Teachers play a crucial role in shaping our lives, and in Korea, their contributions are celebrated on Teachers’ Day, which is known as 스승의 날 (Seu-seung-ui nal), on May 15. This day is the perfect time to express appreciation to those who have guided and supported you. Here are some heartfelt Korean phrases to show your gratitude to your mentors:
1. 고맙습니다 (Go-map-seum-ni-da) – Thank you
This is a versatile way to express ‘thanks’. It’s slightly more casual than 감사합니다 (gam-sa-ham-ni-da) but still polite and respectful. While 감사합니다 (gam-sa-ham-ni-da) is more formal, 고맙습니다 (go-map-seum-ni-da) can feel warmer and more personal, making it ideal for teachers with whom you have a close bond.
Example:
“선생님, 항상 지도해 주셔서 고맙습니다.” (Seon-saeng-nim, hang-sang ji-do-hae ju-syeo-seo go-map-seum-ni-da.)
Teacher, thank you for always guiding me.
2. 존경합니다 (Jon-gyeong-ham-ni-da) – I respect you
When you deeply admire and look up to someone, this phrase conveys that respect clearly. It’s a powerful way to show that you not only appreciate your teacher but also aspire to be like them in some way.
Example:
“선생님, 진심으로 존경합니다.”
(Seon-saeng-nim, jin-shim-eu-ro jon-gyeong-ham-ni-da.)
Teacher, I truly respect you.
3. 덕분에 많이 배웠습니다 (Deok-bun-e man-hi bae-woss-seum-ni-da) – I learned so much thanks to you
This phrase shifts the focus to what you gained from the teacher, highlighting their impact. It’s a subtle but meaningful way to say that their lessons made a lasting difference in your life.
Example:
“선생님 덕분에 많이 배웠습니다.”
(Seon-saeng-nim deok-bun-e man-hi bae-woss-seum-ni-da.)
Thanks to you, teacher, I learned so much.
4. 평생 잊지 않겠습니다 (Pyeong-saeng it-ji an-gess-seum-ni-da) – I will never forget this
This phrase is used to express that the impact of someone’s kindness or teachings will stay with you forever. It’s a way to let your mentors know that their lessons have left a lasting impression on your heart and mind.
Example:
“선생님께 배운 평생 잊지 않겠습니다.”
(Seon-saeng-nim것들을 -kke bae-un geot-deu-reul pyeong-saeng it-ji anh-gess-seum-ni-da.)
I will never forget what I’ve learned from you, teacher.
5. 가르쳐 주셔서 감사합니다 (Ga-reu-chyeo ju-syeo-seo gam-sa-ham-ni-da) – Thank you for teaching me
A more specific way to express gratitude for lessons and guidance. An ideal phrase to use when you want to specifically highlight the time and effort a teacher has invested in you.
Example:
“항상 저를 가르쳐 주셔서 감사합니다.”
(Hang-sang jeo-reul ga-reu-chyeo ju-syeo-seo gam-sa-ham-ni-da)
Thank you for always teaching me.
Expressing gratitude not only strengthens the bond with your teachers but also deepens the appreciation for their efforts. The words you choose can leave a lasting impact, making your ‘Thank You’ even more meaningful.
다음에 또 만나요! (Da-eum-ae tto man-na-yo) See you next time!
Written by- Surabhi
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