Learning how to express gratitude is an essential aspect of any language. In Korean, expressing thanks and responding politely is a crucial part of communication. In this guide, we will explore various ways to say “thank you” and respond with “you too” in both formal and informal situations. Let’s get started!
Table of Contents
Saying “Thank You” in Korean
Formal Expressions
When speaking to someone in a position of authority, elders, or strangers, it’s important to use formal expressions. Here are different phrases you can use:
- Kamsahamnida (감사합니다) – This is the standard, formal way to say “thank you” in Korean. It is widely used in various formal situations, such as business settings, academic environments, or when showing respect to elders.
- Jeongmal kamsahamnida (정말 감사합니다) – This expression adds extra emphasis to your gratitude. Use it when you want to convey sincere thankfulness.
Informal Expressions
When speaking to friends, family, or people of your age group, you can use informal expressions to say “thank you.” Here are some common phrases:
- Kamsahamnida (감사합니다) – Yes, the same phrase used formally can also be used informally. However, its tone becomes more relaxed in informal settings.
- Kamsahae (감사해) – This is the casual form of “thank you” and is commonly used between close friends and family members.
- Daebak (대박) – This expression is used to convey enthusiastic thanks or to express that something is amazing. It’s more informal and used between friends or peers.
Responding with “You Too” in Korean
Formal Responses
When someone wishes you well or thanks you in a formal way, it’s important to respond respectfully. Here are some ways to say “you too” in formal situations:
- Gamsahabnida (감사합니다) – This is the formal way to respond with “you too” when someone expresses gratitude toward you. It shows humility and politeness.
- Jeongmal gamsahabnida (정말 감사합니다) – This phrase adds more emphasis to your gratitude while responding politely with “you too.”
Informal Responses
In informal situations, you can use these responses when someone thanks or wishes you well:
- Gamsahae (감사해) – This is the casual way to respond with “you too” when someone thanks or wishes you something. It is commonly used between friends or peers.
- Jal jinaebwa (잘 지내봐) – This expression means “take care” or “stay well.” It is often used between close friends or family members as a response to gratitude.
Tips and Examples
Using Polite Titles
When expressing gratitude in formal settings, it’s customary to use appropriate titles or names to show respect. For example:
When saying “thank you” to a teacher, you can say, “Seonsaengnim, kamsahamnida (선생님, 감사합니다)”.
Adding Polite Endings
To make your expressions more polite, you can use honorific endings. Here’s an example:
Instead of just saying “Kamsahae (감사해)” to an elder, you can say “Kamsahapsida (감사합니다).”
Regional Variations
While Korean language is mostly standardized across regions, some dialects have variations in expressing gratitude. Here’s an example:
In the Busan dialect, “Komapsta (고맙스타)” or “Jal nagaseo gwajangitda (잘 나가서 고장있다)” can be used to say “thank you.”
Remember, being polite and showing gratitude is highly valued in Korean culture. These examples and phrases will help you express sincere appreciation and respond politely when receiving thanks. Practice using them in both formal and informal settings, and you’ll make a positive impression on native Korean speakers.
Enjoy your Korean language journey and keep spreading gratitude! Kamsahamnida for reading!
