This post introduces some basic Korean greetings, with a special focus on the word ‘안녕’, which can be used both when meeting and parting.
Let’s take a look at Korean greetings by dividing them into 반말 and 존댓말.
※ I kindly ask for your understanding if my English is somewhat lacking or awkward.
반말
When meeting: “안녕”
This is the most basic and textbook-style greeting.While it is commonly used by toddlers who are still learning to speak, most fluent Korean speakers rarely use it.
In reality, close friends who use 반말 often just smile and wave instead of greeting verbally, or say things like “어~ 왔어?” (“Oh, you’re here?”).
When parting: “안녕”
Interestingly, the 반말 expression ‘안녕’ can be used for both greeting and farewell.That said, it’s not used frequently. More natural expressions include “잘 가” (“Take care”), “다음에 봐” (“See you next time”), or “들어가” (“Get home safe”).
존댓말
When meeting: “안녕하세요”
This is the most standard greeting in 존댓말.It’s used not only when meeting someone unfamiliar or not close, but also when greeting familiar adults—always accompanied by a polite bow.
It’s no exaggeration to say that this is virtually the only phrase used for initial greetings in formal settings.
When parting: “안녕히 가세요” & “안녕히 계세요”
When the other person—or both people—are leaving, you say “안녕히 가세요.”If the other person is staying and you are the one leaving, you say “안녕히 계세요.”
This is also typically said with a bow.
If parting after receiving help, it may be replaced with a polite phrase like “감사합니다” (“Thank you”).