How to Say “excuse me” in Korean
저기요
jeogiyo
/t͡ɕʌ̹ɡijo/
everydayThis is probably the most common way to say 'excuse me' to get someone's attention, like if you're in a restaurant and need to call a server over, or if you're trying to ask a stranger for directions. It's a general way to politely interrupt someone or get their attention when you don't know them.
저기요, 메뉴 좀 볼 수 있을까요?
Jeogiyo, menyu jom bol su isseulkkayo?
Excuse me, can I see the menu?
Other Ways to Say It
Use this when you need to politely interrupt someone or ask for something in a more formal setting, like asking a professor a question after class, or trying to get past someone in a crowded train without bumping into them. You can also use it to apologize for a minor inconvenience you've caused someone.
실례합니다, 잠시만 지나갈게요.
Sillyehamnida, jamsiman jinagalgeyo.
Excuse me, I'll just pass by for a moment.
This is great for when you need someone to make way for you in a crowded space, or if you're quickly squeezing past someone. Imagine you're on a packed subway and trying to get to the door before it closes.
잠시만요! 내려야 돼요.
Jamsimanyo! Naeryeo ya dwaeyo.
Excuse me! I need to get off (the train).
Use this when you are genuinely apologizing for something you did wrong or for causing an inconvenience. For example, if you accidentally bumped into someone, spilled something on them, or are late to an appointment.
죄송합니다, 늦어서 죄송합니다.
Joesonghamnida, neujeoseo joesonghamnida.
I'm sorry, I'm sorry for being late.
A Native Speaker’s Guide
As a Korean speaker, I find the different ways to say 'excuse me' fascinating because they reveal a lot about our culture's emphasis on politeness and social harmony. We don't just have one catch-all phrase; instead, we choose the expression that best fits the situation and our relationship with the other person. It's all about showing respect and avoiding causing offense. I remember once, a friend of mine who was new to Korea kept using 'mianhae' (미안해 - 'sorry') when he was trying to get the attention of a waiter. While 'mianhae' isn't *wrong*, it implies that you've already done something wrong and are apologizing. The waiters were confused and slightly taken aback, wondering what he was apologizing for! It created a slightly awkward atmosphere because it felt like he was preemptively admitting fault. Now, 'jeogiyo' (저기요) would have been much more appropriate in that scenario. It's the everyday way to simply get someone's attention without implying any wrongdoing. Personally, I use 'jeogiyo' and 'jamsimanyo' the most in my daily life. 'Jeogiyo' is my go-to for calling someone's attention, whether it's in a restaurant, store, or on the street. 'Jamsimanyo' is perfect for navigating crowded spaces, especially on the subway during rush hour. 'Sillyehamnida' feels a bit more formal, so I'd use it when addressing someone older or in a professional setting. As for generational differences, older generations might use 'sillyehaesseumnida' (실례했습니다 - past tense of 'sillyehamnida') more frequently as a general way to excuse themselves, even in casual situations. Younger generations are more likely to stick to the shorter and more direct 'jeogiyo' or 'jamsimanyo'. The one thing I wish every language learner knew about saying 'excuse me' in Korean is to pay attention to the context and the relationship you have with the other person. Choosing the right expression shows that you're not just learning the words, but also understanding the cultural nuances behind them. It shows respect and helps you navigate social situations more smoothly. Don't be afraid to listen and observe how native speakers use these expressions in different situations. That's the best way to truly master them!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
'Mianhae' means 'I'm sorry' and implies you've done something wrong. Using it to get a waiter's attention makes it sound like you're apologizing for needing their service, which is confusing. People might think you're being overly polite or just strange.
'Bogosipeoyo' is completely unrelated and inappropriate in that context. People will look at you like you're crazy, and they won't move!
While 'joesonghamnida' is polite, overusing it for very small things can make you seem overly apologetic or even insincere. A quick 'jamsimanyo' is often enough to acknowledge the situation without making a big deal out of it. This is especially true in a crowded city like Seoul, where accidental physical contact is common.
'Sillyehamnida' sounds too formal and might make your friend feel like you're creating distance between you two. It might come off as a bit awkward and stiff.
Related Expressions
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it rude to say jeogiyo to a stranger in Korea?
No, it's generally not considered rude to say 'jeogiyo' to a stranger to get their attention, as long as you say it politely. It's a common way to call someone over in a restaurant or ask for directions. However, avoid shouting it loudly or using an aggressive tone, as that could be considered impolite.
What is the difference between sillyehamnida and joesonghamnida?
'Sillyehamnida' is more like 'excuse me' in the sense of interrupting or getting past someone, or excusing yourself before doing something potentially disruptive. 'Joesonghamnida' means 'I am sorry' and is used to express remorse for something you've already done wrong.
How do you pronounce jeogiyo?
The revised romanization is 'jeogiyo'. Phonetically, it's close to 'chuh-gee-yo,' with a slight 'chuh' sound at the beginning. Practice saying it a few times to get the hang of it!
When should I use jamsimanyo?
'Jamsimanyo' is best used when you need someone to move out of your way or make space for you, like on a crowded bus or subway. It's a polite way of saying 'excuse me' as you try to pass by or navigate a tight space. Think of it as 'just a moment, please' as you squeeze through.
What if I forget all the different ways to say excuse me? Which one is the safest?
If you're unsure, 'joesonghamnida' is generally the safest bet, even if it's not always the most precise. While it means 'I'm sorry,' it's often understood as a general expression of politeness. Just be mindful of the context, and it's always better to err on the side of politeness.
Is it okay to use 'excuse me' in English in Korea?
While some Koreans in touristy areas might understand 'excuse me', it's always better to try using the Korean phrases. Learning a few basic Korean phrases shows respect and effort, and it will be much appreciated! Plus, it's a great way to immerse yourself in the culture.
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