TeacherJoy

In Korean, there are a few super common phrases people use to say thanks — especially after borrowing, using, seeing, or eating something.

Here are some everyday examples:

• 잘 먹었습니다.

Said after eating, like “Thanks for the meal.” You’ll hear this this at restaurants, at a friend’s house, or even after someone buys you food.

• 잘 봤습니다.

Literally “I saw well,” but it’s used to thank someone after looking at something. For example, when you’re leaving a shop after browsing, it’s polite to say this to the staff — even if you didn’t buy anything!

And there are “before” version too — using -겠-, which shows intention:

• 잘 먹겠습니다.

“I’m about to enjoy this!” or “Thank you in advance for the food.” Said before eating, often to show gratitude to whoever provided the meal.

• 잘 쓰겠습니다.

“I’ll use it well!” It’s common when receiving a gift or borrowing something.

These phrases might sound simple, but they really reflect how polite and thoughtful Korean culture is — even just saying thank you can change depending on timing (before or after) and the situation. So next time someone treats you to lunch or let you borrow a pen, try one of these out!

Related Expressions

• 처음 뵙겠습니다. – Nice to meet you.
• 잘 모르겠어요. – I don’t quite get you.
• 잘 먹겠습니다. – Thanks for the food.
  ↔ 잘 먹었습니다. – I enjoyed the food.
• 안녕히 주무셨어요? – Good morning; Did you sleep well? (= 잘 잤어요?)
• 다녀왔습니다. – I’m home.
  ↔ 다녀오세요. – Have fun.
• 수고하셨습니다. – Thanks for your efforts.
  ↔ 수고하세요. – Keep it up.

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<Reference>

• 비밀의 숲1
• 남길임 외(2020), 외국인을 위한 사전에 없는 진짜 한국어1, 한국문화사, 26-27.