We’ve already explored some basic Korean greetings in a previous blog, but now it’s time to go deeper. In Korean culture, how you greet someone depends heavily on the situation and your relationship with the other person.
1. The Standard “Hello” – 안녕하세요 (annyeonghaseyo)
This is the most commonly used greeting in Korean.
It’s polite and versatile—perfect for greeting strangers, coworkers, acquaintances, or anyone older than you.
When to use it:
- Meeting someone for the first time
- Speaking to someone older or of higher status
- In customer service or public spaces
Tip: Add a bow when saying it in person—it’s a sign of respect.
2. The Very Formal “Hello” – 안녕하십니까 (annyeonghasimnikka)
This is an ultra-formal version of “hello.”
You’ll hear it in news broadcasts, public speeches, or very formal business settings.
When to use it:
- Formal presentations or meetings
- Ceremonial or official occasions
- Addressing someone with very high status (e.g., a CEO)
Tip: You probably won’t use this much in daily life, but it’s good to recognize and understand it when you hear it.
3. The Casual “Hi” – 안녕 (annyeong)
This is the informal way to say “hi” or “hey.”
Use it only with close friends, peers, or people younger than you.
When to use it:
- With close friends
- With younger siblings or juniors
- In text messages or casual chats
Warning: Don’t use this with your boss, teacher, or anyone you’re not close to—it can come off as rude or disrespectful.
4. “Hello?” on the Phone – 여보세요 (yeoboseyo)
Answering a phone call? There’s a specific word just for that.
여보세요 is used only when picking up the phone, regardless of who’s calling.
When to use it:
- Answering a phone or video call
- Starting a conversation when someone calls you
Fun fact: You’ll hear this phrase all the time in Korean dramas!
5. Greeting Someone After a Long Time
Koreans often acknowledge time apart when greeting someone they haven’t seen in a while.
- 오랜만이에요 (oraenmanieyo) – “It’s been a while” (polite)
- 오랜만이야 (oraenmaniya) – informal version
These can be paired with a smile and 안녕하세요 to sound natural, relaxed, and friendly.
Final Thoughts
Korean greetings aren’t just about vocabulary—they’re about showing respect. Choosing the right way to say “hello” shows you understand the culture and care about the relationship.
To recap:
- 안녕하세요 – polite and safe for most situations
- 안녕하십니까 – very formal
- 안녕 – casual and informal
- 여보세요 – for answering phone calls
- 오랜만이에요 – when it’s been a while since you’ve seen someone
Master these, and you’re already speaking more naturally. 안녕하세요!
