Understanding Formality Levels in Korean Greetings
Before diving into the actual phrases, it’s important to understand that the Korean language is highly hierarchical. That means greetings vary depending on age, social status, and relationship. The Korean word for hello can change depending on whether you’re speaking formally or informally. Knowing when to use each form is key to sounding respectful and natural.
Hello in Korean – Formal Speech (존댓말 – Jondaetmal)
Formal or polite speech is used when you’re talking to someone older than you, someone you don’t know well, or in professional settings. If you’re ever unsure, it’s safest to use formal speech when greeting someone in Korean.
Hello in Korean – Informal Speech (반말 – Banmal)
Informal speech is used among close friends, younger people, or those in casual settings. This version of “hello in Korean” is more relaxed and friendly, but using it in the wrong context can come off as rude. It’s best to wait until someone uses informal speech with you first.
Common Ways to Say “Hello” in Korean
There’s more than one way to say hello in Korean, depending on who you’re speaking to and how. Let’s break down the most common greetings, from polite to casual.
안녕하세요 (Annyeonghaseyo) – Standard and Polite
This is the most commonly used and safest way to say hello in Korean. You’ll hear it everywhere—from shops and schools to TV shows and formal gatherings.
- Meaning: Hello / Hi (polite)
- When to use: With strangers, elders, teachers, or anyone you want to show respect to.
- Pronunciation: [Ahn-nyeong-ha-se-yo]
If you’re looking up “how do you say hello in Korean”, this is the answer you’ll see the most. It’s perfect for almost any situation and should be your go-to greeting.
안녕 (Annyeong) – Informal
This is the casual form of hello in Korean, and it literally means “peace.” It’s often used among friends or people the same age.
- Meaning: Hi / Hello (informal)
- When to use: With close friends, younger siblings, or children.
- Pronunciation: [Ahn-nyeong]
For beginners wondering about “hi to Korean” friends or peers, “안녕” is a great place to start—but remember, only use it with people you’re close to!
안녕하십니까 (Annyeonghasimnikka) – Very Formal
This is the most formal way of saying hello in Korean and is often used in official settings like news broadcasts, speeches, or when addressing important guests.
- Meaning: Hello (very formal)
- When to use: Job interviews, official announcements, or formal introductions.
- Pronunciation: [Ahn-nyeong-ha-shim-ni-kka]
If you’re learning the Korean word of hello for business or diplomatic contexts, this is the greeting you’ll want to remember.
여보세요 (Yeoboseyo) – Used on the Telephone
This form of greeting is used only when answering the phone.
- Meaning: Hello (on the phone)
- When to use: When picking up a call or answering the phone.
- Pronunciation: [Yeo-bo-se-yo]
You’ll hear this often in Korean dramas and phone conversations. So if you’re wondering “hello for Korean phone calls,” this is the correct expression to use.
Cultural Nuances in Korean Greetings
Knowing how to say hello in Korean is only part of the picture. In Korea, how you say something matters just as much as the words you use. Understanding cultural context is key to mastering greetings.
Body Language Accompanying “Hello”
In Korean culture, a respectful bow often accompanies a verbal greeting, especially when using formal speech. The deeper the bow, the more respectful it is.
- A small nod is sufficient in casual settings.
- A 30-degree bow is standard in business or formal environments.
- A full bow (90 degrees) is used in very formal situations, like traditional ceremonies.
Combining the Korean word of hello with proper gestures shows sincerity and cultural awareness.
Responding to Greetings in Korean
When someone says “hello in Korean” to you, it’s polite to respond with the same greeting:
- If someone says “안녕하세요,” respond with “안녕하세요.”
- If they greet you informally with “안녕,” and you’re close, you can reply the same.
- On the phone, respond with “여보세요.”
These simple replies show you’re engaged and respectful, even if your Korean vocabulary is still growing.
Learning how to say hello in Korean is a foundational step in understanding the language and culture. Whether you’re using the polite 안녕하세요, the formal 안녕하십니까, or the casual 안녕, each version reflects the relationship and context in which it’s used. You’ve now explored the key phrases, formality levels, and cultural tips that help you greet others naturally and respectfully.
So next time you meet a Korean friend or watch a K-drama, listen closely for these greetings. Try using them yourself—you’ll be amazed at how much a simple hello in Korean can open doors and create connections.
