The Korean language is so beautifully layered and confusing!

I know that as a learner, you probably just nodded and agreed with me strongly, because why are we using two million words for one expression for crying out loud (to King Sejong, by the way)? It just goes to say Koreans (locals) refuse to settle for the bare minimum (casual and straightforward) when they can be extra (dynamic and maybe spicy).

The question that might come to mind right now is ‘WHY?’ That is because these different expressions are tied to formality, relationships, and vibes. And if there’s one place where this many words for one thing shows up, it’s in the word “Sorry.” And that is what I am over-analyzing right now, so bring your pen, paper, and mathematical knowledge to learn 7 ways to say sorry in Korean and how low you should bow.

미안 (Mian)

As the first level Korean apology, Mian is more like your neck joint paid rent for half a second, you get? You use this for close friends, roommates, siblings, and people with whom you have a close relationship. Sometimes you might not even need to bow, and when you do, maybe 0.0001 radians bow or a sheepish grin.

미안해 (Mianhae)

You think Mian and Mianhe are the same? Think well before using it for a native Korean, at least, because Mianhae is that apology that is just enough for people to think you were raised well. Still casual for age mates or younger ones, but a bit warme,r and a 15° bow will work just fine, nothing too spicy.

미안해요 (Mianhaeyo)

Coming at number 3 is Mianhaeyo, which is a polite apology used with acquaintances, strangers, or in semi-formal settings. It’s serious but not dramatic, and all you need for this one is just a 30° angle and everyone is happy.

미안합니다 (Mianhamnida)

Mianhamnida is the formal version of sorry. It is usually used in a corporate world with seniors, colleagues, a teacher, or in a respectful situation. Don’t complicate things, just do a 45° bow and move on with your work life.

죄송합니다 (Joesonghamnida)

It may not look like it, but Joesonghamnida is way better and more formal than Mianhamnida because the bows are not just different; the latter is situated more for inconveniencing people in public. Let’s say you mistakenly spoke at the top of your voice in public transport, do a 60° bow, and make no eye contact while stressing a Joesonghamnida.

송구합니다 (Songguhamnida)

You thought we were done? No! If you decide to be a professional or official, this is the apology you give to clients, VIPs, or people you must really respect. Think company CEOs apologizing on TV or officials addressing citizens, they can just do a small 90° spine-twisting bow to show their seriousness.

송구스럽습니다 (Songgusureopseumnida)

Songgusureopseumnida is the highest-level, deeply humble apology. It is often used in official or ceremonial contexts or public apologies. For instance, a politician who has embezzled public funds apologizing to the public via a press conference needs to do a 180° approaching bow and stay there for at least 30 seconds before he rises to resume his stay at the detention center while awaiting trial.

By now, you must be wondering why all these are necessary, but each one isn’t just about words but who you’re talking to and how badly you messed up. Also, the next time you’re watching a K-Drama and see someone nearly sprawling on the floor while saying sorry, know it's cultural.

That ends class for today. Let me know if you want more in the comments.

Media Reference: https://www.facebook.com/share/r/1CPgUAWJfH/