How to Say “Thank You” in Korean: Formal vs. Informal Expressions

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1. Introduction (도입부)

When learning a new language, “Thank you” is one of the very first phrases you should master. In Korean, however, choosing the right way to say it depends heavily on who you are talking to.

Today, we will break down the formal (존댓말) and informal (반말) ways to express gratitude in Korean so you can always sound polite and natural!

2. Formal Expressions (존댓말) – For Seniors, Bosses, or Strangers

Use these expressions when speaking to older people, someone with a higher social status, or people you don’t know well.

• 감사합니다 (Gam-sa-ham-ni-da)
  • Level of Politeness: High (Most Common & Safe)
  • When to use: This is the standard, most versatile way to say “Thank you.” You can use this with store clerks, teachers, bosses, and strangers. It comes from the Hanja word Gamsa (감사), meaning gratitude.
• 고맙습니다 (Go-map-seum-ni-da)
  Level of Politeness: High
  When to use: Pure Korean origin phrase. It carries a slightly warmer, softer feeling than Gamsahamnida, but is equally polite. You can use it in similar formal situations.
  💡 Tip: If you want to say “Thank you very much,” simply add “대단히 (dae-dan-hi)” or “정말 (jeong-mal)” in front!
  정말 감사합니다! (Thank you truly!)
  

3. Polite/Casual-Formal (해요체) – For Colleagues or Acquaintances

A softer formal level that is polite but creates a bit closer distance.

• 고마워요 (Go-ma-wo-yo)
  • Level of Politeness: Medium
  • When to use: Perfect for people who are a bit younger than you but you aren’t close with yet, or colleagues of a similar rank. It’s friendly yet respectful.

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4. Informal Expressions (반말) – For Close Friends and Younger People

Warning: Never use these with strangers or superiors, as it can sound rude!

• 고마워 (Go-ma-wo)
  • Level of Politeness: Informal (Casual)
  • When to use: Use this with your close friends, peers of the same age, or people younger than you.
• 아니야, 고마워~ (An-i-ya, go-ma-wo)
  • When to use: When someone does a favor and says it’s nothing, you can pair it with “No, really, thanks.”

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5. Summary Table (한눈에 보는 요약)

Expression (한국어)	Pronunciation	Politeness Level	Best For
감사합니다	Gam-sa-ham-ni-da	Strict Formal (Highest)	Strangers, Bosses, Elders
고맙습니다	Go-map-seum-ni-da	Strict Formal (High)	Public settings, Elder family
고마워요	Go-ma-wo-yo	Casual Polite	Co-workers, Acquaintances
고마워	Go-ma-wo	Informal	Close friends, Children

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6. Conclusion (마무리)

Mastering these nuances is the key to understanding Korean culture and etiquette. Start practicing today by using “감사합니다” in your daily study!