Knowing how to say “sorry” in Korean isn’t just about vocabulary—it’s about understanding tone, formality, and cultural context. Whether you’ve accidentally bumped someone on the subway or made a serious mistake at work, choosing the right apology matters. Here’s a clear guide to 10 essential ways to apologize in Korean, along with how to respond appropriately when someone apologizes to you.
1. 죄송합니다 (joesonghamnida) — “I’m sorry”
[Formal] Ideal for minor accidents, lateness, or formal interactions.
Response: 괜찮습니다 (gwaenchanseumnida), 아니에요 (anieyo).
2. 미안합니다 (mianhamnida) — “I’m sorry”
[Formal, slightly softer] Semi-formal situations like apologizing to a coworker or teacher.
Response: 괜찮습니다, 아니에요.
3. 미안해요 (mianhaeyo) — “Sorry”
[Polite] For acquaintances or elders in casual settings.
Response: 괜찮아요 (gwaenchanayo).
4. 미안해 (mianhae) — “Sorry”
[Casual] Informal, suitable among friends, siblings, or partners.
Response: 괜찮아 (gwaenchana).
5. 잘못했어요 (jalmothaesseoyo) — “I made a mistake”
Use for significant mistakes or misunderstandings.
Response: 이해해요 (ihaehaeyo), 다시 그러지 마요 (dasi geureoji mayo).
6. 사과드립니다 (sagwadeurimnida) — “I offer my apology”
[Very formal] For official or professional apologies.
Response: 받아들입니다 (badadeurimnida).
7. 실례합니다 (sillyehamnida) — “Excuse me / Pardon me”
Used for polite interruptions or getting someone’s attention.
Response: 네, 말씀하세요 (ne, malsseumhaseyo), 괜찮습니다.
8. 용서해주세요 (yongseohae juseyo) — “Please forgive me”
For serious apologies requiring genuine forgiveness.
Response: 용서할게요 (yongseohalgeyo), 생각할게요 (saenggakhalgeyo).
9. 진심으로 사과드립니다 (jinsimeuro sagwadeurimnida) — “I sincerely apologize”
Important for professional, public, or formal contexts emphasizing genuine remorse.
Response: 받아들일게요 (badadeurilgeyo).
10. 내 잘못이야 (nae jalmotiya) — “My bad” / “It’s my fault”
[Casual] Used among close friends or family to acknowledge responsibility informally.
Response: 알았어 (arasseo), 다음엔 조심해 (daeumen josimhae).
Bonus: What NOT to Do
Don’t just say “sorry” and leave it there. Taking responsibility and demonstrating sincerity through body language, like bowing and tone of voice, significantly reinforce your apology.
Wrapping Up
Apologizing correctly in Korean involves recognizing social cues, respect levels, and context. With these essential phrases, you’ll navigate most situations smoothly. Remember—how you respond to apologies matters just as much.
