Simple Korean Phrases for Business Meetings

Speaking even two or three basic phrases in Korean usually creates a positive impression. The expressions below are short, practical, and commonly used in meeting and business settings. Focus on clear pronunciation rather than perfect grammar.

Greetings

  • 안녕하세요 (Annyeonghaseyo)
    Hello / Good day.
    The most useful and safest greeting in almost any business situation.
  • 만나서 반갑습니다 (Mannaseo bangapseumnida)
    Nice to meet you.
    Appropriate when meeting someone for the first time.
  • 잘 부탁드립니다 (Jal butakdeurimnida)
    Please take care of this / I look forward to working with you.
    Often said at the beginning of a meeting or collaboration.

Expressions of Thanks

  • 감사합니다 (Gamsahamnida)
    Thank you.
    Polite and widely used. Suitable in almost all formal situations.
  • 고맙습니다 (Gomapseumnida)
    Thank you.
    Slightly softer than “gamsahamnida,” still appropriate in business settings.
  • 도움 주셔서 감사합니다 (Doum jusyeoseo gamsahamnida)
    Thank you for your help.
    Useful after someone assists you during a meeting or event.

Closing

  • 수고하셨습니다 (Sugohasyeotsseumnida)
    Thank you for your effort / Well done.
    A polite way to acknowledge someone’s work at the end of a meeting or day.

Quick Reference

Situation Phrase Pronunciation
General greeting 안녕하세요 Annyeonghaseyo
First meeting 만나서 반갑습니다 Mannaseo bangapseumnida
Starting collaboration 잘 부탁드립니다 Jal butakdeurimnida
Thank you 감사합니다 Gamsahamnida
Thank you for help 도움 주셔서 감사합니다 Doum jusyeoseo gamsahamnida
End of meeting 수고하셨습니다 Sugohasyeotsseumnida

Tips for Use

  • A slight bow while saying these phrases strengthens the positive impression.
  • You do not need to use all of them. Choosing two or three that feel natural is enough.
  • Koreans generally appreciate the effort even if the pronunciation is not perfect.

Using even a few of these expressions at the start or end of a meeting is usually well received and helps create a more comfortable atmosphere.

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