🇰🇷 Korean phrases

How to Say "I'm sorry" in Korean

The SPAIKING TeamJuly 27, 2026
죄송합니다
"I'm sorry" in Korean · say it like jwe-song-hamnida

The most natural way to say "I'm sorry" in Korean is 죄송합니다. Tap the speaker above to hear it, then say it back out loud. That is the fastest way to make it stick.

Other ways to say it

미안합니다
more casual, often used among friends
죄송해요
slightly less formal, used in everyday conversation

When to use it

Use this phrase when you want to express a formal apology. It is appropriate in professional settings or when speaking to someone older or in a higher position. You can also use it when you feel regret for a mistake or inconvenience caused to someone.

Say it out loud, get corrected

Reading it is not the same as saying it. Practice "I'm sorry" and thousands more with an AI coach that listens.

Examples in Korean

KoreanEnglish
죄송합니다, 늦었습니다.I'm sorry, I'm late.
죄송합니다, 잘못했습니다.I'm sorry, I made a mistake.
Common mistake
Some learners confuse '죄송합니다' with '미안합니다'; use '죄송합니다' for formal situations.

The fastest way to remember it

Vocabulary you only read fades fast. Vocabulary you say out loud sticks. Hear 죄송합니다, repeat it a few times, then use it in a real sentence. SPAIKING lets you practice exactly that, speaking Korean with a coach that corrects your pronunciation in real time. You can start with two free conversations.

Frequently asked questions

When should I use '미안합니다' instead of '죄송합니다'?

'미안합니다' is more casual and suitable for friends or peers.

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