Congratulations on your wedding! Celebrating the union of two people is a joyous occasion, and in Korean culture, it’s customary to express your well wishes to the newlyweds. Whether you want to say it formally or informally, we’ll guide you through the expressions and variations used in the Korean language. From basic phrases to regional differences, this comprehensive guide will help you congratulate someone on their wedding in Korean with confidence.
Table of Contents
Formal Expressions
When addressing someone older or in a more formal setting, it’s important to use honorific expressions. Here are a few formal ways to say “Congratulations on your wedding” in Korean:
1. 결혼을 축하합니다 (gyeolhon-eul chukahamnida)
This is the standard and most formal way to congratulate someone on their wedding in Korean. It can be used in any situation, regardless of the speaker’s relationship to the newlyweds.
2. …님의 결혼을 축하합니다 (…nim-ui gyeolhon-eul chukahamnida)
If you want to add a personal touch when congratulating someone, you can use this phrase. Replace the ellipsis with the person’s last name or title, followed by 님 (nim) which is a formal honorific suffix. For example, if the person’s last name is Kim, you would say 김님의 결혼을 축하합니다 (Kim-nim-ui gyeolhon-eul chukahamnida).
Informal Expressions
When congratulating someone who is your friend or someone close to you, a more casual tone is appropriate. Here are a few informal ways to say “Congratulations on your wedding” in Korean:
1. 결혼 축하해 (gyeolhon chukhahae)
This is the most common way to congratulate someone in a casual setting. It is a simple and friendly expression that can be used with friends, colleagues, or acquaintances of the same age.
2. 결혼 축하드려요 (gyeolhon chukhadeuryeoyo)
This phrase is slightly more formal than the previous one but still has an informal tone. It can be used with someone slightly older or in a less familiar relationship.
Regional Variations
While the above expressions are widely used in Korean-speaking regions, it’s important to note that there may be slight variations in different areas. Here are a few regional variations of congratulatory expressions:
1. 결혼 축하드려 (gyeolhon chukhadeuryeo) – Busan dialect
In the Busan dialect, the particle “요 (yo)” at the end is often dropped, making the expression more casual and straightforward.
2. 결혼 축하드립니다 (gyeolhon chukhadeurimnida) – Formal variation
This phrase is a more formal version of the standard expression, often used in formal events or situations.
Example Sentences
Now that we’ve covered the different expressions and variations, here are some example sentences to help you understand how to use them in practice:
- 결혼을 축하합니다. 행복한 가정을 이루세요. (gyeolhon-eul chukahamnida. haengbokhan gajeong-eul iruseyo) – Congratulations on your wedding. May you build a happy home.
- 김님의 결혼을 축하합니다. 멋진 커플이 되세요. (Kim-nim-ui gyeolhon-eul chukahamnida. meotjin keopeul-i doeseyo) – Congratulations on your wedding, Mr./Ms. Kim. I hope you become a wonderful couple.
- 결혼 축하해! 새로운 삶을 시작하세요. (gyeolhon chukhahae! saeroun salm-eul sijaghaseyo) – Congratulations on your wedding! Start your new life with joy.
- 결혼 축하드려요. 미래가 밝은 커플이 되길 바래요. (gyeolhon chukhadeuryeoyo. miraega balgeun keopeul-i doegil balaeyo) – Congratulations on your wedding. I wish you a bright future as a couple.
Remember that these sentences can be adjusted depending on the level of formality and relationship between the speaker and the newlyweds.
With these phrases, regional variations, and examples, you are now equipped to confidently congratulate someone on their wedding in Korean. Showing your sincere wishes and warm regards will surely bring joy to the happy couple on their special day.
