Survival Korean for First-Time Travelers to Korea with Some Traveling Tips
Traveling to a new country is always an exciting adventure, but it can also be a bit daunting if you’re not familiar with the local language. For those planning their first trip to Korea, having a basic grasp of “Survival Korean” can significantly enhance your travel experience. This guide is designed to help you navigate through common situations you might encounter, from dining out to asking for directions. We’ll cover essential phrases, pronunciation tips, and some cultural notes to make your trip smoother and more enjoyable.
Basic Expressions for Your Trip to Korea

Greetings for Your Trip to Korea
1. Hello – 안녕하세요 (An-nyeong-ha-se-yo)
This is the most basic greeting in Korean, suitable for all situations. Remember to bow slightly when greeting someone as a sign of respect.
2. Thank you – 감사합니다 (Gam-sa-ham-ni-da)
Expressing gratitude is important in Korean culture. Use this phrase to show appreciation.
3. Yes / No – 네 (Ne) / 아니요 (A-ni-yo)
Simple but essential for answering questions.
4. I’m sorry / Excuse me – 죄송합니다 (Joe-song-ham-ni-da)
Can be used to apologize or to get someone’s attention politely.
Getting Around
5. Where is…? – …어디예요? (…Eo-di-ye-yo?)
Useful for finding specific places. Just add the location’s name at the beginning.
6. How much is this? – 이거 얼마예요? (I-geo eol-ma-ye-yo?)
Essential for shopping or using services.
7. Do you speak English? – 영어 할 수 있어요? (Yeong-eo hal su iss-eo-yo?)
Helpful to identify English-speaking locals who can assist you.
Dining Out
8. Menu, please – 메뉴판 주세요 (Me-nyu-pan ju-se-yo)
Start your dining experience by asking for the menu.
9. Water, please – 물 주세요 (Mul ju-se-yo)
Staying hydrated is important!
10. This, please – 이거 주세요 (I-geo ju-se-yo)
Point at the item you want and use this phrase to order.
11. Check, please – 계산서 주세요 (Gye-san-seo ju-se-yo)
When you’re ready to pay, use this phrase.
12. I don’t understand – 이해하지 못해요 (I-hae-ha-ji mot-hae-yo)
When you’re having trouble understanding, this phrase is crucial. It signals to the speaker to perhaps simplify their words or find another way to communicate.
13. Can you help me? – 도와줄 수 있어요? (Do-wa-jul su iss-eo-yo?)
Whether you’re lost or need assistance with something, don’t hesitate to ask for help using this phrase.
14. How can I get to…? – …에 어떻게 가요? (…e eo-tteok-ke ga-yo?)
If you’re trying to navigate your way to a specific location, this question is essential. Just replace “…” with your destination.
15. Can I use a credit card? – 신용카드 사용할 수 있어요? (Sin-yong-ka-deu sa-yong-hal su iss-eo-yo?)
In many places in Korea, credit cards are widely accepted. However, it’s always good to ask, especially in smaller establishments or in rural areas.
16. Is there Wi-Fi here? – 여기 와이파이 있어요? (Yeogi wa-i-pa-i iss-eo-yo?)
Staying connected is important for many travelers. Use this phrase to inquire about Wi-Fi availability.
Phrases for Socializing
17. Cheers! – 건배! (Geon-bae!)
When enjoying a drink with new friends or colleagues, this is the go-to phrase. It’s akin to saying “Cheers!” in English.
18. It’s delicious! – 맛있어요! (Mas-iss-eo-yo!)
Compliment the chef or your host with this phrase after enjoying a meal. It’s a simple way to show your appreciation for Korean cuisine.
19. My name is… – 제 이름은 …입니다 (Je i-reum-eun …im-ni-da)
Introducing yourself is the first step in making new friends. Fill in the blank with your name.
20. Nice to meet you – 만나서 반가워요 (Man-na-seo ban-ga-wo-yo)
After introducing yourself, use this phrase to express your pleasure in meeting someone new.
In Case of Emergency
21. Help! – 도와주세요! (Do-wa-ju-se-yo!)
In an urgent situation where you need immediate assistance, this phrase can be a lifesaver.
22. I need a doctor – 의사가 필요해요 (Ui-sa-ga pil-yo-hae-yo)
If you’re feeling unwell and require medical attention, use this phrase to communicate your needs.
23. Where is the nearest hospital? – 가장 가까운 병원 어디예요? (Ga-jang ga-kka-un byeong-won eo-di-ye-yo?)
In case of a medical emergency, knowing how to ask for the nearest hospital is crucial.
Navigating Public Spaces
24. How much is the ticket? – 표 얼마예요? (Pyo eol-ma-ye-yo?)
Use this when purchasing tickets for public transport, museums, or any attractions.
25. Where can I buy a T-money card? – T-money 카드 어디서 살 수 있어요? (T-money ka-deu eo-di-seo sal su iss-eo-yo?)
As mentioned earlier, a T-money card is essential for public transportation in Korea. Use this phrase to find out where you can purchase one.
Arming yourself with these additional Korean phrases will not only ease your travel experience but also help you connect more deeply with the local culture and people. Remember, the effort to speak even a little of the local language goes a long way and is always appreciated by the locals. Enjoy your travels in Korea!
Cultural Tips for Your Trip to Korea
- Respect the Elders: Korean culture places a high value on respecting elders. Use both hands when giving or receiving items, especially from someone older.
- Shoes Off: When entering a Korean home or certain traditional establishments, remember to take off your shoes.
- Tipping: Tipping is not a common practice in Korea. Service charges are usually included in the bill.
You may also find “3 Unique Cultural Experiences Exclusive to South Korea” interesting.
Travel Tips for Your Trip to Korea
- Connectivity: Purchase a SIM card or rent a portable Wi-Fi device to stay connected. Major airports in Korea offer these services.
- Transportation: Invest in a T-money card. This rechargeable card can be used for buses, subways, and even in some taxis and stores.
- Accommodations: From luxury hotels to traditional Hanok stays, Korea offers diverse lodging options. Consider staying in a Hanok at least once to experience traditional Korean living.
- Local Cuisine: Don’t leave Korea without trying Kimchi, Bibimbap, and Korean BBQ. For the adventurous eater, street food markets are a must-visit.
- Language Apps: Download Korean language apps or translation apps to help bridge any language gaps.
Traveling with the T-money Card for Your Trip to Korea
- Versatility: The T-money card can be used across various modes of public transportation in major South Korean cities, including Seoul. Additionally, it’s accepted in some convenience stores, vending machines, and even for parking fees, making it a highly versatile payment option.
- Convenience: With the T-money card, users can enjoy the ease of not having to use cash or credit cards for each transaction. The card is used by tapping it against the card reader upon entering and exiting the transportation system or making a purchase.
- Recharging Options: Users can top up their T-money cards at subway stations, convenience stores, and through specific recharging machines located across the country. Both cash and credit cards are accepted for recharging.
- Transfer Discounts: The T-money system provides discounts for users who transfer between different modes of public transportation (e.g., from subway to bus or between buses) within a set timeframe, allowing for more cost-effective travel.
How to Use the T-Money Card for Your Trip to Korea
- Purchasing: T-money cards can be acquired at most subway stations, convenience stores, and selected tourist information centers across South Korea.
- Recharging: Once you have a T-money card, you can add funds to it using the recharging machines found in subway stations or at convenience stores. These machines accept both cash and credit cards.
- Using the Card: To use the card, simply tap it on the card reader when entering and exiting the transportation system or when making a qualifying purchase. The screen on the reader will display your card’s remaining balance.
- Refunds: If you wish to refund the balance remaining on your T-money card, you can do so at subway station recharging machines or customer service centers. Note that a small fee may be deducted from the refund amount.
The T-money card is an indispensable tool for anyone using public transportation in South Korea, offering a blend of convenience, efficiency, and savings. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, having a T-money card can make navigating the country’s extensive public transportation network much easier.
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With years of experience in international aviation, coupled with a background in travel journalism, I offer a wealth of expertise in the field of tourism. As an avid traveler and enthusiast, I am dedicated to sharing my knowledge and insights to help you embark on unforgettable journeys.