Learning Korean: ‘Thank You & Sorry’ Expressions for Beginners
If you are learning Korean, after greetings, the next most important thing to master is how to say “thank you” and “sorry.” These are essential expressions in daily life and show politeness in Korean culture.
1. Saying Thank You
감사합니다 (Gamsahamnida)
Meaning: Thank you (formal & polite)
When to use: In any formal situation — with teachers, strangers, at shops, or in professional settings.
고맙습니다 (Gomapseumnida)
Meaning: Thank you (polite but slightly less formal)
When to use: Everyday polite interactions, for example with colleagues or acquaintances.
고마워요 (Gomawoyo)
Meaning: Thanks (polite but friendly)
When to use: With acquaintances, seniors you’re not very close with, or teachers in casual moments.
고마워 (Gomawo)
Meaning: Thanks (casual)
When to use: With friends, siblings, or someone younger.
정말 감사합니다 (Jeongmal gamsahamnida)
Meaning: Thank you very much (formal)
When to use: When you feel extra gratitude, such as receiving help from a stranger.
정말 고마워 (Jeongmal gomawo)
Meaning: Thanks a lot (casual)
When to use: With close friends or family when you’re truly thankful.
대단히 감사합니다 (Daedanhi gamsahamnida)
Meaning: Thank you very much (very formal)
When to use: Ceremonies, speeches, public announcements.
감사해요 (Gamsahaeyo)
Meaning: Thanks (semi-polite)
When to use: Softer than “감사합니다,” often used in service settings or with acquaintances.
2. Responding to Thanks
천만에요 (Cheonmaneyo)
Meaning: You’re welcome (formal, polite)
When to use: Polite responses, though not used very often in everyday talk.
아니에요 (Anieyo)
Meaning: Not at all / Don’t mention it
When to use: The most common way to respond politely to thanks.
괜찮아요 (Gwaenchanayo)
Meaning: It’s okay / No problem
When to use: Very natural in daily conversations when someone thanks you.
별말씀을요 (Byeolmalsseumeul-yo)
Meaning: Don’t mention it (formal)
When to use: Professional or respectful situations, often at work.
아, 전혀요! (Ah, jeonhyeoyo!)
Meaning: Oh, not at all!
When to use: When someone thanks you but you want to emphasize it was nothing.
어, 뭐~ 당연하죠 (Eo, mwo~ dangyeonhajyo)
Meaning: Oh, of course!
When to use: Friendly or casual situations with peers.
3. Saying Sorry
죄송합니다 (Joesonghamnida)
Meaning: I’m sorry (formal)
When to use: At work, in public, or whenever you need to be polite.
정말 죄송합니다 (Jeongmal joesonghamnida)
Meaning: I’m truly sorry (very formal, sincere)
When to use: When apologizing for serious mistakes.
죄송해요 (Joesonghaeyo)
Meaning: Sorry (polite but slightly softer than “죄송합니다”)
When to use: Daily polite conversation.
미안해요 (Mianhaeyo)
Meaning: I’m sorry (polite, softer)
When to use: With acquaintances or elders in a casual setting.
미안 (Mian)
Meaning: Sorry (casual)
When to use: With friends and close people only.
진짜 미안해 (Jinjja mianhae)
Meaning: I’m really sorry (casual, emotional)
When to use: When you feel deeply sorry with close friends.
잘못했어요 (Jalmothaesseoyo)
Meaning: It was my fault / I did wrong
When to use: When admitting your mistake clearly.
용서해주세요 (Yongseohae juseyo)
Meaning: Please forgive me (formal)
When to use: Sincere apology, especially when you want forgiveness.
미안 미안~ (Mian mian~)
Meaning: Sorry sorry~ (light, casual)
When to use: Playful apology with friends when the mistake is not serious.
4. Cultural Tips
- In Korean, body language matters. A small bow or nod makes your thanks or apology sound more sincere.
- “죄송합니다” is considered more formal and humble than “미안해요.” Use it with strangers, bosses, or elders.
- When texting, Koreans often use shortened forms like “고마워~” or add emojis to soften the tone.
Final Thoughts
Knowing how to say “thank you” and “sorry” in Korean will make your communication smoother and more respectful. These phrases are short, easy to remember, and used in almost every conversation.
Try practicing them with friends or language partners, and notice how each expression changes depending on politeness level and context.
Greetings: