Birthdays are special occasions to celebrate the joy and happiness of someone’s life. Whether you want to wish a friend, family member, or colleague a happy birthday in Korean, it’s always thoughtful to include their name. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the formal and informal ways of saying happy birthday in Korean with a name, while providing you with valuable tips, examples, and a glimpse into regional variations if necessary. So, let’s get started!
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Formal Way of Saying Happy Birthday in Korean with Name
When it comes to formal situations, such as addressing older people, superiors, or those you’re not well-acquainted with, it’s better to use a more respectful way of saying happy birthday. Here’s a great phrase to use:
생신 축하드립니다 (Saengsin chukha-deurimnida)
Tips:
- Always use formal speech endings, like ‘-yo’ or ‘-습니다 (-seumnida)’, to ensure utmost respect.
- Make sure to use the honorific form of the person’s name if you know it.
- Keep a polite and warm tone throughout your message.
Examples:
- 생신 축하드립니다, 김 선생님! (Saengsin chukha-deurimnida, Kim seonsaengnim!) – Happy birthday, Professor Kim!
- 이준 아주머니, 생신 축하드립니다. (Ijun ahjumeoni, saengsin chukha-deurimnida.) – Happy birthday, Mrs. Lee Jun.
- 박 회장님, 생신 축하드립니다. (Park hwejangnim, saengsin chukha-deurimnida.) – Happy birthday, Chairman Park.
Informal Way of Saying Happy Birthday in Korean with Name
For friends, close acquaintances, or those younger than you, using a more casual and friendly expression is appropriate. The following phrase is perfect for informal situations:
생일 축하해 (Saengil chukhae)
Tips:
- Remember to drop the formal speech endings and opt for casual endings like ‘-어 (-eo)’ or ‘-해 (-hae)’.
- If you’re close to the person, you can use their nickname instead of their formal name.
- Feel free to add special words like ‘친구 (chingu)’ for friend, ‘자기야 (jak-iya)’ for sweetheart, or ‘형 (hyung)’ for older brother, depending on your relationship with the person.
Examples:
- 생일 축하해, 친구야! (Saengil chukhae, chinguya!) – Happy birthday, my friend!
- 자기야, 오늘 생일 축하해. (Jak-iya, oneul saengil chukhae) – Honey, happy birthday today.
- 생일 축하해, 민희언니! (Saengil chukhae, Minhui eonni!) – Happy birthday, sister Minhui!
Regional Variations
Korea is divided into various regions, each with its unique dialects and variations on language. While the phrases mentioned above are commonly understood throughout the country, some regions have slightly different ways of saying happy birthday. Here’s an example from the Jeju Island dialect:
생일 축하합시다 (Saengil chukha-habsida)
If you find yourself in a specific region, it might be fascinating to explore their dialect, but for most situations, the previously mentioned phrases will suffice.
Final Thoughts
Sending warm wishes on someone’s birthday is a lovely gesture, and doing it in their language adds a special touch. Whether you opt for formal or informal language, your effort will surely be appreciated. Remember to be respectful, use the person’s name, and consider any regional variations if necessary. Birthdays are a time of joy, so let your well wishes bring happiness to others in the Korean language!
