How to say "Excuse me" in Korean

The natural way Koreans say "Excuse me" — with the polite form, close alternatives, and audio for every line.

When to use it

How you call a server, a shop clerk or a stranger. Korean does not use waiter or miss - you say 저기요 and someone turns around.

Polite form

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  실례합니다

  sillyehamnida

  Use this with strangers, anyone older than you, and at work.

Other ways to say it

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  여기요

  yeogiyo

  = Over here

  Same function, used when you want someone to come to your table.
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  실례합니다

  sillyehamnida

  = Excuse me (formal)

  For squeezing past someone or interrupting politely.
• ▶
  잠시만요

  jamsimanyo

  = One moment / coming through

  What you say pushing through a crowded subway car.

In a sentence

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  저기요, 메뉴판 좀 주세요.

  jeogiyo, menyupan jom juseyo.

  Excuse me, could I have a menu?
• ▶
  잠시만요, 지나갈게요.

  jamsimanyo, jinagalgeyo.

  Excuse me, I am coming through.