Introduction

If you are just starting your Korean language journey, it’s very important to start growing your vocabulary first. Knowing simple words helps you boost your confidence and understand grammar better. But don’t waste your time learning random words. Learn the ones you actually need right now, try using them to grow further..

I’ve created a list of 100 most useful words for beginners. These words appear in daily conversations, your favorite K-drama, and can be useful if you decide to visit Korea soon. 

Let’s get started.

Why These 100 Words?

I analyzed thousands of Korean conversations. I looked at beginner textbooks. I checked what words appear most often. These 100 words cover:

• Daily greetings
• Basic needs
• Common activities
• Family and people
• Time and places

Learn these first  and you can handle basic conversations. You can talk about your day, ask for help, and introduce yourself. 

Greetings and Polite Words (15 words)

Start here. These are the first words you’ll use when meeting new people.

Notice I didn’t include the phrase “You are welcome” in the above list?

If you look up “you are welcome” in Korean, you’ll get lots of options, and one of the literal translations being “천만에요”. But don’t rush to use this. Koreans usually don’t use this word. It sounds unnatural. Instead you can use one of these options:

• 아니에요 (anieyo) - The most commonly used response. Similar to “It’s okay” or “No problem,” meaning “Don’t worry about it.”
• 괜찮아요 (gwaenchanayo) - “No problem” or “Don’t mention it.”
• 별거 아니에요 (byeolgeo anieyo): Literally “It’s nothing,” often used to express modesty.
• 별말씀을요 (byeolmalsseumeul-yo) – Don’t mention it.

Words Expressing Basic Needs (20 words)

These words are often used in daily life.

People and Family (15 words)

Common Verbs (20 words)

Places and Directions (15 words)

Common Adjectives (15 words)

Have questions about vocabulary? Leave them in the comments. I’ll help you.

Good luck with your Korean learning. 화이팅!