head-over-heels in love but don’t want to through the l bomb yet?

 Try saying “I like you in Korean” to make an impact on your crush.

The phrase 사랑해 (saranghae) is the most common way to say I like you in Korean. But there are other ways to say it that can be more specific.

We have got you covered with our quick guide on the best ways to say “I like you” in Korean that will your loved ones heart and let your partner  know that you missed them with examples and exercises.

Alright world, Let’s get started!

how to say i like you in korean 

"좋아해요" is a Korean phrase that means "I like you." It is a polite and respectful way to express this sentiment to people such as parents, grandparents, or teachers. A more casual way to say "I like you" in Korean is "좋아해," which is used with people such as friends or romantic partners. The formal way to say "I like you" in Korean is "좋아합니다," which is used when speaking to someone older, in lyrics, or in advertisements.

Here are the common ways to say I like you in Korean in formal, casual, and polite situations.

  • The Casual  way – 좋아해 (joahae)
  • The Polite way  –좋아해요 (joahaeyo)
  • The Formal way– 좋아합니다 (joahamnida)

Saying "I like you" in Korean can be a little more complex than in English, as there are different levels of politeness and familiarity to consider. In this article, we will take a look at the various ways to express this sentiment in Korean, as well as when and to whom each expression is appropriate.


좋아해요 (joahaeyo)

This is the most common and widely used way to say "I like you" in Korean. It is a polite and respectful expression that can be used with anyone, but it is particularly appropriate when talking to people such as parents, grandparents, or teachers.


좋아해 (joahae)

This expression is slightly more casual than "좋아해요," and is used with people such as friends or romantic partners. It is still a respectful and appropriate way to express your feelings, but it is less formal than the previous expression.


좋아합니다 (joahamnida)

This is the most formal way to say "I like you" in Korean, and is used when speaking to someone older, in lyrics, or in advertisements. It is a very respectful and polite expression, and is appropriate for formal occasions or when expressing your feelings to someone who is older or in a position of authority.


사랑해 (saranghae)

This expression means "I love you" in Korean, and is a more intense expression of affection than "I like you." It is a very strong and powerful way to express your feelings, and is usually reserved for romantic relationships or very close friendships.


잘 생긴 사람이에요 (jal saenggin saramieyo)

This expression translates to "You are a good-looking person," and is a more subtle way to express your feelings. It is a compliment that can be used with anyone, and is a good way to show your appreciation for someone's appearance.


재밌어요 (jaemisseoyo)

This expression means "I find you interesting," and is a way to show your interest in someone without necessarily expressing romantic feelings. It is a good expression to use with friends or acquaintances, and is a subtle way to show that you enjoy their company.


좋아할 수 있어요 (joahal su isseoyo)

This expression means "I can like you," and is a more tentative way to express your feelings. It is a good expression to use if you are not sure if the other person feels the same way, or if you are not ready to commit to a stronger expression of affection.


좋아하고 싶어요 (joahago sipeoyo)

This expression means "I want to like you," and is a more tentative way to express your feelings. It is similar to "좋아할 수 있어요," but emphasizes the desire to have feelings for the other person rather than the possibility of having those feelings.


In conclusion, there are many different ways to say "I like you"

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