The Ultimate Guide to Saying “Yes” and “No” in Korean: From Formal to Slang
Mastering the art of saying “yes” and “no” in Korean is crucial for effective communication. Unlike English, Korean has multiple levels of formality and nuanced expressions that can make these simple responses quite complex. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the various ways to express agreement and disagreement in Korean, complete with real-world examples and cultural insights.
The Importance of Social Hierarchy in Korean Responses

- Age difference between speakers
- Social status and position
- Level of familiarity
- Professional versus personal settings
Formal Ways to Say “Yes”
네 (Ne) – The Standard Polite “Yes”
This is your go-to polite affirmative response. It’s versatile and appropriate in most situations.
Example situations:
- Teacher: “숙제 다 했어요?” (Did you finish your homework?) Student: “네, 선생님.” (Yes, teacher.)
- Customer Service: “주문 확인해 드릴까요?” (Shall I confirm your order?) Customer: “네, 부탁드립니다.” (Yes, please.)
예 (Ye) – The Ultra-Formal “Yes”
Reserved for very formal situations, particularly in professional or ceremonial contexts.
Example situations:
- During a job interview: Interviewer: “경력이 있으신가요?” (Do you have experience?) Applicant: “예, 3년의 경력이 있습니다.” (Yes, I have three years of experience.)
- At a formal ceremony: Official: “서약서에 동의하십니까?” (Do you agree to the terms?) Participant: “예, 동의합니다.” (Yes, I agree.)
Semi-Formal and Casual Ways to Say “Yes”
넵 (Nep) – The Friendly Professional “Yes”
A perfect balance between formal and friendly, often used in workplace settings among colleagues.
Example situations:
- Coworker: “회의 자료 준비됐나요?” (Is the meeting material ready?) You: “넵, 방금 완성했어요!” (Yes, I just finished it!)
- In a coffee shop: Barista: “아이스로 드릴까요?” (Would you like it iced?) Customer: “넵, 감사합니다.” (Yes, thank you.)
응 (Eung) and 어 (Eo) – The Casual “Yeah”
Used among close friends and family, or when speaking to someone younger.
Example conversations:
- Friend: “오늘 저녁에 시간 있어?” (Do you have time tonight?) You: “응, 왜?” (Yeah, why?)
- Younger sibling: “내 펜 봤어?” (Have you seen my pen?) Older sibling: “어, 책상 위에 있어.” (Yeah, it’s on the desk.)
Formal Ways to Say “No”
아니요 (Aniyo) – The Standard Polite “No”
The most common and safe way to express disagreement or negative responses.
Example situations:
- Server: “더 필요하신 거 있으세요?” (Do you need anything else?) Customer: “아니요, 괜찮습니다.” (No, I’m fine.)
- Stranger: “여기 자리 있나요?” (Is this seat taken?) You: “아니요, 비어있어요.” (No, it’s empty.)
아닙니다 (Animnida) – The Formal “No”
Used in business settings or when maximum politeness is required.
Example situations:
- Boss: “이 프로젝트 경험이 있으십니까?” (Do you have experience with this project?) Employee: “아닙니다, 하지만 빠르게 배우겠습니다.” (No, but I will learn quickly.)
Casual Ways to Say “No”
아니 (Ani) and 아니야 (Aniya) – The Informal “No”
Used among friends and in casual settings.
Example conversations:
- Friend: “너 배고파?” (Are you hungry?) You: “아니, 방금 먹었어.” (Nah, I just ate.)
- Sibling: “내가 잘못했어?” (Did I do something wrong?) You: “아니야, 내가 예민했어.” (No, I was just being sensitive.)
Situation-Specific Negative Expressions
안돼요 (Andwaeyo) – “It’s not allowed/possible”
Used when something is prohibited or impossible.
Example situations:
- Parent to child: “여기서 놀면 안돼요.” (You can’t play here.)
- Sign in park: “잔디 밟기 안돼요.” (No stepping on the grass.)
못해요 (Mothaeyo) – “Cannot do”
Expresses inability rather than unwillingness.
Example situations:
- Friend: “오늘 저녁에 만날래?” (Want to meet tonight?) You: “미안해, 못해요. 일이 너무 많아요.” (Sorry, I can’t. I have too much work.)
Modern Digital Communication
Text Message Shortcuts
Korean digital communication has evolved to include many shortened forms:
- ㅇㅇ (yes yes) – Super casual affirmative Example: “내일 학교야?” (School tomorrow?) Response: “ㅇㅇ” (yup)
- ㄴㄴ (no no) – Super casual negative Example: “밥 먹었어?” (Did you eat?) Response: “ㄴㄴ 아직” (nope, not yet)
Emoji and Emoticon Usage
Modern Korean communication often combines these responses with emoticons:
- 넵! ㅎㅎ (Nep! hehe) – Friendly, cheerful yes
- 아니요ㅠㅠ (Aniyo ㅠㅠ) – Apologetic or sad no
Cultural Tips for Using Yes and No
Avoiding Direct “No”
Korean culture often prefers indirect refusals. Instead of a direct “no,” you might hear:
- “글쎄요…” (Well…)
- “생각해볼게요” (I’ll think about it)
- “조금 어려울 것 같아요” (It might be a bit difficult)
Agreement Without Action
Sometimes, Koreans might say “yes” to acknowledge they’ve heard you, not necessarily to agree. Pay attention to the context and tone.
The Silent Response
In some situations, silence or hesitation might indicate a “no.” Being attuned to these non-verbal cues is crucial for understanding Korean communication.
Remember, mastering these expressions takes practice and cultural awareness. Start with the standard polite forms (네 and 아니요) and gradually incorporate other variations as you become more comfortable with the language and culture. The key is to always err on the side of politeness until you’re certain of the appropriate level of formality for your situation.
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