How to Speak Up in a Korean Work Meeting
Tips for Foreign Interns, Newcomers, and Shy Employees
Introduction
Ever sat silently in a Korean 회의 (meeting), unsure when or how to speak?
You’re not alone.
In Korean workplaces, meetings can feel fast-paced, hierarchical, and filled with subtle cues. But if you never speak up, your ideas—and your value—can be overlooked.
This post teaches you how to:
- Find the right moment to speak
- Use polite expressions to enter the conversation
- Build confidence in sharing your opinion as a foreigner
1. Understand Korean Meeting Culture First
| Feature | Meaning for You |
|---|---|
| Hierarchical turn-taking | Wait for seniors to speak first |
| Passive listening common | Silence ≠ disinterest |
| Few interruptions | Don’t cut people off abruptly |
| Group consensus valued | Avoid aggressive disagreement |
Tip: Body language matters. Nod, take notes, and show attention even before speaking.
2. Useful Expressions to Start Speaking
When you want to suggest:
- “하나 제안드려도 될까요?”
May I offer a suggestion? - “제 생각을 간단히 말씀드리겠습니다.”
I’d like to briefly share my thoughts.
When you want to agree or build on:
- “○○님 말씀에 덧붙이면…”
To add to what ○○ said… - “그 부분에 대해 저도 비슷하게 생각합니다.”
I also think similarly on that point.
When you disagree politely:
- “조심스럽지만 다른 의견이 있습니다.”
Carefully speaking, I have a different opinion. - “제 경험상은 조금 다를 수 있을 것 같습니다.”
Based on my experience, it might be slightly different.
3. How to Find the Right Timing
Prepare one or two points before the meeting
Wait for a pause or when the manager says, “다른 의견 있으신가요?”
Raise your hand slightly or make eye contact with the chairperson
Keep your comment under 60–90 seconds if possible
Short and clear beats long and complex.
4. Structuring Your Comment
Use this simple flow:
- Intro – “I have one point to share…”
- Main content – “Based on our recent experience, I noticed…”
- Conclusion – “So, I suggest trying A instead of B.”
This format works in both Korean and English.
If your Korean is basic, it’s okay to mix simple Korean with English if your tone is respectful.
5. What If You’re Still Nervous?
| Situation | What to Do |
|---|---|
| Not confident in Korean | Ask in advance if English is okay |
| Worry about saying something odd | Write down 1 sentence and read it slowly |
| Can’t find a speaking moment | Send a follow-up email after the meeting |
Final Thoughts
In Korean meetings, speaking up isn’t about talking the most—it’s about contributing at the right time, in the right way.
Start with one small comment per meeting. Build your rhythm. Over time, your voice will earn respect.
And remember: you don’t need perfect Korean—just professional intent.
Next Post:
“How to Structure Your Resume and Cover Letter for AI-Based Job Screening (Korean Version)”
Would you like printable cheat sheets for polite Korean phrases in meetings? Let us know!