How to Say “Sorry” in Korean: 미안해 (mianhae)
“Mianhae” is the everyday way to say sorry to someone you’re close to — a quick, heartfelt apology rather than a stiff, formal one.
“Mianhae” is the everyday way to say sorry to someone you’re close to — a quick, heartfelt apology rather than a stiff, formal one.
미안해 (mianhae) — sorry / my bad
How it feels and when to use it
Use it with friends, siblings, or a partner. To anyone older or in a formal setting, switch to the polite or formal forms below — using casual “mianhae” with a stranger can sound rude.
Politeness levels
- 미안해 (mianhae) — Casual (반말): with close friends and people younger than you
- 미안해요 (mianhaeyo) — Polite (해요체): the safe everyday level for most people
- 죄송합니다 (joesonghamnida) — Formal (합쇼체): in business, announcements, and to elders
Real examples from native Korean
Here’s how native speakers actually use 미안해 in real Korean:
- 진짜 미안해 — Really sorry
- 아 미안해 미안해 — Oh I'm sorry I'm sorry
- 화사 씨 죄송합니다 — Sorry Mr. Hwasa
A common mistake to avoid
Don’t use “mianhae” with your boss — Casual “mianhae” to someone senior sounds blunt. In the workplace or to elders, say “joesonghamnida” (죄송합니다).
Related expressions
- 괜찮아 (gwaenchana) — it’s okay
- 죄송해요 (joesonghaeyo) — sorry (polite)
Want to hear 미안해 spoken by real Koreans? Search it on Langle and watch it across dozens of real video clips.
Frequently asked questions
- What does “미안해” mean in Korean?
- “Mianhae” is the everyday way to say sorry to someone you’re close to — a quick, heartfelt apology rather than a stiff, formal one. It’s romanized as “mianhae.”
- Is “미안해” formal or casual?
- “미안해” is casual (반말); “미안해요” is polite (해요체); “죄송합니다” is formal (합쇼체). Match the level to who you’re talking to.
- How do you pronounce “미안해”?
- It’s pronounced “mianhae.” Don’t use “mianhae” with your boss: Casual “mianhae” to someone senior sounds blunt. In the workplace or to elders, say “joesonghamnida” (죄송합니다).
- When should I use “미안해”?
- Use it with friends, siblings, or a partner. To anyone older or in a formal setting, switch to the polite or formal forms below — using casual “mianhae” with a stranger can sound rude.
- What can I say instead of “미안해”?
- Try “괜찮아” (it’s okay) or “죄송해요” (sorry (polite)).