How to say "Long time no see" in Korean
The natural way Koreans say "Long time no see" — with the polite form, close alternatives, and audio for every line.
오랜만이야
oraenmaniya
Literally: It has been a long while.
When to use it
The first thing out of a Korean's mouth when they run into someone after months. Usually followed straight away by asking how you have been.
Polite form
- 오랜만이에요oraenmanieyoUse this with strangers, anyone older than you, and at work.
Other ways to say it
- 오랜만입니다oraenmanimnida= It has been a while (formal)Work, or someone much older.
- 얼굴 보기 힘드네eolgul bogi himdene= You are hard to catchLiterally your face is hard to see. Friendly teasing when someone has been out of touch.
In a sentence
- 오랜만이야! 잘 지냈어?oraenmaniya! jal jinaesseo?Long time no see! How have you been?
- 진짜 오랜만이에요.jinjja oraenmanieyo.It really has been a while.
Practise this one. These phrases are in the phrase quiz — five rounds, no sign-up. Not reading Hangul yet? Start with the alphabet in 20 minutes.
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