How to Introduce Yourself in Korean: Scripts, Tips & Examples

Your First Korean Conversation Starts Here

Introducing yourself is the very first real conversation you'll have in Korean. Whether you're meeting a language exchange partner, starting a new class, or traveling in Korea, a good self-introduction (자기소개, ja-gi-so-gae) makes a great first impression. The good news? Korean introductions follow a predictable structure, so once you learn the template, you can customize it endlessly.

The Basic Template

A standard Korean self-introduction covers these elements in order: greeting, name, nationality/origin, occupation or status, one personal detail (hobby, reason for learning Korean, etc.), and a closing phrase. Let's build it piece by piece.

1. Greeting

2. Name

There are several ways to state your name, ranging from casual to very formal. The most commonly used polite form is "저는 [name]이에요/예요."

3. Nationality / Where You're From

Use 사람 (sa-ram, person) after the country name, or use the pattern "에서 왔어요" (came from).

4. Occupation / Status

5. Personal Detail

Adding a hobby or the reason you're learning Korean makes your introduction memorable and opens the door for conversation.

6. Closing

Complete Scripts You Can Use Today

Casual-Polite (Meeting new people, language exchange)

Formal (Business, university, presentations)

At a Korean Class

Useful Add-On Phrases

Age in Korean Introductions

In Korean culture, age determines the speech level you use with each other, so Koreans commonly ask about age when meeting someone new. This isn't considered rude — it's how they figure out the proper way to address you. Use native Korean numbers with 살 (sal) for age.

Cultural Tips for Introductions

• Bow slightly when greeting — a small nod of the head is enough in casual settings.
• Use both hands when giving or receiving a business card.
• Don't be surprised if Koreans ask your age early in the conversation. It helps them choose the right speech level.
• "잘 부탁드립니다" is expected at the end of formal introductions. Skipping it may feel abrupt.
• If you have a Korean name or nickname, use it! Koreans appreciate the effort.
• When saying your foreign name, try to approximate how it would sound in Korean pronunciation. Koreans will usually help you find the right 한글 spelling.

Responding to Introductions

When someone introduces themselves to you, here are natural ways to respond.

Build Your Own Introduction

Use this template to create your personalized self-introduction. Fill in each blank with your information, then practice saying it out loud until it feels natural.