When it comes to enjoying a drink with friends or colleagues in Korea, it’s important to know how to say “cheers.” Not only does it show your appreciation for the company you’re keeping, but it also reflects your understanding and respect for Korean culture. In this guide, we will explore the formal and informal ways to say cheers in Korean, as well as provide you with regional variations, tips, and examples to enhance your drinking experience.
Table of Contents
Formal Ways
When you want to show respect to someone older or when you’re in a formal setting, the following expressions can be used:
- Gaeshasumnida (개새끼새움니다) – This phrase translates to “Let’s eat,” and is commonly used when drinking as well. It is a polite and formal way to propose a toast.
- Geonbae (건배) – This is one of the most commonly used expressions to say cheers in Korean. It literally means “empty the glass,” indicating that you should finish your drink in one go. Geonbae is used in various formal occasions and is especially common when toasting during corporate gatherings.
- Uiseyo (으셔요) – This polite expression means “please drink.” It is often used when seniors are proposing a toast.
Informal Ways
When you’re in a casual setting or with close friends, you can use these expressions to say cheers in a more relaxed manner:
- Bbeonjulkka (뻔줄까) – This informal phrase means “let’s empty the glass.” It’s a more laid-back way to propose a toast with friends.
- Gulun (걸운) – This expression means “drink up” and is often used among friends. It carries a playful and friendly tone.
- Yeodul (엿을) – A less common but still informal way to say cheers, this phrase means “bottoms up.” It suggests that you should finish your drink in one shot.
Tips for Saying Cheers
While knowing the right phrases is important, there are a few additional tips that will help you blend in and enjoy your drinking experience in Korea:
- Hold the glass with both hands: When someone proposes a toast, it’s considered polite to hold your glass with both hands as a sign of respect, especially when you’re younger or of lower social status than the person toasting.
- Maintain eye contact: When clinking glasses, it’s common to maintain eye contact with the person you’re toasting with. This gesture shows sincerity and builds a connection.
- Cheer loudly: It’s customary to cheer loudly after a toast to show enthusiasm and gratitude. Let your voice be heard!
- Don’t refill your own glass: If you’re sitting at a table where others are drinking, it’s considered polite to fill the glasses of others rather than your own. This kind gesture creates a warm and friendly atmosphere.
Example Conversations
Formal Setting:
Person A: Gaeshasumnida! (개새끼새움니다!)
Person B: Geonbae! (건배!)
Informal Setting:
Person A: Bbeonjulkka? (뻔줄까?)
Person B: Gulun! (걸운!)
Remember, these are just a few examples of how to say cheers in Korean. The important thing is to show your sincerity and respect for Korean culture while enjoying a drink with friends or colleagues. Practice these expressions, follow the tips, and you’ll be able to navigate the Korean drinking culture with confidence!
Now that you know how to say cheers in Korean, make sure to raise your glass high and enjoy the company of those around you. Whether you’re toasting in a formal or informal setting, these phrases and tips will surely enhance your drinking experience. Cheers! 건배!
