In Korean culture, promises hold significant importance. Whether you want to make a promise informally with friends or formally in a professional setting, it’s essential to understand the various ways to express “I promise” in Korean. In this guide, we will explore different phrases, tips, and examples to help you navigate through the intricacies of making promises in Korean.
Table of Contents
Formal Expressions:
Making a promise formally is crucial, especially when dealing with elders, superiors, or in formal situations such as job interviews. Here are a few formal expressions you can use:
1. 제 (적극적으로) 약속하겠습니다.
Pronunciation: “Je (jeokgeukjeog-euro) yaksokhagesseumnida.”
Translation: I (actively) promise.2. 다짐합니다.
Pronunciation: “Dajimhamnida.”
Translation: I promise.3. 내가 약속드립니다.
Pronunciation: “Naega yaksokdeurimnida.”
Translation: I promise you.
Informal Expressions:
When making promises among friends, family, or close acquaintances, using informal expressions is appropriate and natural. Here are a few examples:
1. 좋아, 약속해.
Pronunciation: “Joha, yaksokhae.”
Translation: Okay, I promise.2. 정말로 약속할게.
Pronunciation: “Jeongmallo yaksokhalge.”
Translation: I will promise for real.
Additional Tips:
1. Be Clear and Specific:
When making a promise, clarity and specificity are fundamental. Clearly state what you are promising to do or not to do, ensuring there is no room for confusion. For example:
약속합니다. 내일 저녁 7시에 만나러 갈 거예요.
Pronunciation: “Yaksokhamnida. Naeil jeonyeok chilshie mannareo gal geoyeyo.”
Translation: I promise. I will meet you tomorrow evening at 7 o’clock.
2. Use Honorifics:
When making a promise to someone older or in a higher position, it is customary to use honorifics to show respect. For example:
팀장님, 꼭 약속 지킬게요.
Pronunciation: “Timjangnim, kkok yaksok jikilgeyo.”
Translation: Team leader, I will definitely keep the promise.
3. Regional Variations:
Although Korean is mainly a unified language, there can be minor regional variations in expressions. However, when it comes to making promises, the differences are minimal. It’s best to stick to the commonly used expressions mentioned above to ensure clear communication.
Examples:
Let’s look at a few examples of using the phrases we learned:
1. Formal Example:
Boss: “Can you complete the project on time?”
Employee: “제 적극적으로 약속하겠습니다. 시간 안에 끝낼게요.”
Translation: Boss: “Can you complete the project on time?”
Employee: “I promise (actively). I will finish it on time.”2. Informal Example:
Friend: “Will you come to my birthday party?”
You: “좋아, 약속해. 꼭 가 줄 거야.”
Translation: Friend: “Will you come to my birthday party?”
You: “Okay, I promise. I will definitely come.”
Remember, promises are taken seriously in Korean culture, so it’s important to use the appropriate expressions and follow through with your commitments. By using the phrases and tips provided in this guide, you’ll be able to convey your promises effectively and show respect to those you interact with.
Now that you understand how to say “I promise” in Korean formally and informally, you can confidently engage in various conversations and build strong relationships with Korean speakers. Good luck!
