Korean · Greetings & Phrases
어떻게 지내세요
Eotteoke jinaeseyo
How are you?
Beginnerphrase
Definition
A polite question asking how someone is doing.
Example
어떻게 지내세요? — 잘 지내요.
How are you? — I am doing well.
Etymology
'어떻게 지내세요' translates to 'How are you?' with '어떻게' (eotteoke) meaning 'how' and '지내세요' (jinaeseyo) being a polite expression of 'to spend/behave.' The phrase reflects interpersonal concern in Korean culture.
How & Where It’s Used
'어떻게 지내세요' is typically used in both formal and informal settings as a polite inquiry about someone's well-being. It is most often spoken, particularly in greetings.