🙇‍♀️ Being Polite in Public

In Korea, small acts of politeness make daily life smoother and more pleasant. Learn essential Korean phrases for public etiquette — from greeting others to saying excuse me — and discover how respect shapes everyday life in Korea’s cafés, subways, and streets.

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Step 1. Basic Manners

Koreans often use polite words even in crowded or tight spaces. Saying “죄송합니다” or “실례합니다” lightly — even when you haven’t bumped into anyone — makes your interaction sound soft and courteous.

• 죄송합니다. (joesong hamnida) — I’m sorry / Excuse me.
• 괜찮아요. (gwaenchanayo) — It’s okay.
• 먼저 가세요. (meonjeo gaseyo) — Please go ahead.
• 실례합니다. (sillye hamnida) — Excuse me.
• 잠시만요. (jamsimanyo) — Just a moment, please.
• 줄 서 계셨어요? (jul seo gyesyeosseoyo) — Were you in line?
• 앉아도 돼요? (anjado dwaeyo) — May I sit here?

Tip: In Korea, people often say “죄송합니다” even for small inconveniences. It softens the atmosphere and shows thoughtfulness — a little goes a long way.

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Step 2. Making Polite Requests

In public places like buses or subways, a few polite expressions can make your day — especially when you need to pass by, get off, or thank someone for yielding their seat.

• 지나갈게요. (jina galgeyo) — Excuse me, I’ll pass through.
• 내릴게요. (naeril geyo) — I’m getting off.
• 양보 감사합니다. (yangbo gamsa hamnida) — Thank you for giving way.

Tip: These short phrases are very common in Korean public transport. Saying them politely with a smile helps avoid misunderstandings and shows good manners.

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Step 3. Showing Gratitude & Ending Interaction

When finishing an interaction — at a store, restaurant, or with staff — it’s common to thank them warmly. Koreans often say “수고하세요” instead of “감사합니다,” especially when the other person is working.

• 감사합니다. (gamsa hamnida) — Thank you.
• 도와주셔서 정말 감사해요. (dowa jusyeoseo jeongmal gamsahaeyo) — Thank you so much for your help.
• 좋은 하루 되세요. (joeun haru doeseyo) — Have a nice day.
• 수고하세요. (sugo haseyo) — Thank you for your hard work. / Take care.
• 고맙습니다. (gomap seumnida) — Thanks (polite).
• 친절하세요. (chinjeol haseyo) — You’re very kind.

Tip: “수고하세요” is a uniquely Korean way of expressing appreciation. It’s often said to workers, drivers, or staff instead of “thank you,” and it carries a warm sense of respect and gratitude.

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Useful Korean for Public Etiquette

• 지나갈게요. (jina galgeyo) — Excuse me, I’ll pass through.
• 내릴게요. (naeril geyo) — I’m getting off.
• 양보 감사합니다. (yangbo gamsahamnida) — Thank you for giving me your seat.
• 수고하세요. (sugo haseyo) — Thank you for your effort / Take care.
• 좋은 하루 되세요. (joeun haru doeseyo) — Have a nice day.

🌿 Part of the Korean Travel Phrases You’ll Actually Use — From Arrival to Home series — Learn real Korean you’ll actually use on your trip.
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