Hello! Welcome to Maeil Hangeul, here to upgrade your Korean skills!
Have you ever been in a crowded space and needed to get past someone, but didn’t know what to say? Today, we’re going to learn the magic Korean words for politely asking someone to move.
Lately in Korea, pop-up stores and fan events for K-pop idols are more popular than ever! Imagine you’re trying to get a closer look at the new merch for your favorite group, but there’s a huge crowd. This is the perfect time to use today’s phrases and navigate the space like a true local!
Core Expressions You Need to Know
Here are three essential ways to say “Excuse me” when you need to pass by.
- 한국어 표현: 실례합니다 (Sillyehamnida)
- 발음 [로마자]: Sil-lye-ham-ni-da
- 영어 뜻: Excuse me (I am being rude)
- 상세 설명: This is a very formal and polite expression. It literally means “I am committing a discourtesy.” You use it when you need to get someone’s attention or apologize for bumping into them in a crowd. It’s always a safe and respectful choice.
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한국어 표현: 잠시만요 (Jamsimanyo)
- 발음 [로마자]: Jam-si-man-yo
- 영어 뜻: Just a moment / Excuse me
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상세 설명: This is probably the most common phrase you’ll hear and use in daily life! It literally means “Just a moment, please.” It’s polite but feels a little more natural and less formal than 실례합니다. It’s perfect for subways, busy streets, and crowded cafes.
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한국어 표현: 지나갈게요 (Jinagalkkeyo)
- 발음 [로마자]: Ji-na-gal-kke-yo
- 영어 뜻: I’ll be passing through.
- 상세 설명: This phrase clearly states your intention. It’s very effective when used together with one of the phrases above. Think of it as a combo move! For example, you can say, “잠시만요, 지나갈게요” (Excuse me, I’m just passing through).
Example Dialogue
Let’s see how these phrases work in a real-life situation. Imagine two fans, Alex (A) and Minjun (B), at a crowded pop-up store for the group ZEROBASEONE.
A (Alex): (Trying to get closer to the photo zone) 아… 잠시만요. 조금만 지나갈게요.
(Ah… Jamsimanyo. Jogeum-man jinagalkkeyo.)
(Ah… Excuse me. I’ll just pass through a little.)B (Minjun): 아, 네.どうぞ.
(A, ne.どうぞ.)
(Oh, yes. Go ahead.)A (Alex): 감사합니다!
(Gamsahamnida!)
(Thank you!)
See? Simple, polite, and effective!
Culture Tip & Trend Deep Dive
Your Key to Navigating Crowded Seoul!
In big cities like Seoul, especially on the subway or at a hot-ticket event like a K-pop concert, personal space is limited. People are very used to being in close quarters.
The secret isn’t to push, but to use the “polite dance” of communication. When you say “잠시만요” (Jamsimanyo), it’s not just a phrase; it’s a signal. Koreans will instantly understand you need to get by and will usually make space for you. Adding a slight nod or a small bow while you say it shows extra respect and will make you seem like a seasoned pro, not just a tourist. This small gesture is the difference between being a clumsy foreigner and someone who truly understands Korean culture.
Let’s Practice!
Great job today! You’ve learned three key phrases to move through any crowd in Korea with confidence: 실례합니다, 잠시만요, and 지나갈게요.
Now, let’s test your knowledge!
- Fill-in-the-blank: You’re on a packed bus and your stop is next. You need to get to the door. You should say: “__________.”
- Challenge: How would you politely say, “Excuse me (formal), I will pass through”?
Leave your answers in the comments below! We’d love to see you practice using today’s expressions. Keep up the great work
