Learning how to ask someone’s age in Korean is not only a useful skill, but it also shows your genuine interest in getting to know the person better. In this guide, we will explore both the formal and informal ways of asking “How old are you?” in Korean, as well as provide regional variations when necessary. Let’s dive right in!
Table of Contents
Formal Way: (시나리오 1) Meeting someone older or in a professional setting
In Korean culture, showing respect to someone older or in a higher social position is important. Therefore, when you meet someone for the first time or in a formal situation, you should use the formal speech level.
Here’s the phrase you can use:
지금 몇 살입니까? (jee-geum myeot sal-im-ni-kka?) – What’s your age?
Remember to maintain your respectful tone when asking this question. The phrase “지금 몇 살입니까?” literally translates to “How many years old are you?”
Tips:
- Use polite language: Make sure to use the polite verb ending “입니다” (im-ni-da) or “입니까?” (im-ni-kka?) when asking the question. It adds a level of formality and respect.
- Non-verbal cues: While asking this question, maintain proper eye contact and use a calm and polite tone of voice. It shows your sincerity and respect towards the person you’re speaking with.
Example:
John: 안녕하세요 (an-nyeong-ha-se-yo), 저는 John입니다 (jeo-neun John-im-ni-da). 지금 몇 살입니까? (jee-geum myeot sal-im-ni-kka?)
Mr. Park: 안녕하세요 (an-nyeong-ha-se-yo), 저는 박 선생닙니다 (jeo-neun Bak-Seon-saeng-nim-ni-da). 40 살입니다 (ssam-sip sal-im-ni-da).
Informal Way: (시나리오 2) Friends, acquaintances, or people of similar age
When speaking with friends, acquaintances, or someone of the same age or younger, it is more common to use informal language in Korean. This helps to create a friendly and casual environment.
Here’s the phrase you can use:
몇 살이야? (myeot sal-i-ya?) – How old are you?
The phrase “몇 살이야?” is an informal way of asking someone’s age and translates directly to “How many years old are you?”
Tips:
- Use 반말 (ban-mal): In informal situations, you can use 반말 (ban-mal), which is the casual speech style in Korean. It creates a more relaxed and friendly atmosphere when talking to peers or close acquaintances.
- Be mindful of the relationship: Ensure that you have a comfortable relationship with the person you’re speaking with before using this informal phrase. It may come across as rude or disrespectful if used inappropriately.
Example:
Mary: 안녕, 어제 생일이었네. 몇 살이야? (an-nyeong, eo-je saeng-il-i-eot-ne. myeot sal-i-ya?)
Kate: 네, 고마워. 지금은 25 살이야 (ne, go-ma-wo. ji-geum-eun 25 sal-i-ya).
Regional Variations:
Korean language, like any other language, can have slight regional variations. However, when it comes to asking someone’s age, there are no significant differences across the regions in Korea. The formal and informal phrases mentioned earlier can be universally understood and used throughout the country, regardless of regional variations.
Final Thoughts:
Now that you have learned how to ask someone’s age in Korean, remember to practice with native speakers to improve your pronunciation and fluency. Asking someone’s age is an excellent way to initiate conversations and build connections. However, keep in mind the cultural nuances and the relationship you have with the person you’re speaking with. Enjoy your Korean language journey and have a great time conversing!
