Looking for must-know Korean phrases for your trip? Here’s your essential guide to speaking Korean like a local—perfect for tourists visiting Korea for the first time.
Traveling to Korea and feeling nervous about the language barrier?
Good news: you don’t need to be fluent to connect with locals!
Just learning a few key Korean phrases can open doors, bring smiles, and make your journey way more fun. ✨
In this guide, we’ll teach you real Korean expressions you’ll actually use — all with English translations, pronunciation tips, and real-life situations.
🗺️ Real Phrases for Real Travel Situations
Let’s break down essential phrases into situations you’ll encounter while traveling in Korea.
👋 1. Saying Hello
안녕하세요 (Annyeonghaseyo) — Hello
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Use this anytime, anywhere!
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Works for greeting strangers, hotel staff, shop owners — everyone.
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👂 Pronunciation: [An-nyeong-ha-se-yo]
🙏 2. Saying Thank You
감사합니다 (Gamsahamnida) — Thank you
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Use when someone helps you, serves food, or gives directions.
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Politeness goes a long way in Korea.
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👂 Pronunciation: [Gam-sa-ham-ni-da]
🛍️ 3. Shopping: “How much is this?”
이거 얼마예요? (I-geo eolmayeyo?) — How much is this?
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Say this when pointing to something in a store or market.
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💡 Many shops in Korea don’t display prices clearly — this is your go-to!
🚻 4. Where is the bathroom?
화장실 어디예요? (Hwajangsil eodiyeyo?)
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Let’s be real: you WILL need this.
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Useful in cafés, subway stations, and restaurants.
🍜 5. Ordering Food: “Please recommend something”
추천해주세요 (Chucheonhae juseyo) — Please recommend something
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Use in restaurants or cafés when the menu is confusing or in Korean.
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Locals love recommending their favorites!
😊 6. Saying “I’m okay”
괜찮아요 (Gwaenchanayo) — I’m okay / It’s fine
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Use to refuse politely or to say “No problem”
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Example: If a store employee offers help and you want to say “I’m just looking.”
🙇♂️ 7. Saying Sorry
죄송합니다 (Joesonghamnida) — I’m sorry
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Bumped into someone? Stepped on someone’s foot? Say this immediately!
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It’s the magic phrase to stay polite in crowded places.
🗣️ 8. “Do you speak English?”
영어 하세요? (Yeongeo haseyo?)
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Ask this gently before switching to English.
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Many Koreans will try their best to help if they know you’re a tourist.
🆘 9. Asking for Help
도와주세요 (Dowajuseyo) — Please help me
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Use when you’re truly lost or confused.
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Combine it with gestures or showing your phone/GPS.
📸 10. Asking for a Photo
사진 찍어주세요 (Sajin jjigeo juseyo) — Can you take a photo?
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Especially helpful for solo travelers at tourist spots like palaces or Namsan Tower!
💬 Quick Survival Tips
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✅ Practice phrases out loud before your trip
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✅ Combine with simple gestures and smiles
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✅ Download a translation app like Papago or Google Translate
🤔 FAQ
Q. Can I survive in Korea with English only?
A. In major cities, yes — but simple Korean expressions go a long way!
Q. Is “Annyeong” enough for hello?
A. That’s the casual version. Use “Annyeonghaseyo” to stay polite.
Q. Can I write it down instead of saying it?
A. Sure! Writing on your phone or showing translations also works great.
💡 Final Thoughts
Whether you’re exploring a traditional market, hopping on the subway, or trying Korean BBQ for the first time — these simple Korean phrases will help you connect, show respect, and make the most of your adventure.
Learn a few. Use them often. And watch how doors open in Korea. 🇰🇷💙
