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How to Say I Love You in Korean – Romantic Word List

Do you often feel lonely and sad? Do you long for romance and are willing to do whatever it takes to meet that special person? Speaking another language could revolutionize your love life! So, why wait? Learning how to say ‘love’ in Korean could be just what you need to find it.

Or perhaps you were lucky, and have found your Korean partner already. Fantastic! Yet, a cross-cultural relationship comes with unique challenges. Learning how to speak your lover’s language will greatly improve your communication and enhance the relationship. At KoreanClass101, our team will teach you all the words, quotes and phrases you need to woo your Korean lover with excellence! Our tutors provide personal assistance, with plenty of extra material available to make Korean dating easy for you.

Table of Contents

  1. Common Phrases You’ll Need for a Date
  2. The Most Romantic Ideas for a Date
  3. Must-know Valentine’s Day Vocabulary
  4. Korean Love Phrases for Valentine’s Day
  5. Korean Quotes about Love
  6. Marriage Proposal Lines
  7. 15 Most Common Break-Up Lines
  8. Will Falling in Love Help You Learn Korean Faster?

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1. Common Phrases You’ll Need for a Date

So, you have met your Korean love interest. Congratulations! Who knows where this could take you…?! However, the two of you have just met and you’re not ready to say the Korean word for love just yet. Great, it is better to get to know him/her first. Wow your prospective love by using these Korean date phrases to set up a spectacular first date.

Korean Date Phrases

Would you like to go out to dinner with me?

  • 저랑 저녁 먹으러 가실래요?
  • Jeorang jeonyeok meogeureo gasillaeyo?

The important question! In most cultures, this phrase indicates: ‘I’m romantically interested in you’. Flirting in Korean is no different, so don’t take your date to Mcdonald’s!

Are you free this weekend?

  • 이번 주말에 시간 어때요?
  • Ibeon jumare sigan eottaeyo?

This is a preamble to asking your love interest on a date. If you get an immediate ‘Yes’, that’s good news!

Would you like to hang out with me?

  • 저랑 데이트하실래요?
  • Jeorang deiteuhasillaeyo?

You like her/him, but you’re not sure if there’s chemistry. Ask them to hang out first to see if a dinner date is next.

What time shall we meet tomorrow?

  • 내일 몇 시에 만날까요?
  • Naeil myeot sie mannalkkayo?

Set a time, and be sure to arrive early! Nothing spoils a potential relationship more than a tardy date.

Where shall we meet?

  • 어디서 만날까요?
  • Eodiseo mannalkkayo?

You can ask this, but also suggest a place.

You look great.

  • 멋져요. (to men) 예뻐요. (to women)
  • Meotjjeoyo. Yeppeoyo.

A wonderful ice breaker! This phrase will help them relax a bit – they probably took great care to look their best just for you.

You are so cute.

  • 정말 귀여워요.
  • Jeongmal gwiyeowoyo.

If the two of you are getting on really well, this is a fun, flirtatious phrase to use.

What do you think of this place?

  • 여기 어때요?
  • Yeogi eottaeyo?

This another good conversation starter. Show off your Korean language skills!

Can I see you again?

  • 또 볼 수 있을까요?
  • Tto bol su isseulkkayo?

So the date went really well – don’t waste time! Make sure you will see each other again.

Shall we go somewhere else?

  • 어디 다른 데 갈까요?
  • Eodi dareun de galkkayo?

If the place you meet at is not great, you can suggest going elsewhere. It is also a good question to follow the previous one. Variety is the spice of life!

I know a good place.

  • 좋은 데 알아요.
  • Joeun de arayo.

Use this with the previous question. However, don’t say if you don’t know a good place!

I will drive you home.

  • 집까지 태워다 줄게요.
  • Jibkkaji taewoda julgeyo.

If your date doesn’t have transport, this is a polite, considerate offer. However, don’t be offended if she/he turns you down on the first date. Especially a woman might not feel comfortable letting you drive her home when the two of you are still basically strangers.

That was a great evening.

  • 오늘 저녁 즐거웠어요.
  • Oneul jeonyeok jeulgeowosseoyo.

This is a good phrase to end the evening with.

When can I see you again?

  • 언제 다시 볼 수 있어요?
  • Eonje dasi bol su isseoyo?

If he/she replied ‘Yes’ to ‘Can I see you again?’, this is the next important question.

I’ll call you.

  • 전화할게요.
  • Jeonhwahalgeyo.

Say this only if you really mean to do it. In many cultures, this could imply that you’re keeping the proverbial backdoor open.

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2. The Most Romantic Ideas for a Date

You learned all the Korean phrases to make a date – congratulations! Now you have to decide where to meet, which can be tricky. Discuss these options with your lover to gauge whether you like the same things. Check out romantic date ideas in Korean below!

Date Ideas in Korean

museum

  • 박물관
  • Bangmulgwan

If you’re looking for unique date ideas that are fun but won’t break the bank, museums are the perfect spot! You won’t be running out of things to say in the conversations.

candlelit dinner

  • 촛불 저녁 식사
  • chotbul jeonyeok siksa

A candlelit dinner is perhaps best to reserve for when the relationship is getting serious. It’s very intimate, and says: “Romance!” It’s a fantastic choice if you’re sure you and your date are in love with each other!

go to the zoo

  • 동물원에 가다
  • dongmurwone gada

This is a good choice for shy lovers who want to get the conversation going. Just make sure your date likes zoos, as some people dislike them. Maybe not for the first date, but this is also a great choice if your lover has children – you’ll win his/her adoration for inviting them along!

go for a long walk

  • 긴 산책을 하다
  • gin sanchaegeul hada

Need to talk about serious stuff, or just want to relax with your date? Walking together is soothing, and a habit you can keep up together always! Just make sure it’s a beautiful walk that’s not too strenuous.

go to the opera

  • 오페라에 가다
  • operae gada

This type of date should only be attempted if both of you love the opera. It can be a special treat, followed by a candlelit dinner!

go to the aquarium

  • 아쿠아리움에 가다
  • akuariume gada

Going to the aquarium is another good idea if you need topics for conversation, or if you need to impress your lover’s kids! Make sure your date doesn’t have a problem with aquariums.

walk on the beach

  • 해변을 걷다
  • haebyeoneul geotda

This can be a very romantic stroll, especially at night! The sea is often associated with romance and beauty.

have a picnic

  • 소풍을 가다
  • sopungeul gada

If you and your date need to get more comfortable together, this can be a fantastic date. Spending time in nature is soothing and calms the nerves.

cook a meal together

  • 함께 요리를 하다
  • hamkke yorireul hada

If you want to get an idea of your date’s true character in one go, this is an excellent date! You will quickly see if the two of you can work together in a confined space. If it works, it will be fantastic for the relationship and create a sense of intimacy. If not, you will probably part ways!

have dinner and see a movie

  • 저녁 먹고 영화 보다
  • jeonyeok meokgo yeonghwa boda

This is traditional date choice works perfectly well. Just make sure you and your date like the same kind of movies!

3. Must-know Valentine’s Day Vocabulary

Valentine's Day Words in Korean

Expressing your feelings honestly is very important in any relationship all year round. Yet, on Valentine’s Day you really want to shine. Impress your lover this Valentine’s with your excellent vocabulary, and make his/her day! We teach you, in fun, effective ways, the meanings of the words and how to pronounce them. You can also copy the characters and learn how to write ‘I love you’ in Korean – think how impressed your date will be!

4. Korean Love Phrases for Valentine’s Day

So, you now have the basic Valentine’s Day vocabulary under your belt. Well done! But, do you know how to say ‘I love you’ in Korean yet? Or perhaps you are still only friends. So, do you know how to say ‘I like you’ or ‘I have a crush on you’ in Korean? No? Don’t worry, here are all the love phrases you need to bowl over your Korean love on this special day!

Valentine's Day Words in Korean

I love you.

  • 사랑해요.
  • Saranghaeyo.

Saying ‘I love you’ in Korean carries the same weight as in all languages. Use this only if you’re sure and sincere about your feelings for your partner/friend.

You mean so much to me.

  • 당신은 나에게 무척 소중해요.
  • Dangsineun naege mucheok sojunghaeyo.

This is a beautiful expression of gratitude that will enhance any relationship! It makes the receiver feel appreciated and their efforts recognized.

Will you be my Valentine?

  • 나랑 사귈래?
  • Narang saguillae?

With these words, you are taking your relationship to the next level! Or, if you have been a couple for a while, it shows that you still feel the romance. So, go for it!

You’re so beautiful.

  • 정말 아름다우세요.
  • Jeongmal areumdauseyo.

If you don’t know how to say ‘You’re pretty’ in Korean, this is a good substitute, gentlemen!

I think of you as more than a friend.

  • 나는 너를 친구 이상으로 생각해.
  • Naneun neoreul chingu isangeuro saenggakae.

Say this if you are not yet sure that your romantic feelings are reciprocated. It is also a safe go-to if you’re unsure about the Korean dating culture.

A hundred hearts would be too few to carry all my love for you.

  • 백 개의 심장도 너를 향한 내 모든 사랑을 담기에는 너무 모자랄거야.
  • Baek gaeui simjangdo neoreul hyanghan nae modeun sarangeul damgieneun neomu mojaralgeoya.

You romantic you…! When your heart overflows with love, this would be the best phrase to use.

Love is just love. It can never be explained.

  • 사랑은 그저 사랑이다. 절대 설명 될 수 없다.
  • Sarangeun geujeo sarangida. Jeoldae seolmyeong doel su eopda.

If you fell in love unexpectedly or inexplicably, this one’s for you.

You’re so handsome.

  • 정말 잘생기셨어요.
  • Jeongmal jalsaenggisyeoseoyo.

Ladies, this phrase lets your Korean love know how much you appreciate his looks! Don’t be shy to use it; men like compliments too.

I’ve got a crush on you.

  • 나는 너에게 반했어.
  • Naneun neoege banhaeseo.

If you like someone, but you’re unsure about starting a relationship, it would be prudent to say this. It simply means that you like someone very, very much and think they’re amazing.

You make me want to be a better man.

  • 당신 덕분에 난 더 좋은 사람이 되고 싶어졌어요.
  • Dangsin deokbune nan deo joeun sarami doego sipeojyeoseoyo.

Gentlemen, don’t claim this phrase as your own! It hails from the movie ‘As Good as it Gets’, but it is sure to make your Korean girlfriend feel very special. Let her know that she inspires you!

Let all that you do be done in love.

  • 당신이 하는 모든 일이 사랑으로 행해지기를.
  • Dangsini haneun modeun iri sarangeuro haenghaejigireul.

We hope.

You are my sunshine, my love.

  • 내 사랑 당신은 내 행복의 근원이에요.
  • Nae sarang dangsineun nae haengbogui geunwonieyo.

A compliment that lets your lover know they bring a special quality to your life. Really nice!

Words can’t describe my love for you.

  • 말은 당신을 위한 내 사랑을 설명 할 수 없습니다.
  • Mareun dangsineul wihan nae sarangeul seolmyeong hal su eopseumnida.

Better say this when you’re feeling serious about the relationship! It means that your feelings are very intense.

We were meant to be together.

  • 우리는 천생연분이야.
  • Urineun cheonsaengyeonbuniya.

This is a loving affirmation that shows you see a future together, and that you feel a special bond with your partner.

If you were thinking about someone while reading this, you’re definitely in love.

  • 만약 이 글을 읽는 동안 누군가에 대해 생각하고 있었다면, 당신은 분명 사랑에 빠졌습니다.
  • Mannyak i geureul ingneun dongan nugungae daehae saenggakago iseotdamyeon, dangsineun bunmyeong sarange ppajyeotseumnida.

Here’s something fun to tease your lover with. And hope he/she was thinking of you!

5. Korean Quotes about Love

Korean Love Quotes

You’re a love champ! You and your Korean lover are getting along fantastically, your dates are awesome, your Valentine’s Day together was spectacular, and you’re very much in love. Good for you! Here are some beautiful phrases of endearment in Korean that will remind him/her who is in your thoughts all the time.

6. Marriage Proposal Lines

Korean Marriage Proposal Lines

Wow. Your Korean lover is indeed the love of your life – congratulations! And may only happiness follow the two of you! In most traditions, the man asks the woman to marry; this is also the Korean custom. Here are a few sincere and romantic lines that will help you to ask your lady-love for her hand in marriage.

7. 15 Most Common Break-Up Lines

Korean Break-Up Lines

Instead of moving towards marriage or a long-term relationship, you find that the spark is not there for you. That is a pity! But even though breaking up is never easy, continuing a bad or unfulfilling relationship would be even harder. Remember to be kind to the person you are going to say goodbye to; respect and sensitivity cost nothing. Here are some phrases to help you break up gently.

  • We need to talk.
    • 우리 얘기 좀 하자.
    • Uri yaegi jom haja.

    This is not really a break-up line, but it is a good conversation opener with a serious tone.

    It’s not you. It’s me.

    • 네가 아니야. 나야.
    • Nega aniya. Naya.

    As long as you mean it, this can be a kind thing to say. It means that there’s nothing wrong with your Korean lover as a person, but that you need something different from a relationship.

    I’m just not ready for this kind of relationship.

    • 난 그냥 이런 종류의 연애를 위한 준비가 안 됐어.
    • Nan geunyang ireon jongnyuui yeonaereul wihan junbiga an dwaesseo.

    Things moved a bit fast and got too intense, too soon? Painful as it is, honesty is often the best way to break up with somebody.

    Let’s just be friends.

    • 우리 그냥 친구하자.
    • Uri geunyang chinguhaja.

    If the relationship was very intense, and you have sent many ‘i love u’ texts in Korean, this would not be a good breakup line. Feelings need to calm down before you can be friends, if ever. If the relationship has not really developed yet, a friendship would be possible.

    I think we need a break.

    • 우리에게 휴식이 필요하다고 생각해.
    • Uriege hyusigi piryohadago saenggakae.

    This is again honest, and to the point. No need to play with someone’s emotions by not letting them know how you feel. However, this could imply that you may fall in love with him/her again after a period of time, so use with discretion.

    You deserve better.

    • 너는 내게 과분한 사람이야.
    • Neoneun naege gwabunhan saramiya.

    Yes, he/she probably deserves a better relationship if your own feelings have cooled down.

    We should start seeing other people.

    • 우리는 다른 사람을 만나기 시작해야 해.
    • Urineun dareun sarameul mannagi sijakaeya hae.

    This is probably the least gentle break-up phrase, so reserve it for a lover that doesn’t get the message!

    I need my space.

    • 내 공간이 필요해.
    • Nae gonggani piryohae.

    When a person is too clingy or demanding, this would be an suitable break-up phrase. It is another good go-to for that lover who doesn’t get the message!

    I think we’re moving too fast.

    • 우리 진도가 너무 빠른 것 같아.
    • Uri jindoga neomu ppareun geot gata.

    Say this if you want to keep the relationship, but need to slow down its progress a bit. It is also good if you feel things are getting too intense for your liking. However, it is not really a break-up line, so be careful not to mislead.

    I need to focus on my career.

    • 나는 일에 집중해야 해.
    • Naneun ire jipjunghaeya hae.

    If you feel that you will not be able to give 100% in a relationship due to career demands, this is the phrase to use. It’s also good if you are unwilling to give up your career for a relationship.

    I’m not good enough for you.

    • 나는 너에게 충분하지 않아.
    • Naneun neoege chungbunhaji ana.

    Say this only if you really believe it, or you’ll end up sounding false. Break-ups are usually hard for the receiving party, so don’t insult him/her with an insincere comment.

    I just don’t love you anymore.

    • 난 그냥 너를 더 이상 사랑하지 않아.
    • Nan geunyang neoreul deo isang saranghaji ana.

    This harsh line is sometimes the best one to use if you are struggling to get through to a stubborn, clingy lover who won’t accept your break up. Use it as a last resort. Then switch your phone off and block their emails!

    We’re just not right for each other.

    • 우리는 그냥 서로 안 맞아.
    • Urineun geunyang seoro an maja.

    If this is how you truly feel, you need to say it. Be kind, gentle and polite.

    It’s for the best.

    • 이게 최선이야.
    • Ige choeseoniya.

    This phrase is called for if circumstances are difficult and the relationship is not progressing well. Love should enhance one’s life, not burden it!

    We’ve grown apart.

    • 우리는 멀어졌어.
    • Urineun meoreojyeosseo.

    Cross-cultural relationships are often long-distance ones, and it is easy to grow apart over time.

  • 8. Will Falling in Love help you Learn Korean faster?

    Most people will agree that the above statement is a no-brainer – of course it will! Your body will be flooded with feel-good hormones, which are superb motivators for anything. KoreanClass101 is one of the best portals to help help make this a reality, so don’t hesitate to enroll now! Let’s quickly look at the reasons why falling in love will speed up your learning of the Korean language.

    Three Reasons Why Having a Lover will Help you Learn Korean Faster!

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    1- Being in a love relationship with your Korean speaking partner will immerse you in the culture
    KoreanClass101 uses immersive methods and tools to teach you Korean, but having a relationship with a native speaker will be a very valuable addition to your learning experience! You will gain exposure to their world, realtime and vividly, which will make the language come alive even more for you. The experience is likely to expand your world-view, which should motivate you to learn Korean even faster.

    2- Having your Korean romantic partner will mean more opportunity to practice speaking
    Nothing beats continuous practice when learning a new language. Your partner will probably be very willing to assist you in this, as your enhanced Korean language skills will enhance the relationship. Communication is, after all, one of the most important pillars of a good partnership. Also, you will get to impress your lover with the knowledge gained through your studies – a win/win situation!

    3- A supportive Korean lover is likely to make a gentle, patient teacher and study aid!
    With his/her heart filled with love and goodwill for you, your Korean partner is likely to patiently and gently correct your mistakes when you speak. This goes not only for grammar, but also for accent and meaning. With his/her help, you could sound like a native in no time!

    Three Reasons Why KoreanClass101 helps you learn Korean Even Faster when you’re In Love

    Start with a bonus, and download the ‘How To be a Good Lover Cheat Sheet’ for FREE! (Logged-In Member Only)

    Log in to Download Your Free Cheat Sheet - How to be a Good Lover in Korean

    1- All the Resources and Materials Will Help Both of You
    Falling in love with a man or woman speaking Korean is an opportunity for both of you to learn a new language! For this reason, every lesson, transcript, vocabulary list, and resource at KoreanClass101 is translated into both English and Korean. So, while your partner can help you learn Korean faster, you can potentially also help him/her learn and master English!

    2- Lessons Are Designed to Help You Understand and Engage with Korean Culture
    At KoreanClass101, our focus is to help our students learn practical vocabulary and phrases used by everyday people in Korea. This means that, from your very first lesson, you can apply what you learn immediately! So, when your Korean partner wants to go out to a restaurant, play Pokemon Go, or attend just about any social function, you have the vocabulary and phrases necessary to have a great time!

    3- Access to Special Resources Dedicated to Romantic Korean Phrases
    You now have access to KoreanClass101’s specially-developed sections and tools to teach you love words, phrases, and cultural insights to help you find and attract your Korean soul mate. A personal tutor will assist you to master these brilliantly – remember to invite him/her to your wedding!