Understanding how to say names in Korean is crucial for effective communication and showing respect in Korean culture. Unlike English, Korean uses different grammatical markers and honorifics when referring to or addressing someone.
This article will provide a detailed explanation of the various ways to say names in Korean, covering the essential grammar rules, honorific titles, and practical examples. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced learner, this guide will help you navigate the nuances of Korean name usage and enhance your understanding of Korean language and culture.
Mastering these concepts will allow you to communicate more accurately and respectfully in various social contexts.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Definition: Saying Names in Korean
- Structural Breakdown
- Honorifics and Titles
- Examples
- Usage Rules
- Common Mistakes
- Practice Exercises
- Advanced Topics
- FAQ
- Conclusion
Definition: Saying Names in Korean
Saying names in Korean involves more than just pronouncing the given name and surname. It requires understanding the grammatical particles and honorific titles that are added to names to indicate the relationship between the speaker and the person being referred to, as well as the level of formality required in the situation.
This system reflects the hierarchical nature of Korean society and the importance of showing respect to elders and those in positions of authority. The choice of honorifics and particles can significantly alter the meaning and tone of a sentence, making it essential to learn and use them correctly.
In Korean, names are typically composed of a family name (surname) followed by a given name. When speaking, you often add particles to the end of the name to indicate its role in the sentence (subject, object, etc.).
Additionally, honorific titles are frequently used to show respect, especially when addressing someone older, of higher status, or someone you don’t know well. Understanding these components is critical for both speaking and understanding Korean.
Structural Breakdown
The basic structure for saying a name in Korean typically follows this pattern:
[Family Name] + [Given Name] + [Honorific (optional)] + [Particle (optional)]
Let’s break down each component:
Family Name and Given Name
Korean names usually consist of a one-syllable or two-syllable family name, followed by a one- or two-syllable given name. For example, in the name Kim Minji, Kim is the family name, and Minji is the given name. When writing or speaking, the family name always comes first.
Honorifics
Honorifics are titles added to a name to show respect. The most common honorific is 씨 (ssi), which is similar to “Mr.,” “Ms.,” or “Mrs.” in English. Other honorifics include 님 (nim), used in formal settings like business or customer service, and titles like 선생님 (seonsaengnim) for teachers or professionals. The choice of honorific depends on the person’s age, status, and your relationship with them.
Particles
Particles are grammatical markers that indicate the role of the noun in a sentence. The most common particles used with names are:
- 은/는 (eun/neun): Topic marker
- 이/가 (i/ga): Subject marker
- 을/를 (eul/reul): Object marker
- 아/야 (a/ya): Vocative particle (used when calling someone)
The choice between eun/neun and i/ga depends on whether the preceding syllable ends in a consonant or a vowel, respectively. The same rule applies to eul/reul and a/ya.
Honorifics and Titles
Korean honorifics are essential for demonstrating respect and maintaining social harmony. Using the correct honorifics shows that you understand and appreciate Korean cultural norms.
Here’s a breakdown of common honorifics and their uses:
씨 (ssi)
씨 (ssi) is the most common and versatile honorific. It is generally used for people you are not very close to, who are of similar age or social standing. It’s similar to “Mr.,” “Ms.,” or “Mrs.” in English.
님 (nim)
님 (nim) is a higher level of honorific used in formal situations, such as business correspondence, customer service, or when addressing someone of significantly higher status. It conveys a greater degree of respect than ssi.
선생님 (seonsaengnim)
선생님 (seonsaengnim) is used for teachers, professors, doctors, and other professionals. It literally means “teacher” but is used as a general term of respect for those in these roles.
Other Titles
In addition to these common honorifics, there are specific titles for various positions, such as 사장님 (sajangnim) for company president, 부장님 (bujangnim) for department head, and 과장님 (gwajangnim) for section chief. Using these titles shows respect for the person’s position within an organization.
Examples
Here are some examples of how to say names in Korean, incorporating honorifics and particles:
Using 씨 (ssi)
The following table provides examples of using the honorific “씨” (ssi) with various names and particles. This is the most common and versatile honorific, suitable for people of similar age or social standing.
| Name | Sentence | Translation |
|---|---|---|
| 김민지 (Kim Minji) | 김민지 씨는 학생입니다. (Kim Minji ssi-neun haksaengimnida.) | Kim Minji is a student. |
| 박지훈 (Park Jihoon) | 박지훈 씨를 만났어요. (Park Jihoon ssi-reul mannasseoyo.) | I met Park Jihoon. |
| 이수현 (Lee Suhyun) | 이수현 씨가 발표를 잘했어요. (Lee Suhyun ssi-ga balpyoreul jaraesseoyo.) | Lee Suhyun gave a good presentation. |
| 최영재 (Choi Youngjae) | 최영재 씨, 안녕하세요? (Choi Youngjae ssi, annyeonghaseyo?) | Mr. Choi Youngjae, hello? |
| 정해인 (Jung Haein) | 정해인 씨는 친절해요. (Jung Haein ssi-neun chinjeolhaeyo.) | Jung Haein is kind. |
| 강다니엘 (Kang Daniel) | 강다니엘 씨의 노래를 좋아해요. (Kang Daniel ssi-ui noraereul joahaeyo.) | I like Kang Daniel’s song. |
| 송혜교 (Song Hyekyo) | 송혜교 씨는 아름다워요. (Song Hyekyo ssi-neun areumdawoyo.) | Song Hyekyo is beautiful. |
| 유재석 (Yoo Jaesuk) | 유재석 씨가 재미있어요. (Yoo Jaesuk ssi-ga jaemiisseoyo.) | Yoo Jaesuk is funny. |
| 배수지 (Bae Suzy) | 배수지 씨를 응원해요. (Bae Suzy ssi-reul eungwonhaeyo.) | I support Bae Suzy. |
| 현빈 (Hyun Bin) | 현빈 씨는 멋있어요. (Hyun Bin ssi-neun meosiisseoyo.) | Hyun Bin is cool. |
| 김수현 (Kim Soohyun) | 김수현 씨를 좋아합니다. (Kim Soohyun ssi-reul joahamnida.) | I like Kim Soohyun. |
| 이민호 (Lee Minho) | 이민호 씨는 인기가 많아요. (Lee Minho ssi-neun inki-ga manayo.) | Lee Minho is very popular. |
| 박신혜 (Park Shin-hye) | 박신혜 씨는 연기를 잘해요. (Park Shin-hye ssi-neun yeongireul jalhaeyo.) | Park Shin-hye acts well. |
| 지창욱 (Ji Chang-wook) | 지창욱 씨를 만났습니다. (Ji Chang-wook ssi-reul mannasseumnida.) | I met Ji Chang-wook. |
| 손예진 (Son Ye-jin) | 손예진 씨는 우아합니다. (Son Ye-jin ssi-neun uahamnida.) | Son Ye-jin is elegant. |
| 조인성 (Jo In-sung) | 조인성 씨는 키가 커요. (Jo In-sung ssi-neun ki-ga keoyo.) | Jo In-sung is tall. |
| 공유 (Gong Yoo) | 공유 씨는 매력적입니다. (Gong Yoo ssi-neun maeryeokjeogimnida.) | Gong Yoo is charming. |
| 아이유 (IU) | 아이유 씨의 노래를 듣고 있어요. (IU ssi-ui noraereul deutgo isseoyo.) | I am listening to IU’s song. |
| 송중기 (Song Joong-ki) | 송중기 씨는 배우입니다. (Song Joong-ki ssi-neun baeuimnida.) | Song Joong-ki is an actor. |
| 전지현 (Jun Ji-hyun) | 전지현 씨는 스타일리시합니다. (Jun Ji-hyun ssi-neun seutailrisihamnida.) | Jun Ji-hyun is stylish. |
Using 님 (nim)
The following table illustrates the use of “님” (nim), a higher-level honorific used in formal situations, such as addressing customers or superiors in a business context.
| Name | Sentence | Translation |
|---|---|---|
| 고객님 (Gogaeknim) | 고객님, 무엇을 도와드릴까요? (Gogaeknim, mueoseul dowadeurilkkayo?) | Customer, how can I help you? |
| 사장님 (Sajangnim) | 사장님, 보고서가 준비되었습니다. (Sajangnim, bogoseoga junbidoeeosseumnida.) | President, the report is ready. |
| 교수님 (Gyosunim) | 교수님, 질문이 있습니다. (Gyosunim, jilmuni isseumnida.) | Professor, I have a question. |
| 선생님 (Seonsaengnim) | 선생님, 감사합니다. (Seonsaengnim, gamsahamnida.) | Teacher, thank you. |
| 부장님 (Bujangnim) | 부장님, 좋은 아침입니다. (Bujangnim, joeun achimimnida.) | Department head, good morning. |
| 과장님 (Gwajangnim) | 과장님, 새로운 프로젝트에 대해 상의하고 싶습니다. (Gwajangnim, saeroun peurojekteue daehae sanguihago sipsseumnida.) | Section chief, I would like to discuss the new project. |
| 회장님 (Hoejangnim) | 회장님, 참석해 주셔서 감사합니다. (Hoejangnim, chamseokhae jusyeoseo gamsahamnida.) | Chairman, thank you for attending. |
| 대표님 (Daepyonim) | 대표님, 계약서를 검토해 주십시오. (Daepyonim, gyeyakseoreul geomtohhae jusipsio.) | CEO, please review the contract. |
| 원장님 (Wonjangnim) | 원장님, 오늘 회의는 어떠셨습니까? (Wonjangnim, oneul hoeineun eotteosyeossseumnikka?) | Director, how was the meeting today? |
| 담당자님 (Dangdangjanim) | 담당자님, 이메일을 확인해 주십시오. (Dangdangjanim, imeileul hwaginhae jusipsio.) | Person in charge, please check the email. |
| 의사님 (Uisanim) | 의사님, 진찰해 주셔서 감사합니다. (Uisanim, jinchalhae jusyeoseo gamsahamnida.) | Doctor, thank you for the examination. |
| 간호사님 (Ganhosanim) | 간호사님, 도와주셔서 감사합니다. (Ganhosanim, dowajusyeoseo gamsahamnida.) | Nurse, thank you for your help. |
| 손님 (Sonnim) | 손님, 주문하시겠습니까? (Sonnim, jumunhasigesseumnikka?) | Guest, would you like to order? |
| 기사님 (Gisanim) | 기사님, 어디로 모실까요? (Gisanim, eodiro mosilkkayo?) | Driver, where shall I take you? |
| 경찰관님 (Gyeongchalgwanim) | 경찰관님, 도와주세요! (Gyeongchalgwanim, dowajuseyo!) | Police officer, please help me! |
| 소방관님 (Sobanggwanim) | 소방관님, 감사합니다. (Sobanggwanim, gamsahamnida.) | Firefighter, thank you. |
| 택배기사님 (Taekbaegisanim) | 택배기사님, 택배 왔습니다. (Taekbaegisanim, taekbae wasseumnida.) | Delivery driver, the package has arrived. |
| 판매자님 (Panmaejanim) | 판매자님, 상품에 대해 문의드립니다. (Panmaejanim, sangpume daehae munuideurimnida.) | Seller, I have a question about the product. |
| 구매자님 (Gumaejanim) | 구매자님, 후기를 남겨주세요. (Gumaejanim, hugireul namgyeojuseyo.) | Buyer, please leave a review. |
| 작가님 (Jakganim) | 작가님, 책 잘 읽었습니다. (Jakganim, chaek jal ilgeosseumnida.) | Writer, I enjoyed your book. |
Using 아/야 (a/ya)
The following examples use the vocative particles “아/야” (a/ya), which are used when calling someone’s name directly. “아” is used after a consonant, and “야” is used after a vowel.
| Name | Sentence | Translation |
|---|---|---|
| 민지 (Minji) | 민지야, 뭐 해? (Minji-ya, mwo hae?) | Minji, what are you doing? |
| 지훈 (Jihoon) | 지훈아, 이리 와. (Jihoon-a, iri wa.) | Jihoon, come here. |
| 수현 (Suhyun) | 수현아, 같이 가자. (Suhyun-a, gachi gaja.) | Suhyun, let’s go together. |
| 영재 (Youngjae) | 영재야, 숙제했어? (Youngjae-ya, sukjehaesseo?) | Youngjae, did you do your homework? |
| 해인 (Haein) | 해인아, 밥 먹었어? (Haein-a, bap meogeosseo?) | Haein, did you eat? |
| 다니엘 (Daniel) | 다니엘아, 보고 싶어. (Daniel-a, bogo sipeo.) | Daniel, I miss you. |
| 혜교 (Hyekyo) | 혜교야, 어디 가? (Hyekyo-ya, eodi ga?) | Hyekyo, where are you going? |
| 재석 (Jaesuk) | 재석아, 도와줘. (Jaesuk-a, dowajwo.) | Jaesuk, help me. |
| 수지 (Suzy) | 수지야, 예쁘다. (Suzy-ya, yeppeuda.) | Suzy, you’re pretty. |
| 현빈 (Hyunbin) | 현빈아, 잘 지내? (Hyunbin-a, jal jinae?) | Hyunbin, how are you? |
| 소현 (Sohyun) | 소현아, 영화 보자. (Sohyun-a, yeonghwa boja.) | Sohyun, let’s watch a movie. |
| 민호 (Minho) | 민호야, 게임하자. (Minho-ya, geimhaja.) | Minho, let’s play a game. |
| 신혜 (Shin-hye) | 신혜야, 노래 불러줘. (Shin-hye-ya, norae bulleojwo.) | Shin-hye, sing a song for me. |
| 창욱 (Chang-wook) | 창욱아, 운동하자. (Chang-wook-a, undonghaja.) | Chang-wook, let’s exercise. |
| 예진 (Ye-jin) | 예진아, 커피 마실래? (Ye-jin-a, keopi masillae?) | Ye-jin, do you want to drink coffee? |
| 인성 (In-sung) | 인성아, 같이 공부하자. (In-sung-a, gachi gongbuhaja.) | In-sung, let’s study together. |
| 유 (Yoo) | 유야, 숙제 끝났어? (Yoo-ya, sukje kkeutnasseo?) | Yoo, did you finish your homework? |
| 아이유 (IU) | 아이유야, 노래 너무 좋아. (IU-ya, norae neomu joa.) | IU, I really like your song. |
| 중기 (Joong-ki) | 중기야, 어디야? (Joong-ki-ya, eodiya?) | Joong-ki, where are you? |
| 지현 (Ji-hyun) | 지현아, 쇼핑 가자. (Ji-hyun-a, syoping gaja.) | Ji-hyun, let’s go shopping. |
Usage Rules
Using names correctly in Korean requires following specific rules regarding honorifics and particles. Here are some key guidelines:
Age and Social Status
When addressing someone older than you or of higher social status, always use an appropriate honorific. Avoid using just the name without an honorific, as this can be considered disrespectful. For example, if you’re talking to your boss, use their title (e.g., 사장님) or 님 after their name.
Formality
In formal situations, such as business meetings or presentations, use higher-level honorifics like 님. In informal situations with close friends, you can omit honorifics and use just the name with the vocative particle 아/야.
Particles
Always use the correct particle to indicate the grammatical role of the name in the sentence. Using the wrong particle can change the meaning of the sentence or make it grammatically incorrect.
Family Members
When referring to family members, different terms are used based on the relationship and age. For example, you would use 어머니 (eomeoni) for “mother” and 아버지 (abeoji) for “father.” When speaking to your parents, you would generally use these terms instead of their names.
Common Mistakes
Here are some common mistakes learners make when using names in Korean:
- Omitting Honorifics: Forgetting to use honorifics when speaking to someone older or of higher status.
- Incorrect: 김민지 씨, 안녕하세요? (Kim Minji, annyeonghaseyo?)
- Correct: 김민지 씨, 안녕하세요? (Kim Minji ssi, annyeonghaseyo?)
- Using the Wrong Particle: Using the incorrect particle after a name.
- Incorrect: 박지훈 은 학교에 갔어요. (Park Jihoon eun hakgyoe gasseoyo.)
- Correct: 박지훈 이 학교에 갔어요. (Park Jihoon i hakgyoe gasseoyo.)
- Using 씨 with Close Friends: Using 씨 with close friends or younger siblings.
- Incorrect: 민수 씨, 뭐 해? (Minsu ssi, mwo hae?)
- Correct: 민수야, 뭐 해? (Minsu-ya, mwo hae?)
- Using Informal Language in Formal Settings: Using informal language in formal situations.
- Incorrect: 사장님, 잘 지내? (Sajangnim, jal jinae?)
- Correct: 사장님, 안녕하십니까? (Sajangnim, annyeonghasimnikka?)
Practice Exercises
Test your understanding of using names in Korean with these exercises:
Exercise 1: Choose the Correct Honorific
Select the appropriate honorific for each situation.
| Question | Options | Answer |
|---|---|---|
| You are talking to your teacher. | a) 씨 (ssi) b) 님 (nim) c) 선생님 (seonsaengnim) | c) 선생님 (seonsaengnim) |
| You are addressing a customer at a store. | a) 씨 (ssi) b) 님 (nim) c) 아/야 (a/ya) | b) 님 (nim) |
| You are talking to a friend of the same age. | a) 씨 (ssi) b) 님 (nim) c) 선생님 (seonsaengnim) | a) 씨 (ssi) or 아/야 (a/ya) |
| You are addressing your company’s president. | a) 씨 (ssi) b) 사장님 (sajangnim) c) 아/야 (a/ya) | b) 사장님 (sajangnim) |
| You are calling your younger brother. | a) 씨 (ssi) b) 님 (nim) c) 아/야 (a/ya) | c) 아/야 (a/ya) |
| You are talking to a doctor. | a) 씨 (ssi) b) 님 (nim) c) 선생님 (seonsaengnim) | c) 선생님 (seonsaengnim) |
| You are writing a formal business email. | a) 씨 (ssi) b) 님 (nim) c) 아/야 (a/ya) | b) 님 (nim) |
| You are introducing a colleague to another. | a) 씨 (ssi) b) 님 (nim) c) 선생님 (seonsaengnim) | a) 씨 (ssi) |
| You are ordering food from a server. | a) 씨 (ssi) b) 님 (nim) c) 아/야 (a/ya) | b) 님 (nim) |
| You are calling a close friend. | a) 씨 (ssi) b) 님 (nim) c) 아/야 (a/ya) | c) 아/야 (a/ya) |
Exercise 2: Fill in the Blanks with the Correct Particle
Fill in the blanks with the appropriate particle (은/는, 이/가, 을/를, 아/야).
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| 김민지 _____ 학생입니다. | 김민지 는 학생입니다. (Kim Minji-neun haksaengimnida.) |
| 박지훈 _____ 만났어요. | 박지훈 을 만났어요. (Park Jihoon-eul mannasseoyo.) |
| 수현 _____, 뭐 해? | 수현 아, 뭐 해? (Suhyun-a, mwo hae?) |
| 영재 _____ 학교에 갔어요. | 영재 가 학교에 갔어요. (Youngjae-ga hakgyoe gasseoyo.) |
| 해인 _____ 좋아해요. | 해인 을 좋아해요. (Haein-eul joahaeyo.) |
| 다니엘 _____ 노래를 잘 불러요. | 다니엘 은 노래를 잘 불러요. (Daniel-eun noraereul jal bulleoyo.) |
| 혜교 _____, 같이 영화 볼래? | 혜교 야, 같이 영화 볼래? (Hyekyo-ya, gachi yeonghwa bollae?) |
| 재석 _____ 코미디언입니다. | 재석 이 코미디언입니다. (Jaeseok-i komidieonimnida.) |
| 수지 _____ 예뻐요. | 수지 가 예뻐요. (Suzy-ga yeppeoyo.) |
| 현빈 _____ 드라마에 나왔어요. | 현빈 이 드라마에 나왔어요. (Hyunbin-i deuramae nawatseoyo.) |
Exercise 3: Translate the Sentences
Translate the following sentences into Korean, using appropriate honorifics and particles.
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Mr. Kim is a teacher. | 김 선생님은 선생님입니다. (Kim seonsaengnimeun seonsaengnimimnida.) |
| I met Ms. Park yesterday. | 어제 박 씨를 만났어요. (Eoje Bak ssi-reul mannasseoyo.) |
| Daniel, what are you doing? | 다니엘아, 뭐 해? (Daniel-a, mwo hae?) |
| The president gave a speech. | 사장님께서 연설을 하셨습니다. (Sajangnimkkeseo yeonseoreul hasyeotseumnida.) |
| Suzy is very beautiful. | 수지는 매우 아름답습니다. (Sujineun maeu areumdapseumnida.) |
| Professor Lee is teaching Korean. | 이 교수님은 한국어를 가르치고 계십니다. (I gyosunimeun hangugeoreul gareuchigo gyesimnida.) |
| Excuse me, customer, can I help you? | 실례합니다, 고객님, 도와드릴까요? (Sillyehamnida, gogaeknim, dowadeurilkkayo?) |
| Haein, let’s go to the park. | 해인아, 공원에 가자. (Haein-a, gongwone gaja.) |
| I like Hyunbin very much. | 현빈 씨를 아주 좋아합니다. (Hyunbin ssi-reul aju joahamnida.) |
| Youngjae, did you finish your homework? | 영재야, 숙제 다 했어? (Youngjae-ya, sukje da haesseo?) |
Advanced Topics
For advanced learners, here are some more complex aspects of using names in Korean:
Using Honorifics with Verbs
In addition to using honorific titles, Korean also has honorific verb endings to show respect. For example, instead of saying 먹다 (meokda, “to eat”), you would say 드시다 (deusida) when talking about someone you respect.
Indirect Speech
When reporting what someone said, you need to adjust the honorifics and verb endings to reflect the relationship between the speaker and the person being referred to. This can be quite complex and requires a deep understanding of Korean grammar.
Family Titles
Korean has a complex system of family titles that are used when referring to relatives. These titles vary depending on the age and gender of the speaker and the relative.
Learning these titles is essential for understanding family dynamics and showing respect within the family.
Cultural Nuances
Understanding the cultural nuances of using names in Korean is crucial for effective communication. For example, it is considered impolite to ask someone’s age directly, but it is important to know their age to use the correct honorifics.
Observing how native speakers use names in different situations can help you develop a better understanding of these cultural nuances.
FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions about saying names in Korean:
- When should I use 씨 (ssi)?
Use 씨 (ssi) when addressing or referring to someone of similar age or social standing whom you are not very close to. It’s a polite and versatile honorific similar to “Mr.,” “Ms.,” or “Mrs.” in English. It’s generally safe to use unless you have a close, informal relationship with the person.
- What is the difference between 은/는 and 이/가?
은/는 (eun/neun) is a topic marker, used to introduce the main topic of the sentence or to emphasize a contrast. 이/가 (i/ga) is a subject marker, used to indicate the subject of the sentence. The choice depends on the nuance you want to convey. Eun/neun often implies a comparison or contrast, while i/ga simply identifies the subject.
- How do I address someone older than me?
Always use an appropriate honorific title when addressing someone older than you. This could be 선생님 (seonsaengnim) for teachers or professionals, or 님 (nim) after their name. Omitting honorifics can be seen as disrespectful.
- Can I use just the name without any honorifics?
Only with very close friends or family members who are younger than you. Otherwise, always use an honorific to show respect.
- When is it appropriate to use 아/야 (a/ya)?
Use 아/야 (a/ya) when calling out to someone you are close to, who is younger than you, or of the same age. It’s very informal and should not be used with elders or superiors.
- How do I know which honorific to use?
Consider the age, social status, and your relationship with the person. If you are unsure, it’s always better to err on the side of formality and use a higher-level honorific like 님 (nim).
- Are there any situations where I shouldn’t use honorifics?
In very informal settings with close friends, or when referring to yourself, you generally wouldn’t use honorifics.
- What if I don’t know someone’s name?
You can use general titles like 저기요 (jeogiyo) to get someone’s attention, or use context-specific titles like 선생님 (seonsaengnim) for a teacher or 의사 선생님 (uisa seonsaengnim) for a doctor.
- How do I address a group of people?
You can use 여러분 (yeoreobun), which means “everyone,” or address the group by their title, such as 선생님들 (seonsaengnimdeul) for “teachers.”
- Is it okay to ask someone’s age to determine the correct honorific?
While age is important in determining the appropriate honorific, directly asking someone’s age can be considered impolite. It’s often better to observe how others address them or use a more general honorific like 씨 (ssi) until you have a better understanding of the social dynamics.
Conclusion
Mastering the use of names in Korean is an essential step toward achieving fluency and cultural competence. By understanding the structure of Korean names, the function of honorifics and particles, and the social rules governing their use, you can communicate more effectively and respectfully in Korean.
While it may seem complex at first, with practice and attention to detail, you can confidently navigate the nuances of Korean name usage and build stronger relationships with Korean speakers. Remember to always be mindful of the context, the age and status of the person you are addressing, and your relationship with them.
With these guidelines in mind, you’ll be well on your way to mastering this important aspect of the Korean language.