How Do You Say “Mister” in Korean?

The word “mister” is a common way to address or refer to an adult man in English, and its equivalent in Korean varies depending on the context, level of formality, and relationship between the speaker and the person being addressed. Below, we explore the different ways to say “mister” in Korean and when to use each term.

1. 아저씨 (Ajusshi)

The most common way to say “mister” in Korean is 아저씨 (ajusshi). This term is used to address or refer to an adult man, typically someone middle-aged or older. It can also mean “uncle” when referring to an unrelated man in a general sense.

When to Use 아저씨:

• When addressing a middle-aged man whose name you don’t know.
• When speaking to a stranger in public, such as a taxi driver, vendor, or passerby.
• It carries a polite tone but is informal compared to more honorific terms.

Example Sentences:

• 아저씨, 여기에서 기차역까지 얼마나 걸려요?
  (Ajusshi, yeogieseo gichayeokkkaji eolmana geollyeoyo?)
  “Mister, how long does it take to get to the train station?”

2. 선생님 (Seonsaengnim)

If you want a more respectful or formal term for “mister,” especially when addressing a teacher, mentor, or someone with a professional role, you can use 선생님 (seonsaengnim). It literally means “teacher” but is also used as a polite way to address men in positions of respect.

When to Use 선생님:

• When addressing teachers, doctors, or other professionals.
• In formal situations where you need to show respect.

Example Sentences:

• 선생님, 질문이 있습니다.
  (Seonsaengnim, jilmuni itsseumnida.)
  “Mister/Teacher, I have a question.”

3. 씨 (Ssi) After a Name

To address someone politely while using their name, you can attach 씨 (ssi) to their name. This is similar to saying “Mr.” in English.

When to Use 씨:

• When you know the person’s name and want to address them formally but not too rigidly.
• Common in workplaces or casual formal interactions.

Example Sentences:

• 김민수 씨, 지금 시간 괜찮으세요?
  (Kim Minsu ssi, jigeum sigan gwaenchanhseyo?)
  “Mr. Kim Minsu, is now a good time?”

4. 형님 (Hyeongnim) or 사장님 (Sajangnim)

In specific contexts, terms like 형님 (hyeongnim) or 사장님 (sajangnim) can mean “mister,” but they are more specialized:

• 형님 (Hyeongnim): Used in casual or familial settings, especially among men in certain hierarchies, like in business or social groups.
• 사장님 (Sajangnim): Literally “boss” or “owner,” it can be used for a man in a leadership position, like the owner of a business.

5. 남자분 (Namjabung)

In some cases, people use 남자분 (namjabung), which translates to “gentleman” or “man” in a respectful tone. This is more formal and less frequently used in casual conversation.

When to Use 남자분:

• When referring to a man politely without addressing him directly.
• Often used by service staff to describe or address male customers.

Things to Keep in Mind

• Age Matters in Korean Culture: Age and status are important in Korean culture, so choosing the right term reflects the appropriate level of respect.
• Use 아저씨 Carefully: While commonly used, some younger men might take offense if called 아저씨, as it implies they are older. For younger men, 형 (hyeong) (for males) or 오빠 (oppa) (for females) might be more appropriate.

To say “mister” in Korean, the most commonly used term is 아저씨 (ajusshi) for middle-aged men. However, context is key, and you may need to use more formal terms like 선생님 (seonsaengnim) or polite suffixes like 씨 (ssi) depending on the situation. Understanding these nuances will help you navigate Korean social settings with respect and cultural awareness.