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How to Say “Presentation” in Korean: Formal and Informal Ways

Gaining the ability to express yourself clearly in another language is an exciting journey. When it comes to the word “presentation” in Korean, it’s essential to understand the various ways it can be expressed. In this guide, we’ll explore both formal and informal ways to say “presentation” in Korean, providing you with tips, examples, and even regional variations if necessary.

Table of Contents

1. Formal Ways to Say “Presentation” in Korean

When you need to use a formal expression for “presentation” in Korean, you can rely on the following phrases:

a) 발표 (Bal-pyo)

If you’re attending a formal event or giving a professional presentation, “발표” is the appropriate term to use. This term is widely recognized and used in academic, business, or official settings. For example:

제 발표는 다음 주에 있을 예정입니다. (Je bal-pyo-neun da-eum ju-e i-sseul ye-jeong-im-ni-da.) My presentation is scheduled for next week.

b) 프레젠테이션 (Peu-re-jeon-tei-syeon)

“프레젠테이션” is an alternative formal term used, primarily influenced by English. It is often used in corporate or technological environments. For instance:

저희 회사에서는 프레젠테이션을 개최할 예정입니다. (Je-hui hwe-sa-e-seo-neun peu-re-jeon-tei-syeon-eul gae-choe-hal ye-jeong-im-ni-da.) Our company is planning to hold a presentation.

2. Informal Ways to Say “Presentation” in Korean

When you’re in informal settings or having casual conversations with friends, you can choose less formal expressions for “presentation” in Korean:

Yes, “발표” isn’t only used in formal contexts. It is also common in informal situations. Feel free to use it when talking casually with friends. For example:

내 발표를 도와줄 수 있을까요? (Nae bal-pyo-reul do-wa-jul su i-sseul-gga-yo?) Can you help me with my presentation?

b) 보고 (Bo-go)

“보고” can be used in a more informal environment, especially when referring to school or class presentations. This term is commonly used among students. Take a look at this example:

오늘은 보고가 있어서 정말 긴장되네요. (O-neul-eun bo-go-ga i-sseo-seo jeong-mal gin-jang-doe-ne-yo.) I’m really nervous because I have a presentation today.

3. Regional Variations

The Korean language can have subtle regional variations, but when it comes to the word “presentation,” the expressions mentioned above are generally used throughout Korea. However, it’s also important to note that variations can exist in dialects or specific regions. Nevertheless, the terms introduced in this guide will be universally understood throughout Korea.

Now you’re equipped with both formal and informal ways to say “presentation” in Korean. Remember to choose the appropriate expression based on the context or formality of your conversation. Whether you’re attending a professional event or discussing presentations with friends, these phrases will help you express yourself clearly in Korean. Keep practicing and expanding your vocabulary to become even more fluent in the language!

Related Guides:

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• How to Say Good Morning in a Presentation – Formal and Informal Ways
• Guide on How to Say Good Presentation Skills
• Guide: How to Say “Nice Presentation” – Formal and Informal Ways
• How to Say Presentation: Formal and Informal Ways, Tips, and Examples
• How to Say “Presentation” in Sanskrit: Formal and Informal Ways
• How to Say You Have Good Presentation Skills
• Guide: How to Say Your Presentation in English

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Ellie Claire

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Improve Korean Presentation Skills

Understanding the Importance of Presentation Skills in Korea

In Korea, presentation skills are highly regarded in both academic and professional settings. Whether you’re a student, an educator, or a business professional, the ability to deliver an engaging and effective presentation can significantly impact your career advancement and academic success. Understanding the cultural nuances and expectations of Korean audiences can help you tailor your presentation to be more impactful.

Analyzing the Audience

Before preparing your presentation, it’s essential to analyze your audience. In Korea, the audience’s composition can greatly influence the style and content of your presentation.

1. Professional vs. Academic Audience: – **Professional Audience:** In a corporate environment, your audience may consist of colleagues, managers, or clients. Here, the focus should be on delivering concise, data-driven, and practical information. – **Academic Audience:** When presenting in an academic setting, such as a university or conference, your audience may include professors, researchers, and students. The emphasis should be on in-depth analysis, theoretical frameworks, and empirical evidence.

2. Age and Hierarchical Considerations: – **Respect for Elders:** In Korean culture, showing respect for elders and superiors is crucial. Tailor your speech to show deference to senior members of the audience. – **Hierarchy:** Understanding the hierarchical structure within an organization or academic institution can help you address the audience appropriately. Use formal language and titles where necessary.

Structuring Your Presentation

A well-structured presentation ensures that your message is clear and easy to follow. Here are some key components to consider:

1. Introduction: – **Greeting:** Begin with a polite greeting and a brief self-introduction. This helps establish rapport with your audience. – **Agenda:** Outline the main points you will cover. This provides a roadmap for your audience and sets clear expectations.

2. Main Body: – **Logical Flow:** Organize your content in a logical sequence. Use headings and subheadings to break down complex information. – **Evidence and Examples:** Support your arguments with relevant data, case studies, and real-life examples. This adds credibility to your presentation.

3. Conclusion: – **Summary:** Recap the key points discussed in the presentation. This reinforces the main message and helps the audience retain important information. – **Call to Action:** If applicable, provide a clear call to action. This could be a recommendation, a proposed solution, or a question for further discussion.

Enhancing Visual Aids

Visual aids play a crucial role in making your presentation more engaging and memorable. Here are some tips for creating effective visual aids:

1. PowerPoint Slides: – **Simplicity:** Keep your slides simple and uncluttered. Use bullet points, short phrases, and relevant images to convey your message. – **Consistency:** Maintain a consistent design throughout your slides. Use the same font, color scheme, and layout to create a cohesive look.

2. Charts and Graphs: – **Clarity:** Ensure that charts and graphs are easy to read and understand. Label axes, provide legends, and use contrasting colors to highlight key data points. – **Relevance:** Use charts and graphs to illustrate important data and trends. Avoid overloading your slides with unnecessary information.

3. Multimedia Elements: – **Videos and Animations:** Incorporate videos and animations to make your presentation more dynamic. Ensure that multimedia elements are relevant and add value to your content. – **Sound Effects:** Use sound effects sparingly to emphasize key points. Avoid excessive use of sound effects, as they can be distracting.

Mastering Public Speaking Techniques

Effective public speaking is essential for delivering a successful presentation. Here are some techniques to improve your public speaking skills:

1. Voice Modulation: – **Pitch and Tone:** Vary your pitch and tone to maintain the audience’s interest. Avoid monotone delivery, as it can make your presentation dull. – **Volume:** Adjust your volume to ensure that everyone in the audience can hear you clearly. Speak loudly enough to be heard, but not so loud that it becomes uncomfortable.

2. Body Language: – **Posture:** Stand tall and maintain good posture. This conveys confidence and authority. – **Gestures:** Use natural hand gestures to emphasize key points. Avoid excessive or distracting movements. – **Eye Contact:** Make eye contact with different members of the audience. This helps build a connection and keeps the audience engaged.

3. Pace and Timing: – **Pacing:** Speak at a moderate pace. Avoid speaking too quickly, as it can be difficult for the audience to follow. Conversely, speaking too slowly can make the presentation drag. – **Timing:** Practice your presentation to ensure it fits within the allotted time. Respect the audience’s time by staying on schedule.

Handling Q&A Sessions

A Q&A session provides an opportunity to engage with your audience and address their concerns. Here are some tips for handling Q&A sessions effectively:

1. Preparation: – **Anticipate Questions:** Think about potential questions that the audience may ask and prepare your responses in advance. – **Clarification:** If you don’t understand a question, politely ask the person to clarify. This ensures that you provide a relevant and accurate answer.

2. Response Techniques: – **Stay Calm:** Remain calm and composed, even if faced with difficult or challenging questions. – **Honesty:** If you don’t know the answer to a question, it’s okay to admit it. Offer to follow up with the information later if possible.

3. Engagement: – **Involve the Audience:** Encourage audience participation by inviting questions and feedback. – **Acknowledge Contributions:** Acknowledge and thank audience members for their questions and contributions. This fosters a positive and interactive environment.

Incorporating Cultural Sensitivity

Cultural sensitivity is essential when presenting to a Korean audience. Here are some key cultural considerations:

1. Language: – **Korean Language Proficiency:** If you are proficient in Korean, consider delivering your presentation in Korean. This can help you connect with the audience on a deeper level. – **Translation:** If you are not fluent in Korean, consider using a translator or providing translated materials. This ensures that your message is accessible to all audience members.

2. Respectful Communication: – **Honorifics:** Use appropriate honorifics and titles when addressing audience members. This shows respect and adherence to cultural norms. – **Politeness:** Maintain a polite and respectful tone throughout your presentation. Avoid using slang or overly casual language.

3. Cultural References: – **Relevance:** Incorporate cultural references that are relevant and meaningful to the audience. This can help make your presentation more relatable and engaging. – **Sensitivity:** Be mindful of cultural sensitivities and avoid topics that may be considered controversial or offensive.

Practicing and Rehearsing

Practice and rehearsal are crucial for delivering a polished and confident presentation. Here are some tips for effective practice:

1. Rehearsal Techniques: – **Practice Aloud:** Rehearse your presentation aloud to get comfortable with the flow and timing. This also helps you identify areas that need improvement. – **Record Yourself:** Record your practice sessions and review the recordings to identify strengths and areas for improvement.

2. Feedback: – **Seek Feedback:** Practice in front of a trusted colleague or friend and ask for constructive feedback. Use their input to refine your presentation. – **Incorporate Feedback:** Make necessary adjustments based on the feedback received. This helps you improve and deliver a more effective presentation.

3. Mock Presentations: – **Simulate the Environment:** Conduct mock presentations in an environment similar to the actual presentation setting. This helps you get accustomed to the setting and reduces anxiety. – **Q&A Practice:** Include a mock Q&A session to practice handling questions. This prepares you for potential audience interactions.

Utilizing Technology

Leveraging technology can enhance your presentation and make it more engaging. Here are some ways to utilize technology effectively:

1. Presentation Software: – **PowerPoint Alternatives:** Explore alternative presentation software such as Prezi, Keynote, or Google Slides. These platforms offer unique features that can enhance your presentation. – **Interactive Elements:** Incorporate interactive elements such as polls, quizzes, and live feedback to engage the audience.

2. Online Tools: – **Webinars:** If presenting online, use webinar platforms like Zoom, Microsoft Teams, or Webex. These platforms offer features such as screen sharing, virtual whiteboards, and breakout rooms. – **Virtual Presentations:** Utilize virtual presentation tools such as Miro or Mural to create collaborative and interactive experiences.

3. Multimedia Integration: – **Videos:** Embed videos to illustrate key points and provide visual interest. Ensure that videos are relevant and add value to your content. – **Animations:** Use animations to highlight important information and create a dynamic presentation. Avoid overusing animations, as they can be distracting.

Building Confidence

Confidence is key to delivering an effective presentation. Here are some strategies to build confidence:

1. Positive Mindset: – **Self-Affirmation:** Practice positive self-affirmation to boost your confidence. Remind yourself of your strengths and capabilities. – **Visualization:** Visualize yourself delivering a successful presentation. This helps reduce anxiety and builds confidence.

2. Preparation: – **Thorough Preparation:** The more prepared you are, the more confident you will feel. Spend ample time researching, organizing, and rehearsing your presentation. – **Backup Plan:** Have a backup plan in case of technical difficulties or unexpected issues. This helps you stay calm and composed.

3. Relaxation Techniques: – **Deep Breathing:** Practice deep breathing exercises to calm your nerves and reduce anxiety. – **Mindfulness:** Engage in mindfulness practices such as meditation or yoga to stay focused and centered.

Improving your Korean presentation skills requires a combination of cultural understanding, effective communication techniques, and thorough preparation. By analyzing your audience, structuring your presentation, enhancing visual aids, mastering public speaking, handling Q&A sessions, incorporating cultural sensitivity, practicing, utilizing technology, and building confidence, you can deliver impactful and successful presentations in Korea. Remember that practice and continuous improvement are key to becoming a skilled presenter. With dedication and effort, you can enhance your presentation skills and achieve your academic and professional goals in Korea.

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• Country Guide
• South Korea

Meetings And Presentations In South Korea

Meetings and presentations in South Korean companies serve primarily to pass on information. As a rule, no discussions are held that lead to concrete decisions.

Discussions

Each participant in a discussion will express themselves very cautiously and indirectly. This is because Gibun dictates that harmony and respect between the interlocutors are of prime importance. Instead of trying to convince others of their position, South Koreans will always be careful to avoid any confrontation. This often results in unclear statements, frequent changes of the topic or long silences in order to avoid potential disagreements.

Negotiations In South Korea

In most cases, therefore, discussions do not follow the agenda sent out earlier but take place in a circular manner. Individual topics are dropped repeatedly to be picked up again at a later time as the talks turn to another subject as soon as disagreements arise. The more you can reach an agreement in one area, the easier it will be to approach more difficult questions in another area.

Don’t expect a South Korean to spell it out in plain language. Instead, use your powers of deduction to put together the individual pieces of mosaic to form an overall picture. Make sure to always tune in to the subtext. And keep in mind that South Koreans will also interpret a lot of what you say and how you behave. Therefore, you should also express yourself very carefully.

Meeting participants

In strongly hierarchically organized South Korean companies it is of utmost importance to pay attention to the rank of the invited meeting participants. In principle, the higher the hierarchical levels of the participants, the more important the topic of the meeting.

The highest-ranking South Koreans will enter the meeting room first and sit in the middle of one side of the long conference table. To their left and right, the other employees will take their place in descending hierarchical order. The one with the least to say sits the furthest away from the leaders. Make sure that your delegation places itself according to the South Korean hierarchy levels.

The ranking officer usually appoints a meeting leader, who moderates the meeting and gives the participants the floor. It is therefore not necessarily the decision-maker who speaks, but often simply the person who speaks the best English.

In South Korean meetings, only people who are on the same hierarchical level interact with each other. No one will ever argue or comment on a superior’s opinion. If you want to know the personal points of view of individuals, the number of participants in a meeting must be kept as small as possible and at the same hierarchical level. Alternatively, you can have many one-on-one conversations.

Presentations

South Koreans like to be extensively informed. Therefore, depending on the topic of a presentation, a large number of facts and figures are welcome. In addition, South Koreans use many images, film sequences and other visual elements.

In a manner similar to their communication style, South Koreans can process a lot of scattered information and gradually assemble it into an overall picture—which can lead to extremely overloaded and unstructured presentation slides that are also shown at a comparatively fast pace. Conversely, as the presenter you will be expected to present not only the essential facts but also as many details as possible.

Your South Korean listeners will not interrupt you during your presentation—and you should not interrupt a South Korean presenter either—but it can happen that some participants whisper to each other in Korean or leave the room for a phone call. Don’t let this irritate you or take this as a show of indifference. Frequent nodding, on the other hand, means that you are being listened to carefully. But be careful, this does not mean approval as a nod does in various other cultures!

It is a good idea to keep minutes in meetings with South Koreans. It will help you to better process the high flow of information. You can also propose to review the protocol with all participants in case any additions might be necessary.

You should not expect any concrete decisions by the end of a meeting or presentation and should not force them either. You’d only be jeopardizing harmony. Your South Korean partners will withdraw and discuss the matter further internally. Ultimately, the authority to decide lies with the highest ranking manager, who will inform you in due course. Patience is your top priority here.

Eating together

After a meeting in a more formal setting, South Koreans will propose to have dinner together. This helps to build the relationship, especially if difficult questions are still unsolved. Do something to foster harmony before returning to the conference table the next day.

Visitors From South Korea

Business Meals And After Work In South Korea

Body Language In South Korea

Communication In South Korea

First Business Meeting In South Korea

How to close deals in any foreign market.

© 2019-2024 crossculture2go GmbH

How To Introduce Yourself in Korean [Complete Guide]

There is always a specific etiquette to follow when introducing yourself in any culture and foreign language. Some people place a great deal of importance on this, since first impressions are everything. However, there is a particular value placed on introductions in Korean and it’s essential to understand the nuances.

If you will be traveling to South Korea in the future, then it’s imperative you develop a solid grasp on introducing yourself. This will include learning various levels of speech, honorifics, important phrases, how to present yourself and so many others.

While it isn’t difficult in theory, there are many intricacies and details to know. Certainly, it can get overwhelming and confusing. However, consistent practice will have you memorizing it in no time.

Upon Meeting New People

The first thing you must do when you meet a new person in Korea is to address them by an appropriate speech level along with any necessary honorifics. This is because Koreans value hierarchy and the language used reflects this highly regarded practice.

Therefore, you will speak to people older and younger than you differently as well as those who are friends or your own age. This is what they refer to as levels of speech. However, the addition of honorifics intensifies this social requirement.

Levels of Speech

For elders as well as those of a higher status than you (even if they are younger or your own age), the formal is most appropriate. Almost all sentences using this speech level will end with –ㅂ니다 (b-ewe-nee-dah).

The semi-formal is for your friends, people your own age or those of an equal status. Also known as polite speech, this is the standard and often used in most everyday situations. These sentences usually end in 요 (yoh).

The informal, or casual, speech is for those younger or people who have less seniority than you have. Alternatively, you can also use it with people you know really well and to whom you’re close.

About Honorifics

Honorifics are a way Koreans show respect through speech and a display of regarding social hierarchy. Seniority and status are very important to the culture, with the language reflecting this value. The use of titles, pronouns, verbs and nouns will vary depending on the honorific.

These are a way to show others in public how close you are to the person with whom you’re speaking. The more honorifics, the further away the people are from each other. The more informal use of speech indicates they’re close. Ergo, using the wrong greeting and manner of addressing someone is a sign of disrespect and rudeness. So, you want to avoid this at all costs.

This means that when you first meet someone, it’s always good to use standard polite speech until you can get a feel for their position in contrast to yours along with age. Because honorifics are a whole section of the Korean language, we’ll only mention the ones important to know when introducing yourself.

Comparing Honorifics with Levels of Speech

Levels of speech can change and vary depending on the situation you’re in. For instance, you might use formal for speaking in front of a large audience or as a news broadcaster. You can even use various speech levels to refer to yourself depending on the topic in question.

Honorifics are specific in that they display cognizant respect toward the listener or the person about whom you’re speaking. Oftentimes, it will be a requirement when speaking to someone clearly older than you are or who has a higher social status. Unlike speech levels, you cannot use honorifics to speak about yourself.

Patience & Observation

Don’t worry, if you’re going to South Korea and you accidentally say something wrong, most Koreans are very forgiving. However, make a concerted effort never to do it again& especially with the same people.

The best way to observe introductions is to watch K-dramas. While everything else in these soap operas is outlandish and something out of fantasy, their social interactions are right on point.

About the Pronunciations

With many of the words, phrases and sentences laid out below, there is a phonetic pronunciation spelled out. These are not the official transliteration from Hangeul. While the Romanization is helpful, it doesn’t always ring true to actual annunciation.

Therefore, understand these are mere approximations to help English speakers say the words in their rightful context. If you do not find them helpful, you have all the encouragement to supplant your own.

Saying, “Hello” in Korean

Once you see someone face-to-face, you want to start by saying, “hello,” as you would in any language. The following chart details how to say this according to the appropriate speech level. The semi-formal version is the standard.

You can use the informal version to address people you know well or are close to as a way of saying “hi.” If an elder or other such higher up addresses you with the informal, they are being subtly disrespectful. This isn’t always the case, but, sometimes it can be& it will rely on the other words they use toward you after it.

Bowing & Shaking Hands

Once you say hello for the first time, bow at the hips toward them with your left hand on your stomach. Every time you see them afterwards, a head nod will do. That is of course, the person you’re speaking to is older or of a higher status. Then, you bow every time.

Remember, first you say, “hello,” then bow and finally you shake hands. You won’t always shake hands, but, when you do, you use your right hand. Only use the left if you intend to shake with both hands, where the left hand sits on the wrist, elbow or arm of the right. Other than that, leave your left hand out.

This is because the left hand has associations with death and negativity. Older people and those in formal settings could become very offended if you offer a handshake with your left.

Self-Introductions

After initial pleasantries, you should offer your name or you may hear someone ask what your name is. It looks like this: 이름이 뭐에요. You pronounce it eel-euhm-ee mwoo-eye-oh. Then, you have two ways in which to answer:

In the second sentence, notice the backslash. There is a difference in what you use depending on if your name uses a consonant for a vowel. A consonant requires 이에요 whereas a vowel uses 예요. This is because of a grammar rule that says no name in Korean can end in a consonant.

To illustrate, names like David, John, Doug, Jennifer, Lauren and Abigail will use 이에요. The other ending, 예요, is for names such as Anna, Jeanine, Laci, Alexei, Constantine or Mostafa.

Saying “Nice to Meet You”

Once you say hello to someone in Korea, much like in the West, you’ll say something along the lines of “nice to meet you.” It’s polite, courteous and shows a genuine interest in the person to whom you’re speaking. In Korean, it’s the exact same thing in principle and concept, but there are two ways of saying it. They are as follows:

Mentioning Your Age

At some point during the introduction, the person you’re speaking to may ask you what age you are. While in the West we consider it a little rude to ask someone’s age, it’s not this way in Korea. They simply want to gauge where you fit in their hierarchy. It usually looks and sounds like:

몇 살이에요? (myeo-ch sal-ee-eye-yoh?)

몇 살이세요? (myeo-ch sal-ee-say-yoh?)

The Korean number system is too long to get into here. Therefore, you should study it to get your precise age and how you use it in a sentence. But, for the sake of example, let’s say you’re 35 years old. You will respond with:

• Formal: 제 나이는 서른 다섯입니다 (pronounced chay nigh-een-euhn say-oh-leuhn thah-say-oh-sh-eeb-nee-dah)
• Semi-Formal: 저 는 서른 다섯 살이야 (pronounced chay-oh neuhn say-oh-leuhn thah-say-oh sh-al-ee-yah)

Your Home Country

Naturally, Koreans are going to notice that you’re not from around that part of the world. So, they will probably ask you where you come from or what you home nation is. They’ll ask you this in one of three ways:

You will answer with the formal 저는_____ 에서 왔습니다 (pronounced zho-neuhn _____~eseo wah-tseuhm-nee-dah) or the semi-formal 나는 _____ 에서 왔어요 (pronounced nah-neuhn _____eseo wah-soh-yoh).

If you’re from the United States:

• Formal: 저는 미국에서 왔습니다 (pronounced zho-neuhn mee-gkou-g-eseo wah-tseuhm-nee-dah)
• Semi-formal: 나는 미국에서 왔어요 (pronounced nah-neuhn mee-gkou-g-eseo wah-soh-yoh)

However, you could be from another country. While there are grammatical rules for changes, you simply replace the blank with the country name in Korean. The small list below illustrates some of them:

• Australia: 호주 (ho-choo)
• Brazil: 브라질 (beuh-lah-zeel)
• Canada: 캐나다 (kay-nah-dah)
• Egypt: 이집트 (ee-jeep-teuh)
• France: 프랑스 (peuh-lahng-seuh)
• Germany: 독일 (dog-eel)
• Great Britain: 대 브리튼 섬 (die beuh-leet-euhn say-ohm)
• Greece: 그리스 (geuh-lee-seuh)
• Ireland: 아일랜드 (ay-lend-euh)
• Mexico: 멕시코 (mek-see-koh)
• Norway: 노르웨이 (nole-deuh-way)
• Russia: 러시아 (low-see-yah)
• Scotland: 스코틀랜드 (seuh-koh-tell-an-deuh)
• Sweden: 스웨덴 (seuh-way-den)

In some introductions, you’ll want to tell the person what you do as a job or career. You will use either:

• Formal: 저는 _____ 입니다 (cheo-neuhn _____~m nee-dah)
• Semi-Formal: 저는 _____ 에요 (cheo-neuhn   _____ ~eye-oh)

You simply fill in the blank with the appropriate occupation:

• Actor: 배우 (bay-oh)
• Artist: 아티스트 (ah-tees-euh-teuh)
• Athlete: 운동 선수 (oon-dong sey-ohn-soo)
• Banker: 은행가 (euh-nhayng-gah)
• Barista: 바리 스타 (baree seuhta)
• Bartender: 바텐더 (bah-ten-doh)
• Broadcaster: 방송인 (bahng-sohng-een)
• Dancer: 춤추는 사람 (choum-chou-neuhn sah-lahm)
• Editor: 편집자 (peeone-cheeb-jah)
• Skin Esthetician: 피부미용사 (pee-boum-ee-yong-sah)
• Farmer: 농장주 (nong-chahng-choo)
• Hairdresser: 이발사 (ee-bahl-sah)
• Janitor: 관리인 (gwan-lien)
• Journalist: 기자 (gkee-jah)
• Musician: 음악가 (euhm-ah-gkah)
• Programmer: 프로그램 제작자 (peuh-low-geul-ehm jay-jahg-zah)
• Singer: 가수 (gkah-soo)
• Student: 학생 (hahg-sayng)
• Teacher: 선생님 (sohn-sayng-eem)
• Veterinarian: 수의사 (soo-wee-sah)
• Waiter: 웨이터 (way-teuh)
• Writer: 작가 (chah-gkah)

Certainly, someone may ask you about your likes and hobbies. These usually come from people you’re friends with or have some sort of closer relation, so we’ll give only the semi-formal version.

Usually they’ll ask you, “what is your hobby?” 당신의 취미는 무엇입니까? (dahng-shin-oowee chweemee-neuhn moo-ohs ee-bean-ee-kah?)

You can answer with statement such as:

As with occupation and country, fill in the blank with your preferred hobby:

• Bicycling: 자전거 타는 것 (zha-cheong-ayo tahn-neuhn gkohs)
• Bird Watching: 야조 관찰 (yah-cho gwan-chayl)
• Bowling: 볼링 (bou-ling)
• Climbing or Hiking: 등산 (deuhng-sahn)
• Cooking: 요리 (yoh-lee)
• Crafting: 공예 (goung-yay)
• Dancing: 댄스 (den-seuh)
• Gardening: 원예 (whoa-n-yay)
• Golfing: 골프 (goal-peuh)
• Listening to Music: 음악을 듣고 (euhm-agk-eul deuhd-gkho)
• Meditating: 명상(mee-yong-sang)
• Painting: 그림 (geuh-leem)
• Playing Video Games: 비디오 게임하기 (bid-ee-oh gaym-hah-gee)
• Reading: 독서 (toke-soh)
• Running: 달리기 (tahl-lee-gee)
• Sculpting: 조각 (cho-gahg)
• Singing: 명음 (mee-yong-euhm)
• Traveling: 여행 (yoh-hang)
• Walking: 걷는 (kohd-neuhn)
• Watching Movies: 영화 감상 (yong-wah kam-sahng)
• Writing: 글쓰기(geuhl-seuh-gee)

Other Topics of Conversation

As you continue speaking with people, they’ll become curious about how you learned Korean or where you live now, among other such questions. Likewise, you’ll also want to know about them, so keep the questions in mind along with the answers.

Learning Korean

• Where did you learn Korean? 한국어는 어디서 배웠어? (hangk-oog-eoh-neuhn ayo-dees-ay-oh bay-whoa-ssoh)
• Who taught you Korean?   누가 한국어를 가르쳐 줬어? (noo-gkah hang-oog-oh-leuhl gahl-euhch-yay-oh chwahss-oh?)
• I learned Korean at school. 나는 학교에서 한국어를 배웠다 (nahn-neuhn hahgk-gkoh-say-oh hang-oog-oh-leuhl baywoss-dah)
• I learned Korean from a friend. 나는 친구에게 한국어를 배웠다 (nahn-neuhn cheen-kuay-gay hang-oog-oh-leuhl bay-whoa-ss-dah)
• I studied Korean with a friend. 나는 친구와 한국어를 공부했다 (nahn-neuhn cheen-kuay hang-oog-oh-leuhl gong-boo-hay-ss-dah)
• I studied Korean in college. 나는 대학에서 한국어를 공부했다 (nahn-neuhn day-hahg-esayoh hang-oog-oh-leuhl gong-boo-hay-ss-dah)
• I studied Korean on my own. 나는 한국어를 독학으로 공부했다 (nahn-euhn hang-oog-oh-leuhl doag-hahg-euhl-owe gong-boo-hay-ss-dah)

Your Current Home

• Where do you live? 어디 살아요? (oh-dee sal-aye-oh)
• I live in Seoul. 나는 서울에 산다 (nahn-euhn sohl-eh sahn-dah)
• I live down the street. 나는 길 아래에 산다 (nahn-euhn keel ah-lay-ah sahn-dah)
• I live in Busan. 나는 부산에 산다 (nahn-euhn boo-sahn-eh sahn-dah)
• I live in Chicago. 나는 시카고에 산다 (nahn-euhn shee-cah-goh-eh sahn-dah)
• I live a few miles north. 나는 북쪽으로 몇 마일 떨어진 곳에 산다 (nahn-euhn boogk-chok-euh-low mee-och mah-eel tay-ohl-ohcheen gohs-eh sahn-dah)

Marital Status

• Are you married? 결혼하셨나요? (gyohl-hone-hah-shyohs-nigh-oh)
• Yes, I’ve been married for a decade. 예, 저는 결혼한 지 십 년이 되었습니다.  (yeh, cheo-neuhn gyol-hone-han chee seeb neon-ee doh-ee-ohs-euhb-nee-dah)
• Yes, I’m a newlywed. 네 저는 신혼입니다 (ne, cheo-neuhn seen-hone-eeb-nee-dah)
• No, I’m single. 아니, 난 하나입니다 (anee, nahn hah-nahb-nee-dah)
• No, I’m divorced. 아니요, 이혼했어요 (anee-yoh, ee-hone-hay-ss-oh-yo)

Children? Yes or No

• Do you have children? 자녀 있어요 (chan-yoh ees-oh-yo)
• Yes, I’m pregnant with my first child. 예, 첫 아이를 임신했습니다 (ye, cheos aye-leuhl eem-seen-hay-sseuhb-nee-dah)
• Yes, I have three children. 예, 저는 세 자녀가 있습니다 (ye, chonen she chan-yoh-gkah eeseuhb-nee-dah)
• No, I have no children. 아니요, 저는 자녀가 없습니다 (anee-yoh, cheonen chan-yogah ohbs-seuhb-nee-dah)

Pets? Yes or No

• Do you have any pets? 당신은 어떤 애완 동물을해야합니까? (dang-seen-euhn oh-tayohn aye-wahn dong-moul-euhl-hay-yah-hahb-nee-kah)
• Yes I have a cat. 네 저는 고양이가 있어요 (ne chonen goyang-eekah ees-oh-yo)
• Yes, I have a dog. 네 저는 개가 있어요 (ne chonen gay-gah ees-oh-yo)
• Yes, I have some fish. 네, 물고기가 좀 있어요 (ne, moul-gkogk-eegah chom ees-oh-yo)
• Yes, I have two birds. 그래 나에게는 두 마리의 새가 있다 (geuhl-aye nah-egg-en-en doo mah-lee-wee say-gah ees-dah)
• No, I don’t have a pet. 아니요, 저는 애완동물이 없습니다 (anee-yoh, chonen aye-wahn-dong-moul-ee ohbs-seuhb-nee-dah)

Addressing Other People

Of course, when you have a conversation with someone, you aren’t only going to talk about yourself. You’ll want to be able to address other people and ask them similar questions. Here is where speech levels and honorifics truly come into play.

First, you’ll never address someone as “you” or by their first name, especially upon first meeting. You will always employ the appropriate honorific to address an individual based on their age and social position.

However, honorifics are a huge topic that includes verbs and nouns. Newcomers should begin learning these from the start. But, for the sake of this discussion, you address them by their family role, company title or you add a suffix to their name or title. The titles below are the most common:

There are several characters added at the end of names and titles to indicate additional honorifics if not already attached to the person when addressing them. You simply add them at the end of any name or word such as “driver” or “doorman” and etc.

For the last example above, the difference will depend on the presence of a consonant or a vowel. If the name has a vowel, you will use 수야 (soo-yah). When a consonant is at the end of their name, you will use 민아 (meena). 

While each section here has its own grammatical rules, this is the basic overview of how to introduce yourself in Korean. Therefore, it’s imperative you familiarize yourself with as many nouns, verbs and numbers as you can to be able to speak accurately about yourself.

Also, always remember there’s a formal, semi-formal and, sometimes, informal way to speak to someone based on their age and social seniority. However, using the semi-formal will be the most common in your dealings with the public and meeting new people.

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How to Speak Korean – Online Guide for Conversational Fluency

Last modified: Aug 21, 2024 | 15 min read | By Joseph Gerocs

Do you want to learn how to speak Korean?  If so, you’ve come to the right place!

Korean is the official language of South Korea , so it’s very useful to learn how to converse if you’re heading out this way for a trip. You may be interested in learning how to speak Korean so you can communicate with Korean friends , talk with Korean in-laws, or chat with your significant other in his or her native language.

Many people these days want to learn a new language, and they choose Korean because of the popularity of Korean Dramas , K-Pop , Korean movies , and Korean culture .

Whatever the reason is, we’ve got you covered! Below, we organized an online plan for conversational fluency that will help you start to practice using the language right away.

Read on for a simple step-by-step guide on how to speak Korean!

Below is a free PDF guide that you can download and take with you:

• 1 Korean Speaking Lessons
• 2.1 Step 1: Learn to Read Hangeul (the Korean Alphabet)
• 2.2 Step 2: Learn Korean Numbers
• 2.3 Step 3: Learn Korean Phrases
• 2.4 Step 4: Learn Korean Words
• 2.5 Step 5: Learn Korean Sentence Basics
• 2.6 Step 6: Practice with Conversation Partners
• 3 Conversational Korean
• 4.1 Korean Conversation Practice
• 5 How to Speak Korean Fluently
• 6.1 Talk in Korean Over Messenger
• 6.2 Korean Speaking Course

Korean Speaking Lessons

You don’t need to learn Korean in order to speak Korean. For example, you may want to talk to Koreans, but you don’t care about reading a comic book or writing an email in Korean.

We fully understand!

However, if you want to learn how to have significant conversations in Korean quickly, then you’ll want to follow the steps below. These Korean speaking lessons and resources will show you the 80/20 for learning how to speak Korean and get you to a conversational level. In other words, you’ll learn 20% of the Korean language, which will give you 80% of the results. This will help you learn the most in the shortest amount of time .

Spend only the required learning time on each step, and then move on. Get a good understanding, but don’t worry about mastering each step of speaking Korean. You will be using the things you’ve learned during conversation practice time.

Each step also has a “related lessons” section at the bottom for additional practice and application of what you learn. You can use that after you’ve gone through all six steps and you’ve decided you want to continue learning Korean.

How to Speak Korean

You may want to know how to speak Korean easily. This may be especially true if you like Korean dramas, movies, and music. However, one challenge in doing so is you might not be able to find a native Korean speaker to practice with. But don’t let that discourage you.

Watch the video below for some tips:

Additionally, it’s easier than ever to start speaking Korean nowadays. Many Korean lessons are available online that will help you learn how to speak Korean. Let’s go through each of the steps below!

Step 1: Learn to Read Hangeul (the Korean Alphabet)

Online resource: https://www.90daykorean.com/how-to-learn-the-korean-alphabet/

If you want to speak Korean, the first thing you should do is learn to read Hangeul (the Korean alphabet) . Learning Hangeul only takes about 1 hour to learn. There are two massive benefits to this.

First, you’ll be able to read Korean words and sentences quickly and easily. Knowing the alphabet will allow you to supercharge any Korean learning that you do and begin to speak Korean in no time. It’s one of the simplest and most effective hacks for having Korean conversations.

And second, it will help you understand and use the correct pronunciation of the Korean word you just learned. This is critical if you want to speak Korean and have conversations. Korean pronunciation is significantly easier than reading romanized English. Learning to read the alphabet is necessary if you want to become a high-level Korean speaker .

Head over to the first of our online lessons and learn to read Hangeul before your next meal. The guide uses associations using the English alphabet. The Korean alphabet and the English alphabet have a lot of similarities, which will help you understand the pronunciation of the letters.

Once you can read the letters, move on to the next step in our guide. You don’t need to master them; just make sure you can sound out words. You may want to get some additional practice using flashcards . You can write the Korean letters on the front of the flashcard. On the back, write the English equivalent and any pronunciation tips that may be helpful.

Related lessons: Korean double consonants

Step 2: Learn Korean Numbers

Online resource: https://www.90daykorean.com/korean-numbers/

The second step in learning how to speak Korean is to learn Korean numbers . There are two number systems in use in the Korean language, and we have a lesson on both of them. The lessons are explained in English, but knowing the Korean alphabet will help with the pronunciation of the numbers.

The first system is the Sino-Korean number system, which the Korean language adopted from Chinese. These numbers are used often and are quite easy to learn.  You only need to learn the first 10 numbers plus 100, 1000, 10000, and so on. The rest is all combining the basic numbers together.

For example, the number 2 is 이 (i), and 10 is 십 (sip). And 22 is 이십이 (isipi). This number system is used for multiple different things like money and calendar dates.

This is the most useful number system, so learn it first. It’s easy to learn because it’s structured. It follows patterns and may even be easier to learn than numbers in English.

The second system is the native Korean number system, which was created later. It takes a little bit more effort to learn these numbers. The pronunciation is a bit more challenging, and they don’t follow the simple patterns of the Sino-Korean number system. For example, four is 넷 (net), and five is 다섯 (daseot), while forty is 마흔 (maheun) and fifty is 쉰 (swin).

The native Korean counting system only goes up to 99, but even those numbers can be tough to say. You’ll use these numbers to tell your age  or to count quantities like how many bananas you want to buy at the market, and so on.

Just start with the Sino-Korean system lesson and learn to count to 100. Then move on to the next step. You can bookmark the lesson and then learn more about the native Korean numbers later.

Even if you aren’t using the correct number system when you speak, people will understand what you’re saying. That’s the goal—to get you speaking Korean as soon as possible!

Related lessons: Korean months , Korean counters

Step 3: Learn Korean Phrases

Online resource: https://www.90daykorean.com/korean-phrases/

To help develop your speaking skills, start learning the most common phrases for Korean language learning. Using these phrases will allow you to have Korean conversations quickly.

There are many phrases on this list, but you don’t need to learn them all. Just start with the essential and everyday phrases that will get you talking in Korean. These are simple phrases like “ hello ,” “ excuse me ,” and “ thank you .” In other words, learn the phrases that are used in English most often.

Once you learn the essential and everyday phrases, consider adding them to your flashcard deck or notes so you can practice speaking them. Bookmark this page for later use, and move on to the next step.

Related lessons: Survival Korean

Step 4: Learn Korean Words

Online resource: https://www.90daykorean.com/korean-words/

Now that you know how to read Korean, the numbers, and some basic phrases, it’s time to learn some of the most common words in the Korean language.

Start by learning Korean nouns first. These are the words that you will come across most, so they will be the most useful when you practice speaking Korean. You may recognize some of these words that appear in the phrases you already learned. Some sound very similar to their meaning in English .

Learning Korean words alone will not be enough to start making sentences. However, when you know the Korean vocabulary well, it will help you to form those sentences. These are Korean words that you will want to memorize as soon as you can so you can start creating sentences.

The way you memorize the words  is up to you. You may want to make associations in English to help you remember the Korean words and phrases that you are learning .

A great tool you can use to practice reviewing these words is the flashcard system called Anki . It allows for space repetition learning, and is quite fun!

Become familiar with these, and then move on to the next lesson.

Related lessons: Shortened Korean Words, Korean slang , Colors in Korean , Parts of the Body in Korean , Fruits and Vegetables in Korean , Animals in Korean

Step 5: Learn Korean Sentence Basics

Online resource: https://www.90daykorean.com/korean-sentence-structure/

Once you have a handle on some of the basic phrases and commonly used words in the Korean language, it’s time to start learning how to make sentences! This is one of the most effective lessons because you can make 30+ sentences by learning only a few words and endings.

Learning sentence structure in Korean is quick and easy , which is great because it’s essential for speaking Korean. If you learn the Korean sentence structure with us, you can begin creating sentences in just minutes!

There are some additional Korean grammar sections in this lesson on sentence structures, but you can skip them for now. Just focus on the verbs and the conjugations ; they will be the biggest help. You can go back and practice Korean grammar later.

Related lessons: Korean particles , Korean grammar , Korean conjunctions

Step 6: Practice with Conversation Partners

Online resource: https://www.90daykorean.com/korean-language-exchange/

Congratulations! You have now learned the basics of talking and having conversations in Korean. You have a fantastic framework for speaking Korean. That only leaves one more step: starting to talk in Korean!

Language exchange is one of the most popular ways for foreigners to practice Korean speaking. It’s also a popular way for Koreans to practice talking in other languages. That makes it a fantastic way to practice speaking Korean, no matter which level you are.

You don’t need to be in Korea to have a conversation partner for Korean. We have compiled a list of great language exchange websites that you can start using today. You can also practice speaking Korean with a friend who’s learning the language so you can help each other learn Korean together.

Related lessons: Korean Texting , How to Meet Korean Friends Online , Korean emoticons

Conversational Korean

When you learn Korean , one thing that gets you to speak the language early on is conversational Korean phrases . These are basic phrases that you often hear and use in conversations.

They are easy to learn because native Korean speakers commonly use them.

For example:

• 안녕하세요. (annyeonghaseyo.) – Hello.
• 만나서 참 반가워요. (mannaseo cham bangawoyo.) – Nice to meet you.
• 감사합니다 . (gamsahamnida.) – Thank you.
• 천만에요. (cheonmaneyo.) – You’re welcome.
• 어떻게 지내세요? (eotteoke jinaeseyo?) – How are you?
• 잘 지내요. (jaljinaeyo.) – I’m doing good.

Once you learn these words and phrases, you’ll be able to indulge yourself in a quick and short conversation in Korean.

Korean Conversation

As Korean language learners, the ultimate goal is, of course, to speak the language and be able to engage in conversations. 

You don’t have to learn a lot of grammar points to indulge in a Korean conversation. All you need to start with is a few words and phrases that are commonly used in a Korean conversation or in a particular situation. 

Korean Conversation Practice

In this section, you’ll learn two Korean conversations you can use for practice. The first conversation can be helpful when you meet someone new. The second conversation can be useful when speaking to a friend.

Below are two Korean conversation examples:

A: 안녕하세요. 저는 크리스입니다. (annyeonghaseyo. jeoneun keuriseuimnida.)

Hi, I’m Cris.

B: 안녕하세요. 저는 소라입니다. 만나서 반갑습니다. (annyeonghaseyo. jeoneun soraimnida. mannaseo bangapseumnida.)

Hi, I’m Sora. Nice to meet you .

A: 저도 만나서 반갑습니다. 저는 미국 사람입니다. (jeodo mannaseo bangapseumnida. jeoneun miguk saramimnida.)

Nice to meet you too. I’m American .

B: 저는 일본사람입니다. (jeoneun ilbonsaramimnida.)

I’m Japanese .

A: 세희 씨는 주말 계획이 있어요? (sehui ssineun jumal gyehoegi isseoyo?)

Sehui, do you have plans for the weekend?

B: 아니요. 계획이 없어요. (aniyo. gyehoegi eopseoyo.)

No, I don’t have any plans.

A: 그럼 주말에 영화 보러 가요. (eureom jumare yeonghwa boreo gayo.)

Then, let’s watch a movie on the weekend.

B: 알았어요. (arasseoyo.)

How to Speak Korean Fluently

The ultimate goal of most, if not all, language learners learning Korean is to be able to speak the language fluently. There are several fun ways how to speak Korean fluently .

You can start by learning to read and pronounce Korean letters. This is your first step to fluency. Knowing how to read and pronounce the letters correctly will help you read and speak basic Korean words and sentences like a native Korean speaker.

같이 (gati) is pronounced 가치 (gachi).

You can also learn to speak Korean fluently by listening to Korean music and watching Korean TV shows and dramas or YouTube videos  and following the words and sentences you hear from them.

오해 하지마 (ohae hajima) means “Don’t misunderstand.”

If you want to have someone check your pronunciation and grammar, you can join a community that would give you the support you need to reach your Korean language fluency goal. You can find a language partner to practice speaking in Korean so you can have the confidence you need when you speak to locals or to your Korean friends on your next visit to South Korea!

How to Talk in Korean Every Day

If you want to get good at speaking Korean, then you’ll want to maximize how much time you talk in Korean. You can do this by setting up your day to talk in Korean as much as possible.

Talk in Korean Over Messenger

One way to do this is to send voice notes over Korean apps like KakaoTalk to your conversation partner. Then you can listen to your conversation partner’s voice message. Be sure to specify that you want them to talk to you in Korean. This is especially true if you share the same native language with your partner. Another way to talk to Koreans every day is to be mindful of how you set up your day. Here’s how.

Talk to Me in Korean, Please

You can get Koreans to talk to you in Korean no matter where you are in the world. If you visit a Korean supermarket or restaurant in your area, then you can talk simple phrases with the staff. If they reply back to you in English, you can ask them to talk to you in Korean.

You can say 한국어로 말해주세요 (hangugeoro malhae juseyo) or 한국어로 이야기해주세요 (hangugeoro iyagihae juseyo). They are similar to saying, “Talk to me in Korean, please.” You can also say 저는 한국어 공부하고 있어요 (jeoneun hangugeo gongbuhago isseoyo), which means “I’m studying Korean.” Remember to smile when saying it!

Practice saying “Talk to me in Korean, please” on your own, so you are able to say it when you need it. You might say it out loud by yourself a few times a day until it becomes second nature.

Remember the staff who talk to you in Korean

Memorize the Korean Speaking Phrase

The phrases “talk to me in Korean, please” and “I’m studying Korean” can be a bit long to remember. You may want to write them down on an index card and read them when you’re talking to the staff. Even if you have memorized the phrases, it will be good to have a backup.

There you have it–our framework and a step-by-step plan for learning how to speak Korean quickly and easily! We hope you love it and are ready to start talking using what you’ve learned right away.

If you liked this, then you may want to check out our in-depth guide on how to study Korean in a fast and efficient way , so you get to start talking in Korean quickly. It contains everything we covered here but also has extra lessons on learning other parts of the language to help you become a polished Korean speaker.

Korean Speaking Course

We also have a structured, step-by-step online Korean course that will teach you how to have a 3-minute conversation in the first 90 days. Through this Korean language course , you can learn Korean from anywhere in the world using our fun and easy method.

How can we help you with learning to speak Korean? Let us know in the comments below!

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84 thoughts on “How to Speak Korean – Online Guide for Conversational Fluency”

Hi I get unmotivated easily plus my life is really busy I barely get any time to learn Korean so please help me to stay motivated and I’m really thankful for you guys that you are teaching korean free many websites don’t so thanks

Hi Amy! Thanks for your kind words! It’s a common challenge for Korean learners to feel unmotivated. I’ll be glad to give you some tips. ^^ I suggest giving yourself some kind of structure so that you know you’re making progress. You should start with the Korean Alphabet first. Then, you can follow the lessons on How-To Guide for Language Study .

You’re welcome, Alexander! If you want to practice Korean through dialogues, you might want to check our article about Korean Conversation . ^^

Hi I don’t know how to speak Korean but my classmate does and she’s new there and I want under stand her

Thanks for your comment and for sharing, Amelia! ^^ You can check out our article How to Speak Korean – Online Guide for Conversational Fluency to help you speak in Korean. If you want to learn Korean, we also have a step-by-step resource called Learn Korean Online: How-To Guide for Language Study to guide you.

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How To Introduce Yourself in Korean in 1 Minute

Want to introduce yourself in Korean? Read this lesson. It’ll take you a minute, and ALL the Korean lines you need are here.

If you don’t, I don’t care – this is ONLY for people that truly want to speak Korean.

OK! Here’s how you introduce yourself in Korean. You learn the 6 MUST-KNOW lines. We’ll go from 1-6 and translate it so you can easily start talking Korean ASAP.

Let’s jump in.

1. Formal Way: Jeoneun (name)-imnida.

So first,  let’s cover the formal way to introduce yourself in Korean.

• 안녕하세요? 저는 (name) 입니다. 처음 뵙겠습니다.
• Annyeonghaseyo? Jeoneun John -imnida. Cheoeum boepgesseumnida.
• Hello, my name is John . Nice to meet you!

As you can tell, “Annyeonghaseyo” means “Hello,” then “Jeoneun (name)-imnida” means “my name is (name)”, and finally “Cheoeum boepgesseumnida” is “Nice to meet you.

Do you want to hear how this is pronounced?

Then you should also listen and hear real Korean. Press play below. Try this Free Lesson from KoreanClass101.com (click here to visit) for the complete explanation about introducing yourself!

Ok, what’s next?

2. Casual Way: (Name)-Ya. Bangawayo.

Here’s a more casual way to introduce yourself.

• 안녕. (Name) 야. 반가워.
• Annyeong. (Name) – ya. bangawo.
• Hi, I’m (Name) . Nice to meet you.

So, if you want to introduce yourself casually, just say your name and “ya.”

3. I am from … — (place) eseo wasseumnida.

• (place) 서 왔습니다.
• 미국 miguk – America
• 미국서 왔습니다. Migugeseo wasseumnida. I’m from the U.S.A.

But what if you’re not from the United States? How can you introduce yourself in Korean and talk about YOUR country? Fear not; below is a list that will help you. Simply find your country and add it to the line above!

• Australia 호주 hoju
• Austria 오스트리아 osu t’ria
• Brazil 브라질 burajil
• Canada 캐나다 k’aenada
• China (PRC) 중국 chung-guk
• China (Taiwan) 대만 daeman
• England (United Kingdom) 영국 yeong-guk
• France 프랑스 p’urangsu
• Germany 독일 tok-il
• Hong Kong 홍콩 hong k’ong
• India 인도 indo
• Italy 이탈리아 it’al-lia
• Japan 일본 ilbon
• Malaysia 말레이지아 mallae-i jia
• Mexico 멕시코 maeksik’o
• Mongolia 몽고 mong-go
• Myanmar (Burma) 미얀마 miyanma
• New Zealand 뉴질랜드 nyu jeelaendu
• The Philippines 필리핀 p’ileepeen
• Singapore 싱가폴 sing-gap’ol
• Spain 스페인 sup’ai-in
• Sweden 스웨덴 suwei-dain
• Switzerland 스위스 suweisu
• Thailand 태국 t’ae-guk
• Vietnam 베트남 baet’unam

Now, let’s talk about your age.

4. “I am (age) years old” — (age) sal imnida.

• (age) 살 입니다.
• 열여덟 살 입니다. Yeolyeodeol sal imnida. I am 18 years old.

Okay, to fully introduce yourself in Korean and state your age, you’ll need to know numbers.

Below is a chart of the Korean numbers (there are 2 sets – this is the Korean Native System) which is used for age. If you’re wondering how to do in-between numbers like 23, 35, 47 and so on, heres what you should do.

• Take the Korean word for 20, 30, 40, etc. – whichever is your age
• Then take the single digit number (1-9)
• 40 is maheun
• 5 is daseot
• so, 45 is maheundaseot

To learn more about Korean numbers, check out my other lesson here .

5. I am a (occupation). (occupation)-imnida.

Next, you’ll need to talk about your work or occupation in Korean.

All you need is the word for your occupation and “imnida.”

•  학생입니다. Haksaeng-imnida I’m a student.
• 회사원입니다. Hoisawon-imnida. I’m an office worker.

Here are some other common occupations you can stick in:

• 의사 (Uisa) – Doctor
• 변호사 (Byeonhosa) – Lawyer
• 선생님 (Seonsaengnim) – Teacher
• 간호사 (Ganhosa) – Nurse
• 공학자 (Gonghakja) – Engineer
• 프로그래머 (Peurogeuraemeo) – Programmer
• 요리사 (Yorisa) – Chef
• 경찰관 (Gyeongchalgwan) – Police Officer
• 소방관 (Sobanggwan) – Firefighter
• 기자 (Gija) – Journalist
• 은퇴자 (Euntoeja) – Retired
• 대학생 (Daehaksaeng) – College Student
• 고등학생 (Godeunghaksaeng) – High School Student
• 대학원생 (Daehakwonsaeng) – Graduate Student
• 실업자 (Sileopja) – Unemployed
• 프리랜서 (Peurillaenseo) – Freelancer
• 그래픽 디자이너 (Geuraepik Dijaineo) – Graphic Designer
• 직장인 (Jikjangin) -“office worker” or “company employee”

6. “I’ve been learning Korean for….” — (time duration) dong-an gonbu-haesseumnida.

If your Korean is pretty good, Koreans will want to know about how you learned their language. So, that’s where this and the next phrase come in.

• (time duration) 동안 공부했습니다.
• I’ve been learning for 1 month.
• handaldong-an gonbu-haesseumnida.
• 한달 동안 공부했습니다.

7. I’ve learned Korean in (place) — (place)eseo baewosseumnida.

• (place/location) 에서 배웠습니다.
• I learned it in school.
• hakkyoeseo baewosseumnida.
• 학교에서 배웠습니다.

If you’re interested in learning Korean, I recommend some lessons below — check em out.

The Last Thing That Noone Reads

I feel like noone reads the last parts. Do they?

Well, if you made it down here…

You learned two ways to introduce yourself in Korean. One was formal. One was casual. Let’s review them one more time but in roman letters. You may not know the alphabet ( Hangul) yet.

• Casual : annyeong. (name)-ya.
• Formal : Jeoneun annyeonghaseyo. (name)-imnida.

You can also listen to this extra 3-minute long audio lesson.

• 3-Minute Korean S1 #1 – Self Introduction
• By KoreanClass101.com (click here to visit for more fun lessons.)

Now, what if you want a whole Korean introduction speech? Here’s your Korean self introduction script you might want to use.

Annyeonghaseyo? Jeoneun (name) -imnida. Cheoeum boepgesseumnida. (place) eseo wasseumnida. ( Age) sal imnida. (occupation) -imnida. (time duration) dong-an gonbu-haesseumnida. (place/location) eseo baewosseumnida.

Now you know how to introduce yourself in Korean!

The first thing any beginner Korean learner needs is an introduction. Why? Because who the hell are you? Where are you from? Why are you learning Korean & why should anyone care? If you got this far, you should now have a full script about yourself to use in conversations.

So, what do you do now?

• Take the script I gave you above and put in your name, age, etc. There’s your introduction.
• Introduce yourself in Korean by leaving a comment below!
• Start using your introduction.
• ..and learn even more Korean.

• Get Free Korean Audio Lessons: Korean Audio Lesson
• Best Korean TextBooks . A List for Beginners.
• Say Hello in Korean
• How Are You in Korean

– The Main Junkie

P.S. I highly recommend this for Korean learners.

Annyeonghaseyo! Jeoneun Ulysess-imnida

Annyeonghaseyo! Jeoneun Shivali-imnida

Annyeonghaseyo! Jeoneun Faith-imnida.

Annyeonghaseo? Jeoneun Isabella- imnida.

why is this so hard for meee

Annyeonghaseyo Jeoneun Sara imnida

안녕하세요! 저는 레니 입니다. 처음 뵙겠습니다. 캐나다 서 왔습니다. 열셋 살 입니다. 학생입니다. 저는 재미로 한국어를 배우고 있습니다 ㅋㅋ 집에서 배웠습니다. 안녕하세요~ ^^

Anyeong. Felliandy-ya, bangawo

this lesson helpful thank you, I finally know how to introduce myself properly

Annyeonghaseyo Janeun Jake- imnida..hoju esseo waseumnida, yeol daseot sal imnida

Annyeong hasayo! Siren-ya bangawo! I’m starting to learn korean, I can speak English and Chinese fluently and I’m in late french immersion Since I know Chinese it’ll help me learn kanji for japanese, it’s easier to pick up Cantonese , and I know French so it can help me with Spanish or Italian

How can you combine these sentences like when you want to say: Hello my name is blabla I´m a 163 year old student from happyland

thank you for this lesson, it’s really helpful

안녕하세요? / 저는 (智 淑 달)입니다. / 처음 뵙겠습니다.미국서 왔습니다.(19/열아홉 살) 살 입니다.나는 대학생입니다.나는 1 년 미만 동안 한국어를 배우고있다.혼자서 한국어를 배웠어요.

Tell me informal and formal hello

안녕하세요, 저는 니 니 입 니나. 저는 한국말 잘 못해요 ,미안해요.

can someone please traslate this for me:(romanized + hangul translation)could u also break down the words in romaniztion…

“hello.my name is mina .i live in seoul .i am 13 yrs old. my hobby is to dance,sing and listen to music.i like traveling to different places.”

annyeong haseyo? jeoneun when suaen ibnida.

안녕하세요? 저는 지젤 입니다. 처음 봅 갔습니다.

안녕하세요, 처는 코라리 입니다. 처음 뵙겠습니다. 프랑스 서 왔습니다. 열아홉 살입니다, 그리고, 영국 학생 입니다. 안녕!

annyeonghaseyo joneon lily iminda! yeol set sal imnida.

아넝하세요!조는 Joeyz 임니다

how to introduce marianne kaye in korean

not @ how she used kpop idols for names

안녕하세요. 저는 엘이 입니다. 처음 뵙겠습니다. 영국 서 왔습니다 . 열셋 살 입니다 . 학생입니다 . 잠시동안 공부했습니다. 스스로에서 배웠습니다.

Anyeonghaseyo jeoneun Kevin imnida Cheoum Boepgessumnida pilipeen esseo wasseumnida yeol-yeodeul sal imnida

Anyeonghaseyo jeoneun Kevin-imnida choum boepgesseumnida pilipeen esseo wasseumnida yeol-yeodeul sal imnida

안녕하세요. 저는 히러다어서 임니다. 처음뵙겠습니다 (만나서반갑습니다). 말레이시아 서왔습니다. 서른옐아홉살입니다. 프로그램 제작자 입니다. 일주동안 공부했습니다. 온라인에서 배웠습니다.

Annyeonghaseyo Jeoneun Park Yoon Shin-imnida. Cheoeum Boepgesseumnida!!!

Annyeong-haseyo! Jeoneun Jin-imnida.

안녕하세요?.말레이시아서 입니다. 저는 아미라입니다. 이십살 입니다. 학생입니다. 저는 국제 비지니스 배웁니다.

am i saying this right?

Annyeong haseyo! Jeoneun Moira-imnida. Cheoeum boepgesseumnida! Migugeseo wasseumnida. Yeolilgopsal imnida. Hakseang- imnida. Duljudong-an gonbu-hasseumnida. (I dont know how to say I’ve been self taught. )

Annyeonghaseyo, Jeoneun Sasha imnida. Cheoeum boepgesseumnida.. yeonguk eseo wasseumnida. Yeolses sal imnida.Haeksaeng imnida.

Annyeonghaseyo! Jeoneun Nykira-imnida! 😛

Im here for my new book hahaha. It’s actually needed korean parts! so hard! T.T

Annyeonghaseyo! Jeoneun Ella-imnida. 🙂

Annyeonghaseyo! Jeoneun Jae-imnida

Annyeonghaseyo! Jeoneun Angel-imnida.

what’s the difference between 저는 and 나는

How can we answer without knowing the question You should put the questions in Korean wth man

안녕하세요 저는 케일라 입니다. 십다섯 사이에요. 학생입니다. 넷달 동안 공부했습니다, 홈에서 배웠습니다.

안녕하세요, 저는 알리사 입니다. 처음 뵙겠습니다. 미국서 왔습니다. 이십사살 입니다. 나는 영화 제작진 입니다.

I need to learn all the words so i can talk to EXO…. and understand thier songs better.

안녕하세요? 저는 니키 입니다. 처음 뵙겠습니다 저는 라오스 사람

나는 한국어를 배우고 싶습니다

친구 카카오 ID로 나를 추가 NickyXnk2112

Annyeonghaseyo! jeoneun Piw imnida!

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Korean word for (presentation) slides

I think PowerPoint presentation slides are referred to as "창표" or "장표." However, I can't find it in the dictionary.

What's the Korean word I'm thinking of?

update: context

I have heard this term many times while working at multiple Korean offices. I have even used the term myself, and everyone knew what I was talking about.

The word is a drop-in replacement for (PowerPoint presentation) "slide." As in:

• "I will have the slides ready by tomorrow."
• "Please take a look at the last slide."

I could not find it in any (Korean-English) dictionaries, so I was wondering if my spelling was wrong, it was the combination and shortening of two or more words, or it was office slang.

• 1 "PowerPoint" is usually called "파워포인트" or "피피티", and "slide" is "슬라이드". Maybe you are thinking of "발표자료"? I never heard of "장표". –  Memming Commented Oct 4, 2016 at 20:38
• 1 @SuperCoolHandsomeGelBoy No need o delete the question just to have 100% answer rate which is never a big deal, instead if Memming posts the same comment as an answer and then OP can accpt it as an answer. –  bravokeyl Commented Oct 5, 2016 at 5:33
• @Memming when I type '장표' in google, one of the auto-suggestions is '장표 ppt'... Make of that what you will! –  Нет войне Commented Oct 5, 2016 at 16:53
• 1 It seems to be a slang used in business companies. It's good to avoid using it. –  Hwang Commented Oct 6, 2016 at 3:42

2 Answers 2

The reason you couldn't find what " 장표 " means in the dictionary was it is not defined to mean a slide in presentation material in any dictionary. I have checked all the dictionaries available on-line and there is no definition for a slide, even in 국립국어원 표준국어대사전 .

As I commented, I heard the word used in a banking or financial context to mean a page on a ledger, a book, or an excel sheet, but I have never heard it used in presentation context.

I tried to Google "프리젠테이션 장표" and "프리젠테이션 슬라이드", the former has 783 hits and the latter has 20,700 results, which shows the former is far less used than the latter.

I will have the slides ready by tomorrow.

내일까지 프레젠테이션 자료들 을 준비하겠습니다. vs 내일까지 장표들 을 준비하겠습니다.

Please take a look at the last slide.

마지막쪽 슬라이드 를 봐주세요. vs 마지막쪽 장표 를 봐주세요.

If you use 장표 in place of bolded parts in the above translation, they will sound very weird, especially for those who have never heard of 장표, especially in presentation context.

Conclusion: If "장표" is broadly used to mean a slide, it would have been listed in the dictionaries that I looked up. There is no single dictionary that lists it to mean a slide. You had better not use it when 슬라이드 can mean perfectly well a slide.

The word I was looking for was " 장표 ."

Etymology: (according to native Korean speaker, the usage of 장표 has recently changed)

장표가 원래는 [그 사람] 말처럼 ledger 이긴 했어 근데 현대들어오면서 종이 두루마리에 여러장 엮어서 프리젠테이션 하는게 생겼는데 그걸 장표라고 했거든. 그러다 컴퓨터가 쓰이면서 ppt문서를 계속해서 장표라고 부르게된거야.

Source: Native Korean

• @Rathony: FYI I already edited out the beginning of that quote, which started quite condescendingly and did not add much to the answer (hence no screen capture). –  Leftium Commented Oct 6, 2016 at 13:19
• I couldn't care less about what he said. You need to note that the dictionary link in the capture and your answer has nothing to do with what that guy meant. The definition is completely different from what "장표" means in his explanation. –  user7 Commented Oct 6, 2016 at 13:24
• The word is available on the main web based naver online dictionary, at dic.naver.com/… it's the same one from the mobile version –  user17915 ♦ Commented Oct 6, 2016 at 15:21

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The Ultimate Guide to Doing Business in South Korea

This post covers everything you need to know about Korean Business Etiquette .

It explains how to have a successful business meeting including:

• What to wear
• What to say
• What to bring

I worked at a Korean company for 5 years and started a business I’ve been running since 2013.

Key Takeaways

• A close relationship is the key to doing business in South Korea.
• It’s important to bring a small gift to a meeting.
• After the meeting, there will be wining and dining.

Essential Tips for Doing Business in South Korea

Korean business culture is influenced by four principles:

• Gibun (기분) – mood and feelings. If the mood is good, things will be easier. If the mood is bad, you’ll want to stop for the day and pick up later.
• Jeong (정) – unspoken bond. Build these through showing empathy and interacting during informal situations like meals.
• Chaemyeon (체면) – face or reputation. It’s very important that you establish yours and build up others.
• Nunchi (눈치) – intuition and emotional intelligence. Use your perception to gauge interest, hierarchy and etiquette.

Koreans are individuals, so your experience will vary.

Before You Meet

Background information.

• Korean Business Etiquette is based on Confucianism and Military Hierarchy .
• There’s some overlap with Japanese Business Culture, since some job titles are similar.
• Your age and job title relative to others determines how you communicate and behave. A higher age/job title will give you more credibility.
• Most Koreans have been exposed to Western culture through movies and TV shows, and will often have their favorites. This can be a good dinner conversation topic.
• Many have studied abroad or interacted with native English speakers at private academies.
• Some Koreans will use their English name, which can make things easier.
• It’s still a good idea to learn someone’s Korean name in this situation.
• Regardless of the amount of exposure to the West, Koreans will most likely follow local business customs.
• The Korean economy is dominated by a few companies called “Jaebeol”.
• Those who work at these companies often have graduated from SKY (Seoul National University, Korea University, and Yonsei University). These universities are considered the best and society tends to respect/envy their alumni.
• Although becoming less important, gender is still a factor. Married males over 40, or “ajeossi”, are perceived as having a higher position in society. Women still handle domestic duties, even when they have their own careers.
• Some female managers will serve tea or coffee in business meetings.
• In business you will either be a 갑 (gahb), “the party with power and money” or 을 (uhl), “the party without”. Some examples of this are “employer and employee” or “buyer and seller” relationships. All contracts in Korean define “Party A” and “Party B” as either “gahb” or “uhl”, while in western countries “Party A” and “Party B” are considered somewhat equal.

Relationships

• A close relationship is the key to doing business in Korea, while planning takes a backseat. Since most businesses operate this way, it’s especially difficult to predict the future, so things are often decided on the fly.
• The concept of “face” (체면) also exists. Never correct/criticize someone in public. You’ll be met with more resistance down the road.
• Flexibility is also very important when doing business in Korea. Don’t be surprised if you end up performing tasks outside your scope of expertise.
• Two people usually attend a business meeting, a junior and a senior employee, so plan accordingly.
• If more people are expected to attend a meeting, try to have a similar number from your side join. Having too few people sends the message that you’re not serious about the deal or lack resources.

You will be judged by your appearance and grooming (clean shaven and clean cut are a plus).

Dress shoes, slacks, a button up shirt and tie are recommended.

If you’re meeting an ajeossi, or married man over 40, it’s a good idea to wear a jacket and tie.

Your watch will also be judged. Tag Heuer grants instant credibility. Citizen and Tissot are the bare minimum. Anything cheaper than 200 USD is better left at home.

Bring a wallet and a business card holder (full of your business cards), preferably a brand name like Mont Blanc or Gucci.

What to Buy as a Gift

Gifts are very important in Korean culture . There’s even business gift etiquette that’s worth learning.

You’re not required to give a gift unless you’re a seller, but something small would be appreciated.

Company gifts (pens, umbrellas, calendars, etc.) are safe choices.

For women, Yankee Candle or L’Occitane Hand Cream.

For men, alcohol (Ballentines or Chivas Regal if you really want to make an impression) or golf equipment including golf balls since they cost double in Korea.

More about golfing in Korea

During the meeting.

You’ll most likely meet people at their company. Go to the receptionist and tell them who you are, who you’re meeting and what time it’s set for.

They’ll tell you where to go and you simply wait for them to enter.

Stand up when the people you’re meeting enter the room.

There are two scenarios when you first meet someone in Korea for business.

• You know someone who is connected to the person you’re meeting
• You don’t know anyone

The first situation is ideal. You’ll be introduced by someone else to establish your relationship, and how everyone should address you.

If not, be prepared to introduce yourself with your name, title and company name. This is where things get a bit confusing.

You must play the nunchi game here and react to what they do.

Situation 1: If the highest ranked person introduces themselves first, you can do the same after.

Focus more on the most senior person while acknowledging the others in the room.

Situation 2: If they reach out for a handshake, you can shake their hand.

Bow slightly and shake with a loose grip using two hands (a firm grip is a sign of aggression) after the oldest/highest ranking person reaches out.

Repeat the same action with the next most senior person in the company on down.

Women tend to not shake hands and will bow. Make sure not to reach out unless they do.

You can simply bow in return. (Hugging or kissing on the cheeks of the opposite gender happens only between couples, so don’t do it after dinner no matter how much rapport you’ve built.)

Situation 3: If they pull out their business card , you must accept it, then produce yours.

Situation 4: If they do nothing, make sure to introduce yourself first to the person with the highest position in the company.

Next, exchange business cards while standing, even if you have their contact info. Use the same order as before when you introduced yourself.

Don’t make small talk at this point, just follow our formula unless a question is asked.

Present your business card with two hands when the oldest/highest ranking person presents theirs.

Make sure your info is facing the person accepting the card, so they can read it.

Look at their card for 3 seconds, then say their name and title (add a “nim” at the end of the title for extra points).

A business card is an extension of a person’s status, so treat it accordingly.

A positive comment about their company like you’ve heard of it or it has a good reputation is a nice touch.

Place their card on the table so you can see it during the meeting (don’t put cards in your pocket, fold or write on them).

Eye Contact

The older person by more than two years usually makes eye contact while the younger person will look away slightly as a sign of respect.

As a non-Korean, you can simply use soft eye contact .

Meeting Agenda

The main topics in order of importance are:

• Price Negotiation (many will want a discount)
• Quality Assurance (especially for ongoing projects)
• Their Company History and Process (during the first meeting)

You will hear a full presentation on their company history and milestones. Prepare yours as well.

Koreans can be vague by Western standards, especially during the first meeting. They will not settle on numbers, dates and specifics.

They will minimize the time spent on details and will mostly be feeling out the situation.

Make sure not to be too eager or forward. Let things happen at their own pace.

Gathering Information

It’s important to build the relationship first before getting anything done. Take your time.

Don’t expect to be presented with the information you need. Prepare specific questions regarding key info.

Someone saying that “they aren’t sure” or “don’t know yet” can be a polite and indirect “no”. It also could mean they really don’t know.

If something is absolutely necessary, ask politely when you can receive it. Don’t persist if they continue to be reluctant.

Koreans tend to answer questions after providing context. The most important part is at the end.

Whereas in English, questions are answered first, then an explanation is provided.

If someone goes off on a tangent when asked a question, ask again for a rough estimate.

Negotiating Price

It’s ok to ask for a discount or an adjustment.

Asking for a final and best offer is considered a bit aggressive.

Koreans won’t say “no”, instead they will say, “it will be a little difficult”.

More about Negotiating in South Korea

Expect there to be multiple rounds of negotiations.

It takes at least a week to finalize details.

The decision maker doesn’t always attend the meeting, and their approval is necessary to proceed.

Receiving Gifts

You will most likely receive a gift near the end of the meeting.

Accept the gift with two hands and thank them. Do not open it in their presence.

After the Meeting

Goodbyes are short. Repeat the same steps in the Greetings section minus the business card exchange.

Thank them for their time.

If your deal is important to them, you might be invited to a meal.

Expect alcohol to be involved.

Having Lunch/Dinner

Most Korean restaurants serve a few main dishes with a variety of side dishes that you can get refilled.

The main dishes sometimes come in a large pot for everyone to share.

So, people in groups tend to order the same thing.

Feel free to order what you want at a western restaurant.

The youngest staff member in each group will set up the utensils and pour the water.

You can gauge how progressive the company is if the oldest/highest ranking person helps out.

When the oldest/highest ranking person lifts their utensils, you can begin eating.

Tips at a Korean Restaurant

Do not lift plates or bowls while eating.

Do not use chopsticks and a spoon at the same time.

Close your mouth when chewing and try not to make noise.

When you’re done eating, put your spoon and chopsticks in their original position.

Koreans normally share side dishes, but make sure to dish them up onto your plate before eating them. Also, don’t repeatedly touch side dishes with your chopsticks.

Don’t pick up food with your hands. Even sliced fruit is eaten with forks.

Small talk during meals is uncommon , especially with middle-aged people.

Don’t talk business during meals, unless the subject is brought up first.

Seoulites tend to eat quickly by western standards.

The oldest person or the person inviting usually pays for the entire meal.

You might find yourself fighting for the check.

If you’re the seller, regardless of age, make sure to fight extra hard for the check.

If you absolutely need to pay, pretend to go to the bathroom near the end of the meal and pay at the front (this would only be acceptable if you’re a seller).

I’ve been successful with this about 50% of the time. Koreans are a lot more experienced at this intricate dance.

After Dinner

접대 (Jeopdae, wining and dining) is a very important part of business.

This is sometimes where the deal gets made .

A night out with Koreans will involve bar hopping and possibly 노래방 ( Noraebang ) or Karaoke.

You can be more informal (semi-formal is a good idea with  basic etiquette still followed ) and get to know each other better.

Don’t say no to the first shot of alcohol and make sure you finish it in one gulp (Koreans call this 원샷, one shot).

When an older/higher ranking person pours liquor for you, hold your shot glass in your right hand and touch the bottom of your right elbow or the bottom of the glass with your left hand.

This same principle applies when you pour for others.

If things get really relaxed, you might find yourself playing some drinking games .

Even if you’re reaching your limit, do the 건배 (geonbae) or “cheers” motion and lightly touch the glass to your lips and put it back on the table.

If you don’t drink at all, make sure you fill your shot glass with soft drinks and go through the motions.

The most important seat is the center furthest from the entrance.

The second most prestigious is next to the most important seat, where the two can converse.

The least important seat is near the entrance.

If you see that an older/higher ranking person’s glass is empty, pick up the bottle with your right hand as to cover the label.

Touch the bottom of your right elbow or the bottom of the bottle with your left hand.

Pour liquor (usually soju) until it fills 3/4 of the glass.

When you drink, turn your head slightly away from the older/higher ranking person and drink.

Koreans have a variety of drinking games, some involving math.

I advise you not to play them, unless you want to drink a lot.

Make sure to  follow up in two days .

Request the information you didn’t receive during the meeting.

If you do not receive it by the date promised, call them on the phone.

Expect to follow up in a week or two.

About Contracts

Contracts should be in both Korean and English .

It’s possible for a Korean court to invalidate a contract if the counter party didn’t understand the terms.

Avoid ambiguous and inconsistent language.

A Korean court will often balance out any contract in favor of the counter party if the terms are vague.

Expect to continually renegotiate terms, even after they have been agreed upon.

Failing that, arbitration can be the next step to resolving any differences.

Of course, make sure to designate an impartial arbitrator to make sure your interests are looked after.

Korean companies often have cash-rich subsidiaries in other countries.

It’s often better to have your counter party be one of these overseas subsidiaries.

Also, designate an overseas district to enforce a contract when possible, since it’s much easier to win a judgement in a non-Korean court.

Finally, make sure that the signing party is the one with the highest likelihood of having a judgement enforced against it (this is not always the Korean HQ).

A contract in Korea is usually a loose agreement to work together in some capacity with the particulars changing to your benefit or detriment as time goes on.

Keep this in mind and focus more on the relationship to make sure things stay balanced.

Define as many terms as possible to increase clarity and not leave anything up to the courts.

This will help you understand your counter party as their definition might differ from yours considerably.

A contract doesn’t always carry the same weight as it does in other countries.

Just because something is in writing, doesn’t make it ironclad.

Always proceed with caution and use your best judgement.

My Experience Doing Business in South Korea

It took me a few tries to get the hang of meeting Koreans for business. There seemed to be an intricate dance that I didn’t understand.

Most Koreans learn business etiquette right after college at their first job. I started meeting Koreans in a business setting in my late 20s, so others assumed I was already aware of how to behave.

It took a lot of observation and trial and error before I was comfortable. I took solace in the fact that I had some leeway as a foreigner.

Once you get past the layer of formality, there’s a great deal of warmth and camaraderie. Business relationships can be fun, but frustrating at times if you expect things to go according to plan.

There’s truth to the idea that you can’t predict the future, and that dynamics must change to match unexpected occurrences. You’ll have an easier time if you accept that things will happen fluidly and in their own time.

Relationships are very different when you’re party B. Your role becomes more of support and entertainment. Fortunately, I had many types of jobs before, so I was comfortable switching roles when needed.

The best thing to do is keep an open mind, while knowing when the situation is deteriorating.

Korean business etiquette is a language of its own. The best way to become fluent is by practicing.

The good news is, there are plenty of companies in Korea to practice with, and you won’t be expected to know all the rules.

Building a successful partnership may take time, but comes with many rewards .

There are many ways to damage a relationship without even knowing it.

Here’s more info on doing business in Korea:

• Get a job in Korea
• Survive in Korea
• Start a business in Korea
• Write an email in Korean
• Address someone in Korean

What’s the best time for a business meeting with Koreans?

It’s best not to schedule meetings during lunch or dinner as those times are strictly for eating. 10am-11am in the morning and 2pm-4pm in the afternoon are safe choices.

Where’s the best place for a business meeting with Koreans?

An office is the best place to have a meeting. Coffee shops are considered informal and unprofessional, although this is changing slowly.

What should I do if someone keeps cancelling or changing appointments in Korea?

Life in Korea can be hectic and unpredictable. Someone cancelling on you at the last minute doesn’t mean they’re not interested. Things really do come up suddenly and people have to do what their boss or important client asks of them. If it happens repeatedly, you need to ask yourself if they’re a reliable business partner and maybe cut your losses.

What are some things to avoid in a business meeting with Koreans?

• Running out of business cards
• Folding or writing on someone’s business card
• Making too much eye contact
• Criticizing someone’s company, business card or name
• Being too pushy or forward
• Talking about geopolitics or religion
• Being impatient

What should companies consider when doing business in South Korea?

Hiring a competent Korean staff member who was born and raised in the country or a consultant is a good idea.

Understanding how Koreans think and view the world is crucial to success, and a reliable local can provide these insights.

It’s also important to spend time building a relationship and managing staff members. Koreans are more comfortable with hierarchy and constant supervision.

This and other unforeseen costs such as entertaining clients and partners, and delays must be taken into account.

What makes doing business in South Korea a good idea?

South Korea has a large consumer economy. Its population is highly-educated and trend-sensitive with a high demand for overseas products. Also, Korean consumers are willing to pay higher prices for overseas or luxury goods.

What are political and potential risks when doing business in South Korea?

South Korea became a democracy in the 1990s and is still in a transitional period. Its financial markets are susceptible to North Korean threats and internal political changes. Foreign businesses also are at risk of IP theft .

Which market entry strategy is most attractive for doing business in South Korea?

It depends on the product or service you’re offering, but a safer bet is partnering with a Korean company to navigate local laws and customs. Costco and Starbucks have achieved success through this method.

Moa – Virtual office, coworking space

You can register your business under a Gangnam address, which provides credibility and some tax benefits.

Did we miss anything?

I learned these rules while working in Korea for over a decade.

After starting a translation company, I follow these guidelines whenever I interact with Korean clients.

Let us know your business tips in the comments below!

Related Articles

How to Start a Company in South Korea

The Pros and Cons of Doing Business in South Korea

Getting What You Want With South Korean Negotiation Style

About the author.

Richard is a writer for Lingua Asia who has lived in South Korea for more than 10 years. While growing up, he won numerous writing awards and developed a passion for it. He has a B.A. from U.C. Irvine in Criminology, Law and Society. Richard has worked as an actor, interviewer, marketer and ESL teacher in Korea. He is fluent in Korean and is an amateur tour guide. Richard started a translation business in 2013 that he operates with his partner, Minjung. His areas of expertise are Korean language and culture, jobs for expats, Koreatowns in the USA, food, and doing business in Korea.

4 thoughts on “The Ultimate Guide to Doing Business in South Korea”

Dear Sir, I needed your support in learning how I can get in touch with Koreans who are keen to set up business in India, as joint venture or technology transfer.

The area is from better water solutions and better air solutions.

best regards, Col arun Sharma,

Thank you for writing, Col arun Sharma. Maybe you might want to check out KITA or KOCHAM India.

hi sir im from philippines i want a korean supplier,like a shoes surplus

Thanks for your comment. I think a good place to start looking would be KITA . They have a directory of potential suppliers. You can also try Facebook Groups and Linkedin. Hope this helps!

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