Lost in Seongsu? Ask Directions Like a Local!

Hello! This is [Daily Hangeul], here to upgrade your Korean skills to the next level! 👋

Have you ever wandered through the trendy alleys of Seongsu-dong or Hongdae looking for that famous cafe or pop-up store, only to get completely lost? Don’t worry, it happens to everyone!

Nowadays in Korea, visiting “hidden gems” (cafes or restaurants tucked away in small alleys) is a huge trend. But Google Maps doesn’t always work perfectly here. That means knowing how to ask a local for help is an absolute superpower! 🦸‍♀️🦸‍♂️

Today, we will learn how to politely ask for directions and help. With these phrases, you won’t just find your way; you’ll make a great impression!

🔑 Key Expressions

Here are 3 essential expressions to help you navigate the streets of Korea.

1. 실례합니다 (Excuse me)

• Pronunciation: [Sillyehamnida]
• English Meaning: Excuse me.
• Detail: This is the magic word to start any conversation with a stranger. Before asking a question, always say this to be polite. It shows you respect the other person’s time.
• 💡 Pronunciation Tip:
  • Notice the ‘ㄹ’ (l/r) sound? When ‘ㄹ’ appears as a batchim (bottom consonant) and is followed by another ‘ㄹ’, it is pronounced as a strong [L] sound, like the ‘l’ in “lily.”
  • So, instead of sil-rye, it sounds like [sil-lye]. Smooth and clear!

2. [Place]가 어디에 있어요? (Where is [Place]?)

• Pronunciation: [ …ga eodie isseoyo?]
• English Meaning: Where is [Place]?
• Detail: This is the most basic and useful phrase for finding a location. Just put the name of the place in front.
  • Example: 화장실이 어디에 있어요? (Where is the restroom?)
• 💡 Pronunciation Tip:
  • Linking Sound (Liason): In Korean, when a consonant is followed by a vowel, the sound carries over.
  • ‘있어요’ is written as iss-eo-yo, but it is pronounced [isseoyo]. The ‘ㅆ’ (ss) sound moves to the next block. It sounds like [이써요]!

3. [Place]로 어떻게 가요? (How do I get to [Place]?)

• Pronunciation: [ …ro eotteoke gayo?]
• English Meaning: How do I go to [Place]?
• Detail: Use this when you want to know the method or the path (e.g.,