Nuance Dictionary / Work & Effort
수고하다 su-go-ha-da
To put in hard work; used heavily to acknowledge someone's effort
What does 수고하다 mean?
수고하다 (su-go-ha-da) means: To put in hard work; used heavily to acknowledge someone's effort.
The single most common workplace phrase in Korea. '수고하셨습니다' (You worked hard) is said to colleagues at the end of every day, meeting, or project. It is the verbal equivalent of a pat on the back acknowledging shared suffering.
How it's actually used
- 다들 오늘 하루도 수고 많으셨습니다!
dadeul oneul harudo sugo maneusyeosseumnida!
Everyone, you all worked hard today!
💡 The ultimate standard phrase for leaving the office. - 택배 아저씨, 날씨도 더운데 수고하십니다.
taekbae ajeossi, nalssido deundeun deunde sugo-hasimnida.
Mr. Delivery Driver, thank you for your hard work despite the hot weather.
💡 Used respectfully to greet someone currently working. - 오늘 야근까지 하느라 다들 수고했어요, 조심히 들어가세요.
Oneul yageunkkaji haneura dadeul sugohaesseoyo, josimhi deureogaseyo.
Everyone worked hard staying late tonight, get home safely.
💡 The quintessential polite sign-off for colleagues after finishing a shared task.