Welcome! If you’re here, it’s probably because you want to express your apologies for not being fluent in Korean. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. In this guide, we’ll provide you with both formal and informal ways to say “Sorry, my Korean is bad.” Let’s dive right in!
Table of Contents
Formal Apologies
If you’re looking to express your apologies in a formal setting, here are a few phrases you can use:
1. 죄송합니다, 저의 한국어 실력이 부족합니다.
Choisonghamnida, jeo-ui hangugeo sillyeog-i bujoghabnida.
I’m sorry, my Korean skills are insufficient.
This formal expression is suitable for situations like apologizing to your boss, a senior, or someone you’re not familiar with.
2. 죄송합니다, 한국어를 제대로 할 수 없어서 미안합니다.
Choisonghamnida, hangugeoreul jedaero hal su eopseoseo mianhamnida.
I’m sorry, I can’t speak Korean properly.
Use this phrase when apologizing to someone you respect or to whom you want to show a greater level of formality.
Informal Apologies
If you’re speaking to friends, peers, or someone younger than you, use these more informal expressions:
3. 미안해, 난 한국어를 잘 못해.
Mianhae, nan hangugeoreul jal mothaeyo.
Sorry, I’m not good at Korean.
This casual expression is perfect when you want to apologize to friends or classmates.
4. 미안해, 내 한국어 실력이 별로지 않아.
Mianhae, nae hangugeo sillyeog-i byeolloji anha.
Sorry, my Korean skills are not really good.
Use this phrase when apologizing to someone younger or to close friends.
Tips for Apologizing
Now that you know the basic phrases, here are some tips to make your apologies more effective:
1. Body Language
Your body language is crucial in conveying sincerity. Maintain eye contact, speak clearly, and show regret through your facial expressions.
2. Focus on Improvement
Along with your apology, assure the other person that you’re working on improving your Korean language skills. This helps to show your dedication and willingness to learn.
3. Appreciate Help
If someone has been patient with you or helped you along the way, don’t forget to express your gratitude. Showing appreciation demonstrates your humility and respect.
Examples in Context
Let’s take a look at some examples where you can use these phrases:
Scenario 1: You’re in a Korean language class, and your teacher compliments your effort, even though you haven’t been performing well.
You: 죄송합니다, 선생님. 제 한국어 실력이 부족한데도 칭찬해 주셔서 감사합니다.
Choisonghamnida, seonsaengnim. Je hangugeo sillyeog-i bujoghando chingchanhae jusyeoseo gamsahamnida.
Sorry, teacher. Thank you for praising me even though my Korean skills are lacking.
Scenario 2: You’re having a conversation with a native Korean speaker, and you struggle to express yourself fluently.
You: 미안해요, 저 한국어를 아직 제대로 배우고 있는 중이에요.
Mianhaeyo, jeo hangugeoreul ajik jedaero baeugo inneun jungieyo.
I’m sorry, I’m still in the process of learning Korean properly.
Remember, context plays a crucial role, so ensure the level of formality and your relationship with the person you’re apologizing to.
Now armed with these phrases, you can confidently apologize for your limited Korean skills. Remember, the key is to show sincerity and a willingness to improve. Happy learning!
