How to Say “Marry Me” in Korean
The Standard Phrase: 결혼해 주세요 (Gyeolhonhae juseyo)
The most common and polite way to say “Marry me” in Korean is 결혼해 주세요 (gyeolhonhae juseyo). This phrase literally means “Please marry me.” Here is a breakdown of the phrase:
- 결혼해 (gyeolhonhae): “Get married” or “marry”
- 주세요 (juseyo): “Please” (polite request)
This phrase is appropriate for most situations, especially if you want to sound polite and sincere.
Informal Way: 결혼하자 (Gyeolhonhaja)
If you are in a close, informal relationship (such as with your girlfriend or boyfriend), you can use the more casual expression 결혼하자 (gyeolhonhaja), which means “Let’s get married.” This version is affectionate and direct, suitable for couples who are already comfortable with informal speech.
Formal Expression: 저와 결혼해 주시겠어요? (Jeowa gyeolhonhae jusigesseoyo?)
For a more formal or respectful proposal, perhaps to impress your partner’s family or show extra politeness, use 저와 결혼해 주시겠어요? (jeowa gyeolhonhae jusigesseoyo?), which means “Will you marry me?” This phrase adds a sense of respect and gravity to your proposal.
Pronunciation Tips
Correct pronunciation is crucial to ensure your proposal is understood and appreciated. Here’s how to pronounce the main phrases:
- 결혼해 주세요: gyol-hon-hae ju-se-yo
- 결혼하자: gyol-hon-ha-ja
- 저와 결혼해 주시겠어요?: juh-wa gyol-hon-hae ju-si-geh-sseo-yo
Practice saying these phrases slowly and clearly. If possible, listen to native speakers or use language learning tools like Talkpal to perfect your pronunciation.
Cultural Considerations When Proposing in Korean
In Korea, marriage proposals are often heartfelt and can be elaborate, sometimes involving friends and family. Using the appropriate level of politeness is important, as is understanding the relationship context. For public proposals, the polite or formal versions are recommended, whereas the informal version is suitable for private, intimate settings.
Additionally, presenting a ring or a meaningful gift is a common part of Korean proposals, much like in Western cultures. However, the sincerity of your words often carries the most weight.
Other Romantic Korean Phrases to Use
To make your proposal even more memorable, consider adding some romantic Korean phrases:
- 사랑해요 (saranghaeyo): I love you (polite)
- 평생 함께 하고 싶어요 (pyeongsaeng hamkke hago sipeoyo): I want to be with you forever
- 너와 함께라면 어디든 좋아 (neowa hamkkeramyeon eodideun joa): Anywhere is good if I’m with you
Combining these with your marriage proposal can make your words even more touching.
Practice Makes Perfect with Talkpal
Proposing in a foreign language can be nerve-wracking, but with practice, you can deliver your message confidently and sincerely. Talkpal offers AI-powered language learning tools that help you practice Korean pronunciation, grammar, and conversation skills. Whether you are preparing for a romantic proposal or simply learning Korean for fun, Talkpal is here to guide you every step of the way.
Conclusion
Saying “Marry me” in Korean is more than just memorizing a phrase; it is about expressing your true feelings in a language that resonates with your loved one. Whether you use the standard, informal, or formal expression, your sincerity will shine through. With the help of Talkpal, you can perfect your pronunciation, learn cultural nuances, and make your proposal unforgettable. Happy learning, and best wishes for your romantic journey in Korean!
