How to Say "thank you" in Korean: 감사합니다 / 고마워 (gamsahamnida / gomawo)

감사합니다 (gamsahamnida) is formal 'thank you.' 고마워 (gomawo) is casual. Knowing when to use each is essential Korean etiquette.

Meaning & Usage

감사합니다 (gamsahamnida) is formal 'thank you.' 고마워 (gomawo) is casual. Knowing when to use each is essential Korean etiquette. Learning everyday vocabulary is the fastest way to start speaking Korean naturally. Rather than memorizing word lists, learn words in context with example sentences you can actually use.

Related Words

• **감사합니다** (gamsahamnida) — thank you (formal) • **고마워요** (gomawayo) — thank you (polite casual) • **고마워** (gomawo) — thanks (casual) • **감사드립니다** (gamsadeurimnida) — thank you (very formal/humble)

Cultural Context

Korean has strict formality levels. Use 감사합니다 with strangers, elders, and in business. Use 고마워 only with close friends of similar age.

Common Mistake

❌ 고마워 to your boss ✅ 감사합니다 Using 고마워 (casual) with superiors is very rude. Always use 감사합니다 or 감사드립니다 in formal situations.

Examples

도와주셔서 감사합니다. — dowajusyeoseo gamsahamnida. — Thank you for helping me.

선물 고마워! — seonmul gomawo! — Thanks for the gift!

항상 감사드립니다. — hangsang gamsadeurimnida. — I'm always grateful to you.

Common Mistakes

Incorrect: 고마워 to your boss → Correct: 감사합니다. Using 고마워 (casual) with superiors is very rude. Always use 감사합니다 or 감사드립니다 in formal situations.