Someone you just met

Also common: Formal (hapsyo-che) (-습니다 / -ㅂ니다)

Why

With a stranger your own age or older, haeyo is the safe default: polite without sounding stiff. The set phrase for “nice to meet you” is still said in the formal style.

Say it like this

• 처음 뵙겠습니다.cheoeum boepgetseumnida. · Formal (hapsyo-che)Pleased to meet you. (set formal greeting)
• 만나서 반가워요.mannaseo bangawoyo. · Polite (haeyo-che)Nice to meet you.
• 어디에서 오셨어요?eodieseo osyeosseoyo? · Polite (haeyo-che)Where are you from?

Common mistake

Dropping into banmal because the other person looks younger. Wait until you know their age — and until they suggest it.