해요체 (hae-yo-che, haeyoche) · 합니다체 (hap-ni-da-che, hapnidache) · 해체 (hae-che, haeche)
해요체, 합니다체, and 해체 all mark levels of politeness in Korean, but their use depends on context and the relationship between speaker and listener.
One lane per word — no nested boxes, just the gist.
A polite, conversational speech level used for people older or in a higher position but still in a casual or friendly setting.
When to use
Friendly older people, Everyday conversation, Customer service
The nuance
Used mainly in everyday conversations or friendly polite contexts, expressing respect without being too formal or stiff.
A formal and official polite speech level used in presentations, reports, business, and formal occasions.
When to use
Business meetings, Official presentations, News broadcasting
The nuance
Used in formal and stiff contexts, showing maximum respect to the listener.
Informal casual speech used among friends, peers, or close relationships without honorifics.
When to use
Among friends, Family conversations, Talking to younger people
The nuance
Used with friends or younger people; inappropriate in formal or respectful situations.
선생님, 오늘 수업이 몇 시에 시작해요?
seon-saeng-nim, o-neul su-eop-i myeoch si-e si-jak-hae-yo?, seon saeng nim, o neul su eop i myeoch si e si jak hae yo?
해요체 fits friendly but respectful situations.
선생님, 오늘 수업이 몇 시에 시작합니다?
seon-saeng-nim, o-neul su-eop-i myeoch si-e si-jak-hap-ni-da?, seon saeng nim, o neul su eop i myeoch si e si jak hap ni da?
합니다체 suits formal and official contexts.
선생님, 오늘 수업이 몇 시에 시작해?
seon-saeng-nim, o-neul su-eop-i myeoch si-e si-jak-hae?, seon saeng nim, o neul su eop i myeoch si e si jak hae?
해체 is inappropriate for respectful figures like teachers.
친구야, 오늘 영화 보러 갈래?
chin-gu-ya, o-neul yeong-hwa bo-reo gal-rae?, chin gu ya, o neul yeong hwa bo reo gal rae?
해체 is natural and friendly among friends.
친구야, 오늘 영화 보러 갈래요?
chin-gu-ya, o-neul yeong-hwa bo-reo gal-rae-yo?, chin gu ya, o neul yeong hwa bo reo gal rae yo?
해요체 is too formal and awkward for friends.
회의는 내일 오전 10시에 시작합니다.
hoe-ui-neun nae-il o-jeon 10si-e si-jak-hap-ni-da., hoe ui neun nae il o jeon 10si e si jak hap ni da.
합니다체 is suitable for official business contexts.
회의는 내일 오전 10시에 시작해요.
hoe-ui-neun nae-il o-jeon 10si-e si-jak-hae-yo., hoe ui neun nae il o jeon 10si e si jak hae yo.
해요체 is too casual for official meetings.
엄마, 밥 먹었어?
eom-ma, bap meok-eoss-eo?, eom ma, bap meok eoss eo?
해체 is natural and comfortable within family.
Which speech level is appropriate when talking to a friend?
Which speech level should be used in an official presentation?
Which speech level suits customer service best?
