How To Say "I’M SORRY" In Korean

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When it comes to apologizing in Korean, the most commonly used words are “미안” (mian) and “죄송” (joesong), which translate to “sorry” or “I’m sorry,” in English.

In the Korean language, conveying politeness and respect is a fundamental aspect of communication.

To add politeness and formality to your apology, you can use different verb endings with “미안” (mian) or “죄송” (joesong).

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What are Verb Endings?

Verb endings in Korean are like small word parts that are added to the end of words to change their meaning. They help convey different ideas, like whether something happened in the past or is happening now, or how polite or formal you want to be when speaking.

The choice of verb ending can indicate your relationship with the person you are addressing, the level of respect or familiarity, and the overall tone of the conversation.

When apologizing, using the appropriate ending for the word “미안” (mian) or “죄송” (joesong) can make a significant difference in how your apology is perceived.

Today, we’ll explore the various endings of “미안” and “죄송” along with their significances, in expressing apologies in Korean.

How to Say I’M SORRY in Korean

미안 (mian)

미안해요 (mian-haeyo): Polite

“미안해요” is a polite and common way to say “I’m sorry.”

The “요” (yo) ending is frequently used to show respect when speaking to someone older, of higher social status, or in formal situations. If you find yourself needing to apologize to a teacher, supervisor, or a stranger, “미안해요” is an appropriate choice.

미안해 (mian-hae): Informal

On the other hand, “미안해” is a less formal version of the previous phrase 미안해요 (mianhaeyo).

By omitting the “요” (yo) ending, the apology becomes less polite. It is still suitable for expressing remorse to individuals of similar age or familiarity, such as friends, classmates, or coworkers.

미안합니다 (mian-hamnida): Formal

For situations that require an even higher level of formality and respect, “미안합니다” is the ideal choice.

This phrase conveys a deeper sense of regret and is employed when addressing someone of higher status, authority, or during formal events.

죄송 (joesong)

“죄송” (joesong) is another Korean term used to apologize, and it is commonly used in various situations, similar to “미안” (mian).

Though “죄송” (joesong) is the more formal of the the two, both “미안” (mian) and “죄송” (joesong) can be used interchangeably. The choice between them often comes down to personal preference or habit, as both expressions are widely understood and accepted in Korean culture.

죄송해요 (joesong-haeyo): Polite

“죄송해요” (joesonghaeyo) is the most common and polite way to say “I’m sorry.”

This phrase is used in various contexts, just like “미안해요” (mianhaeyo), to apologize for mistakes, express regret, or show sympathy to a teacher, supervisor, or a stranger.

죄송합니다 (joesong-hamnida): Formal

죄송합니다 (joesonghamnida) is the more formal and respectful way of apologizing, similar to “미안합니다” (mianhamnida). However, 죄송합니다 is a more respectful way to say “I’m sorry,” than “미안합니다” (mianhamnida).

The Misconception: “죄송해” (joesong-hae)

There has been some confusion regarding the existence of “죄송해” (joesonghae) as an alternative to “죄송해요” (joesonghaeyo).

However, “죄송해” (joesonghae) does not exist as a standalone phrase for apologizing in Korean. The correct and widely used forms are “죄송해요” (joesonghaeyo) and “죄송합니다” (joesonghamnida).

Cultural Etiquette: The Significance of “Bowing” in Korean Apologies

When apologizing in Korean, it’s customary to face the person and accompany your words with a slight bow of the head.

This gesture, which acknowledges your mistake, reflects the culture’s emphasis on respect and sincerity.

Summary

In the Korean language, showing respect and consideration through the appropriate use of politeness is crucial.

Both “미안” (mian) and “죄송” (joesong) are valuable expressions when navigating Korean interactions, and using them with appropriate verb endings demonstrates respect and sincerity in your apologies.

Whether it’s the polite “미안해요,” or “죄송해요”; the informal “미안해”; or the formal “미안합니다,” or “죄송합니다”, each ending carries its nuances.

So, the next time you need to apologize in Korean, remember to choose the appropriate ending based on the context and the person you are addressing, and your gesture of remorse will surely be appreciated.