Essential Korean Phrases for Calling a Waiter/Waitress in a Korean Restaurant – The Difference Between 'Jeogiyo' and 'Yeogiyo'

Hello! Let's learn some simple yet effective Korean phrases you can use to get a waiter's attention when visiting a restaurant in Korea. They are " “jeo-gi-yo” (저기요)” and " “yeo-gi-yo” (여기요)”. These two phrases are convenient for foreigners to use in Korean restaurants, making them useful during your trip to Korea. In this article, we will kindly explain the difference between " ‘jeo-gi-yo’ (저기요)’ and ‘ ‘yeo-gi-yo’ (여기요)’ and how to use them correctly.

1. What are “jeo-gi-yo” (저기요) and “yeo-gi-yo” (여기요)?
In Korean, " “jeo-gi-yo” (저기요)” and " “yeo-gi-yo” (여기요)” are both used to call a staff member in restaurants, cafes, etc.

jeo-gi-yo (저기요): Similar to “Excuse me” in English, it’s mainly used to get the attention of a staff member.
yeo-gi-yo (여기요): Closer to "Here, please" in English, it sounds more natural when the staff member is nearby.
Both expressions are polite, so you can use them comfortably anytime.

2. How to use “jeo-gi-yo” (저기요) and “yeo-gi-yo” (여기요) in different situations
In Korea, people use “jeo-gi-yo” (저기요) or “yeo-gi-yo” (여기요) when ordering food or making additional requests. While the two expressions are similar, they can be used differently depending on the situation.

jeo-gi-yo (저기요): If you want to get the attention of a staff member who is far away or passing by, " “jeo-gi-yo” (저기요)” is the most suitable.
Example: “Jeo-gi-yo, menu joom ju-se-yo.” (Excuse me, please give me the menu.)
yeo-gi-yo (여기요): It’s good to use when a staff member is nearby. Especially when you are ready to order, you can naturally say " “yeo-gi-yo” (여기요).”
Example: “Yeo-gi-yo, ju-mun-hal-ge-yo.” (Here, I’ll order.)

3. Pronunciation and Usage Examples
Both expressions are easy to pronounce, so even those who are new to learning Korean can use them without difficulty.

jeo-gi-yo (jeo-gi-yo)
Example sentence: “Jeo-gi-yo, mul joom ju-se-yo.” (Excuse me, please give me some water.)
yeo-gi-yo (yeo-gi-yo)
Example sentence: “Yeo-gi-yo, gye-san-hal-ge-yo.” (Here, I’d like to pay.)
If you practice the pronunciation naturally, you will be able to use them effectively according to the situation.

4. Tips for a more natural expression
Politeness is important in the Korean language. In Korea, it is considered polite to speak calmly and softly when calling a staff member, rather than shouting loudly.

If you make eye contact with a staff member or are close by, it’s good to say “yeo-gi-yo” (여기요) in a low voice.
When they are busy or far away, slightly raise your hand and say " “jeo-gi-yo” (저기요)" to make it easier for the staff member to notice you.
Also, adding “gam-sa-ham-ni-da” (감사합니다 - thank you) after your request will give a more polite impression.

5. Additional expressions frequently used by foreigners in Korean restaurants
When eating in Korea, learning the following expressions will allow for richer communication.

Mul joom ju-se-yo (Please give me some water)
Chuchon menu-ga mwo-ye-yo? (What do you recommend?)
I-geo hana ju-se-yo (Please give me one of this)
Practicing these expressions will improve your Korean skills and allow you to communicate naturally in Korean restaurants.

Now you can use “jeo-gi-yo” (저기요) and “yeo-gi-yo” (여기요) according to the situation, right? Try using these expressions when ordering or making requests at Korean restaurants. Korean staff will feel closer to you when you use Korean.

I hope this helps if you are traveling to Korea.

Thank you!