[Learn][Korean] "이거 뭐예요?" – The Must-Know Korean Phrase for Everyday Curiosity

이거 뭐예요? what is this?

If you’re new to learning Korean or traveling in Korea, one of the first and most useful phrases to learn is “이거 뭐예요?” (Igeo mwoyeyo?). It’s a simple question that you can use in countless everyday situations, from markets and restaurants to museums and conversations.

In this post, let’s break down the meaning of “이거 뭐예요?”, how to use it naturally, and some variations that will help you sound more like a native speaker.

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1. What Does “이거 뭐예요?” Mean?

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• 이거 – this thing / this item
• 뭐 – what
• 예요 – polite ending (like “is it?”)

So, “이거 뭐예요?” literally means:
“What is this?”

It’s a polite and friendly way to ask about something you don’t know or recognize.

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2. When to Use “이거 뭐예요?”

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This phrase is useful in almost any situation where you’re curious or confused about an object, food, word, or even an action.

Situations Where You Can Use It

• In a restaurant: You see an unfamiliar dish → “이거 뭐예요?”
• At a store: You find a strange product → “이거 뭐예요?”
• While sightseeing: You see a traditional item or artwork → “이거 뭐예요?”
• Talking to friends: You hear a word or slang you don’t understand → “이거 무슨 뜻이에요?” (What does this mean?)

Example Conversation

A: (Pointing to a side dish at a Korean restaurant) What is this?
     (이거 뭐예요?)
B: This is kimchi. It’s a traditional Korean food.
     (이거 김치예요. 한국의 전통 음식이에요.)
A: Oh~ thank you!
     (아~ 감사합니다!)

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3. Variations You Can Try

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Depending on the situation or how polite you want to be, you can change the phrase slightly:

More Casual

• 이거 뭐야? – What’s this?
  • Use with close friends or people younger than you

More Polite/Formal

• 이건 무엇입니까? – What is this?
  • Very formal, used in official settings or announcements

Other Useful Versions

• 저거 뭐예요? – What is that (over there)?
• 그거 뭐예요? – What is that (near the other person)?
• 이게 뭐예요? – What is this (subject-focused)?
• 무슨 뜻이에요? – What does it mean? (Used when asking about a word or phrase)

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4. Why It’s an Essential Phrase for Foreigners

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Whether you’re visiting Korea or learning Korean abroad, “이거 뭐예요?” helps you:

• Start conversations naturally
• Learn vocabulary through real experiences
• Express curiosity politely
• Show interest in Korean culture

Plus, it’s short and easy to remember—perfect for beginners!

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5. Bonus Tip: Combine It with Other Phrases

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To sound more polite and show interest, you can pair it with expressions like:

• 처음 봤어요. – I’ve never seen this before.
• 신기하네요. – That’s interesting.
• 어떻게 먹어요? – How do I eat this?
• 사용법 알려주세요. – Please tell me how to use it.

These additions make your Korean sound more natural and interactive.

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Final Thoughts

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“이거 뭐예요?” is a small but powerful phrase that can open up conversations, help you learn more, and show your curiosity in the Korean language and culture.

Next time you see something new or unfamiliar in Korea, don’t be shy—just ask:
“이거 뭐예요?”
It might be the start of a delicious meal, a fun discovery, or a new friendship.