Textbook안녕하세요, 김 씨an-nyeong-ha-se-yo, gim-ssiHello, Mr./Ms. Kim
Real김 과장님, 안녕하세요 / 선배님, 안녕하세요gim gwa-jang-nim, an-nyeong-ha-se-yo / seon-bae-nim, an-nyeong-ha-se-yoSection Chief Kim, hello / Senior, hello🏷️ Any casual setting
Korean workplaces use job titles, not names. 씨 (Mr./Ms.) is too casual for work. 님 after the title is essential. Getting this wrong is the #1 foreigner mistake.
Korean workplace hierarchy
선배/후배 unwritten rules
선배가 밥 사주면 감사히 받기If 선배 buys food, accept gratefully
후배가 커피 심부름Juniors do coffee runs
선배한테 반말 금지NEVER use casual speech to seniors
선배 말은 일단 '네' 하고 듣기Say 'yes' first, then listen
The 선배/후배 system applies everywhere: work, school, even hobby clubs. Your 선배 from university 20 years ago is STILL your 선배.
When in doubt about someone's rank, use 님 (the universal respectful suffix). OO님 is never wrong. But once you learn their title, switch to it — 님 alone can feel distant in a close team.
Quick Quiz