Learn Korean with Ease: "뭐 드실래요?", "뭐 시키실래요?"

SEOUL, South Korea — If you’ve ever dreamed of confidently ordering a steaming bowl of bibimbap or a sizzling plate of bulgogi at a Korean restaurant, you’re in for a treat. Today, we’re diving into two essential Korean phrases that’ll make you sound like a local: Mwo deushillaeyo? (뭐 드실래요?) and Mwo shikishillaeyo? (뭐 시키실래요?). These expressions are your golden ticket to navigating a Korean menu with ease, and they’re especially handy in casual dining settings. Let’s break them down with some fun scenarios to help you practice, all while soaking in the warm, communal vibe of Korean dining culture.

The Phrases: What Do They Mean?

Both Mwo deushillaeyo? and Mwo shikishillaeyo? are polite ways to ask someone what they’d like to eat or order, often heard in restaurants or when sharing a meal. Here’s the breakdown:

Mwo deushillaeyo? (뭐 드실래요?) translates to “What would you like to eat?” The verb deushida (드시다) is an honorific form of eating, making this a polite and respectful way to ask someone—perfect for when you’re speaking to elders, strangers, or in a formal setting.

Mwo shikishillaeyo? (뭐 시키실래요?) means “What would you like to order?” The verb shikida (시키다) refers to ordering something, so this phrase is more specific to the act of placing an order. It’s also polite but feels a bit more casual and is commonly used by restaurant staff.

Both phrases are staples in Korean dining culture, reflecting the jeong—that deep sense of care and connection—that makes meals in Korea so special. You’ll hear them everywhere, from bustling barbecue joints in Seoul to cozy noodle shops in Busan.

Let’s Practice: Scenarios at a Korean Restaurant

Scenario 1: At a Korean BBQ Restaurant

You’re at a lively Korean BBQ spot in Myeongdong, the grill sizzling with marinated pork belly (samgyeopsal). The server, a friendly middle-aged woman, approaches your table with a warm smile and asks:

“안녕하세요! 뭐 드실래요?” (Annyeonghaseyo! Mwo deushillaeyo?)—Hello! What would you like to eat?

You glance at the menu and reply, “삼겹살이요.” (Samgyeopsal-iyo.)—I’ll have pork belly.

She nods and follows up with, “뭐 시키실래요? 음료수도 드릴까요?” (Mwo shikishillaeyo? Eumryosu-do deurilkkayo?)—What would you like to order? Would you like a drink too?

You answer, “소주 한 병 주세요.” (Soju han byeong juseyo.)—One bottle of soju, please.

The server jots it down, and soon you’re grilling meat with friends, the air filled with laughter and the smoky aroma of BBQ—a perfect Korean dining moment.

Scenario 2: At a Casual Kimbap Shop

You’re grabbing a quick lunch at a kimbap shop near Gyeongbokgung Palace. It’s a busy spot, with locals popping in for a bite. The cashier, a cheerful young man, greets you:

“어서오세요! 뭐 드실래요?” (Eoseo-oseyo! Mwo deushillaeyo?)—Welcome! What would you like to eat?

You spot tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes) on the menu and say, “떡볶이 주세요.” (Tteokbokki juseyo.)—I’ll have tteokbokki, please.

He smiles and asks, “뭐 시키실래요? 같이 드실 메뉴 더 있으신가요?” (Mwo shikishillaeyo? Gachi deushil menyu deo isseushingayo?)—What would you like to order? Any other dishes to go with it?

You add, “김밥도 하나 주세요.” (Kimbap-do hana juseyo.)—One kimbap, too, please.

Minutes later, you’re savoring your meal, the spicy tteokbokki (about 400 calories) paired with a roll of kimbap, all for under 10,000 KRW—a steal for a taste of Korean comfort food.

Why These Phrases Matter

Learning Mwo deushillaeyo? and Mwo shikishillaeyo? isn’t just about ordering food—it’s about connecting with Korean culture. Dining in Korea is a communal experience, often involving shared dishes and lively conversation. These phrases show respect and politeness, key values in Korean social interactions, while helping you navigate a menu with confidence. Plus, they’re versatile—you can use them at home too, like asking a friend, “뭐 드실래요?” when deciding on dinner together.

Tips for Beginners

- Pronunciation: Mwo deushillaeyo? sounds like “Mwo deu-sheel-lae-yo?” with a soft emphasis on “sheel.” Mwo shikishillaeyo? is “Mwo shi-ki-sheel-lae-yo?”—practice the “sh” sound to get it right.

- Tone: Keep your tone friendly and light. A smile goes a long way in Korean dining settings!

- Replying: Simply name the dish you want and add juseyo (주세요), meaning “please.” For example, “불고기 주세요.” (Bulgogi juseyo.)—Bulgogi, please.

As of today, May 31, 2025, Korean language programs in Seoul, like those at Yonsei University, often include these phrases in beginner classes, reflecting their everyday importance. So, next time you’re at a Korean restaurant, give them a try—you’ll be savoring more than just the food; you’ll be tasting a piece of Korea’s heart.

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