lets go in korean
How to Say "Let's Go" in Korean (가자 / 갑시다): Casual & Formal
가자
gaja
Quick answer
Say 가자 (gaja) to a friend and 갑시다 (gapsida) in a polite or formal setting — both mean let's go in Korean.
Common forms
| Register | Hangul | Romanization | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| casual | 가자 | gaja | Let's go — between friends or younger people. Short and punchy. |
| polite | 가요 | gayo | Let's go (polite) — softer suggestion, suitable for most everyday polite contexts. |
| formal | 갑시다 | gapsida | Let's go — formal. Used with colleagues, elders, or in group settings. |
| encouraging / hype (borrowed) | 고고! | gogo! | 고고 (gogo) from English 'go go' — a hype phrase meaning 'let's go / let's do it!' |
How it changes by relationship
야, 빨리 가자!
Ya, ppalli gaja!
to a close friend: Hey, let's go quickly! — standard impatient urge between friends.
우리 같이 갑시다.
Uri gachi gapsida.
to a group (polite): Let's all go together — inclusive and polite.
화이팅! 고고!
Hwaiting! Gogo!
as a hype/encouragement: Let's go, you've got this! — K-pop fan / sports cheering energy.
카페 가자!
Kape gaja!
suggesting a destination casually: Let's go to the cafe! — very natural in everyday conversation.
Examples
빨리 가자, 늦겠다!
Ppalli gaja, neutgetda!
Let's go quickly, we'll be late!
이제 갑시다.
Ije gapsida.
Let's go now.
화이팅! 우리 할 수 있어!
Hwaiting! Uri hal su isseo!
Let's go! We can do it!
Usage note
가자 is direct and commonly used between friends, but with someone older or in a more formal group, 갑시다 shows respect. Saying 가자 to a boss or elder can sound bossy or rude — the verb ending alone signals the social dynamic.
Mini quiz
What is the primary Korean phrase for "let's go" here?
FAQ
Is 가자 rude to say to an elder?
Yes — 가자 is casual and can sound presumptuous with elders or people you're not close to. Use 가요 (polite) or 갑시다 (formal) instead.
What does 고고 mean?
고고 (gogo) is a loanword-influenced hype expression meaning 'let's go!' or 'go for it!' — used in casual speech, fan culture, and as a cheer.
How do I say 'let's go eat'?
밥 먹으러 가자 (bap meogeureo gaja) — 밥 먹으러 (bap meogeureo) means 'in order to eat.' Very common lead-up to any meal outing.