Learning how to ask someone when their birthday is in Korean is not only a great way to connect with Korean speakers but also a thoughtful gesture. Whether you want to inquire formally or informally, this guide will provide you with various phrases and expressions, along with helpful tips and examples. So, let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
Formal Expressions:
When addressing someone formally in Korean, it is essential to use the appropriate language and honorifics. Here are a few ways to politely ask for someone’s birthday:
1. 생일이 언제이신가요? (Saeng-ili eonje-ishin-gayo?)
This is a formal way to ask someone when their birthday is. Remember to maintain respect and use the appropriate verb ending when conversing with someone of higher social standing or age.
2. 생신이 며칠에 계시나요? (Saeng-sini myeochire gyesinayo?)
This expression uses the honorific verb ending ‘-시-‘ to show respect. It is suitable for addressing elders or people of higher status.
Informal Expressions:
When talking to friends or peers, you can use a more casual tone. These phrases will help you ask about someone’s birthday informally:
1. 너 생일 언제야? (Neo saeng-il eonjeya?)
Using ‘너’ (neo) for “you” and ‘언제’ (eonje) meaning “when,” this expression is a straightforward way to ask your friends when their birthday is.
2. 생일 언제야? (Saeng-il eonjeya?)
This is a slightly more neutral way to ask for someone’s birthday. It can be used with both friends and acquaintances.
Tips for Asking about Birthdays:
1. Adding Politeness:
In Korean culture, politeness is highly valued. To show respect, you can use the following phrases:
- 죄송하지만 (Joesonghajiman) – Excuse me/politely
- 잠시만요 (Jamsimanyo) – Just a moment, please/politely
- 부탁드립니다 (Butakdeurimnida) – I kindly request/politely
By incorporating these phrases before asking about someone’s birthday, you demonstrate politeness and considerateness.
2. Mentioning Your Reason:
Explaining why you would like to know someone’s birthday can make the conversation more meaningful. You can say:
- 축하하고 싶어서요 (Chukhahago sip-eoseoyo) – Because I want to congratulate you
- 선물을 준비하려고요 (Seonmul-eul junbi-haryeogyo) – Because I want to prepare a gift
Adding these statements before asking the question shows genuine interest and consideration for the person you’re speaking with.
Sample Conversations:
Formal:
A: 죄송하지만, 생일이 언제이신가요? (Joesonghajiman, saeng-ili eonje-ishin-gayo?)
B: 5월 10일입니다. (Owol sip-iril-imnida.)
A: 그날을 축하드릴게요. (Geunal-eul chukhadeurilgeyo.)
Informal:
A: 생일 언제야? (Saeng-il eonjeya?)
B: 7월 20일이야. (Chilwol isib-iriya.)
A: 와! 그럼 축하해야지! (Wa! Geurom chukhahae-yaji!)
As you can see from the sample conversations, asking about someone’s birthday in Korean is a pleasant way to start a conversation and show your genuine interest.
Remember to always adapt your language based on the context and relationship with the person you are speaking to.
Now that you are equipped with the essential phrases, politeness tips, and sample conversations, you can confidently ask someone when their birthday is in Korean. So go ahead and start connecting with Korean speakers using your newfound knowledge!
Happy learning and best wishes!
