness is always appreciated.
💡 You may also like:
- 7 Simple Etiquette Tips for Your First Trip to Korea
- A Perfect 1-Day Walking Course in Seoul’s Ikseon-dong
- Why Korean Convenience Stores Are Everyone’s Favorite Hangout
- Why Bibimbap Is the Korean Dish Everyone Loves
If you’d like more beginner-friendly Korean tips, feel free to explore my other posts as well. 💛
For more travel inspiration, you can also browse tips on the official Visit Korea website: