If you’ve been to Korea or a Korean restaurant, you’ve probably heard someone say “여기요!”. It’s a common phrase — but what does it really mean, and when should you use it?
When to Use “여기요”

“여기요” is perfect for getting someone’s attention politely in everyday situations, especially:

At restaurants, to call the server

In shops, to ask for help

At offices or banks, when you need assistance

To return a lost item to someone (e.g. “여기요, you dropped this!”)

It’s polite, efficient, and widely accepted in service settings.

In Summary

Use “여기요” when calling staff in restaurants or stores, but avoid it in formal or personal interactions. It’s a helpful phrase, but context matters.

Want to sound natural in Korean? Start with “여기요” — and learn when not to use it too.