How many greetings in Korean do you know? “Anyoung haseyo” (hello) is a good start, but let’s try a few more. After this free audio lesson you’ll know some expressions to use at different times of the day, and for casual and formal occasions.
Listen to the native speakers greeting each other, and then go ahead and practice saying each phrase aloud. Once you’re feeling confident with different ways to say hello in Korean you’ll learn some different ways to say goodbye in Korean as well.
It’s important to get the basics right, and the Korean people you meet will really appreciate your efforts. You know you’re saying it correctly if they keep talking, expecting you to keep up! Koreans, in general, are friendly and may expect the same approach from you. So be prepared to be greeted and greet them in return.
As in every other language, in Korean, what you say and do to greet people depends on the time of the day, the occasion and the person you’re greeting. Just saying “Anyoung” (Hi) is impolite. When you’re meeting someone for the first time, stretch out your right hand, and slightly bow. While this is being done, say “Anyoung haseyo!” which literally means “Are you at peace?” Shaking and bowing at the same time is a custom - be careful not to pump the hand of the person you’re meeting, just clasp hands briefly.