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     There are seven level of speech in Korea. Each level of speech has its very own unique set of verb endings to indicate the level of formality of a situation.

     The first 6 are called Jondaemal (존댓말) — formal way of speaking. You use this form of speech to strangers and people who are older than you or in formal situations like meetings.

     The last is called Banmal (반말) — an informal way of speaking with others in Korean. You use this form of speech with close friends or people younger than you.

     These two words does not have direct English translation because it is a uniquely Korean concept.

     Respect is highly important in their culture.

Jondaemal                  Banmal

Annyeonghaseyo           Annyeong

Jalgayo                            Jalga

Gomawoyo                     Gomawo

     Notice the "-yo" in every ending of the Jondaemal. That is the polite verb ending. So make sure to add -yo if you're speaking to elders, seniors, boss, army, officers or someone you are not close to.

     Sometimes if you speak in Banmal to an elder or a person not close to you, they might get offended. So be careful.

     In calling names, you can add "-shi" for Jondaemal. And "-ya" or "-a" for Banmal.

Jondaemal                  Banmal

Jimin-shi                       Jimin-a

Jennie-shi                     Jennie-ya

      The sentences ending in "-da" is the dictionary form of the plain form.

Kamsahamnida

Mianhamnida

Gomapsuemnida

    A lot of rules applies when to use this. But "-da" are mostly used in books, announcement, broadcasts, in business presentations, military settings and a lot of formal gatherings.

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That's all for today!
See you in my next class.