What does 씨 (ssi) mean?
- 씨ssi
Mr. / Ms. (after a name)
Polite: safe with most people
씨 (ssi) is a polite title that goes after someone's name, like "Mr." or "Ms." For example, 지은 씨 is a polite way to address a woman named Jieun.
How to use 씨
Put 씨 after a full name (김지은 씨) or a given name (지은 씨). This is common between coworkers and adults of similar age who are not close friends.
Do not put 씨 after a surname alone, like 김 씨. That sounds cold or even talking down. Also avoid 씨 for someone clearly older or higher in rank. Use their title, such as 선생님 or 부장님.
Never use 씨 for yourself. When Koreans introduce themselves, they just say their name.
Examples
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Offering coffee to a coworker
Getting to know a new classmate
Thanking a coworker who helped you
Other ways to say it
| Korean | Meaning | When |
|---|---|---|
| 지은 씨 | Jieun (polite) | Given name plus 씨. |
| 김지은 씨 | Ms. Kim Jieun | Full name plus 씨, a bit more formal. |
| 님 | honorific | More respectful than 씨. |
Questions learners ask
Can I call my boss ssi?
No. For a boss or anyone senior, use their title, like 팀장님 or 사장님. 씨 is for equals or juniors.
Is it rude to say Kim ssi?
Surname plus 씨, like 김 씨, can sound rude or distant. Use the given name or full name with 씨 instead.