해요 (hae-yo, haeyo) · 하세요 (ha-se-yo, haseyo)
'해요' and '하세요' are both polite forms, but '해요' sounds softer and friendlier, while '하세요' is more formal and respectful.
One lane per word — no nested boxes, just the gist.
A soft and friendly polite form used in everyday conversation or business when a casual but polite tone is appropriate.
When to use
casual conversation, friendly business setting, light requests
The nuance
Formed by attaching '-아요/어요' to the verb stem, used when the speaker wants to be polite yet friendly and less formal.
A more polite and formal form used to show respect or in official/formal situations.
When to use
formal settings, showing respect, formal requests
The nuance
Formed by attaching '-세요' to the verb stem, used to express respect or in formal/official contexts.
오늘 뭐 해요?
o-neul mwo hae-yo?, o neul mwo hae yo?
Using '해요' in casual, friendly conversation is appropriate.
오늘 뭐 하세요?
o-neul mwo ha-se-yo?, o neul mwo ha se yo?
Polite question showing respect, suitable for formal or respectful situations.
회의는 몇 시에 해요?
hoe-ui-neun myeoch si-e hae-yo?, hoe ui neun myeoch si e hae yo?
Naturally used in friendly business contexts.
회의는 몇 시에 하세요?
hoe-ui-neun myeoch si-e ha-se-yo?, hoe ui neun myeoch si e ha se yo?
Appropriate for formal business settings.
숙제 하세요!
suk-je ha-se-yo!, suk je ha se yo!
Suitable when politely commanding or instructing.
숙제 해요!
suk-je hae-yo!, suk je hae yo!
Not appropriate as a command; better for requests or questions.
저녁 먹어요?
jeo-nyeok meok-eo-yo?, jeo nyeok meok eo yo?
Natural friendly question.
저녁 먹으세요?
jeo-nyeok meok-eu-se-yo?, jeo nyeok meok eu se yo?
Polite question showing respect.
Which expression is mainly used in friendly everyday conversation?
Which expression is appropriate when speaking respectfully in formal settings?
Which expression is natural for making a light request?
Which expression is a polite way to command someone?
