Korean Dictionary
How to say "Wow" in Korean
“Wow” in Korean is 와 (pronounced "Wa").
와
Wa
Usage & Context
An exclamation of surprise or amazement. It's essentially a direct borrowing used exactly like English 'wow'. 대단해요 (amazing/incredible) is often used as a follow-up. Very common in everyday speech and K-drama conversations.
Example Sentence
와, 이거 진짜 맛있어요!
Wow, this is really delicious!
How to use 와 naturally
Quick answer
The Korean word for “Wow” is 와, romanized as Wa.
Usage tip
Check the politeness level before using this word. Korean greetings often change depending on age, relationship, and setting.
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 와.
Pronunciation Guide
The pronunciation for '와' is straightforward. It sounds like the 'wa' in the English word 'water' or 'want'. It's a short, sharp exclamation, often delivered with a rising intonation.
More Example Sentences
Expressing admiration for something visually appealing, like a view or an item.
와, 진짜 예쁘다!
Wow, it's really pretty!
Realizing how quickly time has passed, often with a hint of surprise.
와, 벌써 시간이 이렇게 됐네.
Wow, look at the time already.
Reacting to an incredibly clever or surprising idea from a friend.
와, 대박! 어떻게 이런 생각을 했어?
Wow, daebak! How did you come up with such an idea?
Cultural Context
'와' is a direct borrowing from English 'wow' and is used in virtually the same way to express surprise, amazement, or admiration. It's very common in everyday speech, K-dramas, and K-pop reactions. It's often paired with other exclamations like '대박' (daebak, meaning 'awesome' or 'jackpot') to amplify the feeling.
Editorial note
We check greetings like 와 for politeness and timing, since Korean greetings change with relationship, age, and setting.
Reviewed by Min-jung Park, Korean Language Teacher. Updated May 31, 2026. See our editorial standards.
Common Phrases
와, 진짜?
Wow, really?
와, 최고다!
Wow, it's the best!
와, 대단하다!
Wow, that's amazing!
Related Expressions
헐
Heol
OMG/Wow (more informal, often for disbelief or mild shock)
어머나
Eomeona
Oh my goodness (slightly more polite, often used by women)
세상에
Sesange
Oh my world/Heavens (stronger expression of surprise)
대박
Daebak
Awesome/Jackpot (often used in conjunction with '와')
More Greetings Words
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