Wishing someone a happy birthday is a wonderful way to show your love and affection. If you want to surprise someone special with a heartfelt birthday message in Korean, this guide has got you covered! We will explore both formal and informal ways to express birthday greetings in Korean, along with various examples and tips. Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
Formal Expressions:
When it comes to formal birthday greetings in Korean, it’s important to maintain a respectful tone. Here’s how you can say “Happy Birthday” formally:
생신 축하드립니다.
This phrase directly translates to “Congratulations on your birthday” and can be used in formal situations or when addressing someone older or in a position of authority.
Tips for using formal expressions:
- Always use honorifics when addressing someone older or in a position of authority. For example, if you want to wish your boss a happy birthday, you can say “사장님, 생신 축하드립니다” (Sajangnim, saengsin chukhadeurimnida).
- Formal expressions are generally safe to use in most situations, such as with acquaintances or elders.
- If you’re unsure about which expression to use, it’s better to err on the side of formality.
Examples of formal birthday greetings:
1. 회장님, 생신 축하드립니다. 건강과 행운이 항상 함께하시길 바랍니다. (Hwejangnim, saengsin chukhadeurimnida. Geonganggwa haenguni hangsang hamkkehasigil barabnida) – Dear Chairman, congratulations on your birthday. I hope you always have good health and fortune.
2. 존경하는 어머님, 생신 축하드립니다. 항상 건강하시길 바랍니다. (Jonkyeonghaneun eomeonim, saengsin chukhadeurimnida. Hangsang geonjanghasigil barabnida) – Respected mother, congratulations on your birthday. I hope you always stay healthy.
Informal Expressions:
When celebrating a birthday with close friends or family members, it is more common to use informal expressions. Here’s how you can say “Happy Birthday” informally:
생일 축하해!
This informal expression directly translates to “Happy birthday!”
Tips for using informal expressions:
- Informal expressions are best suited for friends, peers, or family members of similar age or close relationship.
- In Korean culture, it is common to add the person’s name after the expression to make it more personal and affectionate.
- If you’re unsure about the level of formality, it’s safer to use formal expressions.
Examples of informal birthday greetings:
1. 친한 친구인 세진아, 생일 축하해! 항상 행복하고 건강하자. (Chinhan chinguin Sejin-ah, saengil chukhahae! Hangsang haengbokhago geonjanghaja) – Dear close friend Sejin, happy birthday! Let’s always be happy and healthy.
2. 오빠, 생일 축하해! 오늘 하루 웃음 가득하길 바래. (Oppa, saengil chukhahae! Oneul haru useum gadeukhagil barae) – Brother, happy birthday! I hope your day is filled with laughter.
Regional Variations:
Korean is mainly spoken in South Korea and North Korea and generally follows the same language patterns. However, there may be slight variations in dialects across different regions. These variations are less significant when it comes to birthday greetings, as the expressions we’ve covered are widely understood and used throughout the Korean-speaking population.
Conclusion:
Now that you have learned how to say “Happy Birthday” in Korean both formally and informally, you can make someone’s special day even brighter. Whether you choose a formal or informal expression, always remember to deliver your greeting with warmth and sincerity. Celebrating birthdays is a meaningful way to show your love and care, and now you can do it in Korean too. 생일 축하합니다! (Saengil chukhahamnida!) Happy birthday!
