At the A1 level, you are just starting to learn how to communicate basic needs. While '회신하다' (to reply) might be a bit advanced for a total beginner, you can understand it as a very polite way to say 'reply.' You will mostly see this in the phrase '회신해 주세요' (Please reply). At this stage, focus on the fact that this word is used for emails and formal messages, unlike '답장' which you use with friends. Think of it as the 'Office Version' of replying. You don't need to worry about the complex grammar yet; just recognize it when you see it in a polite email or a textbook exercise about business.
At the A2 level, you should start using '회신하다' in your own writing, especially when practicing formal emails. You should know the difference between '답장하다' (casual reply) and '회신하다' (formal reply). You can now form simple past tense sentences like '회신했습니다' (I replied) and future intentions like '회신하겠습니다' (I will reply). You should also be comfortable using the particle '-에' to indicate what you are replying to, such as '이메일에 회신하다' (to reply to an email). This is a key vocabulary word for the TOPIK I exam, as it often appears in reading passages about office life or official announcements.
At the B1 level, you are expected to handle more nuanced professional situations. You should use '회신하다' naturally in business correspondence. This includes using honorifics correctly: '부장님께 회신을 드렸습니다' (I gave a reply to the department manager). You should also understand the noun form '회신' and how it combines with other verbs like '회신을 기다리다' (waiting for a reply) or '회신이 오다' (a reply comes). You can explain the difference between '회신' and '대답' to others, noting that '회신' is for written messages. Your writing should reflect the polite and professional tone that this word implies.
At the B2 level, you should be able to use '회신하다' in complex sentence structures and understand its role in corporate etiquette. You will use it with advanced connectors like '-는 대로' (as soon as), for example: '확인하는 대로 회신하겠습니다' (I will reply as soon as I check). You should also be familiar with related terms like '회신율' (reply rate) and '회신용' (for reply use). You can participate in business meetings where the status of replies from clients is discussed, using the word fluently in various tenses and levels of formality. You understand that '회신' is not just a word but a professional obligation in Korean culture.
At the C1 level, your use of '회신하다' should be indistinguishable from a native professional. You understand the subtle differences between '회신', '답변', '응답', and '회답'. You can use the word in formal reports, legal documents, and high-level diplomatic correspondence. You are aware of the Hanja roots (回信) and how they relate to other words in the '신' (message) and '회' (return) families. You can navigate delicate situations where a reply is late, using sophisticated apologetic forms like '회신이 지연되어 송구합니다' (I am deeply sorry that the reply has been delayed). Your mastery extends to the stylistic choice of when to use the noun form versus the verb form for maximum impact.
At the C2 level, you have a complete command of '회신하다' and its most obscure or literary variations. You can analyze the historical evolution of the word from physical mail to digital data. You might encounter it in classical-style modern literature or highly formal state-level communications. You understand the philosophical implications of 'returning a message' in the context of Korean social harmony and reciprocity. You can use the word in puns, wordplay, or as a metaphor in creative writing. At this level, the word is not just a tool for communication but a building block for expressing complex ideas about human interaction and institutional responsibility.

회신하다 en 30 segundos

  • Formal verb for replying to written messages like emails and letters.
  • Essential for business Korean and professional communication etiquette.
  • Derived from Hanja: 回 (Return) + 信 (Message).
  • Different from casual '답장하다' or verbal '대답하다'.

The Korean verb 회신하다 (Hoesin-hada) is a formal and professional term that translates directly to 'to reply' or 'to respond to a message.' While English speakers might use the word 'reply' for everything from a casual text to a legal document, Korean distinguishes between levels of formality and the medium of communication. 회신하다 is predominantly used in written contexts, especially in business, administration, and formal correspondence. It is composed of the Hanja 회 (回) meaning 'to return' or 'to go back,' and 신 (信) meaning 'message,' 'letter,' or 'trust.' Therefore, the literal meaning is 'to return a message.'

Business Context
In a corporate environment, this is the standard term used in emails. When you ask a colleague to 'get back to you,' you would use the noun form 회신 or the verb 회신하다. It implies a level of professional courtesy and structured communication.

가능한 한 빨리 회신해 주시기 바랍니다. (Please reply as soon as possible.)

When compared to its more common counterpart, 답장하다 (dapjang-hada), 회신하다 carries a much weightier, more official tone. You would use 답장하다 when texting a friend or writing a casual letter to a family member. Using 회신하다 in a KakaoTalk message to a close friend might sound overly stiff or even sarcastic, as if you are treating the friendship like a business transaction.

Medium of Communication
Traditionally, this word was reserved for letters and faxes. In the modern era, it has become the primary word for email responses. It is rarely used for verbal answers; for speaking, Koreans use 대답하다.

이메일로 회신 부탁드립니다. (Please reply via email.)

Understanding the nuances of 회신하다 also involves knowing when not to use it. If you are responding to a question in a meeting, you are 'answering' (답변하다), not 'returning a message' (회신하다). The '신' (message) part of the word is key—there must be a physical or digital record that is being returned to the sender. This word is a staple for anyone aiming for the TOPIK II level or looking to work in a Korean office environment.

Using 회신하다 correctly requires an understanding of Korean honorifics and particle usage. Because this word is formal, it is almost always paired with polite sentence endings like -ㅂ니다/습니다 or -아요/어요, and frequently appears in the request form -아/어 주시기 바랍니다 (I hope you would...).

Grammatical Structure
The person you are replying to is marked with the particle -에게 (neutral) or -께 (honorific). The thing you are replying to (like an email or letter) is marked with -에.

부장님 이메일을 회신했습니다. (I replied to the email to the department manager.)

In many cases, the word is used as a noun 회신 combined with the verb 주다 (to give). When asking someone else to reply, you would say 회신 부탁드립니다 (I request a reply) or 회신해 주세요 (Please reply). In a very formal setting, you might use the honorific version of 'to give,' which is 주시다.

Common Tense Usage
Past tense: 회신했습니다 (I replied). Future tense: 회신하겠습니다 (I will reply). Request: 회신 부탁드립니다 (Reply requested).

검토 후 회신하겠습니다. (I will reply after reviewing it.)

Another important aspect is the usage of '회신' in passive or descriptive constructions. For example, '회신용 봉투' means 'an envelope for a reply' (a self-addressed stamped envelope). Here, 회신 acts as a noun modifier. In business reports, you might see 회신율 (reply rate), which is common in marketing or survey analysis. This versatility makes it an essential word for professional fluency.

If you step into any office in Seoul, you will hear and see 회신하다 and its noun form 회신 constantly. It is the lifeblood of the corporate communication cycle. You'll see it in the subject lines of emails (e.g., [회신] which is the equivalent of 'RE:'), in automated out-of-office replies, and in the closing statements of formal letters.

In the Office
Imagine a scenario where a deadline is approaching. A manager might say, "아직 거래처에서 회신이 없나요?" (Is there still no reply from the client?). Here, the noun form is used to describe the missing response.

늦게 회신드려 죄송합니다. (I am sorry for the late reply.)

You will also encounter this word in official government notices. When the government sends out a survey or a notification that requires a response, they will use 회신하다. It implies that the response is expected and will be recorded. Similarly, in legal contexts, when a lawyer 'replies' to a motion or a letter from opposing counsel, 회신 is the term of choice because it denotes a formal, documented return of communication.

Customer Service
When you submit an inquiry on a Korean website, you will often see a message saying, "24시간 이내에 회신해 드리겠습니다" (We will reply to you within 24 hours). This uses the 'give' auxiliary verb in its polite form (해 드리다).

문의하신 내용에 대해 회신 드립니다. (We are replying regarding your inquiry.)

In summary, while you might not hear this word in a K-drama about high school students, you will hear it in every medical drama, legal thriller, or office-based show. It is the language of adults, professionals, and officialdom. If you want to sound like a serious, capable speaker of Korean, mastering the use of 회신하다 is a significant step forward.

The most common mistake learners make with 회신하다 is using it in the wrong social context. Because it is a Sino-Korean word (derived from Chinese characters), it naturally feels more formal than native Korean words. Using it with friends can make you sound like a robot or someone who is trying to keep their distance emotionally.

Confusing with 대답하다
Many students use 회신하다 when they should use 대답하다 (to answer). Remember: 회신하다 requires a physical 'message' (신) to be sent back. If someone asks you a question in person, you 대답; you don't 회신.

잘못된 예: 선생님의 질문에 회신했습니다. (Wrong: I replied to the teacher's question - unless it was via email.)

Another mistake is the incorrect use of honorifics. When you are replying to someone higher in status, you should say 회신을 드렸습니다 (I gave [honorific] a reply) rather than just 회신했습니다. However, you should never say 회신하셨습니다 about yourself, as that would be like saying "I, the Great One, have replied."

Redundancy
Avoid saying 답장 회신하다. Since both words mean reply, this is redundant. Choose one based on the level of formality needed.

올바른 예: 메일에 대해 회신 부탁드립니다. (Correct: Please reply to the email.)

Finally, learners often forget that 회신 is a noun. You can use it with many other verbs, not just 하다. For instance, 회신을 받다 (to receive a reply) or 회신을 기다리다 (to wait for a reply). Restricting yourself to only 회신하다 makes your Korean sound limited and less natural in a professional setting.

To truly master 회신하다, you must understand how it fits into the broader family of Korean words for 'responding.' Korean has a rich vocabulary that changes based on what you are responding to and how you are doing it.

회신하다 vs. 답장하다
회신하다: Formal, business-oriented, used for emails and official letters. 답장하다: Neutral to casual, used for text messages, personal letters, and everyday talk.

친구에게 답장해. (Reply to your friend.) vs. 거래처에 회신하세요. (Reply to the client.)

회신하다 vs. 대답하다
회신하다: Returning a message (written). 대답하다: Answering a call, a question, or a shout (usually verbal).

Then there is 답변하다 (dapbyeon-hada). This is often used in official contexts like a Q&A session, a courtroom, or a customer support ticket. While 회신하다 focuses on the act of sending a message back, 답변하다 focuses on the content of the answer itself. If someone asks a difficult question, you provide a 답변 (answer), but you send it via 회신 (reply).

응답하다 (Eung-dap-hada)
This means 'to respond' or 'to react.' It is used for responding to signals, calls for help, or in technical contexts (like a server response). It is broader and less focused on the 'message' aspect than 회신하다.

긴급 호출에 응답하다. (To respond to an emergency call.)

By choosing the right word from this list, you demonstrate a high level of linguistic sophistication. In a professional Korean setting, using 회신하다 for emails, 답변하다 for providing information, and 대답하다 for speaking will make you sound like a native professional.

How Formal Is It?

Dato curioso

The character 信 (신) also means 'trust.' In traditional Korean thought, replying to a letter was not just a communication task but a way to maintain 'trust' between two parties.

Guía de pronunciación

UK /hweɪ.sɪn.ɦɐ.dɐ/
US /hweɪ.sɪn.hɑ.dɑ/
Stress is even across all syllables, as is typical in Korean, but a slight emphasis can be placed on the first syllable '회' (hwe).
Rima con
개신하다 (Gaesinhada) 갱신하다 (Gaengsinhada) 맹신하다 (Maengsinhada) 변신하다 (Byeonsinhada) 송신하다 (Songsinhada) 수신하다 (Susinhada) 통신하다 (Tongsinhada) 확신하다 (Hwaksinhada)
Errores comunes
  • Pronouncing '회' as 'hoi' instead of 'hwe'.
  • Over-aspirating the 'h' in 'hada'.
  • Making the 'i' in 'sin' too long like 'seeeen'.
  • Pronouncing '신' as 'shin' (it is closer to 'sin' in 'single').
  • Dropping the 'h' sound in 'hada' completely (though it can be weak in fast speech).

Nivel de dificultad

Lectura 2/5

Easy to recognize in written contexts due to its frequent use in emails.

Escritura 3/5

Requires knowledge of honorifics and the correct particles (에 vs 에게).

Expresión oral 3/5

Learners often forget to switch to '대답하다' for verbal answers.

Escucha 2/5

Clear pronunciation, usually heard in predictable office settings.

Qué aprender después

Requisitos previos

하다 (to do) 편지 (letter) 이메일 (email) 주다 (to give) 부탁 (request)

Aprende después

답변하다 (to answer an inquiry) 응답하다 (to respond) 발신하다 (to send/originate) 수신하다 (to receive) 검토하다 (to review)

Avanzado

회신율 (reply rate) 공문 (official document) 접수 (reception/filing) 유보 (withholding/deferral)

Gramática que debes saber

Object Particle -을/를 with 회신

회신을 보냈습니다. (I sent a reply.)

Dative Particle -에게/께 for the Recipient

사장님께 회신을 드렸어요. (I gave a reply to the CEO.)

Directional Particle -에 for the Medium

이메일에 회신하세요. (Reply to the email.)

Honorific Auxiliary -아/어 주시다

회신해 주셔서 감사합니다. (Thank you for replying [honorific].)

Humble Auxiliary -아/어 드리다

곧 회신해 드리겠습니다. (I will reply to you [humble].)

Ejemplos por nivel

1

회신해 주세요.

Please reply.

Uses the polite imperative form -해 주세요.

2

이메일 회신입니다.

This is an email reply.

Noun + 입니다 (to be).

3

언제 회신해요?

When do you reply?

Simple present tense question.

4

회신이 없어요.

There is no reply.

Noun + 이/가 없다 (to not exist).

5

지금 회신해요.

I am replying now.

Present tense indicating current action.

6

회신을 기다려요.

I wait for a reply.

Object marker 을 used with waiting.

7

선생님께 회신해요.

I reply to the teacher.

께 is the honorific 'to' particle.

8

회신이 빨라요.

The reply is fast.

Adjective describing the noun 회신.

1

어제 이메일에 회신했습니다.

I replied to the email yesterday.

Past tense -았습니다.

2

내일까지 회신해 주실 수 있나요?

Can you please reply by tomorrow?

-ㄹ 수 있나요? (Can you...?)

3

회신을 못 받았습니다.

I didn't receive a reply.

못 (cannot) + past tense.

4

문자로 회신해도 될까요?

Is it okay if I reply via text?

-아/어도 될까요? (Is it okay to...?)

5

제 메일에 회신 부탁드립니다.

Please reply to my email.

부탁드립니다 is a formal way to ask for a favor.

6

회의 후에 회신하겠습니다.

I will reply after the meeting.

후에 (after) + future tense -겠습니다.

7

누가 회신했어요?

Who replied?

Interrogative pronoun 누가 (who).

8

이것은 중요한 회신입니다.

This is an important reply.

중요한 (important) modifies the noun 회신.

1

바쁘시겠지만 빠른 회신 부탁드립니다.

I know you are busy, but I ask for a quick reply.

-시겠지만 (honorific but) adds politeness.

2

회신을 드리는 것이 늦었습니다.

I am late in giving you a reply.

회신을 드리다 is the humble way to say 'I reply'.

3

담당자에게 확인한 후 회신드리겠습니다.

I will reply after checking with the person in charge.

확인한 후 (after checking).

4

회신용 봉투를 동봉했습니다.

I have enclosed a return envelope.

회신용 (for reply use).

5

질문에 대한 회신이 아직 도착하지 않았습니다.

The reply to the question has not arrived yet.

-지 않았습니다 (negation).

6

메시지를 확인하시면 회신 부탁드려요.

Please reply when you check the message.

-시면 (if/when honorific).

7

회신을 보내기 전에 다시 검토하세요.

Please review it again before sending the reply.

-기 전에 (before doing).

8

회의 참석 여부를 회신해 주세요.

Please reply with your attendance status for the meeting.

여부 (whether or not).

1

공문을 접수한 즉시 회신해야 합니다.

You must reply as soon as you receive the official document.

-해야 합니다 (must) + 즉시 (immediately).

2

회신이 지연될 경우 미리 알려주시기 바랍니다.

If the reply is delayed, please let us know in advance.

-ㄹ 경우 (in case of).

3

상대방의 회신을 기다리는 동안 다른 일을 합시다.

Let's do other work while waiting for the other party's reply.

-는 동안 (while).

4

회신 내용이 불충분하여 다시 문의드립니다.

The content of the reply was insufficient, so I am inquiring again.

불충분하여 (because it is insufficient).

5

이메일 하단의 '회신' 버튼을 누르세요.

Press the 'Reply' button at the bottom of the email.

하단 (bottom).

6

정확한 회신을 위해 시간이 더 필요합니다.

More time is needed for an accurate reply.

위해 (for the sake of).

7

그분은 회신이 매우 빠르기로 유명합니다.

That person is famous for being very quick with replies.

-기로 유명하다 (famous for doing).

8

회신을 하지 않는 것도 하나의 답변이 될 수 있습니다.

Not replying can also be a form of an answer.

-는 것 (gerund/noun-making).

1

귀사의 무궁한 발전을 기원하며, 요청하신 자료에 대해 다음과 같이 회신합니다.

Wishing your company endless growth, we reply as follows regarding the requested data.

Standard high-formal business greeting.

2

회신 기한을 넘길 경우 계약이 파기될 수 있음을 유의하십시오.

Please note that the contract may be terminated if the reply deadline is missed.

-음을 유의하십시오 (note that...).

3

본 서신은 발신 전용이므로 회신이 불가능합니다.

This letter is for outgoing mail only, so a reply is not possible.

발신 전용 (outgoing only).

4

양측의 회신 내용이 상충하여 추가 조정이 필요해 보입니다.

The replies from both sides conflict, so further adjustment seems necessary.

상충하여 (conflicting).

5

회신을 통해 귀하의 의사를 명확히 밝혀 주시기 바랍니다.

Please clarify your intentions through a reply.

의사 (intention/will).

6

별도의 회신이 없을 시, 동의하는 것으로 간주하겠습니다.

If there is no separate reply, we will consider it as an agreement.

-로 간주하다 (to consider as).

7

회신은 전자우편 또는 팩스로 접수 가능합니다.

Replies can be received via email or fax.

접수 가능 (reception possible).

8

적절한 회신 시점을 놓치면 오해를 불러일으킬 수 있습니다.

Missing the appropriate time to reply can cause misunderstandings.

불러일으키다 (to cause/arouse).

1

귀하의 회신은 본 사안을 해결하는 데 결정적인 단서가 될 것입니다.

Your reply will be a decisive clue in resolving this matter.

결정적인 (decisive).

2

침묵으로 일관하는 것은 회신을 거부하는 의사 표시로 해석됩니다.

Consistently remaining silent is interpreted as an expression of intent to refuse a reply.

의사 표시 (expression of will).

3

회신문의 격식은 곧 그 조직의 품격을 대변합니다.

The formality of a reply letter represents the dignity of the organization.

대변하다 (to represent/speak for).

4

정보의 홍수 속에서 진정성 있는 회신 한 통의 가치는 더욱 높아집니다.

In the flood of information, the value of a single sincere reply increases even more.

진정성 있는 (sincere).

5

회신을 유보함으로써 얻을 수 있는 전략적 이점을 고려해야 합니다.

We must consider the strategic advantages that can be gained by withholding a reply.

유보함으로써 (by withholding/deferring).

6

과거의 서신 왕래에서 보여준 회신의 성실함이 신뢰의 밑바탕이 되었습니다.

The sincerity of replies shown in past correspondence became the foundation of trust.

밑바탕 (foundation).

7

회신은 단순한 정보 전달을 넘어 인간관계의 화답입니다.

A reply goes beyond simple information transfer; it is a response in human relations.

화답 (response/reciprocity).

8

회신을 갈구하는 이의 간절함이 행간마다 묻어납니다.

The desperation of the one longing for a reply is evident in every line.

행간 (between the lines).

Colocaciones comunes

이메일을 회신하다
회신을 기다리다
빠른 회신
회신을 주다
회신 기한
회신용 봉투
회신이 지연되다
공문을 회신하다
회신을 누락하다
회신율을 높이다

Frases Comunes

회신 부탁드립니다

— Please reply. This is the most common way to end a business email.

내용 확인 후 회신 부탁드립니다.

회신 드립니다

— I am replying. Used at the beginning of an email to indicate it is a response.

문의하신 사항에 대해 회신 드립니다.

회신이 늦어 죄송합니다

— I am sorry for the late reply. A standard apology in professional settings.

업무가 밀려 회신이 늦어 죄송합니다.

조속한 회신

— A prompt/quick reply. Very formal.

사안이 급하니 조속한 회신 바랍니다.

회신 가능 여부

— Whether or not a reply is possible.

오늘 중으로 회신 가능 여부를 알려주세요.

재회신 부탁드립니다

— Please reply again. Used when a previous reply was unclear or missing info.

누락된 부분이 있어 재회신 부탁드립니다.

회신이 도착하다

— A reply arrives.

드디어 기다리던 회신이 도착했습니다.

회신을 요청하다

— To request a reply.

협력업체에 공식적으로 회신을 요청했습니다.

회신을 삼가다

— To refrain from replying.

불필요한 논쟁에는 회신을 삼가 주세요.

회신을 생략하다

— To skip or omit a reply.

바쁘시면 간단한 회신은 생략하셔도 됩니다.

Se confunde a menudo con

회신하다 vs 대답하다

Used for verbal answers. '회신하다' is for written messages.

회신하다 vs 답변하다

Focuses on the content of the answer. '회신하다' focuses on the act of returning the message.

회신하다 vs 응답하다

Broadly used for any response/reaction, including technical signals.

Modismos y expresiones

"함흥차사 (Hamheungchasa)"

— Someone who goes on an errand and never returns or sends a reply.

회신을 부탁했는데 함흥차사네.

Idiomatic/Historical
"쇠귀에 경 읽기"

— Reading scriptures to a cow's ear (meaning the person won't respond or understand).

그 사람에게 회신을 바라는 건 쇠귀에 경 읽기야.

Proverb
"묵묵부답 (Mungmung-budap)"

— Remaining silent and giving no answer at all.

메일을 보냈지만 사흘째 묵묵부답이다.

Four-character idiom (Saja-seong-eo)
"일언지하 (Ireon-jiha)"

— To reply or refuse immediately with a single word.

그는 내 제안을 일언지하에 거절하는 회신을 보냈다.

Four-character idiom
"동문서답 (Dongmun-seodap)"

— Answering with something completely unrelated to the question.

질문했는데 동문서답 같은 회신이 왔어.

Four-character idiom
"우이독경 (U-i-dok-gyeong)"

— Similar to 'cow's ear', ignoring advice or messages.

회신 좀 하라고 해도 우이독경이다.

Four-character idiom
"답답한 노릇"

— A frustrating situation (often used when waiting for a reply).

회신이 없으니 정말 답답한 노릇이다.

Common Expression
"입을 씻다"

— To pretend something didn't happen (like ignoring a message you should reply to).

부탁 메일을 보냈는데 입을 씻고 회신을 안 하네.

Slang/Idiom
"감감무소식 (Gamgam-musosik)"

— No news or reply for a long time.

고향 친구에게 편지를 썼는데 감감무소식이다.

Common Expression
"메아리 없는 외침"

— A shout without an echo (sending messages but getting no reply).

내 메일은 항상 메아리 없는 외침이 된다.

Metaphorical

Fácil de confundir

회신하다 vs 답장하다

Both mean 'to reply'.

'답장하다' is for personal, casual, or everyday use. '회신하다' is strictly professional and formal.

친구에게는 답장하고, 거래처에는 회신한다.

회신하다 vs 답변하다

Both are used in formal settings.

'답변하다' is 'to provide an answer/explanation' (like in a Q&A). '회신하다' is 'to send a reply' (like an email).

질문에 답변하고, 메일에 회신한다.

회신하다 vs 회답하다

Very similar Hanja roots.

'회답하다' is even more formal than '회신하다' and often refers to an official answer to a proposal or a formal invitation.

초청장에 정중히 회답하였다.

회신하다 vs 응대하다

Used in business.

'응대하다' means to deal with or receive a customer. It's about the interaction, not just sending a message back.

손님을 응대하느라 회신할 시간이 없었다.

회신하다 vs 대답하다

Basic word for answering.

'대답하다' is mostly for speaking. If you use it for an email, it sounds a bit childish or overly simple compared to '회신하다'.

이름을 부르면 대답하세요.

Patrones de oraciones

A2

[Item]에 회신하다

편지에 회신해요.

A2

[Person]에게 회신하다

친구에게 회신해요.

B1

[Person]께 회신을 드리다

선생님께 회신을 드렸습니다.

B1

회신 부탁드립니다

확인 후 회신 부탁드립니다.

B2

[Action]하는 대로 회신하다

확인하는 대로 회신하겠습니다.

B2

회신이 지연되다

회신이 지연되어 죄송합니다.

C1

회신 기한을 엄수하다

회신 기한을 엄수해 주시기 바랍니다.

C1

별도의 회신이 없을 시

별도의 회신이 없을 시 동의로 간주합니다.

Familia de palabras

Sustantivos

회신 (Reply/Response)
회신자 (Replier)
회신문 (Reply letter/text)
회신율 (Reply rate)

Verbos

회신하다 (To reply)
회신드리다 (To reply - humble/honorific)
회신받다 (To receive a reply)

Relacionado

신호 (Signal)
신뢰 (Trust)
편지 (Letter)
이메일 (Email)
답장 (Reply - casual)

Cómo usarlo

frequency

Extremely high in professional settings, low in casual daily life.

Errores comunes
  • Using '회신하다' for a verbal answer. 대답하다

    '회신' contains the character for 'message/letter'. You can't 'return a letter' verbally.

  • Using '회신하다' with close friends. 답장하다

    It sounds overly formal and stiff, creating social distance where there shouldn't be any.

  • Saying '회신하셨습니다' about yourself. 회신했습니다 / 회신 드렸습니다

    You should never use honorific endings (-시-) on your own actions.

  • Using the particle '-를' for the person you reply to. [Person]-에게/께 회신하다

    You reply 'to' someone, not 'reply someone'.

  • Confusing '회신' with '수신'. 회신 (Reply), 수신 (Receive)

    Learners often mix up these '신' words. '회' means return, '수' means receive.

Consejos

Email Subject Lines

When replying to a business email, keeping the '[회신]' tag in the subject line helps the recipient organize their inbox.

Particle Choice

Remember: Use '-에' for the message you reply to (이메일에) and '-에게/께' for the person (부장님께).

Speed Matters

In Korea, a fast '회신' is a sign of respect. Even a short 'I'll check and get back to you' is better than silence.

Noun vs Verb

Using the noun '회신' with '부탁드립니다' is often more common and sounds softer than using the verb '회신해 주세요'.

Humble Form

Always use '회신 드립니다' when you are the one replying to someone of higher status. It shows you know your manners.

TOPIK Tip

'회신' frequently appears in TOPIK II reading tasks related to office memos or business letters. Learn it with '발신' (send) and '수신' (receive).

Not for KakaoTalk

Avoid using '회신' in casual KakaoTalk chats unless you are talking to a client or a professor.

Formal Endings

Pair '회신하다' with '-기 바랍니다' for a very professional request: '회신해 주시기 바랍니다'.

Office Drama Clues

In K-dramas, if you hear a character yelling about a '회신', it usually means a deal is at risk or a deadline was missed.

Hwe-Sin = Return-Signal

Think of it as returning a radio signal. It's a structured, intentional act of communication.

Memorízalo

Mnemotecnia

Think of 'Hwe' as 'Way back' and 'Sin' as 'Send'. You are 'Sending' the message 'Way back' to the person who sent it.

Asociación visual

Imagine a boomerang with a letter attached to it. You catch the letter, write on it, and throw it back. That 'returning' motion is '회' (Hwe).

Word Web

회신 (Reply) 수신 (Receive) 발신 (Send) 통신 (Communication) 송신 (Transmit) 신호 (Signal) 신용 (Credit/Trust) 확신 (Confidence)

Desafío

Try to write three formal email sentences using '회신'. One asking for a reply, one apologizing for a late reply, and one promising a reply later.

Origen de la palabra

Derived from the Hanja characters 回 (회) and 信 (신). This Sino-Korean construction has been used for centuries in formal correspondence.

Significado original: 回 (Return/Turn back) + 信 (Message/Letter). Literally: 'To send a message back.'

Sino-Korean (Hanja-based vocabulary).

Contexto cultural

Always use '회신 드리다' instead of '회신하다' when speaking to a superior to avoid sounding blunt.

In English, 'reply' is used for both casual and formal contexts. Learners must be careful not to use '회신하다' for casual texts where 'reply' would be used in English.

Commonly seen in the UI of Korean versions of Outlook, Gmail, and Naver Mail. Often used in Korean 'Office' dramas like 'Misaeng' to show professional tension. A staple word in TOPIK (Test of Proficiency in Korean) business-related questions.

Practica en la vida real

Contextos reales

Professional Emails

  • 회신 부탁드립니다.
  • 빠른 회신 감사합니다.
  • 회신이 늦어 죄송합니다.
  • 검토 후 회신하겠습니다.

Official Announcements

  • 회신 기한 엄수.
  • 회신용 봉투 동봉.
  • 팩스로 회신 가능.
  • 미회신 시 불이익 발생.

Customer Service

  • 문의에 회신 드립니다.
  • 순차적으로 회신 중입니다.
  • 회신을 받지 못했다면...
  • 상세히 회신해 드리겠습니다.

Academic/Teacher-Student

  • 교수님께 회신 드렸니?
  • 과제 관련 회신입니다.
  • 회신을 꼭 확인하세요.
  • 질문에 회신해 주셨어요.

Legal/Contracts

  • 서면으로 회신하다.
  • 회신 내용을 증거로 사용.
  • 공식 회신을 요청함.
  • 회신 거부권.

Inicios de conversación

"혹시 어제 보낸 이메일에 대해 회신 받으셨나요? (By any chance, did you receive a reply to the email I sent yesterday?)"

"이 서류를 검토하신 후에 언제쯤 회신을 주실 수 있을까요? (After you review this document, around when could you give me a reply?)"

"회신이 아직 안 와서 그런데, 다시 한번 연락해 볼까요? (The reply hasn't come yet, so should we try contacting them once more?)"

"거래처에서 온 회신 내용이 조금 이해가 안 가는데 같이 봐 주시겠어요? (I don't quite understand the reply from the client, could you look at it with me?)"

"급한 건이라서 조속한 회신이 필요한데 어떻게 하면 좋을까요? (It's an urgent matter and needs a prompt reply, what should we do?)"

Temas para diario

오늘 업무 중에 회신을 가장 늦게 한 이메일은 무엇인가요? 왜 늦었나요? (What was the email you replied to most lately during work today? Why was it late?)

누군가의 회신을 간절히 기다려 본 적이 있나요? 그때의 기분은 어땠나요? (Have you ever desperately waited for someone's reply? How did you feel then?)

회신을 할 때 가장 신경 쓰는 부분은 무엇인가요? (격식, 속도, 내용 등) (What do you care about most when replying? (Formality, speed, content, etc.))

만약 평생 아무에게도 회신을 받지 못한다면 어떨 것 같나요? (What would it be like if you never received a reply from anyone for the rest of your life?)

좋은 회신이란 무엇이라고 생각하나요? (What do you think constitutes a 'good' reply?)

Preguntas frecuentes

10 preguntas

Technically you can, but it sounds very strange. It's like saying 'I shall transmit my formal response to your inquiry' instead of 'I'll text you back.' Use '답장하다' for friends.

'회신' is formal and business-like. '답장' is casual and common. Think of '회신' as 'Response' and '답장' as 'Reply'.

The most common phrase is '회신 부탁드립니다' (Hoesin butak-deurimnida). It's professional and respectful.

No, for phone calls, you would use '전화(를) 다시 하다' (to call back) or '대답하다' (to answer). '회신' specifically implies a written or digital message.

It means a 'return envelope' or 'self-addressed stamped envelope'. It's commonly used in official mailings.

Yes! It is very common as a noun. For example, '회신이 늦었습니다' (The reply is late).

Yes, it comes from 回 (return) and 信 (message). Most formal Korean words have Hanja roots.

While many Koreans use 'RE:', the formal Korean equivalent often shown in subject lines is '[회신]'.

You can say '회신이 늦어져서 죄송합니다' (I am sorry the reply has been delayed).

No, '드시다' is for eating. If you want to be humble when replying to a boss, use '회신 드리다'.

Ponte a prueba 200 preguntas

writing

Translate to Korean: 'Please reply to the email.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Translate to Korean: 'I replied to the teacher yesterday.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Translate to Korean: 'I am waiting for your reply.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Translate to Korean: 'I'm sorry for the late reply.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Translate to Korean: 'I will reply after checking.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Translate to Korean: 'Can you reply by tomorrow?'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Write a formal sentence requesting a quick reply.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Translate: 'This is an automatic reply.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Translate: 'I received the reply from the client.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Translate: 'Please reply via text.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Translate: 'I will reply as soon as possible.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Translate: 'Who should I reply to?'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Translate: 'The reply deadline is Friday.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Translate: 'I enclose a return envelope.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Translate: 'There is no reply yet.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Translate: 'Please note the reply deadline.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Translate: 'I want to increase the reply rate.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Translate: 'I'll reply after the meeting.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Translate: 'I haven't received a reply to my inquiry.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Translate: 'Please clarify your intent in the reply.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say 'Please reply' in formal Korean.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say 'I will reply soon' humbly.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say 'I am sorry for the late reply' to a boss.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Ask 'Did you receive a reply?'

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say 'I'll reply after the meeting' formally.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say 'Please reply by tomorrow morning.'

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say 'The reply is very fast.'

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Ask 'Is it okay if I reply via email?'

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say 'I haven't received a reply yet.'

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say 'I will reply as soon as I check.'

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say 'Please check your reply.'

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say 'I requested a reply from the client.'

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say 'This is a very important reply.'

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Ask 'Who replied to this?'

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say 'I'm waiting for your reply.'

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say 'I will reply to the inquiry.'

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say 'Please send the reply by fax.'

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say 'I am replying to the teacher.'

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say 'The reply deadline has passed.'

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say 'I'll give you a reply right away.'

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen and write: '회신 부탁드립니다.'

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen and write: '어제 회신했습니다.'

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen and write: '회신이 늦어 죄송합니다.'

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen and write: '이메일 회신입니다.'

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen and write: '확인 후 회신하겠습니다.'

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen and write: '회신을 기다려요.'

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen and write: '누구에게 회신해요?'

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen and write: '회신 기한은 오늘까지입니다.'

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen and write: '자동 회신 메시지입니다.'

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen and write: '빠른 회신 감사합니다.'

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen and write: '회신용 봉투를 보내세요.'

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen and write: '아직 회신이 없네요.'

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen and write: '부장님께 회신 드렸나요?'

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen and write: '회신을 누락했습니다.'

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen and write: '내일까지 회신 가능하세요?'

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:

/ 200 correct

Perfect score!

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