How to Write a Polite Email to Your Korean Boss
A Simple Template Guide for Interns and New Employees
Introduction
You’ve joined a Korean company or internship, and now it’s time to email your 상사 (supervisor) for the first time.
But suddenly, you’re stuck:
“How formal should I be?”
“Do I write in English or Korean?”
“Is it okay to use emojis?”
In Korea, email tone matters—especially in hierarchical environments. Here’s how to write a respectful, professional email that gets noticed (in a good way).
The 5 Key Elements of a Korean-Style Professional Email
- Subject Line (제목)
- Greeting (인사)
- Self-Introduction or Context (소개/배경)
- Main Message (요청/내용)
- Closing + Signature (마무리 인사)
Sample Email Template (in Korean & English)
Subject: [보고] 5월 행사 기획안 초안 전달드립니다
[REPORT] May Event Planning Draft Submission
To: 김○○ 팀장님
From: Robin Han (Marketing Intern)
안녕하세요, 팀장님. 저는 마케팅팀 인턴 한로빈입니다.
5월 17일 행사 관련 기획안 초안을 작성하여 첨부드리며, 검토 부탁드립니다.
피드백 주시면 빠르게 수정하겠습니다. 감사합니다.
좋은 하루 보내세요.
감사합니다.
한로빈 드림
English Translation
Hello, Team Lead Kim. I’m Robin Han, marketing team intern.
Attached is the draft proposal for the May 17th event.
Please review it at your convenience—I will revise it based on your feedback.
Thank you, and I wish you a good day.
Sincerely,
Robin Han
Tone & Style Tips
| Do This | Avoid This |
|---|---|
| Use “~드립니다”, “~부탁드립니다” endings | Casual language (e.g. “~요”, “~했어요”) |
| Refer to yourself humbly | Using “I” too frequently (“저는 저는 저는…”) |
| Use honorifics for your boss’s name (김팀장님) | Just calling them by name (“Kim”) |
| Attach files with polite filenames | “Untitled.docx” or “final_ver9_last_really.pptx” |
Cultural Notes
- Emails are often short and to the point
- Many companies still use messaging apps (like KakaoTalk or Notion)—but initial or formal communication should still go through email
- If you’re writing in English, stay formal and simple. Don’t over-joke.
Common Useful Phrases
| Korean | English Equivalent |
|---|---|
| 확인 부탁드립니다 | Please review (the attached/material) |
| 검토해주시면 감사하겠습니다 | I’d appreciate your feedback |
| 바쁘시겠지만, 확인 부탁드립니다 | I know you’re busy, but I’d appreciate it |
| 좋은 하루 보내세요 | Wishing you a good day |
| 감사합니다 / 드림 | Thank you / Sincerely (formal closing) |
Final Thoughts
Writing a professional email to your Korean boss doesn’t have to be scary. Focus on:
- Politeness
- Simplicity
- Humble tone
Over time, your writing style will evolve—but these basics will help you make a respectful impression from day one.
Next Post:
“Phrases Korean Interviewers Love to Hear – And Why”
Would you like a downloadable bilingual email template pack? Let us know!