Easy Korean - Level 3, Unit 16: Let's do it!

In Korean, the way you say "Let's..." depends entirely on who you are talking to. There are three main ways to make a suggestion.

1. Polite & Natural: -아/어/여요

The most common way to say "Let's" in everyday polite conversation is actually just the standard present tense ending -아/어/여요. You distinguish it from a normal statement by your tone of voice and context (and often by adding "우리" - we/us).

• 시작해요. (We are starting. OR Let's start.)
• 내일 만나요. (We meet tomorrow. OR Let's meet tomorrow.)
• 우리 같이 밥 먹어요. (Let's eat together.)

2. Formal: -(으)ㅂ시다

When you are in a formal setting, giving a presentation, or speaking to a group, you use -(으)ㅂ시다. Note: Do NOT use this with older people or your boss, as it can sound bossy or overly commanding. Use -아/어/여요 instead.

• Vowel stem: Add -ㅂ시다
  • 가다 -> 갑시다 (Let's go.)
• Consonant stem: Add -읍시다
  • 먹다 -> 먹읍시다 (Let's eat.)

3. Casual / Intimate: -자

When you are speaking to close friends, people younger than you, or in "반말" (casual speech), you attach -자 to the verb stem.

• 가다 -> 가자 (Let's go!)
• 하다 -> 하자 (Let's do it!)
• 먹다 -> 먹자 (Let's eat!)

Summary Example: "Let's go"

• 가요 (Polite / Normal)
• 갑시다 (Formal / Group setting)
• 가자 (Casual / Friends only)

Example Sentences

1. 여기서 조금만 쉬어요. (Let's rest here a little bit. - Polite)
2. 회의를 시작합시다. (Let's start the meeting. - Formal)
3. 우리 빨리 가자! (Let's go quickly! - Casual)