In this lesson, we’re going to show you how to say “hello” in Korean, one of the basic greetings that you should learn. Mastering this simple yet important phrase will help you make friends, greet acquaintances, and appear warm and friendly, especially if you plan to visit South Korea or engage in conversations with Korean speakers.
How to Say “Hello” in Korean
Generally, there are three ways to say “hello” in Korean:
Formal: 안녕하십니까 (annyeonghasimnikka)
Standard: 안녕하세요 (annyeonghaseyo)
Informal: 안녕 (annyeong)
Korean is a hierarchical language, so using the appropriate level of formality is crucial. Using the right greeting shows respect and helps you fit in better in social situations.
Formal Greeting
The formal way to say “hello” in Korean is 안녕하십니까? (annyeonghasimnikka). This greeting is typically used in formal settings like announcements, speeches, or news broadcasts. It can also be used the first time you meet someone you want to show high respect to.
Pronunciation Tip: The final consonant sound in the 4th syllable is similar to “m” instead of “b,” especially when followed by ㄴ.
Standard Greeting
안녕하세요 (annyeonghaseyo) is the most common way of saying “hello” in Korean. This version is versatile and can be used with people in almost any situation. It’s a good default greeting for both formal and informal contexts.
Meaning: The phrase combines 안녕 (annyeong), meaning “well-being” or “peace,” with 하세요 (haseyo), meaning “to do,” creating a meaning akin to “Are you doing well?”
Informal Greeting
The informal way to say “hi” is 안녕 (annyeong). This is used with close friends or those younger than you. While it’s a common and friendly greeting, be cautious when using it with those you don’t know well, as it can come off as disrespectful if used inappropriately.
Usage Note: While informal, this term can also mean “goodbye” in casual settings.
How to Pronounce “Hello” in Korean
Here’s a quick pronunciation guide for the Korean word “hello” based on formality:
Formal: 안녕하십니까 (annyeonghasimnikka)
Standard: 안녕하세요 (annyeonghaseyo)
Informal: 안녕 (annyeong)
Practice these phrases using the audio clips provided to get comfortable with their pronunciations.
How to Write “Hello” in Korean
To write “hello” in Hangeul (the Korean alphabet):
Formal: 안녕하십니까?
Standard: 안녕하세요
Informal: 안녕
How to Say “Hello” on the Telephone
In Korean, answering the phone has specific phrases:
여보세요 (yeoboseyo)
Meaning: This is the standard and polite way to answer the phone. Use it regardless of who is calling.
Usage: Whether you’re picking up the phone or initiating a call, this phrase is appropriate and neutral.
Formal Usage:
Although 여보세요 (yeoboseyo) is the standard greeting, you might use titles or more respectful forms when addressing someone formally.
Example Sentence:
여보세요, 누구세요? (yeoboseyo, nuguseyo?): “Hello, who is this?”—used to identify the caller.
Additional Phrases:
안녕하세요 (annyeonghaseyo): Sometimes used at the beginning of a call, but less common for answering.
저는 [Your Name]입니다 (jeoneun [Your Name] imnida): Used in formal calls to introduce yourself.
More Ways to Say “Hello” in Korean
Once you’re comfortable with the basic greetings, you might want to explore additional phrases:
Good Morning: 좋은 아침이에요 (joeun achimieyo)
Did You Sleep Well?: 잘 잤어요? (jal jasseoyo)
Long Time No See: 오랜만이에요 (oraenmanieyo)
Cute Way to Say Hello: 안뇽 (annyong)
Have You Eaten?: 밥 먹었어요? (bap meogeosseoyo)
How Do You Say “Hello, How Are You?” in Korean?
Standard: 안녕하세요, 잘 지냈어요? (annyeonghaseyo, jal jinaesseoyo)
Formal: 안녕하십니까, 잘 지내셨어요? (annyeonghasimnikka, jal jinaesyeosseoyo)
Congratulations! You now know various ways to say “hello” in Korean. Practice these greetings to better interact with Korean speakers and fit into different social contexts. If you’re unsure which one to use, 안녕하세요 (annyeonghaseyo) is a safe and polite choice for most situations.
Test Your Understanding
Now try saying hello in Korean in the comments!