How to Say “It’s Delicious” in Korean: 맛있어 (masisseo)

“Masisseo” means “it’s delicious” — the reaction you’ll use constantly at Korean meals.

맛있어 (masisseo) — it’s delicious

How it feels and when to use it

Built from “mat” (taste) + “itda” (to exist) — literally “taste exists.” The opposite is “madeopseo” (맛없어, tasteless). Add “-yo” to be polite to your host.

Politeness levels

맛있어 (masisseo) — Casual (반말): with close friends and people younger than you
맛있어요 (masisseoyo) — Polite (해요체): the safe everyday level for most people
맛있습니다 (masitseumnida) — Formal (합쇼체): in business, announcements, and to elders

Real examples from native Korean

Here’s how native speakers actually use 맛있어 in real Korean:

맛있겠어요. — 맛있겠어요.
맛있어요~~~ — Delicious ~~~
음~ 맛있다. — Mmm ~ Delicious.

A common mistake to avoid

It’s pronounced “ma-shi-sseo” — The “ㅅ” before “이” softens to a “sh” sound, and the final consonant links over. Spelling “맛있어” but saying “mashisseo” trips up beginners.

Related expressions

맛없어 (maseopseo) — it’s not tasty
배불러 (baebulleo) — I’m full

Want to hear 맛있어 spoken by real Koreans? Search it on Langle and watch it across dozens of real video clips.

Frequently asked questions

What does “맛있어” mean in Korean?

“Masisseo” means “it’s delicious” — the reaction you’ll use constantly at Korean meals. It’s romanized as “masisseo.”

Is “맛있어” formal or casual?

“맛있어” is casual (반말); “맛있어요” is polite (해요체); “맛있습니다” is formal (합쇼체). Match the level to who you’re talking to.

How do you pronounce “맛있어”?

It’s pronounced “masisseo.” It’s pronounced “ma-shi-sseo”: The “ㅅ” before “이” softens to a “sh” sound, and the final consonant links over. Spelling “맛있어” but saying “mashisseo” trips up beginners.

When should I use “맛있어”?

Built from “mat” (taste) + “itda” (to exist) — literally “taste exists.” The opposite is “madeopseo” (맛없어, tasteless). Add “-yo” to be polite to your host.

What can I say instead of “맛있어”?

Try “맛없어” (it’s not tasty) or “배불러” (I’m full).