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~ (으)ㄹ게요

A1 auxiliary #1,200 most common 14 min read

~ (으)ㄹ게요

-(eu)lgeyo Top 1,200

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips ~ (으)ㄹ게요 in 30 Seconds

Explanation ~ (으)ㄹ게요 in your Level:

At the A1 level, learners are introduced to ~ (으)ㄹ게요 as a fundamental tool for basic daily interactions. The primary focus is on understanding that this pattern means 'I will do something' and is used when talking to another person. Beginners learn the essential conjugation rules: adding ~ㄹ게요 to verb stems ending in a vowel (like 가다 -> 갈게요) and ~을게요 to stems ending in a consonant (like 먹다 -> 먹을게요). The vocabulary used at this stage consists of highly frequent, everyday action verbs such as eating, going, seeing, and doing. Learners practice using this form to make simple promises or volunteer for straightforward tasks, such as saying '제가 할게요' (I will do it) when someone asks for help. The concept of irregular verbs is introduced gently, focusing on the most common ones like 듣다 (들을게요) and 만들다 (만들게요). At this level, the distinction between ~ (으)ㄹ게요 and ~ (으)ㄹ 거예요 might still be slightly blurry, but the emphasis is on rote memorization of common phrases and building confidence in speaking. Teachers encourage students to use this pattern in role-plays, simulating scenarios like ordering food at a restaurant or making simple plans with classmates. The goal is to establish a solid foundation in the mechanical application of the grammar rule while fostering an intuitive sense that this form is inherently polite and cooperative. By mastering these basics, A1 learners can successfully navigate simple social exchanges and begin to sound more natural in their Korean communication.

As learners progress to the A2 level, their understanding of ~ (으)ㄹ게요 deepens, and they begin to use it in more varied and complex situations. The vocabulary expands significantly, allowing students to make promises and express intentions regarding a wider range of activities, such as studying, working, traveling, and socializing. The conjugation rules, including all major irregular forms (ㄹ, ㄷ, ㅂ), are expected to be fully internalized and applied with greater accuracy and speed. At this stage, the crucial distinction between ~ (으)ㄹ게요 (a promise or reaction to the listener) and ~ (으)ㄹ 거예요 (a general statement of future fact) is explicitly taught and heavily practiced. Learners are trained to recognize the contextual cues that dictate which form is appropriate. For example, they learn that if a friend says they are cold, responding with '창문을 닫을게요' (I will close the window) is correct, whereas '창문을 닫을 거예요' would sound unnatural. Furthermore, A2 students begin to combine ~ (으)ㄹ게요 with other grammatical structures, such as time expressions (내일, 나중에) and adverbs (빨리, 열심히), to create more detailed and nuanced sentences. They also practice using the pattern in common conversational routines, such as ending phone calls ('나중에 전화할게요') or confirming appointments ('내일 뵐게요'). The focus shifts from mere mechanical accuracy to pragmatic appropriateness, ensuring that learners not only say the words correctly but also use them in the right social context to build rapport and demonstrate politeness.

At the B1 level, learners possess a strong command of the ~ (으)ㄹ게요 pattern and use it fluidly in a wide array of conversational contexts. The focus shifts towards understanding the subtle pragmatic nuances and emotional undertones conveyed by this structure. Students explore how ~ (으)ㄹ게요 functions not just as a promise, but as a tool for managing interpersonal relationships, showing empathy, and demonstrating a cooperative attitude. They learn to use it to soften refusals or to offer alternatives, such as '오늘은 바빠서 내일 갈게요' (I am busy today, so I will go tomorrow). The vocabulary used in conjunction with this pattern becomes more sophisticated, encompassing abstract concepts and professional terminology. B1 learners also begin to analyze authentic materials, such as dramas, podcasts, and informal written texts, to observe how native speakers deploy ~ (으)ㄹ게요 in real-time discourse. They notice how it is often used in rapid-fire exchanges to quickly establish consensus or to take charge of a situation. Additionally, learners refine their pronunciation, paying close attention to the natural linking of sounds and the appropriate intonation patterns that accompany this structure. They understand that a slightly rising intonation can make the statement sound more like a gentle offer, while a falling intonation sounds more like a firm commitment. By the end of the B1 level, students can use ~ (으)ㄹ게요 with confidence and precision, adapting their language to suit the specific social dynamics of their interactions.

In the B2 level, the application of ~ (으)ㄹ게요 extends into more formal and professional domains. While the pattern is inherently conversational, B2 learners discover how it can be appropriately utilized in workplace settings to demonstrate initiative, reliability, and respect for colleagues and superiors. They learn to navigate the delicate balance between the slightly informal ~ (으)ㄹ게요 and the highly formal ~겠습니다. For instance, in a team meeting, saying '제가 보고서를 작성할게요' (I will write the report) is perfectly acceptable and shows a proactive attitude, whereas in a formal presentation to the CEO, '작성하겠습니다' might be preferred. Learners practice using ~ (으)ㄹ게요 in emails, memos, and professional messaging platforms, understanding the specific register and tone required for written communication. They also explore the use of this pattern in complex negotiations and conflict resolution, where making clear, reliable promises is crucial for building trust. Furthermore, B2 students delve into the sociolinguistic aspects of the pattern, analyzing how its usage varies depending on age, gender, and social hierarchy. They learn that overusing ~ (으)ㄹ게요 with someone significantly older or higher in status might sometimes be perceived as slightly presumptuous, as it implies a level of familiarity. Through extensive role-playing and analysis of authentic business interactions, B2 learners develop a highly nuanced understanding of when and how to deploy this pattern to achieve their communicative goals effectively and appropriately in diverse professional and social environments.

At the C1 level, learners exhibit near-native proficiency in their use of ~ (으)ㄹ게요, employing it effortlessly to navigate complex social dynamics and achieve sophisticated communicative objectives. They possess a deep understanding of the pattern's pragmatic functions, using it not only to make promises but also to manage discourse flow, signal transitions, and mitigate face-threatening acts. For example, they might use it to gently interrupt a conversation ('제가 한 말씀만 드릴게요' - Let me just say one thing) or to gracefully exit a demanding situation. C1 learners are highly sensitive to the subtle emotional resonances of the pattern, recognizing how it can convey warmth, reassurance, determination, or even passive-aggressiveness depending on the context and intonation. They can seamlessly integrate ~ (으)ㄹ게요 into long, complex sentences, combining it with advanced grammatical structures and idiomatic expressions. Furthermore, they are capable of analyzing the stylistic choices made by authors and speakers when they use this pattern in literature, journalism, and public speaking. They understand how the choice between ~ (으)ㄹ게요, ~ (으)ㄹ 거예요, and ~겠- can significantly alter the tone and impact of a message. At this level, learners also engage in metalinguistic discussions about the pattern, comparing its usage across different Korean dialects and observing how its frequency and function might be evolving in contemporary spoken Korean. Their mastery of ~ (으)ㄹ게요 is characterized by a high degree of flexibility, creativity, and sociolinguistic awareness.

For C2 learners, the ~ (으)ㄹ게요 pattern is fully integrated into their intuitive grasp of the Korean language. They wield it with the same unconscious competence as a native speaker, utilizing it to express the most subtle shades of meaning and intention. At this pinnacle of proficiency, learners can manipulate the pattern for rhetorical effect, using it in persuasive speeches, creative writing, and high-stakes negotiations. They understand the historical evolution of the '요' polite form and how ~ (으)ㄹ게요 fits into the broader system of Korean honorifics and speech levels. C2 learners can critically evaluate the sociolinguistic implications of using this pattern in various media, such as political discourse, advertising, and digital communication. They recognize how it can be used to construct a specific persona, such as a friendly brand voice or an approachable public figure. Furthermore, they are adept at recognizing and producing highly idiomatic or unconventional uses of the pattern that might deviate from standard grammar rules but are common in authentic colloquial speech. Their understanding transcends mere grammatical accuracy; it encompasses a profound appreciation for the cultural and psychological dimensions of making promises and expressing volition in Korean society. C2 learners can articulate the intricate relationship between language, thought, and social interaction that is encapsulated in this seemingly simple grammar pattern, demonstrating a mastery that is both linguistic and deeply cultural.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

~ (으)ㄹ게요 in 30 Seconds

Expresses 'I will' or a promise.
Only used with first-person ('I' or 'We').
Cannot be used in questions.
Attached only to action verbs.

The Korean grammar pattern ~ (으)ㄹ게요 is an essential and highly frequently used auxiliary expression that conveys the speaker's intention, volition, or a promise made to the listener. When you append this pattern to the stem of an action verb, you are effectively stating, 'I will do this action,' but with a specific nuance that differentiates it from other future tense markers in the Korean language. The core characteristic of ~ (으)ㄹ게요 is that it is inherently interactive and relational; it is used when your future action is a direct response to, or is done for the benefit of, the person you are speaking to. This makes it an indispensable tool for daily communication, polite offers, and cooperative situations. To truly master this pattern, learners must understand that it cannot be used in a vacuum. You use it when you want to reassure someone, volunteer for a task, or confirm that you will comply with a request. For instance, if someone asks who will clean the room, you would use this pattern to volunteer yourself. It is a way of showing consideration and responsiveness in a conversation.

Intention: Expressing a clear, personal decision to perform an action in the immediate or near future, often as a volunteer.

제가 할게요.

Furthermore, the usage of this pattern is strictly limited to the first person. You can only use it to talk about what 'I' or 'we' will do. You cannot use it to describe what a third person will do, nor can you use it to ask a question about what the listener will do. This restriction is a direct consequence of its function as a promise or a declaration of personal volition. When you say you will do something using this pattern, you are taking personal responsibility for that action. In social contexts, using ~ (으)ㄹ게요 softens your statements and makes you sound more cooperative and polite. It is widely used in workplaces, among friends, and in service encounters. For example, a waiter might use it to confirm they will bring your order, or a colleague might use it to promise they will send an email.

Promise: Making a commitment to the listener that an action will be completed, creating a sense of reliability and trust.

내일 갈게요.

The pattern is attached directly to the verb stem. The choice between ~ㄹ게요 and ~을게요 depends entirely on the final sound of the verb stem. If the verb stem ends in a vowel, you attach ~ㄹ게요. If the verb stem ends in a consonant, you attach ~을게요. This phonological rule ensures smooth pronunciation and maintains the rhythmic flow of the Korean language. There are also irregular verbs that require special attention, which we will explore in detail in the following sections. Understanding the underlying mechanics of this grammar point will significantly enhance your ability to communicate naturally and effectively in Korean.

나중에 전화할게요.

Reaction: Responding to a situation or a statement made by the listener, showing that your action is contingent upon their input.

제가 도와줄게요.

In summary, mastering ~ (으)ㄹ게요 is a crucial step for any Korean learner. It bridges the gap between simple factual statements about the future and nuanced, socially aware communication. By using this pattern, you demonstrate your understanding of Korean interpersonal dynamics, where acknowledging the listener and showing a willingness to cooperate are highly valued. As you practice, pay close attention to the contexts in which native speakers use this form, and you will soon find yourself making promises and offering help with confidence and natural fluency.

메시지 남길게요.

Constructing sentences with the ~ (으)ㄹ게요 pattern requires a solid understanding of Korean verb conjugation rules, specifically how suffixes attach to verb stems based on their final sounds. The fundamental rule is straightforward: you must first isolate the verb stem by removing the '다' from the dictionary form of the verb. Once you have the stem, you look at its final letter. If the verb stem ends in a vowel, which means it does not have a final consonant or 'batchim', you attach the consonant 'ㄹ' directly to the bottom of the final syllable block, and then add '게요'. For example, the verb '가다' (to go) has the stem '가'. Since '가' ends in a vowel, you add 'ㄹ' to make '갈', resulting in '갈게요' (I will go). This rule applies to a vast number of common verbs, such as '보다' (to see) becoming '볼게요', '하다' (to do) becoming '할게요', and '마시다' (to drink) becoming '마실게요'. This smooth transition makes pronunciation easy and natural.

Vowel Ending: When the verb stem ends in a vowel, attach ㄹ to the bottom of the syllable, followed by 게요.

공부할게요.

Conversely, if the verb stem ends in a consonant (batchim), you cannot simply add another consonant to the bottom of the block. Instead, you must use the syllable '을' as a bridge before adding '게요'. Therefore, you attach '~을게요' to the verb stem. For instance, the verb '먹다' (to eat) has the stem '먹'. Because '먹' ends in the consonant 'ㄱ', you add '을게요', resulting in '먹을게요' (I will eat). Other examples include '읽다' (to read) becoming '읽을게요', '입다' (to wear) becoming '입을게요', and '찾다' (to find) becoming '찾을게요'. The addition of the '으' sound facilitates pronunciation, preventing awkward consonant clusters that are not permissible in Korean phonotactics. It is crucial to practice reading these aloud to get a feel for the natural rhythm and liaison (linking) of the final consonant into the '으' syllable.

Consonant Ending: When the verb stem ends in a consonant, attach 을게요 to create a smooth phonetic transition.

밥을 먹을게요.

Beyond the basic vowel and consonant rules, learners must navigate several irregular verb conjugations. The most common is the 'ㄹ' irregular. If a verb stem already ends in the consonant 'ㄹ', such as '만들다' (to make) or '살다' (to live), you do not add '을게요'. Instead, you treat the existing 'ㄹ' as if it were the 'ㄹ' from the grammar pattern, and simply attach '게요'. Thus, '만들다' becomes '만들게요' (I will make), and '살다' becomes '살게요' (I will live). Another important irregularity is the 'ㄷ' irregular. For verbs like '듣다' (to listen) or '걷다' (to walk), the final 'ㄷ' changes to 'ㄹ' before adding '을게요'. Therefore, '듣다' becomes '들을게요' (I will listen), and '걷다' becomes '걸을게요' (I will walk). Finally, the 'ㅂ' irregular applies to verbs like '돕다' (to help) or '굽다' (to bake). The 'ㅂ' changes to '우', and since '우' is a vowel, you add 'ㄹ게요', making '도울게요' (I will help). Mastering these irregulars is essential for fluent communication.

음악을 들을게요.

Irregular Verbs: Specific verbs undergo stem changes before attaching the pattern, such as ㄷ changing to ㄹ or ㅂ changing to 우.

케이크를 만들게요.

제가 도울게요.

The grammar pattern ~ (으)ㄹ게요 is ubiquitous in everyday Korean life, serving as the linguistic glue that holds together cooperative interactions and polite exchanges. You will hear it constantly in a wide variety of settings, from casual hangouts with friends to formal office environments and customer service interactions. One of the most common places you will encounter this pattern is in restaurants and cafes. When a waiter takes your order, they will often confirm it by saying '준비해 드릴게요' (I will prepare it for you) or '가져다 드릴게요' (I will bring it to you). Similarly, when you are ready to pay, you might say '제가 계산할게요' (I will pay), which is a common phrase used when offering to treat someone to a meal. In these service contexts, the pattern demonstrates attentiveness and a commitment to fulfilling the customer's needs, making it an essential part of the hospitality vocabulary.

Service Industry: Used extensively by staff to confirm orders and assure customers that their requests will be handled promptly.

금방 가져다 드릴게요.

In the workplace, ~ (으)ㄹ게요 is an indispensable tool for managing tasks and demonstrating teamwork. When a manager assigns a project, an employee will typically respond with '네, 제가 할게요' (Yes, I will do it) to show their willingness to take on the responsibility. It is also used when coordinating with colleagues, such as saying '이메일로 보낼게요' (I will send it by email) or '내일 회의에서 발표할게요' (I will present at tomorrow's meeting). Using this pattern in a professional setting conveys reliability and a proactive attitude. It reassures your coworkers that you are dependable and that they can count on you to complete your assigned duties. Without this pattern, workplace communication would sound overly blunt or lack the necessary interpersonal warmth that fosters a collaborative environment.

Workplace: Employed to accept tasks, confirm actions, and demonstrate a proactive and cooperative attitude among colleagues.

서류를 확인할게요.

Furthermore, this pattern is incredibly common in phone conversations and digital messaging. When ending a phone call, it is standard practice to say '나중에 다시 전화할게요' (I will call you back later) or '끊을게요' (I will hang up now). In text messages, friends often use it to make plans or confirm arrangements, such as '도착하면 연락할게요' (I will contact you when I arrive) or '사진 보낼게요' (I will send the photos). In these contexts, the pattern acts as a conversational closer or a transition to the next step in the interaction. It provides a clear signal of what the speaker intends to do next, ensuring that both parties are on the same page. By mastering the use of ~ (으)ㄹ게요 in these various real-world scenarios, learners can significantly improve their ability to navigate Korean society smoothly and politely.

이만 끊을게요.

Social Plans: Used to confirm details, promise future contact, and coordinate logistics when meeting with friends or acquaintances.

도착해서 문자할게요.

제가 예약할게요.

When learning the ~ (으)ㄹ게요 pattern, students frequently encounter several specific pitfalls that can lead to unnatural or grammatically incorrect sentences. The most prominent and common mistake is attempting to use this pattern with a third-person subject. Because ~ (으)ㄹ게요 inherently expresses the speaker's personal intention or a promise made directly to the listener, it is logically impossible to use it to describe what someone else will do. For example, saying '제 친구가 내일 갈게요' (My friend will go tomorrow) is entirely incorrect. You cannot make a promise on behalf of your friend's intentions using this specific grammar structure. Instead, when talking about a third person's future actions, you must use the more general future tense pattern, ~ (으)ㄹ 거예요, resulting in '제 친구가 내일 갈 거예요'. Understanding this restriction is paramount for accurate communication.

Subject Restriction: Never use this pattern with third-person subjects; it is strictly reserved for first-person intentions and promises.

마이클이 갈 거예요. (Not 갈게요)

Another frequent error is using ~ (으)ㄹ게요 in interrogative sentences (questions). Since the pattern is a declaration of the speaker's intent, it does not make sense to ask a question with it. You cannot ask someone, '내일 갈게요?' to mean 'Will you go tomorrow?'. If you want to ask about the listener's intentions or future plans, you should use ~ (으)ㄹ 거예요? or the more polite ~ (으)실 거예요?. For instance, '내일 가실 거예요?' is the correct way to inquire about someone's future action. The only exception, which is highly advanced and nuanced, is when you are talking to yourself in a contemplative manner, but for standard interpersonal communication, ~ (으)ㄹ게요 must remain a declarative statement. Mixing up declarative and interrogative future forms is a sure sign of a beginner.

No Questions: Do not use this pattern to ask questions about the listener's future actions; use it only for statements.

언제 오실 거예요? (Not 올게요?)

Furthermore, learners sometimes mistakenly attach ~ (으)ㄹ게요 to descriptive verbs (adjectives). This pattern is exclusively used with action verbs because you can only promise or intend to perform an action; you cannot promise to 'be' an adjective in this grammatical sense. For example, you cannot say '내일 바쁠게요' to mean 'I promise to be busy tomorrow'. If you want to express a future state or a guess about a future condition, you must use ~ (으)ㄹ 거예요. Therefore, '내일 바플 거예요' (I will probably be busy tomorrow) is the correct formulation. Always ensure that the stem you are attaching ~ (으)ㄹ게요 to represents a concrete action that you have control over and can actively execute. By avoiding these three major pitfalls—third-person subjects, questions, and adjectives—you will use this pattern with the accuracy of a native speaker.

날씨가 좋을 거예요. (Not 좋을게요)

Action Verbs Only: This pattern requires volition, which means it can only be attached to verbs that describe an action you can control.

제가 청소할게요.

제가 설명할게요.

Understanding the nuances of ~ (으)ㄹ게요 requires comparing it with other future tense and intention markers in Korean, primarily ~ (으)ㄹ 거예요, ~겠-, and ~ (으)려고 하다. The most common point of confusion is between ~ (으)ㄹ게요 and ~ (으)ㄹ 거예요. While both can translate to 'I will' in English, their pragmatic functions are distinct. ~ (으)ㄹ 거예요 is a general future tense marker. It states a fact or a strong probability about the future, independent of the listener's reaction. You can use it for first, second, or third-person subjects, and with both action and descriptive verbs. For example, '저는 내일 파리에 갈 거예요' simply states your future plan to go to Paris. In contrast, '저는 내일 파리에 갈게요' implies that your going to Paris is a promise to the listener, perhaps because they asked you to go or because your going benefits them in some way. ~ (으)ㄹ게요 is inherently relational, whereas ~ (으)ㄹ 거예요 is informational.

vs. ~(으)ㄹ 거예요: Use ~(으)ㄹ 거예요 for general future facts or plans, and ~(으)ㄹ게요 for promises and reactive intentions.

비가 올 거예요.

Another important comparison is with the suffix ~겠-. Like ~ (으)ㄹ게요, ~겠- can express the speaker's strong intention or volition. However, ~겠- is generally more formal and often sounds more resolute or determined. It is frequently used in formal settings, such as news broadcasts, official announcements, or when speaking to superiors. For example, '최선을 다하겠습니다' (I will do my best) sounds highly professional and committed. If you were to say '최선을 다할게요', it would still mean you will do your best, but it sounds softer, more conversational, and slightly less formal. Furthermore, ~겠- can be used to make assumptions or guesses about the present or future (e.g., '맛있겠다' - That looks delicious), a function that ~ (으)ㄹ게요 completely lacks. Choosing between the two often comes down to the desired level of formality and the strength of the intention being expressed.

vs. ~겠-: ~겠- is more formal and resolute, often used in professional contexts, while ~(으)ㄹ게요 is softer and more conversational.

제가 하겠습니다.

Finally, learners should distinguish ~ (으)ㄹ게요 from ~ (으)려고 하다, which translates to 'I am planning to' or 'I intend to'. This pattern describes an internal plan or intention that has been formed prior to the conversation. It does not carry the nuance of a promise to the listener. For instance, '한국어를 공부하려고 해요' means 'I am planning to study Korean'. It is a statement about your personal goals. If you say '한국어를 공부할게요', you are making a promise to the listener that you will study Korean, perhaps in response to their advice or encouragement. ~ (으)려고 하다 is about premeditated plans, while ~ (으)ㄹ게요 is often a spontaneous decision made in the context of the current interaction. By mastering these distinctions, you will be able to express your future actions with precise nuance and cultural appropriateness.

내일 가려고 해요.

vs. ~(으)려고 하다: Use ~(으)려고 하다 for premeditated personal plans, not for making promises to the person you are speaking with.

제가 도와줄게요.

밥을 먹을게요.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

Even though it is spelled '게요', native Koreans almost universally pronounce it as '께요' due to a phonological rule called tensification, where the 'ㄹ' sound causes the following consonant to become tense.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /-(ɯ)l.k͈e.jo/

US /-(ɯ)l.k͈e.jo/

The stress or pitch often rises slightly on the final '요' to sound polite and friendly.

Rhymes With

할게요 갈게요 볼게요 살게요 줄게요 올게요 잘게요 탈게요

Common Errors

Pronouncing '게' with a soft 'g' sound instead of the tense, double consonant 'ㄲ' (k͈) sound. It should sound like '께요'.
Failing to link the final consonant of the verb stem to the '으' in '을게요'. For example, '먹을게요' should be pronounced as [머글께요].
Using a falling intonation which can make the promise sound aggressive or overly blunt, rather than cooperative.
Mispronouncing the 'ㄹ' sound. It is a flap, similar to the 'tt' in the American English pronunciation of 'butter'.
Forgetting to apply irregular verb rules, such as pronouncing '듣을게요' instead of the correct '들을게요'.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 2/5

Easy to recognize in text, but learners must pay attention to the irregular verb conjugations.

Writing 3/5

Requires knowledge of verb stems and the rules for attaching ㄹ vs. 을, as well as irregulars.

Speaking 3/5

Pronunciation of the tense 'ㄲ' (께요) and linking consonants (을게요) takes practice.

Listening 2/5

Highly frequent and easy to catch at the end of sentences.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

하다 (to do) 가다 (to go) 먹다 (to eat) 보다 (to see) 주다 (to give)

Learn Next

~(으)ㄹ 거예요 (Future tense) ~고 싶다 (To want to) ~(으)면 (If/When) ~아/어 주다 (To do something for someone) ~겠- (Formal intention)

Advanced

~(으)ㄹ까 하다 (Thinking of doing) ~(으)려던 참이다 (Was just about to do) ~기로 하다 (Decided to do) ~(으)ㄹ 겸 (While at it / for the dual purpose of) ~고자 하다 (Intend to - formal)

Grammar to Know

Verb Stem ending in Vowel + ㄹ게요

가다 -> 갈게요

Verb Stem ending in Consonant + 을게요

먹다 -> 먹을게요

ㄹ Irregular: Drop ㄹ, add ㄹ게요 (effectively just add 게요)

만들다 -> 만들게요

ㄷ Irregular: Change ㄷ to ㄹ, add 을게요

듣다 -> 들을게요

ㅂ Irregular: Change ㅂ to 우, add ㄹ게요

돕다 -> 도울게요

Examples by Level

제가 할게요.

I will do it.

하다 (to do) + ㄹ게요 (vowel ending).

내일 갈게요.

I will go tomorrow.

가다 (to go) + ㄹ게요 (vowel ending).

밥을 먹을게요.

I will eat the food.

먹다 (to eat) + 을게요 (consonant ending).

책을 읽을게요.

I will read the book.

읽다 (to read) + 을게요 (consonant ending).

물을 마실게요.

I will drink water.

마시다 (to drink) + ㄹ게요 (vowel ending).

지금 잘게요.

I will sleep now.

자다 (to sleep) + ㄹ게요 (vowel ending).

음악을 들을게요.

I will listen to music.

듣다 (to listen) + 을게요 (ㄷ irregular changes to ㄹ).

빵을 만들게요.

I will make bread.

만들다 (to make) + 게요 (ㄹ irregular drops the extra ㄹ).

도착하면 전화할게요.

I will call you when I arrive.

전화하다 (to call) + ㄹ게요. Used with conditional -(으)면.

제가 문을 닫을게요.

I will close the door.

닫다 (to close) + 을게요. Regular consonant ending.

내일 일찍 일어날게요.

I will wake up early tomorrow.

일어나다 (to wake up) + ㄹ게요.

친구를 도와줄게요.

I will help my friend.

도와주다 (to give help) + ㄹ게요.

사진을 찍어 줄게요.

I will take a picture for you.

찍어 주다 (to take a photo for someone) + ㄹ게요.

조금 더 기다릴게요.

I will wait a little longer.

기다리다 (to wait) + ㄹ게요.

방을 청소할게요.

I will clean the room.

청소하다 (to clean) + ㄹ게요.

숙제를 먼저 끝낼게요.

I will finish my homework first.

끝내다 (to finish) + ㄹ게요.

회의록은 제가 정리해서 보낼게요.

I will organize the meeting minutes and send them.

보내다 (to send) + ㄹ게요. Combined with -아/어서 (sequential action).

그 문제는 제가 책임지고 해결할게요.

I will take responsibility and solve that problem.

해결하다 (to solve) + ㄹ게요.

오늘은 피곤해서 이만 쉴게요.

I'm tired today, so I will rest now.

쉬다 (to rest) + ㄹ게요. Used to announce departure or ending an activity.

약속 시간에 늦지 않게 출발할게요.

I will leave so as not to be late for the appointment.

출발하다 (to depart) + ㄹ게요.

모르는 단어는 사전을 찾아볼게요.

I will look up the words I don't know in the dictionary.

찾아보다 (to look up/try finding) + ㄹ게요.

비가 오니까 우산을 가져갈게요.

Since it's raining, I will take an umbrella.

가져가다 (to take along) + ㄹ게요.

자세한 내용은 이메일로 설명해 드릴게요.

I will explain the details via email.

설명해 드리다 (to explain for someone - honorific) + ㄹ게요.

다음 주까지 꼭 연락드릴게요.

I will definitely contact you by next week.

연락드리다 (to contact - humble) + ㄹ게요.

프로젝트 기획안은 내일 오전까지 수정해서 제출할게요.

I will revise and submit the project proposal by tomorrow morning.

제출하다 (to submit) + ㄹ게요. Used in a professional context.

그 건에 대해서는 제가 담당 부서에 문의해 볼게요.

Regarding that matter, I will try inquiring with the department in charge.

문의해 보다 (to try inquiring) + ㄹ게요.

고객님의 불편 사항을 신속하게 처리해 드릴게요.

I will swiftly process your complaint (inconvenience).

처리해 드리다 (to process for someone) + ㄹ게요.

이번 워크숍 준비는 저희 팀에서 맡아서 진행할게요.

Our team will take charge of and proceed with the preparations for this workshop.

진행하다 (to proceed/manage) + ㄹ게요.

자료가 준비되는 대로 바로 공유해 드릴게요.

As soon as the materials are ready, I will share them immediately.

공유해 드리다 (to share with someone) + ㄹ게요.

의견을 수렴하여 다음 회의 때 반영할게요.

I will collect the opinions and reflect them in the next meeting.

반영하다 (to reflect/apply) + ㄹ게요.

일정이 변경되면 다시 공지해 드릴게요.

If the schedule changes, I will announce it again.

공지해 드리다 (to announce to someone) + ㄹ게요.

부족한 부분은 제가 따로 보충해서 공부할게요.

I will separately supplement and study the parts I lack.

공부하다 (to study) + ㄹ게요.

제가 먼저 양보할 테니, 이쯤에서 타협하시지요. 제가 물러설게요.

I will concede first, so let's compromise here. I will step back.

물러서다 (to step back/concede) + ㄹ게요. Used for conflict resolution.

그 부분은 오해가 있었던 것 같으니, 제가 다시 명확히 짚고 넘어갈게요.

There seems to have been a misunderstanding regarding that part, so I will clearly point it out and move on.

넘어가다 (to move on) + ㄹ게요. Used to manage discourse flow.

분위기가 너무 무거워진 것 같으니, 제가 농담 하나 할게요.

The atmosphere seems to have gotten too heavy, so I will tell a joke.

하다 (to do) + ㄹ게요. Used for social management.

이 사안의 심각성을 고려하여, 제가 직접 현장에 가서 확인해 볼게요.

Considering the seriousness of this issue, I will personally go to the site and check.

확인해 보다 (to try checking) + ㄹ게요.

여러분의 귀중한 의견은 향후 정책 수립에 적극적으로 반영하도록 노력할게요.

I will make an effort to actively reflect your valuable opinions in future policy making.

노력하다 (to make an effort) + ㄹ게요. Used in formal public speaking.

시간 관계상 세부적인 통계 자료는 생략하고 핵심만 말씀드릴게요.

Due to time constraints, I will omit the detailed statistical data and only tell you the core points.

말씀드리다 (to tell - humble) + ㄹ게요.

제가 섣불리 판단하지 않고, 양측의 입장을 모두 경청한 후에 결정할게요.

I will not judge hastily, and I will decide after listening attentively to both sides' positions.

결정하다 (to decide) + ㄹ게요.

이번 실패를 교훈 삼아 다음에는 더 완벽한 결과를 보여드릴게요.

Taking this failure as a lesson, I will show you a more perfect result next time.

보여드리다 (to show to someone - humble) + ㄹ게요.

제가 총대를 메고 이 껄끄러운 안건을 이사회에 상정해 볼게요.

I will bite the bullet (take the lead) and try proposing this awkward agenda to the board of directors.

상정해 보다 (to try proposing) + ㄹ게요. Uses the idiom 총대를 메다.

변명처럼 들리겠지만, 그 당시의 정황을 조금만 부연 설명해 드릴게요.

It might sound like an excuse, but I will elaborate a little on the circumstances at that time.

설명해 드리다 (to explain to someone) + ㄹ게요. Used to mitigate face-threatening acts.

이견이 좁혀지지 않으니, 제가 중재안을 하나 제시해 볼까 하는데, 들어보실래요? 제가 먼저 제안할게요.

Since the differences in opinion are not narrowing, I am thinking of proposing a mediation plan, would you like to hear it? I will propose it first.

제안하다 (to propose) + ㄹ게요. Used in complex negotiations.

세간의 오해를 불식시키기 위해서라도, 제가 직접 나서서 해명 기사를 낼게요.

Even if just to dispel public misunderstanding, I will step forward personally and issue an explanatory article.

내다 (to issue/publish) + ㄹ게요.

기존의 관행에 얽매이지 않고, 백지상태에서 다시 기획해 볼게요.

Without being bound by existing practices, I will try planning it again from a blank slate.

기획해 보다 (to try planning) + ㄹ게요.

제가 감히 조언을 하나 드리자면, 지금은 섣부른 행동보다는 관망하는 편이 나을 듯하니, 제가 상황을 좀 더 지켜볼게요.

If I may dare to offer a piece of advice, it seems better to wait and see rather than act hastily now, so I will observe the situation a bit more.

지켜보다 (to observe/watch) + ㄹ게요.

이 정도 선에서 마무리 짓는 것이 서로에게 득이 될 테니, 제가 이쯤에서 양보하는 걸로 할게요.

Wrapping it up at this level will be beneficial for both of us, so I will make it so that I concede at this point.

하다 (to do) + ㄹ게요. Used with ~는 걸로 (deciding to do).

더 이상의 소모적인 논쟁은 피하고 싶으니, 제가 전적으로 책임지고 수습할게요.

I want to avoid any further exhausting arguments, so I will take full responsibility and sort it out.

수습하다 (to sort out/resolve) + ㄹ게요.

Common Collocations

제가 할게요

나중에 전화할게요

먼저 갈게요

잘 먹을게요

다시 연락할게요

도와줄게요

기다릴게요

준비할게요

보낼게요

잊지 않을게요

Common Phrases

제가 할게요

— I will do it. Used to volunteer for a task.

누가 청소할래요? 제가 할게요.

먼저 갈게요

— I will go first (leave now). Used when leaving a gathering before others.

시간이 늦어서 먼저 갈게요.

잘 먹을게요

— I will eat well. Said before eating a meal provided by someone else to show gratitude.

와, 맛있겠다. 잘 먹을게요!

나중에 뵐게요

— I will see you later. A polite way to say goodbye.

오늘 감사했습니다. 나중에 뵐게요.

연락할게요

— I will contact you. Used to promise future communication.

도착하면 연락할게요.

기억할게요

— I will remember. Used to assure someone you won't forget something important.

말씀하신 내용 꼭 기억할게요.

조심할게요

— I will be careful. Used after receiving a warning or advice.

네, 앞으로는 조심할게요.

금방 올게요

— I will be right back. Used when leaving temporarily.

화장실만 다녀와서 금방 올게요.

모실게요

— I will escort/take you. A highly polite phrase used in service or formal situations.

이쪽으로 모실게요.

생각해 볼게요

— I will think about it. Used to delay a decision or politely decline an offer.

제안은 감사하지만, 조금 더 생각해 볼게요.

Often Confused With

~ (으)ㄹ게요 vs ~(으)ㄹ 거예요

Learners often use ~(으)ㄹ 거예요 when they should use ~(으)ㄹ게요. Remember: 거예요 is for facts, 게요 is for promises to the listener.

~ (으)ㄹ게요 vs ~겠-

Both express intention, but ~겠- is much more formal and doesn't necessarily imply a reaction to the listener.

~ (으)ㄹ게요 vs ~(으)려고 하다

Means 'planning to'. It's an internal plan, not a promise made to someone else.

Idioms & Expressions

"총대를 멜게요"

— I will bite the bullet / take the lead. Means taking on a difficult or unpleasant task on behalf of others.

아무도 안 하려고 하니 제가 총대를 멜게요.

Informal/Idiomatic

"발 벗고 나설게요"

— I will step forward barefoot (enthusiastically). Means to actively and enthusiastically help or get involved.

그 일이라면 제가 발 벗고 나설게요.

Neutral/Idiomatic

"두 팔 걷어붙일게요"

— I will roll up my sleeves. Means to prepare to work hard on something.

이번 프로젝트를 위해 두 팔 걷어붙일게요.

Neutral/Idiomatic

"입에 지퍼를 채울게요"

— I will zip my lips. Means promising to keep a secret.

비밀은 꼭 지킬게요. 입에 지퍼를 채울게요.

Informal/Idiomatic

"귀를 기울일게요"

— I will incline my ear. Means promising to listen carefully and attentively.

여러분의 의견에 귀를 기울일게요.

Formal/Idiomatic

"명심할게요"

— I will engrave it in my heart. Means promising to keep something deeply in mind.

충고해 주신 말씀 깊이 명심할게요.

Formal

"손을 씻을게요"

— I will wash my hands (of it). Means promising to quit a bad habit or stop involvement in something negative.

이제 도박에서 손을 씻을게요.

Informal/Idiomatic

"눈감아 줄게요"

— I will close my eyes (to it). Means promising to overlook a mistake or fault this one time.

이번 한 번만 눈감아 줄게요.

Informal/Idiomatic

"한턱낼게요"

— I will treat (pay for a meal/drinks). Means promising to buy food or drinks for others to celebrate.

시험에 합격했으니 제가 한턱낼게요.

Informal

"뼈를 묻을게요"

— I will bury my bones. Means promising lifelong dedication or loyalty to a company or cause.

이 회사에 뼈를 묻을게요.

Idiomatic/Exaggerated

Easily Confused

~ (으)ㄹ게요 vs 할게요 vs. 할 거예요

Both translate to 'I will do it' in English.

할게요 is a promise to the listener ('I will do it for you/because of this situation'). 할 거예요 is a statement of fact ('I am going to do it', regardless of the listener).

누가 할래요? 제가 할게요. (Who will do it? I will.) vs. 저는 내일 공부할 거예요. (I am going to study tomorrow.)

~ (으)ㄹ게요 vs 들을게요 vs. 듣을게요

Learners forget the ㄷ irregular rule.

듣다 (to listen) is an irregular verb. The ㄷ changes to ㄹ before a vowel. Therefore, 들을게요 is correct, and 듣을게요 is incorrect.

음악을 들을게요. (I will listen to music.)

~ (으)ㄹ게요 vs 만들게요 vs. 만들을게요

Learners apply the consonant rule (을게요) to ㄹ-ending verbs.

For verbs ending in ㄹ (like 만들다), you drop the ㄹ and add ㄹ게요, which effectively means you just attach 게요 to the stem. 만들을게요 is incorrect.

케이크를 만들게요. (I will make a cake.)

~ (으)ㄹ게요 vs 바쁠게요 vs. 바쁠 거예요

Learners try to use ~(으)ㄹ게요 with adjectives.

~(으)ㄹ게요 can ONLY be used with action verbs. To express a future state with an adjective like 바쁘다 (to be busy), you must use ~(으)ㄹ 거예요.

내일 바쁠 거예요. (I will be busy tomorrow.)

~ (으)ㄹ게요 vs 갈게요? vs. 갈 거예요?

Learners try to ask questions using ~(으)ㄹ게요.

~(으)ㄹ게요 cannot be used in questions. To ask 'Will you go?', you must use ~(으)ㄹ 거예요? or ~(으)실 거예요?.

내일 학교에 갈 거예요? (Will you go to school tomorrow?)

Sentence Patterns

제가 + [Verb]-(으)ㄹ게요.

제가 갈게요. (I will go.)

내일 + [Verb]-(으)ㄹ게요.

내일 할게요. (I will do it tomorrow.)

[Time/Condition]-(으)면 + [Verb]-(으)ㄹ게요.

도착하면 전화할게요. (I will call when I arrive.)

[Noun]-은/는 + 제가 + [Verb]-(으)ㄹ게요.

청소는 제가 할게요. (As for cleaning, I will do it.)

[Verb]-아/어서 + [Verb]-(으)ㄹ게요.

확인해서 알려줄게요. (I will check and let you know.)

[Verb]-지 않게 + [Verb]-(으)ㄹ게요.

늦지 않게 갈게요. (I will go so as not to be late.)

[Noun]-에 대해 + [Verb]-아/어 볼게요.

그 문제에 대해 생각해 볼게요. (I will try thinking about that problem.)

제가 책임지고 + [Verb]-(으)ㄹ게요.

제가 책임지고 해결할게요. (I will take responsibility and solve it.)

Word Family

~(으)ㄹ 거예요

~겠-

~(으)려고 하다

~기로 하다

~(으)ㄹ까 하다

How to Use It

frequency

Extremely High. This is one of the top 50 most used grammar patterns in spoken Korean.

Common Mistakes

제 친구가 내일 갈게요. → 제 친구가 내일 갈 거예요.
You cannot use ~(으)ㄹ게요 with a third-person subject ('my friend'). It is only for first-person intentions.
내일 학교에 갈게요? → 내일 학교에 갈 거예요?
You cannot use ~(으)ㄹ게요 to ask a question. It is only used for declarative statements (promises).
내일 날씨가 좋을게요. → 내일 날씨가 좋을 거예요.
You cannot attach ~(으)ㄹ게요 to descriptive verbs (adjectives) like 좋다 (to be good). It is only for action verbs.
음악을 듣을게요. → 음악을 들을게요.
듣다 (to listen) is a ㄷ-irregular verb. The ㄷ must change to ㄹ before adding 을게요.
케이크를 만들을게요. → 케이크를 만들게요.
만들다 (to make) ends in ㄹ. For ㄹ-irregular verbs, you do not add 을게요. You simply attach 게요 to the stem.

Tips

Action Verbs Only

Always double-check that the word you are attaching this to is an action verb. You can promise to 'eat' (먹을게요), but you cannot promise to 'be cold' (추울게요 - incorrect).

The Tense 'ㄲ' Sound

Even though it is spelled '게요', train your mouth to say '께요' (kkeyo). This makes you sound much more natural and fluent to native Korean speakers.

The 'Promise' Nuance

Think of this pattern as a verbal handshake. You are making a commitment to the person listening to you. If there is no listener, or no promise being made, use a different future tense.

No Third Person

Never use this with 'he', 'she', or 'they'. It is exclusively for 'I' (저/나) or 'We' (저희/우리).

No Questions

You cannot ask a question using this pattern. If you want to ask 'Will you...?', use ~(으)실 거예요? or ~(으)실래요?.

The ㄹ Irregular

For verbs ending in ㄹ (like 살다, 만들다), don't overcomplicate it. Just drop the '다' and add '게요' (살게요, 만들게요).

Volunteering

Using '제가 할게요' (I will do it) is a great way to show a positive, proactive attitude in Korean workplaces or group settings. It earns you 'nunchi' points!

Ending Conversations

Listen for this pattern at the end of phone calls or meetings. Phrases like '나중에 연락할게요' or '먼저 일어날게요' are standard ways to signal the end of an interaction.

ㄷ Irregular Reminder

For verbs like 듣다 (to listen) or 걷다 (to walk), remember to change the ㄷ to ㄹ before adding 을게요 (들을게요, 걸을게요).

Formal vs. Polite

While ~(으)ㄹ게요 is polite (요 form), it might be too casual for a strict boss or a formal presentation. In those cases, upgrade to ~겠습니다.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Imagine you are making a promise to someone and you seal it by saying 'Okay, yo!' (할게요 - Hal-ge-yo). 'I will do it, okay, yo!'

Visual Association

Visualize a handshake. Every time you use ~(으)ㄹ게요, imagine you are shaking hands with the listener to seal a promise.

Word Web

Promise Intention First-person Action verb Polite Reaction Volunteering Future

Challenge

For one day, try to volunteer for three small tasks using '제가 할게요' (I will do it) in your head or out loud if you are with Korean speakers.

Word Origin

The pattern ~(으)ㄹ게요 evolved from the combination of the prospective modifier ~(으)ㄹ, the bound noun '것' (thing/fact), the copula '이-' (to be), and the polite ending '요'. Over time, the pronunciation contracted and grammaticalized into the specific suffix ~게요, carrying the unique nuance of a promise.

Original meaning: Originally, it literally meant 'It is the prospective fact that I do [action]', but it specialized pragmatically to denote a commitment to the listener.

Koreanic

Cultural Context

Be careful not to use this pattern when speaking for someone else (e.g., 'My boss will do it'). This is grammatically incorrect and can cause confusion about who is actually taking responsibility.

English speakers often overuse 'I will' (translated as ~(으)ㄹ 거예요) because English doesn't grammatically distinguish between a factual future and a promised future in the same way. Learning ~(으)ㄹ게요 requires a shift in mindset to consider the listener's role in the action.

In many K-dramas, the romantic lead will often say '내가 지켜줄게' (I will protect you - informal) or '제가 지켜줄게요' (polite) during emotional scenes. The phrase '잘 먹을게요' (I will eat well) is a cultural staple heard in almost every Korean eating broadcast (Mukbang) or variety show involving food. In the hit song 'I Will Go to You Like the First Snow' by Ailee (Goblin OST), the concept of promising to go to someone is a central theme, reflecting the emotional weight of such promises.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

At a restaurant

주문할게요
여기 계산할게요
물 좀 더 주실래요? 제가 가져올게요
잘 먹을게요

At work

제가 할게요
이메일로 보낼게요
내일 회의 때 발표할게요
다시 확인해 볼게요

On the phone

나중에 다시 전화할게요
이만 끊을게요
도착하면 연락할게요
문자 남길게요

With friends

내가 살게 (informal)
내일 만날게요
사진 보낼게요
비밀 지킬게요

Helping someone

제가 도와줄게요
제가 들어 줄게요
제가 문을 열어 줄게요
제가 설명해 줄게요

Conversation Starters

"A: 누가 이 서류를 복사할 수 있나요? B: 제가 할게요."

"A: 오늘 저녁은 제가 살게요. B: 와, 감사합니다! 잘 먹을게요."

"A: 너무 무거워 보여요. B: 네, 제가 좀 들어 줄게요."

"A: 언제쯤 도착하세요? B: 10분 후에 도착할게요."

"A: 이 문제 어떻게 풀어요? B: 제가 가르쳐 줄게요."

Journal Prompts

Write down three promises you want to make to yourself or a friend for tomorrow using ~(으)ㄹ게요.

Describe a situation at work or school where you volunteered for a task. What did you say?

Imagine you are hosting a dinner party. Write sentences offering things to your guests (e.g., 'I will pour the wine').

Write a short dialogue ending a phone call with a friend using this grammar pattern.

List five bad habits you want to break and write promises to stop them using 안 ~(으)ㄹ게요.

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

No, you cannot. This grammar pattern is strictly for first-person subjects ('I' or 'We'). It expresses the speaker's personal intention or promise. If you want to say 'He will go', you must use '그가 갈 거예요'.

This is due to a Korean phonological rule called tensification. When the soft consonant 'ㄱ' (g) follows the 'ㄹ' (l) sound, it naturally hardens into the tense double consonant 'ㄲ' (kk) to make pronunciation easier and clearer. You should always pronounce it as '께요'.

While ~(으)ㄹ게요 is polite, it is considered slightly informal for highly official or strict business contexts. In a formal email to a client or a senior boss, it is safer to use the formal ending ~겠습니다 (e.g., 확인하겠습니다 instead of 확인할게요).

Both mean 'I will not do it'. 안 할게요 is the short negative form and is more common in everyday spoken conversation. 하지 않을게요 is the long negative form, which sounds slightly more formal or emphatic, but they are grammatically interchangeable.

No. This pattern requires volition (the ability to choose to do something). You cannot promise to 'be hot' or 'be pretty' in a grammatical sense. You must use ~(으)ㄹ 거예요 with adjectives (e.g., 내일 더울 거예요 - It will be hot tomorrow).

Verbs ending in 'ㅂ' are usually irregular. The 'ㅂ' changes to '우'. Since '우' is a vowel, you then add 'ㄹ게요'. So, 돕다 becomes 도우 + ㄹ게요 = 도울게요.

Yes, if you are speaking to a close friend, someone younger than you, or a child. Dropping the '요' makes it '반말' (informal speech). For example, '내가 할게' (I'll do it). Do not do this with strangers or elders.

No. The sun does not have intentions or make promises. For general facts about the future, you must use ~(으)ㄹ 거예요 (e.g., 내일 해가 뜰 거예요).

It translates to 'I will do it'. The use of '제가' (I - polite subject) emphasizes that *I* am the one volunteering to do the action, often in response to a situation where someone needs help or a task needs to be assigned.

Verbs ending in the consonant 'ㄹ' (like 만들다, 살다, 놀다) are irregular. You do not add '을게요'. Instead, you treat the existing 'ㄹ' as the grammar particle and simply add '게요'. So, 만들 + 게요 = 만들게요.

Test Yourself 200 questions

writing

Translate: I will do it.

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

제가 (I) + 하다 (to do) + ㄹ게요.