Lesson Goal
By the end of this lesson, you’ll know when to say 여기요 and when another expression sounds more natural.
What does 여기요 mean?
여기요 literally relates to “here,” but in real Korean it is commonly used to call someone’s attention, especially a server in a restaurant or café.
Situation 1 — Calling a server
You’re at a restaurant and you’re ready to order.
여기요! 주문할게요.
Excuse me! We’re ready to order.
Real Korean Tip
You do not need to translate “excuse me” word-for-word. In this situation, 여기요! sounds natural and is commonly heard in Korea.
Situation 2 — Asking for something
You want some water at a restaurant.
여기요! 물 좀 주세요.
Excuse me! Please give me some water.
Here, 여기요 gets the server’s attention first. Then you say what you need.
여기요 vs 저기요
They can both get someone’s attention, but the situation matters.
Expression | Natural use |
|---|---|
여기요 | Calling staff in a restaurant or café |
저기요 | Getting a stranger’s attention in many everyday situations |
Quick Check
You’re sitting in a Korean restaurant. You’re ready to order and want to call the server.
What would you say?
A. 여기요!
B. 안녕하세요!
C. 괜찮아요!
Answer: A. 여기요!
Say It
여기요!
Say it naturally—not too quietly, but you don’t need to shout.
Next Step
Now that you can call the server, the next lesson can teach you what to say when ordering something in Korean.