Everyday Polite Phrases in Korean

Watch the Lesson Video

You can follow along with this lesson in our YouTube video:

“Hi everyone! Today we’re learning 10 everyday polite phrases in Korean that you can use right away. Let’s get started!”

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1. Excuse me (to get attention)

• 저기요 (Jeo-gi-yo)

• 실례합니다 (Sil-lye-ham-ni-da)

저기요 is the most common way to politely get someone’s attention in cafés, restaurants, or on the street.

실례합니다 is more formal and less common in daily life, often used in announcements or very polite situations.

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2. Just a moment / Wait a second

• 잠시만요 (Jam-si-man-yo)

 Use when passing by someone or asking them to wait.

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3. Please

• 주세요 (Ju-se-yo)

 Add it after what you want:

“아메리카노 주세요” = One Americano, please.

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4. I don’t understand

• 이해 못 했어요 (I-hae mot haess-eo-yo)

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5. I don’t know

• 잘 모르겠어요 (Jal mo-reu-ges-seo-yo)

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6. Please say it again

• 다시 말해 주세요 (Da-si mal-hae ju-se-yo)

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7. Speak slowly

• 천천히 말해 주세요 (Cheon-cheon-hi mal-hae ju-se-yo)

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8. Where is the bathroom/toilet?

• 화장실 어디예요? (Hwa-jang-sil eo-di-ye-yo?)

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9. Sorry (formal)

• 미안합니다 (Mi-an-ham-ni-da)

👉 A polite apology used in formal situations, but softer and slightly less formal than 죄송합니다. Suitable when speaking to teachers, colleagues, or acquaintances respectfully.

✨ Tip:

• 죄송합니다 (Jwe-song-ham-ni-da) = more formal, humble (used with strangers, customers, or elders).

• 미안합니다 (Mi-an-ham-ni-da) = formal and polite, but feels a little more casual.

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10. It’s okay / No worries

• 괜찮아요 (Gwaen-chan-a-yo)

 Friendlier and more common than 괜찮습니다.

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These 10 polite phrases are super useful for everyday conversations in Korea—whether you’re ordering coffee, asking for directions, or just being polite.

Start practicing them little by little, and you’ll sound more natural and respectful in no time!