How to Say “Let Me Know” in Korean

Learning how to say “let me know” in Korean is a useful phrase to have in your language arsenal. Whether you are visiting Korea or interacting with Korean speakers, being able to communicate this request will allow you to ask for information or updates in a polite and friendly manner. In this guide, we will explore both the formal and informal ways to say “let me know” in Korean, along with some tips, examples, and variations.

Formal Ways to Say “Let Me Know” in Korean

If you want to express “let me know” in a formal or polite manner, you should use the following phrases:

1. 알려 주세요
   (ahlyeo ju-se-yo)
   This phrase is the most common way to say “let me know” formally in Korean. The literal translation is “Please let me know.” You can use this phrase in various contexts, such as asking for information, updates, or someone’s opinion.
2. 알려 주시면 감사하겠습니다
   (ahlyeo ju-shi-myeon gam-sa-ha-ge-seum-ni-da)
   This phrase is a more polite form of “let me know.” It translates to “I would appreciate it if you let me know.” It is often used in professional or formal settings to show respect to the person you are addressing.
3. 알려 주실 수 있으십니까?
   (ahlyeo ju-shil su it-sip-ni-kka?)
   This phrase is a formal way to ask someone if they can let you know something. The literal translation is “Can you let me know?” Use this when you need information or updates from someone in a polite manner.

Informal Ways to Say “Let Me Know” in Korean

When speaking informally with friends, family, or close acquaintances, you can use the following phrases to say “let me know” in Korean:

1. 알려 줘
   (ahlyeo jwo)
   This phrase is a casual and friendly way to say “let me know.” It is commonly used among friends or peers. The literal translation is “Let me know.”
2. 알려 주면 돼
   (ahlyeo ju-myeon dwae)
   This phrase is another informal way to ask someone to let you know. The translation is “Just let me know.” It is used between friends or people of a similar age group.
3. 알려 줄래?
   (ahlyeo jullae?)
   This phrase is a very casual and colloquial way to say “let me know.” The literal translation is “Can you let me know?” It is suitable for close friends or people you are very comfortable with.

Tips and Examples

Here are some useful tips and examples to further understand how to use these phrases:

1. Context Matters

The appropriate phrase to use depends on the formality and the relationship between you and the person you are addressing. Always consider the context before choosing the most suitable phrase. If in doubt, it is better to err on the side of being more formal.

2. Add 요 (yo) for Politeness

To make your sentences more polite, you can add 요 (yo) to the end of the phrase. For example, instead of saying “알려 주세요” (ahlyeo ju-se-yo), you can say “알려 주세요요” (ahlyeo ju-se-yo-yo).

3. Non-Verbal Communication

In addition to saying the phrase, you can also use non-verbal cues like hand gestures or body language to emphasize your request. Polite body language enhances your communication and shows respect.

4. Examples:

Formal:
– Could you let me know the date of the meeting? (알려 주시면 감사하겠습니다)
– Please let me know if you have any questions. (알려 주세요)

Informal:
– Can you let me know if the party is still on? (알려 줄래?)
– Let me know what time we should meet. (알려 줘)

5. Practice and Use!

To become more comfortable and natural with these phrases, practice using them in conversations with Korean speakers or in language exchange groups. The more you use them, the more confident you will become.