Saying No Politely

gago sipeunde, eojjeojyo?

I would love to go, but what should I do?

Often used to politely show reluctance before giving a reason.

jeongmal gago sipjiman, oneureun himdeul geot gatseumnida.

I really want to go, but I think it will be difficult today.

More polite; appropriate for the workplace or with superiors.

ani, nan gwaenchana.

No, I'm okay.

Only use with close friends or people younger than you.

aniyo, jeon gwaenchanayo.

No, I'm fine.

A standard, polite way to refuse food or help.

gwaenchanseumnida. maeumman badeulgeyo.

It's okay. I appreciate the thought.

Very polite; literally 'I will only receive your heart/mind'.

na seonyagi isseoseo an doel geot gata.

I don't think I can because I have prior plans.

A common way to decline a casual hangout with friends.

jega seonyagi isseoseo mot gal geot gatayo.

I don't think I can go because I have prior plans.

The standard polite way to say you already have plans.

oneul haeya hal iri jom isseoseoyo.

Because I have some things I need to do today.

Uses the '-아서요' (because) ending to gently explain your situation.

oneul momi jom an joaseo iljjik swieoya haeyo.

I don't feel well today, so I need to rest early.

A polite way to excuse yourself from a late gathering.

daeume gihoe doemyeon gachi gayo.

Let's go together next time we get the chance.

A natural, friendly way to leave the door open for future plans.

daeum gihoee kkok hamkkehagetseumnida.

I will definitely join you next time.

Formal; often used in business or official conversations.

ibeon jumareun jom bappeunde, daeum juneun eottaeyo?

I am a bit busy this weekend, but how about next week?

A polite way to actively suggest a different time.

mianhae, ibeoneneun naega mot gal geot gata.

Sorry, I don't think I can go this time.

Casual apology to friends.

jeongmal joesonghajiman ibeoneneun chamseokhagi eoryeopseumnida.

I am really sorry, but it is difficult for me to attend this time.

Formal apology for missing a professional or important event.

singyeong sseo jusyeoseo gamsahamnida.

Thank you for the thought.

Polite way to thank someone for an offer you just declined.