Five sentences cover most Korean restaurant visits: “Here, please” to get attention, “Please give me this” while pointing at the menu, “One more, please” for refills, “Where is the restroom?” and “Check, please.” Say them politely, use the call button if the table has one, and expect to pay at the front counter.
Last checked: 2026-11-13
- Sentence 1: Getting a server’s attention
- Sentence 2: Ordering what you want
- Sentences 3 and 4: Extras and the restroom
- Sentence 5: Asking for the check
- Quick comparison of the five sentences
Sentence 1: Getting a server’s attention
Korean restaurants rarely send staff to your table on a schedule. You call them when you are ready.
Say “Yeogi yo!” (여기요), which means “Here, please.” Say it clearly, not shyly. It is normal and not rude.
Many restaurants have a small call button on the table. Press it once and wait. If you see one, use it instead of calling out.
Sentence 2: Ordering what you want
The easiest order is “Igeo juseyo” (이거 주세요), meaning “Please give me this.” Point at the menu item as you say it.
You can also name the dish. Say the dish name, then add “juseyo”. For example, “Bibimbap juseyo” means “Bibimbap, please.”
To order more than one, add a number word. “Dugae juseyo” (두 개 주세요) means “Two, please.” Many restaurants, especially for grilled meat, ask for a minimum of two servings. Check the menu or ask staff if you are dining alone.
Sentences 3 and 4: Extras and the restroom
Side dishes (banchan) are often free and refillable at traditional restaurants. Policies vary, so confirm if unsure.
To ask for more, say “Han beon deo juseyo” (한 번 더 주세요), meaning “One more, please.” Hold up the empty dish so staff understand.
For water, napkins, or utensils, say the item and add “juseyo.” Water is often self-serve. Look for a dispenser near the door or wall.
For the restroom, ask “Hwajangsil eodi eyo?” (화장실 어디예요?), meaning “Where is the restroom?” Some restrooms are shared with the building and sit outside the restaurant. Staff may point you down the hall.
Sentence 5: Asking for the check
In most casual restaurants, you do not wait for a bill at the table. Take the receipt slip from the table and pay at the front counter.
If you want to be sure, say “Gyesan haejuseyo” (계산해 주세요), meaning “Please settle the bill.” Staff will either bring the check or direct you to the counter.
Cards are widely accepted. Carrying some cash is still wise for small, older places. Tipping is not expected in Korea.
Quick comparison of the five sentences
This table shows when to use each sentence. The sample prices are rough, typical ranges for a casual meal and are not fixed. Prices change by city, area, and restaurant, so check the menu.
| Situation | Say this | Meaning | Typical cost context |
|---|---|---|---|
| Call staff | Yeogi yo! | Here, please | Free |
| Order a dish | Igeo juseyo | Please give me this | A simple rice or noodle dish often runs about $6-10 / 8,000-13,000 KRW |
| Refill or extra | Han beon deo juseyo | One more, please | Banchan refills are often free; extras like a side dish may cost extra |
| Restroom | Hwajangsil eodi eyo? | Where is the restroom? | Free |
| Pay | Gyesan haejuseyo | Please settle the bill | Pay at the counter; no tip |
FAQ
Is it rude to shout “Yeogi yo” across the room?
No. It is the normal way to call staff in Korea. Use a clear, friendly voice. If there is a call button, press that instead.
Do I need to tip at Korean restaurants?
No. Tipping is not customary in Korea. The price on the menu is what you pay, though some places may add a service charge, so check your receipt.
What if I cannot read the menu?
Point at the picture or the line and say “Igeo juseyo.” Many menus have photos. You can also use a translation app to scan the text.
Can I order just one portion of grilled meat?
Often not. Many grill restaurants require at least two portions. This varies by place, so check the menu or ask staff before you sit.
Sources
- Korea Tourism Organization (Visit Korea): https://english.visitkorea.or.kr
- National Institute of Korean Language: https://www.korean.go.kr
- King Sejong Institute Foundation: https://www.ksif.or.kr
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