How to Say Thank You in Korean

Quick Summary

• A casual way to say “thank you” in Korean is gomawo.
• The most common and polite way is gamsahamnida.
• Gamsadeurimnida is appropriate in professional settings, such as work emails.

Whether you’re visiting Korea, learning the language, or just want to be polite, expressing gratitude properly is an essential skill. It can almost either make or break your experience in Korea!

Korean has different ways to say “thank you,” depending on the level of formality and the situation.

Casual: Gomawo

“Gomawo” is a casual and friendly way to say “thank you” in Korean.

It’s mostly used in informal settings among people you’re close with, such as:

• Friends
• Younger siblings or relatives
• People of the same age or younger

For example, if your friend buys you coffee, you can simply say:

• Gomawo! (고마워!): Thanks!

Since this is a casual expression, avoid using it with elders, strangers, or in formal situations, as it will come across as rude.

Polite: Gamsahamnida

The most commonly used and polite way to say thank you in Korean is “gamsahamnida.”

This version is appropriate in almost any situation, including when speaking to:

• Strangers
• Elders
• Store employees or restaurant staff
• Teachers or superiors at work

For example, if a waiter serves you food, you can say:

• Gamsahamnida! (감사합니다!): Thank you!

If you’re unsure which form to use, gamsahamnida is the safest option because it’s both polite and widely accepted.

Formal: Gamsadeurimnida

For even more formal occasions, Koreans use “gamsadeurimnida.”

This expression shows a deeper level of respect and is appropriate for:

• Business and professional settings
• Formal speeches or presentations
• Emails and official correspondence
• Expressing gratitude to VIPs or elders in a respectful manner

For example, if you’re writing a thank-you email to your professor or boss, you can say:

• Jinsimeuro gamsadeurimnida. (진심으로 감사드립니다.): I sincerely appreciate it.

This version offers extra respect and gratitude, making it suitable for formal situations.

Other Ways to Say Thank You in Korean

Gomapseumnida

• A formal way to say “thank you,” similar to “gamsahamnida.”
• It sounds slightly warmer and more personal than “gamsahamnida” but still polite.
• Example: Dowajusyeoseo gomapseumnida. (도와주셔서 고맙습니다.): Thank you for helping me.

Gomapda

• Another casual version of “gomawo.”
• It’s usually used between friends, and followed by a promise to treat you something like a meal or coffee.
• Example: Gomapda! Daeume bap salge. (고맙다! 다음에 밥 살게.): Thanks! I’ll buy you a meal next time.

When and How to Say Thank You

In Korean culture, respect and hierarchy play a huge role in communication.

It’s important to choose the right level of formality when saying “thank you” to avoid sounding rude or overly casual.

Here are some more tips!

Use two hands when giving or receiving things: When you receive a gift, a business card, or even a cup of coffee, accept it with both hands as a sign of gratitude and respect. You can say “gamsahamnida” in this scenario.

Bow slightly while saying thank you: A small bow adds sincerity and respect to your gratitude. In this case, avoid eye contact and slightly look down with a bow naturally.

You don’t always have to say thank you: In casual Korean culture, actions often speak louder than words. A smile, nod, or returning the favor can sometimes be more meaningful than words alone.

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Learning to say “thank you” in Korean can go a long way in connecting with Koreans and showing your appreciation.

By understanding the different levels of formality, you can express gratitude appropriately in any situation, whether you’re chatting with a friend, speaking to a stranger, or writing a formal email.

When you’re visiting Seoul or speaking with Koreans next time, try using “gomawo,” “gamsahamnida,” or “gamsadeurimnida” to express your thanks!