When meeting new people, at language exchange in Hongdae, talking to tutor, at pojangmacha. Koreans respond warmly and help you practice.
배우고 있어요 (baeugo isseoyo) = polite standard. 공부하고 있습니다 (gongbuhago isseumnida) = formal. 배우고 있어 (baeugo isseo) = casual friends.
They say 정말요? 열심히 하세요! (jeongmallo? yeolsimhi haseyo!) = Really? Keep up!, 꾸준히 하시면 금방 늘어요 (kkujunhi hasimyeon geumbang neureoyo) = You'll improve quickly.
한국어를 배우고 있어요 (hangukeoreul baeugo isseoyo) means "I'm learning Korean" — most common self-introduction for foreigners. Koreans are happy and supportive when hearing it.
1. Meeting: Share what you're doing these days.
2. Formal: Class, job interview, orientation with teachers/elders.
3. Casual: Peers, language exchange, HelloTalk friends.
I'm learning Korean. Really? Keep up the good work!
I'm studying Korean. What level are you at?
I'm learning Korean. Really? Want to practice with me? (Casual)
Yes, it's fun. When did you start?
• 정말요? 열심히 하세요! (jeongmallo? yeolsimhi haseyo!) - Really? Keep up!
• 꾸준히 하시면 금방 늘어요 (kkujunhi hasimyeon geumbang neureoyo) - You'll improve quickly
• 초급입니다 (chogeubimnida) - I'm a beginner