When learning a new language, it’s essential to grasp basic conversational phrases. Asking someone “Who is this?” is a common question that may come up in various social situations. In Korean, there are different ways to ask this question depending on the context, politeness level, and region. In this guide, we will explore the formal and informal ways to ask “Who is this?” in Korean, providing helpful tips and examples along the way. Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
Formal Ways:
When addressing someone of higher social status, strangers, or older individuals, using formal language is recommended. Here are a few formal ways to ask “Who is this?” in Korean:
1. 이분은 누구세요? (Ibuneun nuguseyo?)
This is a polite and formal way to ask “Who is this?” in Korean. It’s often used in professional or formal settings, such as business meetings or when talking to elders. “이분 (Ibun)” is a respectful term meaning “this person,” and “누구세요 (nuguseyo)” means “who is?”
2. 이분은 어떤 분이세요? (Ibuneun eotteon buniseyo?)
This phrase literally translates to “Who is this person?” and is another polite way to inquire about someone’s identity. “어떤 분 (eotteon bune)” means “what kind of person,” and “이세요 (iseyo)” is a respectful way to ask “are you?”
Informal Ways:
When speaking to friends, people of similar age, or those in informal settings, it is common to use casual language. Here are a couple of informal ways to ask “Who is this?” in Korean:
1. 이 사람 누구야? (I saram nuguya?)
When addressing familiar people or friends, this phrase is commonly used. “이 사람 (I saram)” means “this person,” and “누구야 (nuguya)” is a casual way to ask “who is it?”
2. 누구야? (Nuguya?)
If you want to keep it even more casual and shorter, “누구야?” is a widely used phrase among friends or when you want to know the identity of someone. The phrase solely means “Who is it?”
Tips and Examples:
Tips:
- Remember to adjust the level of formality based on the person you are speaking with.
- If unsure about the politeness level, it’s better to err on the side of caution and use a more formal expression.
- Pay attention to non-verbal cues and the context of the situation to determine the appropriate level of politeness.
- When in doubt, it is always welcome to politely ask the person how you should address them.
Examples:
- Formal:
- At a business meeting:
A: 이분은 누구세요? (Ibuneun nuguseyo?)
B: 저는 이민호라고 합니다. (Jeoneun Iminho-rago hamnida.)
A: 안녕하세요, 이민호님. 만나서 반갑습니다. (Annyeonghaseyo, Iminho-nim. Mannaseo bangapsseumnida.)
B: 반갑습니다. (Bangapsseumnida.)
When talking to someone older:
A: 이분은 어떤 분이세요? (Ibuneun eotteon buniseyo?)
B: 저는 김정수입니다. (Jeoneun Kim Jeongsu-ibnida.)
A: 안녕하세요, 김정수님. 처음뵙겠습니다. (Annyeonghaseyo, Kim Jeongsu-nim. Cheoeumbobeogessumnida.)
B: 처음뵙겠습니다. (Cheoeumbobeogessumnida.)
Informal:
- When talking to a friend:
A: 이 사람 누구야? (I saram nuguya?)
B: 이 사람은 제 친구, 박지용이야. (I sarameun je chingu, Bak Ji Yongiya.)
A: 아, 박지용이구나! 처음 뵙겠어. (A, Bak Ji Yong-iguna! Cheoeumbobeogess-eo.)
B: 나도 처음 봐서 반가워. (Nado cheoeumbwaseo bangawo.)
When with friends and curious about someone:
A: 누구야? (Nuguya?)
B: 모르겠어. 같이 얘기해보자. (Moreugesseo. Gat-i yaegihaeboja.)
A: 좋아, 가자가자! (Joha, gajagaja!)
B: 그럼 거기로 가자. (Geureom geogilo gaja.)
Learning how to ask “Who is this?” in Korean allows you to engage in conversations more confidently and build relationships. Remember to use the appropriate level of politeness based on the situation and adjust accordingly. Keep practicing these phrases, and you’ll be well on your way to mastering the Korean language!
