Annyeonghaseyo!

Politeness is a big part of Korean culture. In fact, Koreans pride themselves in calling themselves '동방예의지국' (the Eastern country of courteous people).

There are 3 levels of politeness that you need to learn.

• Casual: For your close friends. 

안녕! (An-nyeong)

• Polite: This is when you are talking to an acquaintance or someone you are close with but is older than you.

안녕하세요. (An-nyeong-ha-se-yo)

• Formal: This is the highest level of courtesy and politeness. This will usually be used when you are talking to someone much older, or in a business environment.

안녕하십니까? (An-nyeong-ha-sim-ni-kka)

Take note of how '안녕' is repeating, and only the endings change according to the formality!

BONUS BIT!

Did you know there is another word in Korean to say 'Hello' when picking up the phone?

여보세요? (Yeo-bo-se-yo)

And that's it! Now you know how to greet people in every situation! Why not try greeting your teacher in your next lesson! Click here to book your next lesson!