25 Ways to Say Thank You in Korean - Advanced Vocabulary
- Katherine Pierce
- Aug 22
- 3 min read
In Korean culture, gratitude is expressed in many nuanced ways depending on the situation, social hierarchy, and level of formality. While most learners start with the basic 감사합니다 (gamsahamnida), advancing your vocabulary will help you sound more natural, polite, and culturally aware—especially if you're diving into K-dramas, K-pop interviews, or even acting in Korean.
Mastering these phrases will also help you make stronger impressions in both personal and professional settings. Let’s go beyond the basics and explore 25 ways to express thanks like a native speaker.
1. 감사합니다 (gamsahamnida)
Use: Formal, polite
Context: Default polite thank you used in most public and respectful situations.
2. 고맙습니다 (gomapseumnida)
Use: Formal, politeContext: Same meaning as 감사합니다, but slightly warmer in tone.
3. 고마워요 (gomawoyo)
Use: Polite, semi-formal
Context: Common in daily life among adults or in casual business settings.
4. 고마워 (gomawo)
Use: Informal
Context: Used with close friends, peers, or younger people.
5. 정말 고마워요 (jeongmal gomawoyo)
Use: Polite
Meaning: Thank you so much.
6. 진심으로 감사드립니다 (jinsimeuro gamsadeurimnida)
Use: Very formal
Context: Business emails, speeches, or respectful thank yous to elders.
7. 대단히 감사합니다 (daedani gamsahamnida)
Use: Very formal
Meaning: Thank you very much.
8. 고맙다 (gomapda)
Use: Dictionary form
Note: Not used directly but seen in writing or grammar explanations.
9. 고맙게 생각합니다 (gomapge saenggakhamnida)
Use: Formal
Meaning: I consider it a favor / I appreciate it.
10. 은혜를 잊지 않겠습니다 (eunhyerul itji ankesseumnida)
Use: Formal, literary
Meaning: I will not forget your kindness. Common in dramas or heartfelt writing.
11–25: Nuanced or Idiomatic Gratitude
These are more advanced and idiomatic, showing deeper emotional tones or cultural meaning.
감사한 마음뿐입니다 – “I only feel gratitude.”
정말 감사하게 생각해요 – “I really appreciate it.”
항상 감사드립니다 – “I’m always grateful.”
너무 감사했어요 – “I was so thankful.”
정말 큰 도움이 되었어요 – “It was a big help.”
신세를 졌습니다 – “I’m indebted to you.”
진심으로 감사해요 – “Thank you from the heart.”
덕분에 잘 됐어요 – “Thanks to you, it worked out.”
감격했어요 – “I was deeply touched.”
감사할 따름입니다 – “I can only feel thankful.” (very humble)
감사 인사를 드립니다 – “I give you my thanks.” (written/formal)
이 은혜를 어떻게 갚죠? – “How can I repay this kindness?”
말로 다 표현할 수 없어요 – “Words aren’t enough to thank you.”
진심으로 감사의 말씀 전합니다 – “I sincerely send you words of gratitude.”
감사하는 마음으로 살겠습니다 – “I’ll live with a grateful heart.”
Learning to say “thank you” in more than one way isn’t just about language—it’s about understanding Korean culture on a deeper level. In Korea, how you express gratitude can reflect your respect, sincerity, and awareness of social dynamics. Whether you're thanking a close friend, a teacher, a stranger, or a casting director after a big audition, having a range of vocabulary empowers you to show up authentically and appropriately in every situation.
At Language Academia, we believe language isn’t just about grammar or vocabulary—it’s about human connection. That’s why we teach Korean in a way that blends language, performance, and cultural nuance. Whether you're diving into K-pop lyrics, dreaming of working in Korean media, or simply want to connect more meaningfully with the Korean-speaking world, we’re here to guide you.
💬 Ready to take your Korean to the next level? From beginners to aspiring actors, we offer group and private Korean classes for all levels—online and in-person in Koreatown, LA.
Let’s keep learning, one thank you at a time. 감사합니다! 💙
