Korean Dictionary
How to say "What Should I Do" in Korean
“What Should I Do” in Korean is 어떻게 (pronounced "eottoke").
어떻게
eottoke
Usage & Context
An expression of panic or uncertainty about what to do. This phrase is frequently used in K-dramas during crisis moments when characters are overwhelmed or facing difficult decisions. It shows vulnerability and desperation.
Example Sentence
어떻게 해? 정말 어떻게 해?
What should I do? What should I really do?
How to use 어떻게 naturally
Quick answer
The Korean word for “What Should I Do” is 어떻게, romanized as eottoke.
Usage tip
Drama lines are memorable, but some expressions are emotional or exaggerated compared with everyday Korean.
Common mistake
Do not rely only on the English meaning. Read the Korean example sentence and notice the particles, word order, and politeness level around 어떻게.
Pronunciation Guide
"어떻게" (eottoke) is pronounced like "uh-toh-kay." The "eo" is like the 'o' in "love," "tto" is a strong, tense 't' sound (like the 'tt' in 'butter' but more emphasized), and "ke" rhymes with the English word "say."
Formal & Casual Forms
Formal (존댓말)
어떻게 해요?
eottoke haeyo?
A polite way to ask 'How do I do it?' or 'What should I do?'
More Example Sentences
A student panicking after a bad test.
어떻게 해? 시험 망쳤어!
What should I do? I messed up the exam!
Asking for guidance on a difficult task or puzzle.
이 복잡한 문제 어떻게 풀어요?
How do I solve this complicated problem?
Expressing surprise at someone's speed or efficiency.
어떻게 그렇게 빨리 도착했어?
How did you arrive so quickly?
Cultural Context
"어떻게" is a quintessential K-drama phrase, often delivered with a hand to the head, a frantic expression, or a sigh. It conveys a strong sense of helplessness, panic, or deep worry, especially when used as an exclamation. While it literally means 'how,' its emotional usage as 'What should I do?!' is incredibly common and relatable in moments of crisis or dilemma in daily Korean life and media.
Editorial note
We review drama-style expressions like 어떻게 for tone, because lines that sound natural in a scene can feel too emotional or direct in everyday Korean.
Reviewed by Min-jung Park, Korean Language Teacher. Updated May 31, 2026. See our editorial standards.
Common Phrases
어떻게?
How? / What should I do?
어떻게 알았어?
How did you know?
어떻게 된 거야?
What happened? / How did this happen?
Related Expressions
어쩌지?
eojjeoji?
What to do? (more informal, often self-talk)
방법이 없어
bangbeobi eopseo
There's no way / No solution
어떻게 해야 할까?
eottoke haeya halkka?
What should I do? (more reflective, less panicked)
어떤 식으로
eotteon sik-euro
In what way / How
More K-Drama Expressions Words
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