The mistakes that sting most: going casual too early, using 반말 with an elder, and ignoring respect gestures (two hands, greeting). Register beats grammar.
반말 too early
Even if someone says “talk comfortably,” wait for a clear signal. Asking 말 놔도 돼요? is safer than switching alone.
Age & hierarchy
Age isn’t a weird obsession: it sets language. One mistake is fine. Insisting “we’re all equal” can sound rude.
Gestures
Tossing something one-handed to a superior, closed-off posture with elders in formal settings, or bluntly refusing a drink: it sticks.
Useful vocabulary
| Word | Romanization | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 존댓말 | jondaenmal | Polite speech |
| 반말 | banmal | Casual speech |
| 예의 | yeui | Manners |
| 실례합니다 | sillyehamnida | Excuse me |
Tip
When unsure: stay in 요. Nobody blames a beginner for being “too polite.”
Go further
Put these methods into practice with Seonsaengnim: structured lessons, audio dictionary, flashcards.