How to Say Thank You in Korean
There are several ways to say “thank you” in Korean depending on the level of politeness and the situation. In this guide, you will learn the most common Korean expressions used to express gratitude.
1. κ°μ¬ν©λλ€ (Gamsahamnida)
κ°μ¬ν©λλ€
Meaning: Thank you
Politeness Level: Polite / Formal
Usage: Used in most situations.
κ°μ¬ν©λλ€ is the most common and polite way to say thank you in Korean. You can use it with strangers, coworkers, teachers, or anyone you want to show respect to.
Example
κ°μ¬ν©λλ€!
Thank you!
λμμ£Όμ
μ κ°μ¬ν©λλ€.
Thank you for helping me.
If you are unsure which expression to use, κ°μ¬ν©λλ€ is always a safe choice.
2. κ³ λ§μ΅λλ€ (Gomapseumnida)
κ³ λ§μ΅λλ€
Meaning: Thank you
Politeness Level: Polite
κ³ λ§μ΅λλ€ also means thank you. It sounds slightly more warm and friendly than κ°μ¬ν©λλ€.
Example
μ λ§ κ³ λ§μ΅λλ€.
Thank you very much.
3. κ³ λ§μμ (Gomawoyo)
κ³ λ§μμ
Meaning: Thank you / Thanks
Politeness Level: Casual but polite
You can use κ³ λ§μμ with people you are comfortable with, such as coworkers or acquaintances.
λμμ€μ κ³ λ§μμ.
Thanks for helping me.
4. κ³ λ§μ (Gomawo)
κ³ λ§μ
Meaning: Thanks
Politeness Level: Casual
κ³ λ§μ is used with close friends, family members, or people younger than you.
κ³ λ§μ!
Thanks!
Do not use κ³ λ§μ with strangers, teachers, or people older than you.
Quick Summary
| Korean | Pronunciation | Meaning | When to Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| κ°μ¬ν©λλ€ | gamsahamnida | Thank you | Most situations |
| κ³ λ§μ΅λλ€ | gomapseumnida | Thank you | Polite situations |
| κ³ λ§μμ | gomawoyo | Thanks | Casual polite |
| κ³ λ§μ | gomawo | Thanks | Friends |