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누구세요?

A1 interjection #3,500 most common 12 min read

누구세요?

nuguseyo? Top 3,500

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips 누구세요? in 30 Seconds

Explanation 누구세요? in your Level:

At the A1 level, '누구세요?' should be learned as a fixed, polite phrase meaning 'Who is it?'. Learners at this stage don't need to worry deeply about the internal grammar of the '-si-' infix or the '-eyo' ending. Instead, they should focus on the immediate utility of the phrase in everyday situations, such as when someone knocks on their door or when they see an unknown caller ID on their phone. It is one of the first questions a learner will use to interact with the world around them in Korea. At this level, the focus is on recognition and basic production. A1 learners should practice the rising intonation required for questions and understand that this is the 'safe' version of the question to use with anyone they don't know personally. They should also learn the basic response, which usually involves stating a name or a role followed by '이에요/예요' (is). For example, if someone asks '누구세요?', an A1 learner might respond with '마이클이에요' (I am Michael). This simple exchange forms the basis of identity-related communication in Korean. The goal for A1 is to use the phrase naturally without hesitation in the correct physical contexts.

At the A2 level, learners begin to understand the components of '누구세요?'. They should recognize that '누구' is the question word for 'who' and that '-세요' is a polite, honorific ending. At this stage, students start to differentiate between '누구세요?' and the more casual '누구예요?'. They should understand that while both are polite, '누구세요?' carries an extra layer of respect (honorifics) which is standard when addressing strangers or elders. A2 learners should also be able to use the phrase in slightly more complex contexts, such as asking about a third person in a photograph ('이분은 누구세요?') or identifying someone in a group. They should also be familiar with common polite additions like '실례지만' (Excuse me but...) to make the question sound more natural and less abrupt. The A2 level also introduces the concept of phone etiquette in more detail, where '누구세요?' is used after '여보세요' to identify a caller. Understanding the social hierarchy and why 'seyo' is used over 'yeyo' is a key milestone at this level.

For B1 learners, '누구세요?' is analyzed through the lens of Korean honorific systems. Learners at this level should be comfortable with the 'si' (시) honorific infix and how it combines with the 'eoyo' (어요) ending to become 'seyo' (세요). They should also explore the pragmatic reasons for using honorifics for an unknown subject. B1 students will learn that '누구세요?' isn't just a question about identity, but a way to establish the 'speech level' of the ensuing conversation. They should be able to contrast '누구세요?' with '누구십니까?' (formal) and '누구야?' (informal) and choose the correct one based on the social setting. B1 learners also start to use the phrase in more varied grammatical structures, such as '찾으시는 분이 누구세요?' (Who is the person you are looking for?) or '전화하신 분이 누구세요?' (Who is the person who called?). They should also be aware of the 'Subject-Honorific' rule where the speaker honors the subject of the sentence, even if that subject is the person they are talking to.

At the B2 level, the focus shifts to the nuances of '누구세요?' in different social and professional registers. Learners should understand how the phrase can be used ironically or comedically in pop culture (like variety shows) to signal that someone has changed significantly. They should also be able to handle '누구세요?' in more complex administrative or professional settings, such as navigating a reception desk or a government office. B2 learners will study the subtle differences in tone; for instance, how a sharp '누구세요?' can indicate suspicion or a desire for privacy, while a soft '누구세요?' indicates a welcoming curiosity. They should also be familiar with more formal alternatives like '어느 분이신지 여쭤봐도 될까요?' (May I ask who you are?), which uses a nested question structure. At this level, the learner is expected to have a high degree of sociolinguistic competence, knowing exactly when '누구세요?' might be too direct and when it is perfectly appropriate.

C1 learners examine '누구세요?' from a linguistic and cultural perspective. They analyze the historical evolution of the phrase and its components. For example, they might look at how the honorific system has simplified over time and how '누구세요?' has become a standard 'catch-all' polite inquiry. They should be able to discuss the concept of 'Chem-myeon' (face) and how the use of honorifics for a stranger preserves social harmony. C1 students will also encounter the phrase in literature and film, where it might be used to explore themes of identity, anonymity, or social class. They should be able to translate the phrase into English in various ways depending on the context, recognizing that a simple 'Who is it?' doesn't always capture the polite nuance. They also study the use of the phrase in 'indirect' speech, such as '그 사람이 누구냐고 물어봤어요' (I asked who that person was), and how the honorifics are maintained or shifted in these structures.

At the C2 level, the learner has a near-native grasp of '누구세요?' and all its implications. They can use the phrase in high-stakes social situations with perfect intonation and timing. They understand the deep-seated psychological aspects of why Koreans use honorifics for unknown entities, linking it to broader Confucian values. C2 learners can also analyze the phrase in the context of modern social changes, such as how digital communication (texting, messaging apps) has altered the way people introduce themselves and how '누구세요?' is used in text-based 'unknown sender' scenarios. They can critique translations of the phrase in subtitles or books, suggesting improvements that reflect the cultural weight of the honorific system. At this level, the learner doesn't just know the phrase; they feel the social 'distance' it creates and can manipulate that distance for various rhetorical effects, such as using an overly formal '누구십니까?' to create a sense of coldness or a very soft '누구세요?' to show warmth.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

누구세요? in 30 Seconds

Polite way to ask 'Who is it?'
Used for doors and phone calls.
Contains the honorific marker '-si-'.
Safe for use with all strangers.

The Korean phrase 누구세요? (Nugu-seyo?) is a foundational expression for any beginner learning the language. At its most basic level, it translates to "Who is it?" or "Who are you?" in English. However, the linguistic depth of this phrase goes far beyond a simple inquiry of identity. It is a polite, honorific question used primarily when the speaker is in a position of not knowing the person they are addressing, yet still wishing to maintain a standard level of social respect. This is a hallmark of the Korean language, where the relationship between the speaker and the listener dictates the grammar used. In the case of 누구세요?, the speaker uses the honorific marker '-si-' (incorporated into 'seyo') to elevate the status of the unknown person. This is fascinating because you are showing respect to someone whose identity you haven't even confirmed yet.

Literal Breakdown: The word '누구' (nugu) means 'who'. The ending '-세요' (seyo) is a combination of the honorific infix '-시-' (si) and the polite sentence ending '-어요' (eoyo). Together, they form a respectful question.

When someone knocks on your apartment door in Seoul, you don't just open it; you ask 누구세요? to prompt the visitor to identify themselves.

The most common scenario for using this phrase is when answering a door or a phone call. In a residential setting, if a knock is heard, saying 누구세요? through the door is the standard protocol. It signals that you are home and ready to receive information, but you are exercising a polite caution. On the telephone, if you receive a call from an unsaved or unknown number, after the initial greeting of '여보세요' (yeoboseyo), you might use 누구세요? if the caller does not immediately introduce themselves. It is important to note that this phrase is specifically for identifying people. You wouldn't use it to ask about an object or a situation. Culturally, using the honorific version instead of the standard '누구예요?' (nugu-yeyo?) is preferred because it treats the stranger with dignity. In Korean society, treating a stranger with a default level of high respect is considered a sign of good upbringing and social awareness.

Social Function: It acts as a linguistic gatekeeper, establishing a polite distance while seeking information.

Imagine you are in a dark hallway and see a silhouette. You would call out 누구세요? to identify the person respectfully from a distance.

Register: Polite/Honorific (Jon-dae-mal). Suitable for strangers, elders, or professional contexts.

In a historical drama, a servant might ask a visitor 누구세요? before allowing them entry to the master's house.

If you see an old photo and don't recognize a person, you can point and ask 이분은 누구세요? (Who is this person?).

Using 누구세요? correctly involves understanding its grammatical structure and the situational nuances of Korean speech levels. As a standalone interjection, it is perfectly complete. You don't need to add a subject because the context usually makes it clear that you are referring to the person you are looking at or hearing. However, for more complex sentences, you can add subjects or modifiers to be more specific. For example, if you want to ask who is on the phone, you might say '전화하신 분은 누구세요?' (Who is the person calling?). Here, '전화하신 분' (the person who called) acts as the subject, and the honorific marker '-si-' in both the verb 'hasi' and the ending 'seyo' creates a high level of politeness.

Grammatical Pattern: [Subject/Topic] + 누구세요? (Example: 저기 있는 사람은 누구세요? - Who is that person over there?)

Asking about a visitor: 실례지만, 누구세요? (Excuse me, but who is it?). Adding '실례지만' (sil-lye-ji-man) makes the inquiry even softer and more professional.

Another common usage is when you are looking at photographs or meeting a group of people and want to identify a specific individual. You could point and ask, '이분은 누구세요?' (Who is this person?). In this sentence, '이분' (i-bun) is the honorific way to say 'this person,' matching the honorific level of 'seyo'. It would be grammatically inconsistent to say '이 사람은 누구세요?' because 'saram' is neutral while 'seyo' is honorific, although people do say it in casual speech.

Phone Etiquette: When you don't know the caller: '여보세요? 누구세요?' (Hello? Who is it?). This is common when a caller starts talking without introducing themselves.

At the office: 찾으시는 분이 누구세요? (Who is the person you are looking for?). This uses the 'seyo' ending to ask about a third party respectfully.

Identifying Strangers: If someone approaches you on the street: 저를 아세요? 누구세요? (Do you know me? Who are you?).

In a store: 도와주실 분이 누구세요? (Who is the person who will help me?).

Asking about a photo: 이 아이는 누구세요? (Who is this child? - though for children, '누구예요' is more common, '누구세요' shows extra respect to the parents).

The phrase 누구세요? is ubiquitous in Korean daily life, and you will encounter it in various settings, both real and fictional. In the world of Korean dramas (K-Dramas), this phrase is a staple. It is often used to build tension. Imagine a character alone in a house at night; they hear a window shatter or a door creak, and they tremblingly ask, "누구세요...?". In this context, the politeness of the phrase contrasts with the fear of the character, highlighting the ingrained nature of Korean etiquette. You'll also hear it in romantic comedies when a character answers the door to find an unexpected suitor or a long-lost friend.

Daily Life: The most common place is at the front door of a home. Even with modern video intercoms, many Koreans still ask 누구세요? before pressing the button to unlock the door. It is a verbal confirmation of identity.

Delivery Culture: When a delivery person (taek-bae) knocks, the resident asks 누구세요? and the worker responds with '택배입니다' (It's delivery).

In professional environments, such as an office, if someone knocks on a closed office door, the person inside will often call out 누구세요? to know who is seeking entry before saying '들어오세요' (Please come in). On the streets of Korea, if someone taps you on the shoulder and you don't recognize them, 누구세요? is the natural response. It is polite enough not to cause offense if it turns out to be an old acquaintance, but clear enough to signal that you don't immediately know them.

Media Representation: In variety shows like 'Running Man' or 'Infinite Challenge,' cast members often use 누구세요? in a comedic way when a guest appears in a disguise or when they pretend not to know a fellow member who has had a makeover.

Public Spaces: At a busy reception desk, if a receptionist is momentarily distracted and looks up to see a new person, they might say 어떻게 오셨어요? 누구세요? (How can I help you? Who are you?).

Traditional Context: In older neighborhoods with traditional houses (Hanok), the phrase was shouted from the inner courtyard to the outer gate, bridging the physical and social gap between the private and public spheres.

Phone Scams: Nowadays, with the rise of voice phishing, 누구세요? is often said with a hint of skepticism when an unknown caller claims to be from a bank or government office.

In literature, the phrase is often used to symbolize the start of a journey or a mystery, as the protagonist encounters a new, unknown character.

One of the most frequent mistakes English speakers make when using 누구세요? is confusing it with a request for a name in a formal introduction. In English, "Who are you?" and "What is your name?" can sometimes be used interchangeably in casual settings. However, in Korean, 누구세요? is much more literal—it’s about identifying an unknown presence. If you are introduced to someone at a party or a business meeting, asking 누구세요? can come across as slightly blunt or even rude, as if you are questioning their right to be there. Instead, you should use '성함이 어떻게 되세요?' (What is your name?) or '어느 분이세요?' (Which person are you? / Who are you? - even more polite).

Mistake 1: Wrong Context: Using '누구세요?' during a formal introduction instead of '성함이 어떻게 되세요?'.

Incorrect: Meeting a CEO and saying 누구세요?. Correct: '만나서 반갑습니다. 성함이 어떻게 되시나요?' (Nice to meet you. What is your name?).

Another common error is the misuse of speech levels. While 누구세요? is polite, some learners might use the informal '누구야?' (Nugu-ya?) with people they don't know well. In Korea, using 'Ban-mal' (informal language) with a stranger is a major social faux pas and can lead to immediate conflict. Conversely, using 누구세요? with a very close friend or a younger sibling might sound overly stiff or even sarcastic, as if you are pretending not to know them to tease them.

Mistake 2: Intonation: Using a flat or falling intonation. In Korean, questions must clearly rise at the end to distinguish them from statements or commands, especially with the '-seyo' ending which can also be used for polite commands (e.g., 'Anjeuseyo' - Please sit).

Confusion with '누구예요?': While both are polite, 누구세요? is more respectful because of the '-si-' infix. Using '누구예요?' isn't wrong, but it lacks that extra layer of courtesy often expected when addressing an unknown adult.

Mistake 3: Over-honorification: Asking '누구십니까?' (Nugu-simnikka?) in a very casual setting. This is the 'Hasipsio-che' (formal polite) level. Unless you are a soldier, a security guard, or in a very formal business setting, it can sound unnaturally rigid.

Incorrect usage for objects: If you see a weird object and ask 누구세요?, it sounds like you think the object is a person. Use '이게 뭐예요?' (What is this?) instead.

Avoid saying '너는 누구니?' (Neon-eun nugu-ni?) to strangers. This is a very informal, 'downward' way of speaking used by elders to children. Using it as a learner will sound very strange.

Understanding the alternatives to 누구세요? is key to mastering the Korean speech level system. Depending on who you are talking to and the formality of the situation, you might need to swap this phrase for something more informal or more formal. The most direct alternative is '누구예요?' (Nugu-yeyo?). This is the standard polite form (He-yo-che). While 누구세요? uses the honorific '-si-', '누구예요?' does not. It is perfectly fine to use with people of a similar social standing or in casual but polite situations.

Comparison: 누구세요 vs. 누구예요: 누구세요? is 'Who are you (honored)?' while 누구예요? is 'Who are you (polite)?'. In most cases, 누구세요? is safer for strangers.

Formal Alternative: 누구십니까? (Nugu-simnikka?). This is used in the military, news broadcasts, or extremely formal business environments. It carries an air of authority and strictness.

On the informal side, we have '누구야?' (Nugu-ya?). This is 'Ban-mal' and should only be used with close friends, younger siblings, or children. If you hear a knock and you are 100% sure it is your best friend, you might shout '누구야?'. Another informal variant often used by older people when talking to children is '누구니?' (Nugu-ni?). It sounds softer and more inquisitive than '누구야?'.

Situational Alternatives: 1. '실례지만, 성함이 어떻게 되세요?' (Excuse me, what is your name?) - Use this for introductions. 2. '어떻게 오셨어요?' (How did you come here? / What brings you here?) - Use this at an office or reception desk. 3. '누구 찾으세요?' (Who are you looking for?) - Use this if someone seems lost or is looking around.

Comedic/Slang: In modern slang, people might say '누구...?' (Nugu...?) with a trailing voice to express confusion or to jokingly imply someone has changed so much they are unrecognizable.

Old-fashioned/Archaic: '게 누구냐?' (Ge nugu-nya?) - You will hear this in historical dramas (Sa-geuk) when a king or nobleman asks who is outside their chambers. It is very authoritative and outdated.

When talking about a third person: '그분은 누구세요?' (Who is that person?). This uses '그분' (geu-bun) to maintain the honorific level of the sentence.

If you see someone's ID card and want to confirm it's them: '본인 이세요?' (Are you the person yourself?). This is a more specific alternative to 누구세요?.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

In Middle Korean, 'nugu' was just 'nu'. The '-gu' was added later as a suffix that eventually fused with the root to become the standard word for 'who'.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /nu.ɡu.se.jo/

US /nu.ɡu.seɪ.joʊ/

Even stress on all syllables, but the final 'yo' is elongated in a question.

Rhymes With

주세요 (juseyo) 오세요 (oseyo) 계세요 (gyeseyo) 보세요 (boseyo) 하세요 (haseyo) 드세요 (deuseyo) 자세요 (jaseyo) 가세요 (gaseyo)

Common Errors

Pronouncing 'nugu' as 'noogoo' with a very hard 'oo' - keep it softer.
Forgetting the rising intonation, making it sound like a command.
Mumbling the 'se' syllable so it sounds like 'nugu-eyo'.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 1/5

Very easy to read, only 4 characters.

Writing 1/5

Simple stroke order, easy to memorize.

Speaking 2/5

Requires correct rising intonation.

Listening 1/5

Very distinct sound, easy to recognize.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

누구 (who) 안녕하세요 (hello)

Learn Next

뭐예요? (what is it?) 어디예요? (where is it?) 이에요/예요 (am/is/are)

Advanced

성함 (name - honorific) 분 (person - honorific)

Grammar to Know

Honorific Infix -si-

가다 -> 가시다, 누구 -> 누구세요

Polite Ending -eyo

학생이에요, 누구세요

Subject Dropping

(당신은) 누구세요? (Subject omitted)

Interrogative Pronouns

누구 (who), 뭐 (what), 어디 (where)

Rising Intonation for Questions

누구세요? (Pitch up)

Examples by Level

누구세요?

Who is it?

Standard polite question.

여보세요? 누구세요?

Hello? Who is it?

Used when an unknown caller speaks.

저기... 누구세요?

Excuse me... who are you?

Adding '저기' (jeo-gi) makes it softer.

이분은 누구세요?

Who is this person?

'I-bun' is the honorific for 'this person'.

선생님, 누구세요?

Teacher, who is it?

Addressing the teacher first.

누구세요? 택배예요?

Who is it? Is it a delivery?

Common follow-up question.

거기 누구세요?

Who is there?

'Geogi' means 'there'.

안녕하세요, 누구세요?

Hello, who are you?

Combining greeting and inquiry.

실례지만, 누구세요?

Excuse me, but who are you?

'Sil-lye-ji-man' adds extra politeness.

찾으시는 분이 누구세요?

Who is the person you are looking for?

Uses a descriptive clause.

전화하신 분은 누구세요?

Who is the person calling?

Topic marker 'eun' used for the caller.

이 사진에 있는 사람은 누구세요?

Who is the person in this photo?

Specific location in the photo.

아까 오신 분이 누구세요?

Who was the person who came earlier?

Past tense modifier 'osin'.

옆에 계신 분은 누구세요?

Who is the person next to you?

'Gyesin' is the honorific for 'staying/being'.

어머니, 이분은 누구세요?

Mother, who is this person?

Polite address to a parent.

저를 아시는 분이 누구세요?

Who is the person who knows me?

Honorific 'asin' (know).

지금 문 앞에 계신 분이 누구세요?

Who is the person currently at the door?

Specific spatial context.

저기서 노래하시는 분은 누구세요?

Who is that person singing over there?

Action-based identification.

아직 성함을 모르겠는데, 누구세요?

I don't know your name yet, so who are you?

Expressing lack of knowledge first.

저희 사무실에 오신 이유가 누구세요?

(Incorrect usage example) Who is the reason you came? -> Should be 'Who are you?'

Note: 'Nugu' must refer to a person, not a reason.

함께 오신 일행분은 누구세요?

Who is the companion you came with?

'Il-haeng' means group/companion.

새로 오신 선생님은 누구세요?

Who is the newly arrived teacher?

Adjective 'saero osin'.

어제 전화를 주셨던 분이 누구세요?

Who was the person who called yesterday?

Retrospective suffix '-deon'.

이 선물을 보내신 분이 누구세요?

Who is the person who sent this gift?

Identifying an anonymous sender.

혹시 아까 저를 부르신 분이 누구세요?

By any chance, who was the person who called me earlier?

'Hoksi' adds a layer of uncertainty.

저기 정장을 입고 계신 분은 누구세요?

Who is the person wearing a suit over there?

Describing clothing.

우리 팀의 새로운 팀장님이 누구세요?

Who is our team's new manager?

Asking about a specific role.

이 프로젝트를 담당하시는 분이 누구세요?

Who is the person in charge of this project?

'Dam-dang-haneun' means 'in charge of'.

저희 어머니와 아시는 사이인 누구세요?

Who are you that knows my mother?

Asking about a relationship.

이 편지를 쓰신 분이 대체 누구세요?

Who on earth is the person who wrote this letter?

'Dae-che' adds emphasis/frustration.

예약하신 분 성함이... 아, 누구세요?

The name of the person who reserved... ah, who are you?

Correcting a mid-sentence thought.

오늘 발표를 맡으신 분이 누구세요?

Who is the person in charge of today's presentation?

'Mat-eun' means 'taking on a task'.

작품 속에서 이 역할을 맡은 배우가 누구세요?

Who is the actor who played this role in the work?

Inquiry about artistic roles.

이 건물의 소유주라고 주장하시는 분이 누구세요?

Who is the person claiming to be the owner of this building?

'Ju-jang-haneun' means 'claiming'.

전통적인 관점에서 이 의례를 집전하시는 분이 누구세요?

From a traditional perspective, who is the person presiding over this ritual?

Specialized vocabulary (uirae, jip-jeon).

현대 사회에서 '진정한 이웃'은 누구세요?

(Metaphorical) In modern society, who is a 'true neighbor'?

Using the phrase for philosophical inquiry.

이 민원을 제기하신 분이 정확히 누구세요?

Who exactly is the person who filed this civil complaint?

Administrative context.

가면 뒤에 숨어 있는 진짜 당신은 누구세요?

Who is the real you hiding behind the mask?

Literary/Dramatic usage.

이 역사적 사건의 배후에 있는 인물은 누구세요?

Who is the figure behind this historical event?

'Bae-hu' means 'behind the scenes'.

저희 가문의 어른들 중에서 이분은 누구세요?

Among the elders of our clan, who is this person?

Clan/Family context.

담론의 주체로서 질문을 던지는 당신은 누구세요?

As the subject of the discourse, who are you that throws the question?

Academic/Philosophical register.

이 복잡한 권력 구조의 정점에 서 있는 분은 누구세요?

Who is the person standing at the pinnacle of this complex power structure?

Advanced metaphorical usage.

사회적 가면을 벗어던진 인간 본연의 모습은 누구세요?

(Abstract) Who is the natural human form stripped of social masks?

Existential inquiry.

이 텍스트의 숨은 저자라고 할 수 있는 분은 누구세요?

Who is the person who can be called the hidden author of this text?

Literary criticism context.

법적 공방의 중심에 서 있는 피고인은 누구세요?

Who is the defendant standing at the center of the legal battle?

Legal register.

초월적 존재로서 우리에게 손을 내미는 분은 누구세요?

Who is the one reaching out to us as a transcendental being?

Spiritual/Theological register.

디지털 익명성 속에 숨어 비난을 일삼는 당신은 누구세요?

Who are you that hides in digital anonymity and indulges in criticism?

Social commentary.

시대의 아픔을 온몸으로 겪어낸 그분은 누구세요?

Who is that person who experienced the pain of the era with their whole body?

Poetic/Emotive register.

Common Collocations

거기 누구세요?

실례지만 누구세요?

이분은 누구세요?

전화하신 분 누구세요?

문 앞에 누구세요?

찾으시는 분 누구세요?

도와주실 분 누구세요?

담당하시는 분 누구세요?

함께 오신 분 누구세요?

저를 아시는 분 누구세요?

Common Phrases

누구세요? 택배예요?

— Who is it? Is it a delivery? (Very common at home).

벨이 울리자 '누구세요? 택배예요?'라고 외쳤다.

누구세요? 저 아세요?

— Who are you? Do you know me? (Used when a stranger approaches).

갑자기 말을 거는 사람에게 '누구세요? 저 아세요?'라고 했다.

거기 누구세요? 아무도 없어요?

— Who's there? Is nobody there? (Searching a space).

빈 집에서 '거기 누구세요? 아무도 없어요?'라고 물었다.

이 아이는 누구세요?

— Who is this child? (Asking parents respectfully).

친구의 아기 사진을 보고 '이 아이는 누구세요?'라고 물었다.

전화 잘못 거셨어요. 누구세요?

— You have the wrong number. Who are you?

모르는 번호로 전화가 오자 '전화 잘못 거셨어요. 누구세요?'라고 했다.

그분은 누구세요? 유명한 사람이에요?

— Who is that person? Are they famous?

TV를 보며 '그분은 누구세요? 유명한 사람이에요?'라고 물었다.

누구세요? 들어오세요.

— Who is it? Please come in.

노크 소리에 '누구세요? 들어오세요'라고 답했다.

누구세요? 성함 좀 말씀해 주세요.

— Who is it? Please tell me your name.

신원 확인을 위해 '누구세요? 성함 좀 말씀해 주세요'라고 했다.

어머, 누구세요? 못 알아봤어요!

— Oh, who are you? I didn't recognize you! (After a makeover).

친구가 안경을 벗자 '어머, 누구세요? 못 알아봤어요!'라고 농담했다.

누구세요? 제가 도와드릴까요?

— Who are you? Can I help you?

서성이는 사람에게 '누구세요? 제가 도와드릴까요?'라고 물었다.

Often Confused With

누구세요? vs 누구예요?

Both are polite, but '누구세요?' is more respectful toward the stranger.

누구세요? vs 누구십니까?

'누구십니까?' is much more formal and stiff, like a soldier speaking.

누구세요? vs 성함이 어떻게 되세요?

Use this for formal introductions; '누구세요?' is for identifying someone unknown.

Idioms & Expressions

"누구 좋으라고"

— For whose benefit (often rhetorical/sarcastic).

내가 그 일을 누구 좋으라고 하겠니?

Informal

"누구 코에 붙이다"

— To be barely enough (usually food).

이 과자 한 개로 누구 코에 붙이겠어?

Neutral

"누구 하나 죽어도 모르다"

— To be so busy or chaotic that one wouldn't notice if someone died.

시장이 너무 복잡해서 누구 하나 죽어도 모르겠어.

Informal

"누구랄 것도 없이"

— Everyone, without exception.

그 소식에 누구랄 것도 없이 모두 기뻐했다.

Neutral

"누구 손에 죽으려고"

— Are you trying to get yourself killed? (Hyperbolic).

너 지금 누구 손에 죽으려고 그런 짓을 해?

Slang

"누구 마음대로"

— By whose permission? (Often angry).

이걸 누구 마음대로 버린 거야?

Informal

"누구보다도"

— More than anyone else.

나는 누구보다도 너를 믿어.

Neutral

"누구 할 것 없이"

— Everyone alike.

아이부터 어른까지 누구 할 것 없이 춤을 췄다.

Neutral

"누구 눈에 들다"

— To catch someone's eye / gain favor.

그는 사장님 눈에 들려고 열심히 일한다.

Neutral

"누구 입을 막다"

— To silence someone (often with a bribe).

돈으로 누구 입을 막으려고 그래?

Informal

Easily Confused

누구세요? vs 누구

It just means 'who' but needs an ending to be a sentence.

'누구' is a pronoun; '누구세요?' is a complete question.

누구 만나요?

누구세요? vs 누구게

Sounds similar but means 'Guess who?'.

'누구게' is a game/tease; '누구세요?' is a genuine inquiry.

나 누구게?

누구세요? vs 누구든지

Contains 'nugu'.

Means 'whoever' or 'anyone', not a question.

누구든지 오세요.

누구세요? vs 누군가

Contains 'nugu'.

Means 'someone'.

누군가 왔어요.

누구세요? vs 누구야

Informal version.

Rude to use with strangers; okay with friends.

야, 너 누구야?

Sentence Patterns

누구세요?

[Noun]은 누구세요?

이분은 누구세요?

실례지만 누구세요?

찾으시는 분이 누구세요?

[Verb]하시는 분이 누구세요?

노래하시는 분이 누구세요?

[Place]에 있는 사람은 누구세요?

방에 있는 사람은 누구세요?

[Past Verb]던 분이 누구세요?

어제 왔던 분이 누구세요?

대체 누구세요?

Word Family

Nouns

누구 (who)

Verbs

-시다 (honorific copula base)

누구든지 (anyone)

누군가 (someone)

아무도 (nobody)

누구누구 (who all)

어느 분 (which person)

How to Use It

frequency

Extremely High in daily life.

Common Mistakes

누구세 → 누구세요?
'누구세' is an incomplete sentence. You must add '요' to make it polite and grammatically correct.
누구야? (to a stranger) → 누구세요?
Using 'Ban-mal' (informal) with someone you don't know is considered very rude in Korea.
누구예요? (to an elder) → 누구세요?
While '누구예요?' is polite, '누구세요?' is much better for elders because it includes the honorific marker.
이것은 누구세요? → 이게 뭐예요?
'누구' only refers to people. For objects, you must use '뭐' (what).
Falling intonation → Rising intonation
A falling intonation can make the question sound like a command or a statement, which is incorrect for a question.

Tips

Respect the Unknown

In Korea, you should always assume a stranger deserves respect. Using '누구세요?' instead of '누구야?' is the easiest way to show you are a polite person.

The Rising Tone

Always make sure your voice goes up at the end. If it goes down, it might sound like a command, which is confusing.

Phone Manners

If you get a call from a number you don't know, say '여보세요?' first. If they don't speak, then say '누구세요?'.

The '-si-' Infix

Remember that 'seyo' is a contraction of 'si' + 'eoyo'. This 'si' is the key to making the phrase respectful.

Introductions

When meeting someone for the first time at a meeting, avoid '누구세요?'. Use '성함이 어떻게 되세요?' to be more professional.

Stranger Danger

Teach children to say '누구세요?' through the door and not to open it until they know who it is.

Drama Clues

When watching K-dramas, listen for how characters say '누구세요?'. Their tone will tell you if they are happy, scared, or suspicious.

Photo Identifying

When looking at old family photos with a Korean friend, use '이분은 누구세요?' to ask about their relatives.

Knocking Protocol

If you knock on a door and hear '누구세요?', immediately state your name and why you are there.

Master the Basics

This is one of the top 50 phrases every Korean learner needs. Master it early and you'll use it forever.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'Nugu' sounding like 'New Guy'. When a 'New Guy' knocks on your door, you say 'Nugu-seyo?' to find out who he is.

Visual Association

Imagine a person looking through a peephole at a door with a giant question mark over their head, whispering 'Nugu-seyo?'.

Word Web

누구 (Who) 세요 (Polite Ending) 문 (Door) 전화 (Phone) 낯선 사람 (Stranger) 존댓말 (Honorifics) 정체 (Identity) 질문 (Question)

Challenge

Try saying '누구세요?' with three different emotions: curiosity, fear, and boredom. Notice how your intonation changes.

Word Origin

Derived from the Middle Korean interrogative pronoun '누' (nu) and the suffix '-구' (gu). The ending '-세요' is a modern contraction of the honorific infix '-시-' and the polite ending '-어요'.

Original meaning: Who is [it]?

Koreanic

Cultural Context

Never use '누구야?' with elders or in professional settings. Stick to '누구세요?' to avoid giving offense.

In English, 'Who is it?' is neutral. In Korean, '누구세요?' is actively polite and respectful.

Often heard in K-dramas like 'Goblin' or 'Crash Landing on You' when characters meet for the first time. Used in the children's song 'Who is it?' (누구일까?) to teach animal sounds.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

At the door

누구세요?
택배예요?
잠시만요!
누구 찾으세요?

On the phone

여보세요?
누구세요?
전화 잘못 거셨어요.
누구 찾으세요?

Looking at photos

이분은 누구세요?
어렸을 때 누구세요?
옆에 누구세요?
누구신지 모르겠어요.

Meeting a stranger

누구세요?
저 아세요?
실례지만 누구세요?
어떻게 오셨어요?

In an office

누구세요? 들어오세요.
찾으시는 분 누구세요?
담당자 누구세요?
누구신지 여쭤봐도 될까요?

Conversation Starters

"실례지만, 저기 계신 분은 누구세요?"

"이 사진 속의 아이는 누구세요? 정말 귀엽네요!"

"혹시 아까 전화하신 분이 누구세요?"

"새로 오신 이웃분은 누구세요?"

"오늘 우리 집에 올 사람이 누구세요?"

Journal Prompts

오늘 처음 본 사람이 누구세요? 그분과 무슨 이야기를 했나요?

집에 모르는 사람이 찾아오면 어떻게 '누구세요?'라고 물을 건가요?

가장 좋아하는 연예인은 누구세요? 왜 좋아하나요?

꿈속에서 만난 신비로운 사람은 누구세요?

나를 가장 잘 아는 사람은 누구세요?

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

No, it is the standard polite way to ask 'Who is it?' in Korean. It uses honorifics to show respect to the person being asked.

Technically yes, but it's better to use '성함이 어떻게 되세요?' in formal introductions. '누구세요?' is more for identifying a stranger at the door.

'누구세요?' is more respectful because it contains the honorific marker '-si-'. '누구예요?' is standard polite.

You should say '[Your Name]이에요/예요' or state your purpose, like '택배예요' (It's delivery).

You can, but it might sound like you are joking or being overly formal. Use '누구야?' for friends.

The 'si' is an honorific infix that shows respect to the subject of the sentence (the person you are asking about).

Yes, it is very common on the phone when an unknown caller doesn't introduce themselves.

Yes, but in a polite way. In English, 'Who are you?' can be blunt, but in Korean, '누구세요?' is the standard courtesy.

Yes, but '누구니?' or '누구야?' is more natural for children.

If you say it with a sharp, low tone, it can sound suspicious or annoyed, but the words themselves remain polite.

Test Yourself 190 questions

writing

Translate 'Who is it?' into polite Korean.

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

The standard phrase is '누구세요?'.