How to say "Excuse me" in Korean

In Korean culture, politeness and respect are deeply tied to social hierarchy, age, and status. The phrase 죄송합니다 (joesonghamnida) is a formal, polite way to say excuse me and is used in most situations where you need to apologize for a minor offense, get someone’s attention, or pass by someone. It is the safest default choice for beginners, as it avoids sounding too casual or overly familiar. Always pair it with a slight bow or nod to show respect, especially when addressing elders or strangers.

1. Getting someone’s attention politely Use 죄송합니다 when you need to ask a question or interrupt someone, such as a stranger or someone older than you.

   • 죄송합니다, 실례합니다만 길을 좀 물어봐도 될까요? "Excuse me, may I ask for directions?"
   • 죄송합니다, 이거 어디에서 사나요? "Excuse me, where can I buy this?"

2. Apologizing for a minor offense This phrase is ideal when you accidentally bump into someone, step on their foot, or cause a small inconvenience.

   • 죄송합니다, 발 밟았어요! "Excuse me, I stepped on your foot!"
   • 죄송합니다, 길이 막혔네요. 비켜 주시겠어요? "Excuse me, the path is blocked. Could you move aside?"

3. Passing by someone in a crowded space Use 죄송합니다 to politely ask someone to move or make way for you, especially in tight spaces like subways or elevators.

   • 죄송합니다, 지나가겠습니다. "Excuse me, let me pass."
   • 죄송합니다, 문 닫겠습니다. "Excuse me, I’m closing the door."

4. When you are unsure or need to correct yourself If you make a mistake in conversation or realize you’ve said something wrong, 죄송합니다 is a polite way to acknowledge it.

   • 죄송합니다, 잘못 말했네요. "Excuse me, I misspoke."
   • 죄송합니다, 다시 한 번 설명해 드릴까요? "Excuse me, shall I explain it again?"

👉 Most useful for daily life: Memorize 죄송합니다 first—it’s the safest and most universally appropriate way to say excuse me in Korean. Use it in almost any situation where you need to be polite, especially with strangers or people older than you.