First steps in Hangul
Vowels → consonants → syllable blocks → final consonants. Read each example slowly, then continue to everyday conversation.
First conversations
Greet people and introduce yourself politely.
안녕하세요.
Hello.
an-nyeong-ha-se-yo
Use polite endings with people you meet for the first time.
Start in LAMA-KThanks and apologies
Say thank you, apologize, and respond kindly.
감사합니다.
Thank you.
gam-sa-ham-ni-da
A small nod can accompany a polite greeting or thank-you.
Start in LAMA-KAsk for help
Ask someone to repeat, slow down, or help.
천천히 말해 주세요.
Please speak slowly.
cheon-cheon-hi mal-hae ju-se-yo
You can say you do not understand; asking again is part of learning.
Start in LAMA-KAt the shop
Ask prices, choose an item, and request a receipt.
이거 얼마예요?
How much is this?
i-geo eol-ma-ye-yo
Point to the item while saying “이거” to make your meaning clear.
Start in LAMA-KOrdering food
Order food and explain your preferences.
메뉴판 주세요.
May I have the menu?
me-nyu-pan ju-se-yo
If an ingredient matters to you, ask about it before ordering.
Start in LAMA-KFinding your way
Ask where a place is and follow simple directions.
지하철역이 어디예요?
Where is the subway station?
ji-ha-cheol-lyeo-gi eo-di-ye-yo
Repeat the destination name to check that you understood correctly.
Start in LAMA-KBus and subway
Check a destination and ask about transfers.
이 버스 서울역에 가요?
Does this bus go to Seoul Station?
i beo-seu seo-ul-lyeo-ge ga-yo
Place names can sound similar; showing the written destination can help.
Start in LAMA-KMaking plans
Choose a day, confirm a time, and explain a delay.
언제 만날까요?
When shall we meet?
eon-je man-nal-kka-yo
Confirm the date and time together to avoid misunderstandings.
Start in LAMA-KAt work
Ask for an explanation and clarify a task.
어떻게 하면 돼요?
How should I do this?
eo-tteo-ke ha-myeon dwae-yo
If a task is unclear, check it before starting.
Start in LAMA-KTalking about your home
Arrange a viewing and describe a repair request.
집을 보고 싶어요.
I would like to see the home.
ji-beul bo-go si-peo-yo
These are conversation exercises. Use the housing checklist for your preparation notes.
Start in LAMA-KAt the clinic
Describe discomfort and ask for an explanation.
배가 아파요.
My stomach hurts.
bae-ga a-pa-yo
These phrases practice communication and do not provide medical advice.
Start in LAMA-KLife with neighbors
Speak politely about shared spaces and everyday concerns.
조금 조용히 해 주세요.
Please be a little quieter.
jo-geum jo-yong-hi hae ju-se-yo
Make a specific, polite request rather than assuming the other person knows the problem.
Start in LAMA-KRelated guides
Frequently asked questions
What should I learn first when starting Korean?
Vowels → consonants → syllable blocks → final consonants. Read each example slowly, then continue to everyday conversation.
What should I know about First conversations?
Greet people and introduce yourself politely. Use polite endings with people you meet for the first time.
What should I know about Thanks and apologies?
Say thank you, apologize, and respond kindly. A small nod can accompany a polite greeting or thank-you.