Learn Korean , Learn 한굴 by Hwal-wal

Lesson 2. Self Introduction(Asking names)

This simple phrase also has a few variations depending on the formality of the situation. In formal situations, such as talking to someone above you in status, (bosses, someone older than you, teachers) the first two can be used, but in more casual situations the third one is fine.

1.성함이 어떻게 되세요?What is your name? (formal)

2.성함이 어떻게 되십니까?What is your name? (formal)

3.이름이 뭐예요?What is your name? (when talking to equals or people below you)

How to answer?

When answering, there are a few ways to do it. The reality is that, since you are not Korean, any way will be fine. Koreans will be tougher on native Koreans in regard to formality than a foreigner learning the language. So if you get this wrong, you will not be summarily killed. Even Koreans will answer a formal question with a more casual / polite response depending on the situation. Typically, you are safe to match formal to formal and casual to casual. But if the person is older than you, your response should show them the respect they "deserve" as an elder, even if they ask in a casual manner.

__________ 입니다.

I am __________. *This is very standard, yet formal and polite. Nothing bad can happen if you are polite.

__________ (이) 라고 합니다.

I am called __________. *This is used if your name and what you are called are different. If you are “Joseph” but everyone calls you “Joe” this is the phrase you use. If the Korean version of your name ends with a 받침 then use the 이 in the parenthesis.

제 이름은 __________ 입니다.

My name is __________. *This is the polite way to tell someone your name if you haven’t been asked.

Courtesy by: Korean form Zero