How to Say Inheritance Tax Saving in Korean

Dealing with financial matters like inheritance tax can be complex, especially in a different language and cultural context. Understanding how to discuss inheritance tax saving, or 상속세 절세 (sang-sok-se jeol-se), is crucial for anyone managing assets or planning for the future in Korea. This guide provides comprehensive vocabulary, expressions, cultural insights, and practical tips to help you navigate these conversations effectively. Don’t worry, you can easily learn the necessary terms and phrases to discuss this important topic with confidence.

Core Expression: Understanding Inheritance Tax Saving

The primary term for discussing ways to reduce inheritance tax in Korean is 상속세 절세 (sang-sok-se jeol-se). This phrase directly translates to “inheritance tax saving” and is the most common and direct way to refer to this concept in financial and legal discussions.

• Expression: 상속세 절세
  Pronunciation: sang-sok-se jeol-se
  Meaning: Inheritance tax saving (methods or strategies to legally reduce inheritance tax)

This term is composed of two key parts: 상속세 (sang-sok-se), meaning “inheritance tax,” and 절세 (jeol-se), meaning “tax saving” or “tax reduction.” Understanding this core phrase is fundamental because it encapsulates the entire concept. It’s widely used by financial advisors, tax accountants (세무사 – se-mu-sa), lawyers (변호사 – byeon-ho-sa), and individuals discussing estate planning. Knowing this term allows you to clearly state your objective when seeking advice or discussing strategies related to minimizing inheritance tax burdens.

The concept of 절세 (jeol-se) itself is important in Korean financial culture, emphasizing legal and strategic methods to reduce tax payments, as opposed to tax evasion (탈세 – tal-se). Therefore, using 상속세 절세 clearly indicates an interest in legitimate planning. It’s a vital term for anyone dealing with significant assets in Korea or advising clients on such matters.

Key Terminology: Essential Vocabulary for Inheritance Tax

Before diving into complex strategies, it’s crucial to understand the basic vocabulary surrounding inheritance and taxes in Korean. These terms form the building blocks for any discussion about 상속세 절세.

• Expression: 상속
  Pronunciation: sang-sok
  Meaning: Inheritance, succession
• Expression: 상속세
  Pronunciation: sang-sok-se
  Meaning: Inheritance tax
• Expression: 증여
  Pronunciation: jeung-yeo
  Meaning: Gift, donation (often referring to gifting assets during one’s lifetime)
• Expression: 증여세
  Pronunciation: jeung-yeo-se
  Meaning: Gift tax
• Expression: 세금
  Pronunciation: se-geum
  Meaning: Tax
• Expression: 절세
  Pronunciation: jeol-se
  Meaning: Tax saving, tax reduction (legal)
• Expression: 탈세
  Pronunciation: tal-se
  Meaning: Tax evasion (illegal)
• Expression: 상속인
  Pronunciation: sang-so-gin
  Meaning: Heir, inheritor, successor
• Expression: 피상속인
  Pronunciation: pi-sang-so-gin
  Meaning: Deceased person, decedent (the one whose property is inherited)
• Expression: 유산
  Pronunciation: yu-san
  Meaning: Estate, legacy, inherited property
• Expression: 재산
  Pronunciation: jae-san
  Meaning: Property, assets, wealth
• Expression: 세무사
  Pronunciation: se-mu-sa
  Meaning: Tax accountant
• Expression: 변호사
  Pronunciation: byeon-ho-sa
  Meaning: Lawyer, attorney
• Expression: 과세 표준
  Pronunciation: gwa-se pyo-jun
  Meaning: Tax base (the amount on which tax is calculated)
• Expression: 세율
  Pronunciation: se-yul
  Meaning: Tax rate

Mastering these fundamental terms is essential. They frequently appear in legal documents, financial consultations, and news articles related to inheritance. For instance, distinguishing between 상속세 (inheritance tax) and 증여세 (gift tax) is critical, as strategies often involve lifetime gifting (증여) to reduce the final inheritance tax burden. Knowing the roles of 상속인 (heir) and 피상속인 (deceased) helps clarify discussions about estate distribution.

Furthermore, understanding the difference between 절세 (legal tax saving) and 탈세 (illegal tax evasion) is vital for maintaining ethical and legal compliance. When discussing strategies, always frame them within the context of 절세. These terms provide the necessary foundation for more complex conversations about specific tax-saving methods.

Key Expressions: Discussing Inheritance Tax Saving Strategies

Once you have the basic vocabulary, you can start forming sentences to discuss strategies for 상속세 절세. These expressions cover common questions, statements about planning, and methods used to reduce inheritance tax.

Asking Questions and Seeking Advice:

• Expression: 상속세 절세 방법에 대해 알고 싶습니다.
  Pronunciation: sang-sok-se jeol-se bang-beo-be dae-hae al-go sip-seum-ni-da.
  Meaning: I would like to know about inheritance tax saving methods.
• Expression: 상속세를 어떻게 줄일 수 있나요?
  Pronunciation: sang-sok-se-reul eo-tteo-ke ju-ril su it-na-yo?
  Meaning: How can I reduce the inheritance tax?
• Expression: 어떤 절세 전략이 가장 효과적일까요?
  Pronunciation: eo-tteon jeol-se jeol-lya-gi ga-jang hyo-gwa-jeo-gil-kka-yo?
  Meaning: Which tax saving strategy would be most effective?
• Expression: 세무사와 상담하고 싶습니다.
  Pronunciation: se-mu-sa-wa sang-dam-ha-go sip-seum-ni-da.
  Meaning: I want to consult with a tax accountant.
• Expression: 상속세율이 어떻게 되나요?
  Pronunciation: sang-sok-se-yu-ri eo-tteo-ke doe-na-yo?
  Meaning: What is the inheritance tax rate?
• Expression: 증여세와 상속세 중 어느 것이 더 유리한가요?
  Pronunciation: jeung-yeo-se-wa sang-sok-se jung eo-neu geo-si deo yu-ri-han-ga-yo?
  Meaning: Between gift tax and inheritance tax, which is more advantageous?

Discussing Common Strategies:

• Expression: 미리 증여하는 것이 절세에 도움이 될 수 있습니다.
  Pronunciation: mi-ri jeung-yeo-ha-neun geo-si jeol-se-e do-u-mi doel su it-seum-ni-da.
  Meaning: Gifting in advance can help with tax saving.
• Expression: 부동산을 활용한 절세 방안도 고려해 보세요.
  Pronunciation: bu-dong-sa-neul hwal-yong-han jeol-se bang-an-do go-ryeo-hae bo-se-yo.
  Meaning: Consider tax saving measures utilizing real estate as well.
• Expression: 보험 상품을 이용한 상속세 재원 마련 방법도 있습니다.
  Pronunciation: bo-heom sang-pu-meul i-yong-han sang-sok-se jae-won ma-ryeon bang-beop-do it-seum-ni-da.
  Meaning: There are also methods to prepare funds for inheritance tax using insurance products.
• Expression: 가업 승계를 위한 세금 혜택을 알아봐야 합니다.
  Pronunciation: ga-eop seung-gye-reul wi-han se-geum hye-tae-geul a-ra-bwa-ya ham-ni-da.
  Meaning: We need to look into tax benefits for family business succession.
• Expression: 신탁을 설정하는 것도 방법 중 하나입니다.
  Pronunciation: sin-ta-geul seol-jeong-ha-neun geot-do bang-beop jung ha-na-im-ni-da.
  Meaning: Setting up a trust is also one of the methods.
• Expression: 배우자 공제를 최대한 활용해야 합니다.
  Pronunciation: bae-u-ja gong-je-reul choe-dae-han hwal-yong-hae-ya ham-ni-da.
  Meaning: We must maximize the use of the spousal deduction.

Expressing Need for Planning:

• Expression: 상속세 계획을 미리 세우는 것이 중요합니다.
  Pronunciation: sang-sok-se gye-hoe-geul mi-ri se-u-neun geo-si jung-yo-ham-ni-da.
  Meaning: It is important to establish an inheritance tax plan in advance.
• Expression: 전문가의 도움이 필요할 것 같습니다.
  Pronunciation: jeon-mun-ga-ui do-u-mi pi-ryo-hal geot gat-seum-ni-da.
  Meaning: It seems like we will need professional help.
• Expression: 상속 재산을 정확히 평가해야 합니다.
  Pronunciation: sang-sok jae-sa-neul jeong-hwa-ki pyeong-ga-hae-ya ham-ni-da.
  Meaning: The inherited assets must be accurately appraised.
• Expression: 세금 신고 기한을 놓치지 않도록 주의해야 합니다.
  Pronunciation: se-geum sin-go gi-ha-neul no-chi-ji an-to-rok ju-ui-hae-ya ham-ni-da.
  Meaning: We must be careful not to miss the tax filing deadline.

These expressions cover a range of situations, from initial inquiries to discussing specific strategies like lifetime gifting (미리 증여 – mi-ri jeung-yeo) or using real estate (부동산 활용 – bu-dong-san hwal-yong). Highlighting the need for early planning (미리 계획 세우기 – mi-ri gye-hoek se-u-gi) and professional help (전문가의 도움 – jeon-mun-ga-ui do-um) is also common, reflecting the complexity of Korean inheritance tax law. Using these phrases will enable you to engage in meaningful conversations about 상속세 절세.

Useful Expressions for Specific Scenarios

Discussions about inheritance tax saving often involve specific scenarios, such as dealing with different types of assets or understanding legal requirements. Here are expressions tailored for such situations.

Dealing with Different Asset Types:

• Expression: 부동산 상속 시 세금 부담이 큽니다.
  Pronunciation: bu-dong-san sang-sok si se-geum bu-da-mi keum-ni-da.
  Meaning: The tax burden is large when inheriting real estate.
• Expression: 주식이나 금융 자산 상속은 어떻게 처리되나요?
  Pronunciation: ju-si-gi-na geum-yung ja-san sang-so-geun eo-tteo-ke cheo-ri-doe-na-yo?
  Meaning: How is the inheritance of stocks or financial assets handled?
• Expression: 해외 자산 상속에 대한 규정도 알아봐야 합니다.
  Pronunciation: hae-oe ja-san sang-so-ge dae-han gyu-jeong-do a-ra-bwa-ya ham-ni-da.
  Meaning: We also need to check the regulations regarding the inheritance of overseas assets.
• Expression: 예술품이나 귀금속 같은 동산도 상속 재산에 포함됩니다.
  Pronunciation: ye-sul-pu-mi-na gwi-geum-sok ga-teun dong-san-do sang-sok jae-sa-ne po-ham-doem-ni-da.
  Meaning: Movable assets like artwork or precious metals are also included in the inherited property.
• Expression: 사업체(가업) 상속 시 특별 공제가 있나요?
  Pronunciation: sa-eop-che (ga-eop) sang-sok si teuk-byeol gong-je-ga it-na-yo?
  Meaning: Are there special deductions when inheriting a business (family business)?
• Expression: 임대 부동산의 상속세 평가는 어떻게 이루어지나요?
  Pronunciation: im-dae bu-dong-sa-nui sang-sok-se pyeong-ga-neun eo-tteo-ke i-ru-eo-ji-na-yo?
  Meaning: How is the inheritance tax valuation done for rental properties?

Understanding Legal Aspects and Procedures:

• Expression: 상속세 신고는 언제까지 해야 하나요?
  Pronunciation: sang-sok-se sin-go-neun eon-je-kka-ji hae-ya ha-na-yo?
  Meaning: By when must the inheritance tax be reported/filed?
• Expression: 필요한 서류는 무엇인가요?
  Pronunciation: pi-ryo-han seo-ryu-neun mu-eo-sin-ga-yo?
  Meaning: What are the necessary documents?
• Expression: 상속 포기 절차는 어떻게 되나요?
  Pronunciation: sang-sok po-gi jeol-cha-neun eo-tteo-ke doe-na-yo?
  Meaning: What is the procedure for renouncing inheritance?
• Expression: 유언장이 없으면 법정 상속 순위에 따라 분배됩니다.
  Pronunciation: yu-eon-jang-i eop-seu-myeon beop-jeong sang-sok sun-wi-e tta-ra bun-bae-doem-ni-da.
  Meaning: If there is no will, distribution follows the legal order of inheritance.
• Expression: 세금 납부를 연기하거나 분할 납부할 수 있나요?
  Pronunciation: se-geum nap-bu-reul yeon-gi-ha-geo-na bu-nal nap-bu-hal su it-na-yo?
  Meaning: Can the tax payment be deferred or paid in installments?
• Expression: 상속 관련 법률 자문이 필요합니다.
  Pronunciation: sang-sok gwal-lyeon beom-nyul ja-mu-ni pi-ryo-ham-ni-da.
  Meaning: I need legal advice regarding inheritance.
• Expression: 상속세 공제 항목을 꼼꼼히 확인해야 합니다.
  Pronunciation: sang-sok-se gong-je hang-mo-geul kkom-kko-mi hwa-gin-hae-ya ham-ni-da.
  Meaning: We need to carefully check the inheritance tax deduction items.
• Expression: 세무 조사를 받을 수도 있나요?
  Pronunciation: se-mu jo-sa-reul ba-deul su-do it-na-yo?
  Meaning: Is it possible to be subject to a tax audit?

These phrases address practical concerns, such as the high tax burden on real estate (부동산), which is a significant asset class in Korea. Questions about filing deadlines (신고 기한 – sin-go gi-han) and necessary documents (필요 서류 – pi-ryo seo-ryu) are common when dealing with the administrative aspects of inheritance. Understanding legal procedures like inheritance renunciation (상속 포기 – sang-sok po-gi) or the implications of not having a will (유언장 – yu-eon-jang) is also crucial. Using these expressions demonstrates a deeper understanding of the practicalities involved.

How to Apply in Real Life: Key Points

Navigating inheritance tax saving in Korea involves more than just language; it requires understanding practical nuances and cultural context. Here are key points to keep in mind:

• Start Planning Early: Effective 상속세 절세 requires long-term planning. Strategies like lifetime gifting are often more beneficial when done years in advance due to specific regulations (e.g., gifts made within 10 years before death might be added back to the inheritance calculation). Discussing 장기적인 계획 (jang-gi-jeo-gin gye-hoek – long-term plan) is essential.
• Understand Gift Tax vs. Inheritance Tax: While gifting (증여 – jeung-yeo) can be a key strategy, Korea also has a significant gift tax (증여세 – jeung-yeo-se). It’s crucial to understand the rates, exemptions, and how they interact with inheritance tax. Often, the choice involves complex calculations best handled by a professional. Ask: 증여세와 상속세의 차이점을 설명해 주시겠어요? (jeung-yeo-se-wa sang-sok-se-ui cha-i-jeo-meul seol-myeong-hae ju-si-ge-sseo-yo? – Could you explain the differences between gift tax and inheritance tax?).
• Utilize All Available Deductions: Korean tax law provides various deductions (공제 – gong-je), such as basic deductions, spousal deductions (배우자 공제 – bae-u-ja gong-je), deductions for minors, etc. Maximizing these legal deductions is a fundamental part of 절세. Ensure you or your advisor checks all applicable 공제 항목 (gong-je hang-mok – deduction items).
• Real Estate Complexity: Real estate (부동산 – bu-dong-san) often forms a large part of Korean estates. Its valuation for tax purposes can be complex, involving official assessed values versus market values. Strategies might involve how property is held or transferred. Be aware that 부동산 상속 (bu-dong-san sang-sok – real estate inheritance) often triggers significant tax liability.
• Seek Professional Advice: Korean inheritance tax laws are complex and change frequently. Always consult with a qualified 세무사 (se-mu-sa – tax accountant) or 변호사 (byeon-ho-sa – lawyer) specializing in inheritance matters. Using phrases like 전문가와 상담이 필요합니다 (jeon-mun-ga-wa sang-da-mi pi-ryo-ham-ni-da – Consultation with an expert is necessary) is highly recommended. Avoid relying solely on general information.
• Documentation is Key: Proper documentation for gifts, asset valuations, and family relationships is crucial. Keep meticulous records (꼼꼼한 기록 관리 – kkom-kkom-han gi-rok gwal-li) to support your tax filings and strategies, especially if facing a potential tax audit (세무 조사 – se-mu jo-sa).
• Consider Family Business Succession Rules: If a family business (가업 – ga-eop) is involved, specific tax benefits and succession rules (가업 승계 혜택 – ga-eop seung-gye hye-taek) may apply. These often have strict requirements and require careful planning.

Applying these points involves proactive communication and planning. Don’t wait until the last minute. Engage with family members and professionals early on, using the Korean expressions learned here to facilitate clear discussions about goals and strategies for managing inheritance tax effectively.

Korean Culture Notes

Understanding cultural nuances surrounding inheritance (상속) and wealth transfer in Korea is vital for navigating discussions about 상속세 절세 effectively and respectfully. These factors often influence decision-making processes and communication styles.

Family Dynamics and Filial Piety (효 – Hyo):
Traditionally, inheritance in Korea is deeply intertwined with family relationships and the concept of 효 (hyo), or filial piety. Decisions about asset distribution are often influenced by factors like which child provided the most care for aging parents or who is expected to carry on family traditions or businesses. While the law dictates distribution shares (especially without a will), family discussions and expectations play a significant role. Openly discussing inheritance tax saving might sometimes be perceived as sensitive or even greedy, depending on the family context. It’s often approached delicately, perhaps framed as ensuring the family’s future well-being rather than just individual gain. For instance, a parent might initiate the conversation by saying, “너희들에게 부담을 덜어주고 싶어서 미리 준비하려고 한다” (neo-hui-deu-re-ge bu-da-meul deo-reo-ju-go si-peo-seo mi-ri jun-bi-ha-ryeo-go han-da – I want to prepare in advance because I want to lessen the burden on you children). This approach emphasizes care rather than just tax avoidance. Understanding these underlying dynamics helps in choosing the right timing and tone for such discussions. The eldest son (장남 – jang-nam) traditionally held a significant role, though legal changes promote more equal distribution now, cultural expectations can linger, sometimes causing friction that needs careful navigation alongside financial planning.

Preference for Real Estate and Tangible Assets:
There’s a strong cultural preference for tangible assets, particularly real estate (부동산 – bu-dong-san), as a primary form of wealth in Korea. Many families accumulate wealth through property ownership, viewing it as stable and secure. This preference significantly impacts inheritance tax planning because real estate is often illiquid and subject to complex valuation rules and high tax rates upon inheritance. Strategies for 상속세 절세 frequently revolve around managing real estate assets, such as transferring ownership during one’s lifetime (despite gift tax implications), setting up real estate holding structures, or ensuring sufficient liquid assets are available to cover the tax liability without forcing a fire sale of property. When discussing inheritance, expect real estate to be a central topic. Phrases like “부동산 때문에 상속세가 많이 나올 것 같아요” (bu-dong-san ttae-mu-ne sang-sok-se-ga ma-ni na-ol geot ga-ta-yo – It seems the inheritance tax will be high because of the real estate) are common. This cultural emphasis means financial advisors often need specific expertise in real estate tax law.

Sensitivity Around Discussing Death and Money:
Directly discussing death (죽음 – ju-geum) and detailed financial planning for after one’s passing can be culturally sensitive, particularly between different generations. While younger generations might be more open, older Koreans may find explicit discussions about inheritance planning uncomfortable or even morbid. Framing the conversation around “future preparation” (미래 준비 – mi-rae jun-bi) or “responsible asset management” (책임감 있는 자산 관리 – chae-gim-gam it-neun ja-san gwal-li) can be more palatable than focusing solely on death and taxes. Using euphemisms or approaching the topic indirectly might be necessary in some family contexts. For example, instead of “When you pass away…”, one might say “나중에 혹시 모를 상황을 대비해서…” (na-jung-e hok-si mo-reul sang-hwang-eul dae-bi-hae-seo… – To prepare for any potential situation later on…). Furthermore, discussing specific monetary amounts or detailed asset lists might be considered private. Professional advisors like tax accountants often play a crucial role as neutral third parties, facilitating these sensitive conversations in a structured and less emotionally charged manner. Respecting privacy and choosing appropriate moments are key cultural considerations.

Real Conversation Example

Situation: Two friends, Min-jun (A) and Ji-hoon (B), are having coffee. Min-jun recently attended a family gathering where inheritance was briefly mentioned, and he’s now thinking about the implications.

Roles:
A: Min-jun (Concerned about future inheritance tax)
B: Ji-hoon (Has some basic knowledge from his family’s experience)

• Expression: A: 지훈아, 주말에 가족들 모였는데 아버지가 슬쩍 상속 얘기를 꺼내시더라.
  Pronunciation: Ji-hun-a, ju-ma-re ga-jok-deul mo-yeon-neun-de a-beo-ji-ga seul-jjeok sang-sok yae-gi-reul kkeo-nae-si-deo-ra.
  Meaning: Ji-hoon, the family gathered over the weekend, and my father briefly brought up inheritance.
• Expression: B: 아, 정말? 요즘 그런 얘기 많이 하는 것 같아. 특히 상속세 부담 때문에.
  Pronunciation: A, jeong-mal? Yo-jeum geu-reon yae-gi ma-ni ha-neun geot ga-ta. Teu-ki sang-sok-se bu-dam ttae-mu-ne.
  Meaning: Oh, really? It seems like people talk about that a lot these days. Especially because of the inheritance tax burden.
• Expression: A: 맞아. 우리 집도 부동산이 좀 있어서 걱정이야. 상속세 절세 방법 같은 거 알아?
  Pronunciation: Ma-ja. U-ri jip-do bu-dong-sa-ni jom i-sseo-seo geok-jeong-i-ya. Sang-sok-se jeol-se bang-beop ga-teun geo a-ra?
  Meaning: Right. Our family also has some real estate, so I’m worried. Do you know anything about inheritance tax saving methods?
• Expression: B: 자세히는 모르지만, 우리 부모님은 미리 증여하는 걸 좀 고려하시는 것 같더라고. 증여세도 있지만 장기적으로 보면 유리할 수도 있대.
  Pronunciation: Ja-se-hi-neun mo-reu-ji-man, u-ri bu-mo-nim-eun mi-ri jeung-yeo-ha-neun geol jom go-ryeo-ha-si-neun geot gat-deo-ra-go. Jeung-yeo-se-do it-ji-man jang-gi-jeo-geu-ro bo-myeon yu-ri-hal su-do it-dae.
  Meaning: I don’t know the details, but it seems my parents are considering gifting in advance. There’s gift tax, but they say it might be advantageous in the long run.
• Expression: A: 미리 증여… 그게 일반적인 방법인가? 세무사랑 상담을 해봐야 하나.
  Pronunciation: Mi-ri jeung-yeo… Geu-ge il-ban-jeo-gin bang-beo-bin-ga? Se-mu-sa-rang sang-da-meul hae-bwa-ya ha-na.
  Meaning: Gifting in advance… Is that a common method? Should I consult with a tax accountant?
• Expression: B: 응, 전문가 도움이 꼭 필요할 거야. 재산 규모나 종류에 따라 전략이 완전 다르대. 보험을 활용하는 방법도 있다고 들었어.
  Pronunciation: Eung, jeon-mun-ga do-u-mi kkok pi-ryo-hal geo-ya. Jae-san gyu-mo-na jong-nyu-e tta-ra jeol-lya-gi wan-jeon da-reu-dae. Bo-heo-meul hwal-yong-ha-neun bang-beop-do it-da-go deu-reo-sseo.
  Meaning: Yes, professional help will definitely be necessary. They say the strategy completely differs depending on the size and type of assets. I also heard there are methods using insurance.
• Expression: A: 보험이라… 복잡하네. 일단 아버지랑 좀 더 진지하게 얘기해보고, 세무사 상담 예약을 잡아야겠다.
  Pronunciation: Bo-heom-i-ra… Bok-ja-pa-ne. Il-dan a-beo-ji-rang jom deo jin-ji-ha-ge yae-gi-hae-bo-go, se-mu-sa sang-dam ye-ya-geul ja-ba-ya-get-da.
  Meaning: Insurance… It’s complicated. First, I should talk more seriously with my father, and then I need to book a consultation with a tax accountant.
• Expression: B: 그래, 그게 좋겠다. 미리 준비하는 게 중요하니까. 나중에 세금 때문에 힘들면 안 되잖아.
  Pronunciation: Geu-rae, geu-ge jo-ket-da. Mi-ri jun-bi-ha-neun ge jung-yo-ha-ni-kka. Na-jung-e se-geum ttae-mu-ne him-deul-myeon an doe-ja-na.
  Meaning: Yeah, that sounds good. Preparing in advance is important. You don’t want to struggle later because of taxes.
• Expression: A: 맞아. 상속세율도 꽤 높다고 들었어. 공제 항목 같은 것도 잘 챙겨야 할 텐데.
  Pronunciation: Ma-ja. Sang-sok-se-yul-do kkwae nop-da-go deu-reo-sseo. Gong-je hang-mok ga-teun geot-do jal chaeng-gyeo-ya hal ten-de.
  Meaning: Right. I heard the inheritance tax rates are quite high too. We’ll need to make sure we handle things like deductions properly.
• Expression: B: 세무사가 그런 건 다 알아서 잘 설명해 줄 거야. 너무 걱정만 하지 말고 차근차근 알아봐.
  Pronunciation: Se-mu-sa-ga geu-reon geon da a-ra-seo jal seol-myeong-hae jul geo-ya. Neo-mu geok-jeong-man ha-ji mal-go cha-geun-cha-geun a-ra-bwa.
  Meaning: The tax accountant will explain all that well. Don’t just worry, look into it step by step.

Conversation Points and Analysis:

1. Initiating the Topic: Min-jun brings up the topic casually (슬쩍 얘기를 꺼내시더라 – seul-jjeok yae-gi-reul kkeo-nae-si-deo-ra), reflecting the potential sensitivity. Ji-hoon acknowledges it’s a common concern (요즘 그런 얘기 많이 하는 것 같아 – yo-jeum geu-reon yae-gi ma-ni ha-neun geot ga-ta).
2. Core Problem – Real Estate: Min-jun immediately mentions real estate (부동산이 좀 있어서 걱정이야 – bu-dong-sa-ni jom i-sseo-seo geok-jeong-i-ya), highlighting its significance in Korean inheritance concerns.
3. Mentioning Strategies: Ji-hoon mentions a common strategy, gifting in advance (미리 증여하는 것 – mi-ri jeung-yeo-ha-neun geot), and acknowledges the associated gift tax (증여세). He also mentions insurance (보험 활용 – bo-heom hwal-yong).
4. Emphasis on Professional Help: Both friends quickly agree on the need for expert advice. Ji-hoon explicitly states, 전문가 도움이 꼭 필요할 거야 (jeon-mun-ga do-u-mi kkok pi-ryo-hal geo-ya – Professional help will definitely be necessary), emphasizing the complexity.
5. Action Plan: Min-jun decides on concrete next steps: talking seriously with his father and consulting a tax accountant (세무사 상담 예약 – se-mu-sa sang-dam ye-yak). This reflects a practical approach after the initial discussion.

Expression Analysis:

• 슬쩍 얘기를 꺼내시더라 (seul-jjeok yae-gi-reul kkeo-nae-si-deo-ra): 슬쩍 means ‘stealthily’, ‘casually’, or ‘briefly’. 얘기를 꺼내다 means ‘to bring up a topic’. -시더라 is a retrospective suffix indicating something the speaker observed someone else (usually respected, hence -시-) doing. It implies the father mentioned it casually, not as a formal discussion.
• 장기적으로 보면 유리할 수도 있대 (jang-gi-jeo-geu-ro bo-myeon yu-ri-hal su-do it-dae): 장기적으로 보면 means ‘if you look at it from a long-term perspective’. 유리하다 means ‘to be advantageous/favorable’. -ㄹ 수도 있다 expresses possibility (‘might be’). -대 is a contraction of -다고 해, meaning ‘they say’ or ‘I heard’. Ji-hoon is relaying information he heard about the potential long-term benefits of gifting.

Additional Useful Information: Expressions Worth Knowing

Beyond the core concepts and strategies, several related areas are important for a comprehensive understanding of inheritance tax saving in Korea. These include specific legal terms, types of deductions, and the process itself.

Specific Deductions and Exemptions:
Understanding the types of deductions (공제 – gong-je) available is crucial for effective tax saving. Korean inheritance tax law allows for several deductions that can significantly reduce the taxable amount.

• Expression: 기초 공제
  Pronunciation: gi-cho gong-je
  Meaning: Basic deduction (a standard amount deductible from the total estate value)
• Expression: 배우자 상속 공제
  Pronunciation: bae-u-ja sang-sok gong-je
  Meaning: Spousal inheritance deduction (a significant deduction available for assets inherited by a surviving spouse)
• Expression: 자녀 공제
  Pronunciation: ja-nyeo gong-je
  Meaning: Child deduction (deduction per child)
• Expression: 미성년자 공제
  Pronunciation: mi-seong-nyeon-ja gong-je
  Meaning: Minor deduction (additional deduction for heirs under 19)
• Expression: 연로자 공제