South Korea Language: What Do They Speak in South Korea?
The official language of South Korea is Korean. In Korean, the country is called 대한민국. Korean is used in government, education, media and everyday life across the country.
🗣️ Language at a Glance
About the Korean Language
Korean is the official language of South Korea, used in government, education and daily life. In South Korea, Korean is the primary medium for government administration, the legal system, education and broadcasting. It shapes how the country communicates internally and engages with the wider world.
Language Tips for Visitors to South Korea
The official language of South Korea is Korean, which may be unfamiliar to many international travellers. While English speakers can often be found in larger cities and tourist-heavy areas, it is advisable to learn a few basic phrases before your trip. Locals greatly appreciate any effort to use the local language, even if imperfect. Simple greetings, thank-yous and asking for directions in Korean will go a long way. The country is officially known as 대한민국 in Korean, and the international dialling code is +82.
🌍 Other Countries Where Korean is Spoken
Korean is not exclusive to South Korea; it is also spoken in these countries:
Frequently Asked Questions about Language in South Korea
What language do they speak in South Korea?
The official language of South Korea is Korean.
Is English spoken in South Korea?
English is not an official language in South Korea. The main language is Korean. English may be spoken in tourist areas.
What is South Korea called in its own language?
South Korea is called "대한민국" in Korean.
How many official languages does South Korea have?
South Korea has one official language: Korean.
Do I need to speak Korean to visit South Korea?
It is not required but learning basic phrases in Korean is strongly recommended and appreciated.
What is the calling code for South Korea?
The international dialling code for South Korea is +82.
What is the population of South Korea?
South Korea has a population of approximately 51.7M, all of whom use Korean as the official language.