Ordering a Custom Cake in Korean: A Shopper’s Guide

Planning a special celebration in Korea and need the perfect custom cake, but unsure how to communicate your needs in Korean? Ordering something specific like a custom-designed cake can feel daunting when dealing with a language barrier. Don’t worry! This guide provides all the essential Korean phrases and cultural insights you need to confidently discuss and order a custom cake from a local bakery. You’ll learn how to inquire about availability, specify design details, discuss flavors and sizes, and finalize your order smoothly.

How to Ask About Custom Cake Orders?

The most direct way to begin your inquiry is to ask if the bakery accepts custom orders. This fundamental question opens the door to further discussion about your specific needs.

• Expression: 케이크 주문 제작 가능한가요?
  Pronunciation: ke-i-keu ju-mun je-jak ga-neung-han-ga-yo?
  Meaning: Is custom cake ordering possible? (Lit: Is cake order production possible?)

This phrase, 케이크 주문 제작 가능한가요? (ke-i-keu ju-mun je-jak ga-neung-han-ga-yo?), is polite and commonly understood in bakeries across Korea. 케이크 (ke-i-keu) means “cake,” 주문 제작 (ju-mun je-jak) means “custom order” or “made-to-order production,” and 가능한가요? (ga-neung-han-ga-yo?) means “is it possible?”. Using this expression clearly signals your intention to order a unique cake rather than purchasing a pre-made one.

You can use this question when first approaching the counter or calling the bakery. It’s a versatile starting point that allows the staff to immediately understand your request. If they answer affirmatively, you can then proceed to discuss the details of the cake you envision. If they don’t offer custom orders, they might suggest alternatives or direct you to a place that does.

Essential Phrases for Initial Inquiry

Once you’ve confirmed that custom orders are possible, you’ll need phrases to discuss the basics. This includes specifying the occasion, asking about lead times, and getting a general idea of their offerings. These initial questions help set the stage for a more detailed discussion.

• Expression: 맞춤 케이크를 주문하고 싶어요.
  Pronunciation: mat-chum ke-i-keu-reul ju-mun-ha-go si-peo-yo.
  Meaning: I’d like to order a custom cake.
• Expression: 생일 케이크를 주문 제작하려고 하는데요.
  Pronunciation: saeng-il ke-i-keu-reul ju-mun je-jak-ha-ryeo-go ha-neun-de-yo.
  Meaning: I’m looking to custom order a birthday cake.
• Expression: 기념일 케이크가 필요해요.
  Pronunciation: gi-nyeom-il ke-i-keu-ga pil-yo-hae-yo.
  Meaning: I need an anniversary cake.
• Expression: 결혼식 케이크도 만드나요?
  Pronunciation: gyeol-hon-sik ke-i-keu-do man-deu-na-yo?
  Meaning: Do you also make wedding cakes?
• Expression: 주문하려면 얼마나 미리 예약해야 하나요?
  Pronunciation: ju-mun-ha-ryeo-myeon eol-ma-na mi-ri ye-yak-hae-ya ha-na-yo?
  Meaning: How far in advance do I need to book an order?
• Expression: 최소 며칠 전에 주문해야 해요?
  Pronunciation: choe-so myeo-chil jeon-e ju-mun-hae-ya hae-yo?
  Meaning: At least how many days in advance should I order?
• Expression: 혹시 이번 주말까지 가능한가요?
  Pronunciation: hok-si i-beon ju-mal-kka-ji ga-neung-han-ga-yo?
  Meaning: Is it possibly available by this weekend?
• Expression: 어떤 종류의 케이크를 만들 수 있나요?
  Pronunciation: eo-tteon jong-nyu-ui ke-i-keu-reul man-deul su it-na-yo?
  Meaning: What kinds of cakes can you make?
• Expression: 디자인 예시를 볼 수 있을까요?
  Pronunciation: di-ja-in ye-si-reul bol su i-sseul-kka-yo?
  Meaning: Could I see some design examples?
• Expression: 사진을 보여드려도 될까요?
  Pronunciation: sa-jin-eul bo-yeo-deu-ryeo-do doel-kka-yo?
  Meaning: May I show you a picture (for reference)?
• Expression: 특별히 원하는 디자인이 있어요.
  Pronunciation: teuk-byeol-hi won-ha-neun di-ja-in-i i-sseo-yo.
  Meaning: I have a specific design I want.
• Expression: 아이들용 케이크도 주문 가능한가요?
  Pronunciation: a-i-deul-yong ke-i-keu-do ju-mun ga-neung-han-ga-yo?
  Meaning: Is it possible to order cakes for children too?
• Expression: 주문 제작 케이크 가격대는 어떻게 되나요?
  Pronunciation: ju-mun je-jak ke-i-keu ga-gyeok-ttae-neun eo-tteo-ke doe-na-yo?
  Meaning: What is the price range for custom-made cakes?
• Expression: 상담을 먼저 받아보고 싶어요.
  Pronunciation: sang-dam-eul meon-jeo ba-da-bo-go si-peo-yo.
  Meaning: I’d like to have a consultation first.
• Expression: 예약금을 내야 하나요?
  Pronunciation: ye-yak-geum-eul nae-ya ha-na-yo?
  Meaning: Do I need to pay a deposit?

These phrases cover the initial steps: stating your intent (맞춤 케이크를 주문하고 싶어요), specifying the occasion (생일 케이크, 기념일 케이크), asking about the required notice (얼마나 미리 예약해야 하나요?), and inquiring about general options and procedures (디자인 예시를 볼 수 있을까요?, 가격대는 어떻게 되나요?). Being clear about these points early on saves time and helps the baker understand your basic requirements.

Discussing Cake Details

After the initial inquiry, you’ll need to discuss the specific details of the cake. This involves specifying the size, number of servings, desired flavor, filling, and most importantly, the design and any decorations. Clear communication here is crucial to ensure the final product matches your vision.

• Expression: 케이크 크기는 어느 정도로 할까요?
  Pronunciation: ke-i-keu keu-gi-neun eo-neu jeong-do-ro hal-kka-yo?
  Meaning: What size should the cake be? / How big should the cake be?
• Expression: 몇 명 정도 먹을 건가요?
  Pronunciation: myeot myeong jeong-do meo-geul geon-ga-yo?
  Meaning: About how many people will be eating it? (Essential for determining size)
• Expression: 10명 정도 먹을 케이크가 필요해요.
  Pronunciation: yeol-myeong jeong-do meo-geul ke-i-keu-ga pil-yo-hae-yo.
  Meaning: I need a cake that serves about 10 people.
• Expression: 케이크 맛은 어떤 종류가 있나요?
  Pronunciation: ke-i-keu ma-seun eo-tteon jong-nyu-ga it-na-yo?
  Meaning: What kinds of cake flavors do you have?
• Expression: 초콜릿 맛으로 해주세요.
  Pronunciation: cho-kol-lit ma-seu-ro hae-ju-se-yo.
  Meaning: Please make it chocolate flavor.
• Expression: 생크림 케이크로 가능할까요?
  Pronunciation: saeng-keu-rim ke-i-keu-ro ga-neung-hal-kka-yo?
  Meaning: Is a fresh cream cake possible?
• Expression: 안에 들어가는 필링은 선택할 수 있나요?
  Pronunciation: an-e deu-reo-ga-neun pil-ling-eun seon-taek-hal su it-na-yo?
  Meaning: Can I choose the filling inside?
• Expression: 과일이 많이 들어갔으면 좋겠어요.
  Pronunciation: gwa-il-i ma-ni deu-reo-ga-sseu-myeon jo-ke-sseo-yo.
  Meaning: I would like it to have a lot of fruit inside/on top.
• Expression: 디자인은 이 사진처럼 해주세요.
  Pronunciation: di-ja-in-eun i sa-jin-cheo-reom hae-ju-se-yo.
  Meaning: Please make the design like this picture.
• Expression: 케이크 위에 글씨를 써 주실 수 있나요?
  Pronunciation: ke-i-keu wi-e geul-ssi-reul sseo ju-sil su it-na-yo?
  Meaning: Can you write text on the cake?
• Expression: “생일 축하해”라고 써 주세요.
  Pronunciation: “saeng-il chuk-ha-hae”-ra-go sseo ju-se-yo.
  Meaning: Please write “Happy Birthday”.
• Expression: 장식은 심플하게 해주세요.
  Pronunciation: jang-si-geun sim-peul-ha-ge hae-ju-se-yo.
  Meaning: Please make the decorations simple.
• Expression: 캐릭터 모양으로 만들어 주실 수 있나요?
  Pronunciation: kae-rik-teo mo-yang-eu-ro man-deu-reo ju-sil su it-na-yo?
  Meaning: Can you make it in the shape of a character?
• Expression: 색깔은 파스텔 톤으로 부탁드려요.
  Pronunciation: saek-kkal-eun pa-seu-tel ton-eu-ro bu-tak-deu-ryeo-yo.
  Meaning: I’d like pastel tones for the colors, please.
• Expression: 알레르기가 있는데, 견과류 빼고 만들어 주실 수 있나요?
  Pronunciation: al-le-reu-gi-ga it-neun-de, gyeon-gwa-ryu ppae-go man-deu-reo ju-sil su it-na-yo?
  Meaning: I have allergies, can you make it without nuts?

Discussing size often starts with the number of servings (몇 명 정도 먹을 건가요?). Flavors (맛), fillings (필링), and design (디자인) are highly customizable. Providing a reference picture (사진처럼 해주세요) is very helpful. Don’t forget to mention any specific requests like text (글씨를 써 주실 수 있나요?) or dietary restrictions (알레르기).

Finalizing the Order and Pick-up

Once all the cake details are decided, the final steps involve confirming the price, arranging payment, and setting the pick-up date and time. It’s also wise to double-check all the agreed-upon details to avoid any misunderstandings.

• Expression: 그럼 총 얼마인가요?
  Pronunciation: geu-reom chong eol-ma-in-ga-yo?
  Meaning: Then, how much is it in total?
• Expression: 예상 가격을 알려주실 수 있나요?
  Pronunciation: ye-sang ga-gyeo-geul al-lyeo-ju-sil su it-na-yo?
  Meaning: Can you tell me the estimated price?
• Expression: 결제는 어떻게 하면 되나요?
  Pronunciation: gyeol-je-neun eo-tteo-ke ha-myeon doe-na-yo?
  Meaning: How should I make the payment?
• Expression: 선불인가요, 아니면 픽업할 때 내면 되나요?
  Pronunciation: seon-bul-in-ga-yo, a-ni-myeon pi-geop-hal ttae nae-myeon doe-na-yo?
  Meaning: Is it prepaid, or can I pay when I pick it up?
• Expression: 카드 결제 가능한가요?
  Pronunciation: ka-deu gyeol-je ga-neung-han-ga-yo?
  Meaning: Is card payment possible?
• Expression: 언제까지 찾으러 오면 될까요?
  Pronunciation: eon-je-kka-ji cha-jeu-reo o-myeon doel-kka-yo?
  Meaning: By when should I come to pick it up?
• Expression: 토요일 오후 3시까지 준비해 주실 수 있나요?
  Pronunciation: to-yo-il o-hu se-si-kka-ji jun-bi-hae ju-sil su it-na-yo?
  Meaning: Can you have it ready by Saturday at 3 PM?
• Expression: 픽업 날짜와 시간을 다시 한번 확인하고 싶어요.
  Pronunciation: pi-geop nal-jja-wa si-gan-eul da-si han-beon hwa-gin-ha-go si-peo-yo.
  Meaning: I’d like to double-check the pick-up date and time.
• Expression: 주문 내용을 한번 더 확인해 주시겠어요?
  Pronunciation: ju-mun nae-yong-eul han-beon deo hwa-gin-hae ju-si-ge-sseo-yo?
  Meaning: Could you confirm the order details one more time?
• Expression: 연락처를 남겨드릴까요?
  Pronunciation: yeol-lak-cheo-reul nam-gyeo-deu-ril-kka-yo?
  Meaning: Shall I leave my contact information?
• Expression: 케이크가 준비되면 연락 주실 수 있나요?
  Pronunciation: ke-i-keu-ga jun-bi-doe-myeon yeol-lak ju-sil su it-na-yo?
  Meaning: Can you contact me when the cake is ready?
• Expression: 초는 몇 개 필요하세요?
  Pronunciation: cho-neun myeot gae pil-yo-ha-se-yo?
  Meaning: How many candles do you need? (Often asked by the baker)
• Expression: 네, 초도 같이 챙겨주세요.
  Pronunciation: ne, cho-do ga-chi chaeng-gyeo-ju-se-yo.
  Meaning: Yes, please include candles as well.
• Expression: 케이크 칼도 주시나요?
  Pronunciation: ke-i-keu kal-do ju-si-na-yo?
  Meaning: Do you provide a cake knife too?
• Expression: 감사합니다. 그럼 그때 뵙겠습니다.
  Pronunciation: gam-sa-ham-ni-da. geu-reom geu-ttae boep-ge-sseum-ni-da.
  Meaning: Thank you. I’ll see you then.

Confirming the total cost (총 얼마인가요?) and payment method (결제는 어떻게 하면 되나요?) is crucial. Clearly state your desired pick-up time (토요일 오후 3시까지) and confirm it. Asking the baker to review the order details (주문 내용을 한번 더 확인해 주시겠어요?) helps prevent errors. Finally, inquire about essentials like candles (초) and a knife (케이크 칼) before concluding the transaction politely.

How to Apply in Real Life: Key Points for Ordering

Successfully ordering a custom cake in Korean involves more than just knowing the phrases. Here are some practical tips to ensure a smooth process:

• Book Well in Advance: Popular bakeries, especially those known for custom designs, often require significant lead time. For intricate designs or during peak seasons (holidays, graduation), booking 2-4 weeks ahead is recommended. For simpler custom cakes, a few days to a week might suffice, but always ask about their required notice (최소 며칠 전에 주문해야 해요?).
• Provide Visual References: A picture is worth a thousand words, especially when discussing design. Bring photos or links to images of cakes you like. Use phrases like 이런 스타일로 만들고 싶어요 (i-reon seu-ta-il-lo man-deul-go si-peo-yo – I want to make it in this style) or 이 사진처럼 해주세요 (i sa-jin-cheo-reom hae-ju-se-yo – Please make it like this picture).
• Be Specific About Details: Clearly communicate size (number of servings), flavor, colors, and any text. If you have specific dietary needs (e.g., allergies, less sugar), state them clearly: 땅콩 알레르기가 있어요 (ttang-kong al-le-reu-gi-ga i-sseo-yo – I have a peanut allergy), 덜 달게 만들어 주세요 (deol dal-ge man-deu-reo ju-se-yo – Please make it less sweet).
• Confirm Everything: Before finalizing, repeat the key details: pick-up date/time, size, flavor, design specifics, text, and price. Use 주문 내용을 다시 확인해도 될까요? (ju-mun nae-yong-eul da-si hwa-gin-hae-do doel-kka-yo? – May I confirm the order details again?). This minimizes misunderstandings.
• Understand Payment Terms: Ask about payment (결제는 어떻게 하나요?). Some bakeries require full prepayment (선불 – seon-bul), while others ask for a deposit (예약금 – ye-yak-geum) with the balance due on pick-up. Clarify if they accept cards (카드) or prefer cash/bank transfer (현금/계좌 이체 – hyeon-geum/gye-jwa i-che).
• Politeness Matters: Use polite language (-요 [-yo] or -습니다/ㅂ니다 [-seum-ni-da/-m-ni-da] endings). Phrases like 부탁드립니다 (bu-tak-deu-rim-ni-da – I ask this of you/Please do this) and 감사합니다 (gam-sa-ham-ni-da – Thank you) go a long way.
• Pick-up Etiquette: Arrive on time for pick-up. If you anticipate being late, call the bakery to let them know. Check the cake upon pick-up to ensure it matches your order before leaving the store.

Korean Culture Notes: Cake Ordering Etiquette

Understanding cultural nuances can enhance your interaction when ordering a custom cake in Korea. Cakes are significant for celebrations, and certain expectations or trends might differ from what you’re used to.

The Importance of Advance Booking and Reputation: Koreans often plan celebrations meticulously, and ordering cakes is no exception. Highly sought-after bakeries, especially those famous on social media (like Instagram) for unique designs (often called 레터링 케이크 – re-teo-ring ke-i-keu, lettering cakes, or 디자인 케이크 – di-ja-in ke-i-keu, design cakes), can be booked solid weeks or even months in advance. It’s not uncommon for popular bakers to open reservation slots at specific times, which fill up within minutes. Therefore, researching bakeries early and contacting them well ahead of your desired date is crucial. Asking 주문 마감이 언제인가요? (ju-mun ma-gam-i eon-je-in-ga-yo? – When is the order deadline?) or checking their social media for booking policies is advisable. Last-minute custom orders are often difficult to accommodate at popular places.

Design Trends and Preferences: While elaborate, multi-tiered cakes exist, current trends in Korea often lean towards smaller, aesthetically pleasing custom cakes. Minimalist designs with elegant lettering, cute character drawings, or unique shapes (like bento cakes – small, lunchbox-sized cakes) are very popular, especially among younger generations. Bakers often specialize in certain styles (e.g., vintage, cartoonish, floral buttercream). It’s helpful to browse a bakery’s portfolio (often on Instagram) to see if their style aligns with your vision. While bakers appreciate creative freedom, providing clear visual references is still the best way to communicate your desired aesthetic. Overly complex or copyrighted designs might be declined or modified.

Cake as a Thoughtful Gift: Cakes in Korea are not just desserts; they are often central elements of celebrations and thoughtful gifts. Presentation matters. Custom cakes are usually packaged beautifully in sturdy boxes, often tied with ribbons. When ordering a cake as a gift, consider the recipient’s taste and the overall aesthetic. Including candles (초 – cho) and sometimes a small cake knife (케이크 칼 – ke-i-keu kal) is standard practice, and the bakery staff will usually ask how many candles are needed. Adding a personalized message on the cake (레터링 – re-teo-ring) makes the gift even more special. The act of presenting a beautiful, custom-ordered cake is seen as a sign of care and effort.

Common Flavors and Ingredients: While classic flavors like chocolate (초코 – cho-ko), vanilla (바닐라 – ba-nil-la), and strawberry (딸기 – ttal-gi) are available, Korean bakeries often feature popular local favorites. Fresh cream (생크림 – saeng-keu-rim) cakes, often lighter and less sweet than Western buttercream, are extremely popular. Other common flavors include green tea (녹차 – nok-cha), sweet potato (고구마 – go-gu-ma), red bean (팥 – pat), and various fruit-based cakes, especially those using seasonal fruits. Ingredients like rice flour (쌀가루 – ssal-ga-ru) might be used in some cakes (떡 케이크 – tteok ke-i-keu, rice cakes, are a separate category but sometimes decorated similarly). Be open to trying local flavors, but don’t hesitate to ask for familiar ones if preferred.

Real Conversation Example: Ordering a Birthday Cake

Situation: Alex (A) goes to a local bakery to order a custom birthday cake for a friend. The baker (B) assists Alex.

• Expression: A: 안녕하세요. 혹시 케이크 주문 제작 가능한가요?
  Pronunciation: an-nyeong-ha-se-yo. hok-si ke-i-keu ju-mun je-jak ga-neung-han-ga-yo?
  Meaning: A: Hello. Is custom cake ordering possibly available?
• Expression: B: 네, 가능합니다. 어떤 케이크를 찾으세요?
  Pronunciation: ne, ga-neung-ham-ni-da. eo-tteon ke-i-keu-reul cha-jeu-se-yo?
  Meaning: B: Yes, it’s possible. What kind of cake are you looking for?
• Expression: A: 친구 생일 케이크를 주문하고 싶은데요. 다음 주 토요일까지 필요해요.
  Pronunciation: chin-gu saeng-il ke-i-keu-reul ju-mun-ha-go si-peun-de-yo. da-eum ju to-yo-il-kka-ji pil-yo-hae-yo.
  Meaning: A: I’d like to order a birthday cake for a friend. I need it by next Saturday.
• Expression: B: 네, 다음 주 토요일이면 괜찮습니다. 혹시 원하시는 디자인이나 크기가 있으신가요? 몇 분이 드실 예정인가요?
  Pronunciation: ne, da-eum ju to-yo-il-i-myeon gwaen-chan-sseum-ni-da. hok-si won-ha-si-neun di-ja-in-i-na keu-gi-ga i-sseu-sin-ga-yo? myeot bun-i deu-sil ye-jeong-in-ga-yo?
  Meaning: B: Yes, next Saturday should be fine. Do you perhaps have a desired design or size? About how many people will be eating it?
• Expression: A: 5명 정도 먹을 거라서 작은 사이즈면 될 것 같아요. 디자인은… 혹시 이런 느낌으로 가능할까요? (사진을 보여준다)
  Pronunciation: da-seot-myeong jeong-do meo-geul geo-ra-seo ja-geun ssa-i-jeu-myeon doel geot ga-ta-yo. di-ja-in-eun… hok-si i-reon neu-kkim-eu-ro ga-neung-hal-kka-yo? (sa-jin-eul bo-yeo-jun-da)
  Meaning: A: About 5 people will eat it, so a small size should be fine. For the design… would something like this be possible? (Shows a picture)
• Expression: B: 아, 네. 이런 파스텔 톤 레터링 케이크요. 가능합니다. 맛은 어떤 걸로 하시겠어요? 저희는 생크림, 초코, 당근 케이크가 인기 많아요.
  Pronunciation: a, ne. i-reon pa-seu-tel ton re-teo-ring ke-i-keu-yo. ga-neung-ham-ni-da. ma-seun eo-tteon geol-lo ha-si-ge-sseo-yo? jeo-hui-neun saeng-keu-rim, cho-ko, dang-geun ke-i-keu-ga in-gi ma-na-yo.
  Meaning: B: Ah, yes. A pastel-toned lettering cake like this. It’s possible. What flavor would you like? Our fresh cream, chocolate, and carrot cakes are popular.
• Expression: A: 생크림으로 부탁드려요. 그리고 케이크 위에 “민지야, 생일 축하해!” 라고 써 주실 수 있나요?
  Pronunciation: saeng-keu-rim-eu-ro bu-tak-deu-ryeo-yo. geu-ri-go ke-i-keu wi-e “min-ji-ya, saeng-il chuk-ha-hae!” ra-go sseo ju-sil su it-na-yo?
  Meaning: A: Fresh cream, please. And could you write “Minji, Happy Birthday!” on the cake?
• Expression: B: 네, 그럼요. 작은 사이즈 생크림 케이크에 요청하신 디자인과 문구 넣어드릴게요. 다음 주 토요일 오후에 찾으러 오시면 될까요? 시간은 언제가 편하세요?
  Pronunciation: ne, geu-reom-yo. ja-geun ssa-i-jeu saeng-keu-rim ke-i-keu-e yo-cheong-ha-sin di-ja-in-gwa mun-gu neo-eo-deu-ril-ge-yo. da-eum ju to-yo-il o-hu-e cha-jeu-reo o-si-myeon doel-kka-yo? si-gan-eun eon-je-ga pyeon-ha-se-yo?
  Meaning: B: Yes, of course. We’ll make a small size fresh cream cake with the requested design and text. Should you come pick it up next Saturday afternoon? What time is convenient for you?
• Expression: A: 오후 4시쯤 괜찮을까요? 가격은 얼마인가요? 그리고 결제는 지금 해야 하나요?
  Pronunciation: o-hu ne-si-jjeum gwaen-chan-eul-kka-yo? ga-gyeo-geun eol-ma-in-ga-yo? geu-ri-go gyeol-je-neun ji-geum hae-ya ha-na-yo?
  Meaning: A: Would around 4 PM be okay? How much is the price? And do I need to pay now?
• Expression: B: 네, 4시 괜찮습니다. 가격은 45,000원입니다. 결제는 픽업하실 때 해주셔도 괜찮아요. 연락처 하나만 남겨주시겠어요?
  Pronunciation: ne, ne-si gwaen-chan-sseum-ni-da. ga-gyeo-geun sa-man-o-cheon-won-im-ni-da. gyeol-je-neun pi-geop-ha-sil ttae hae-ju-syeo-do gwaen-chan-a-yo. yeol-lak-cheo ha-na-man nam-gyeo-ju-si-ge-sseo-yo?
  Meaning: B: Yes, 4 PM is fine. The price is 45,000 won. You can pay when you pick it up. Could you please leave just one contact number?
• Expression: A: 네, 여기요. (연락처를 적어준다) 그럼 다음 주 토요일 4시에 찾으러 오겠습니다. 감사합니다!
  Pronunciation: ne, yeo-gi-yo. (yeol-lak-cheo-reul jeo-geo-jun-da) geu-reom da-eum ju to-yo-il ne-si-e cha-jeu-reo o-ge-sseum-ni-da. gam-sa-ham-ni-da!
  Meaning: A: Yes, here you go. (Writes down contact info) Then I will come to pick it up next Saturday at 4 PM. Thank you!
• Expression: B: 네, 감사합니다. 맛있게 만들어 놓겠습니다.
  Pronunciation: ne, gam-sa-ham-ni-da. ma-sit-ge man-deu-reo no-ke-sseum-ni-da.
  Meaning: B: Yes, thank you. We will make it deliciously for you.

Conversation Points:

• Politeness Level: Both speakers use the polite -요 (-yo) and -습니다/ㅂ니다 (-seum-ni-da/-m-ni-da) endings, appropriate for a customer-staff interaction.
• Specificity: Alex clearly states the occasion (friend’s birthday), required date (next Saturday), approximate size (for 5 people), and provides a visual reference for the design.
• Baker’s Guidance: The baker confirms availability, asks clarifying questions (design, size, number of people), suggests popular flavors, and confirms details like the text and pick-up time.
• Closing: They confirm the price, payment method (pay at pick-up), exchange contact information, and finalize the pick-up time.

Expression Analysis:

• 몇 분이 드실 예정인가요? (myeot bun-i deu-sil ye-jeong-in-ga-yo?) – “About how many people will be eating it?” This is a polite way to ask about the number of servings. 몇 분 (myeot bun) is a respectful way to ask “how many people,” and 드실 예정인가요 (deu-sil ye-jeong-in-ga-yo) uses the honorific verb 드시다 (deu-si-da – to eat) and means “are you planning to eat?”.
• 이런 느낌으로 가능할까요? (i-reon neu-kkim-eu-ro ga-neung-hal-kka-yo?) – “Would something like this feeling/vibe be possible?” This is a common and slightly indirect way to ask if a specific style or design (shown in a picture) can be replicated. 느낌 (neu-kkim) means “feeling” or “vibe,” making the request sound less demanding than saying “exactly like this.”
• 연락처 하나만 남겨주시겠어요? (yeol-lak-cheo ha-na-man nam-gyeo-ju-si-ge-sseo-yo?) – “Could you please leave just one contact number?” This is a standard request when taking orders. 연락처 (yeol-lak-cheo) means contact information, 하나만 (ha-na-man) means “just one,” and 남겨주시겠어요? (nam-gyeo-ju-si-ge-sseo-yo?) is a polite request form of “to leave.”

Additional Useful Information: Expanding Your Cake Vocabulary

Beyond the basic ordering process, knowing some additional vocabulary and context related to cakes in Korea can be very helpful.

Types of Cakes and Bakeries:
Korea has a wide variety of bakeries. Large franchise bakeries like Paris Baguette and Tous Les Jours offer standard cakes and sometimes limited customization. Independent neighborhood bakeries (동네 빵집 – dong-ne ppang-jip) might offer more personalized service. Recently, specialized studios focusing solely on custom design cakes (주문 제작 케이크 전문점 – ju-mun je-jak ke-i-keu jeon-mun-jeom) have become very popular, often operating through online reservations (Instagram, KakaoTalk). Common cake types include:

• 생크림 케이크 (saeng-keu-rim ke-i-keu): Fresh cream cake (very popular, light)
• 버터크림 케이크 (beo-teo-keu-rim ke-i-keu): Buttercream cake (often used for detailed decorations)
• 초콜릿 케이크 (cho-kol-lit ke-i-keu): Chocolate cake
• 치즈 케이크 (chi-jeu ke-i-keu): Cheesecake
• 당근 케이크 (dang-geun ke-i-keu): Carrot cake
• 고구마 케이크 (go-gu-ma ke-i-keu): Sweet potato cake
• 레터링 케이크 (re-teo-ring ke-i-keu): Lettering cake (focus on text message)
• 도시락 케이크 / 벤토 케이크 (do-si-rak ke-i-keu / ben-to ke-i-keu): Bento cake (small, single-serving size)
• 떡 케이크 (tteok ke-i-keu): Rice cake (often beautifully decorated with bean paste flowers, different texture)

Knowing these terms helps you specify what you’re looking for or understand the bakery’s offerings.

Phrases for Dietary Restrictions and Preferences:
Communicating allergies or dietary needs is crucial for custom orders.

• 저는 [음식] 알레르기가 있어요. (jeo-neun [eum-sik] al-le-reu-gi-ga i-sseo-yo): I have a [food] allergy. (e.g., 땅콩 – ttang-kong – peanut, 우유 – u-yu – milk, 계란 – gye-ran – egg)
• [재료] 빼고 만들어 주실 수 있나요? ([jae-ryo] ppae-go man-deu-reo ju-sil su it-na-yo?): Can you make it without [ingredient]?
• 견과류는 전혀 안 들어가나요? (gyeon-gwa-ryu-neun jeon-hyeo an deu-reo-ga-na-yo?): Are there absolutely no nuts in it?
• 글루텐 프리 케이크도 있나요? (geul-lu-ten peu-ri ke-i-keu-do it-na-yo?): Do you also have gluten-free cakes?
• 비건 케이크 주문 가능한가요? (bi-geon ke-i-keu ju-mun ga-neung-han-ga-yo?): Is it possible to order a vegan cake?
• 덜 달게 해주세요. (deol dal-ge hae-ju-se-yo): Please make it less sweet.
• 크림은 조금만 넣어주세요. (keu-rim-eun jo-geum-man neo-eo-ju-se-yo): Please put only a little cream.

Be very clear and confirm these requests, as awareness and accommodation of dietary restrictions can vary between bakeries.

Understanding Korean Cake Sizing:
Cake sizes in Korea are often designated by numbers (호 – ho), particularly in more traditional or franchise bakeries. While custom cake studios might use diameter (cm) or serving numbers, understanding the ‘ho’ system can be useful:

• 1호 (1 ho): Approximately 15cm diameter, serves 2-4 people.
• 2호 (2 ho): Approximately 18cm diameter, serves 4-6 people.
• 3호 (3 ho): Approximately 21cm diameter, serves 6-8 people.
• 4호 (4 ho) and larger also exist.

These are approximate guides, and actual servings depend on the cake’s height and richness. When ordering, it’s often clearer to state the number of people (_명 먹을 거예요 – _myeong meo-geul geo-ye-yo – _ people will eat it) rather than relying solely on the ‘ho’ number, especially at custom design shops. Bento cakes (도시락 케이크) are much smaller, typically around 10-12cm, meant for 1-2 people.

Core Elements of Custom Cake Ordering: A Detailed Look

Ordering a custom cake successfully hinges on mastering a few key elements. Understanding these components will help you navigate the process smoothly, whether in Korean or any language.

1. Communication Clarity (Needs & Vision): This is the most critical element. You need to clearly articulate what you want. This involves:

• Occasion and Purpose: Is it a birthday (생일), anniversary (기념일), wedding (결혼식), or just because? This sets the context.
• Design Specifics: Beyond just “pretty,” specify colors (색깔), style (simple 심플, fancy 화려한 – hwa-ryeo-han, cute 귀여운 – gwi-yeo-un), specific elements (flowers 꽃 – kkot, characters 캐릭터), and any text (문구 – mun-gu). Using reference photos (참고 사진 – cham-go sa-jin) is highly effective. Use phrases like 이런 느낌으로 해주세요 (i-reon neu-kkim-eu-ro hae-ju-se-yo – Please do it with this kind of feeling/vibe).
• Flavor and Texture: Specify the cake base (시트 – si-teu) flavor (chocolate, vanilla, etc.) and the type of frosting/filling (fresh cream, buttercream, fruit). Mention preferences like “less sweet” (덜 달게 – deol dal-ge).
• Size/Servings: Clearly state how many people the cake needs to serve (몇 명분 – myeot myeong-bun).
• Dietary Needs: Explicitly state any allergies or restrictions (알레르기 정보 – al-le-reu-gi jeong-bo).

Effective communication prevents disappointment and ensures the baker understands your vision accurately.

2. Understanding Options and Limitations: While you have a vision, the baker has their own skills, style, ingredients, and schedule. Understanding their offerings and constraints is key:

• Baker’s Style: Review the bakery’s portfolio (Instagram, website). Do they specialize in the style you want? Don’t expect a minimalist baker to excel at elaborate fondant sculptures. Ask: 이런 스타일도 만드시나요? (i-reon seu-ta-il-do man-deu-si-na-yo? – Do you make this style too?).
• Available Flavors/Ingredients: Ask what flavors (맛 종류 – mat jong-nyu) and fillings (필링 종류 – pil-ling jong-nyu) are available. They might not have every possible option.
• Feasibility of Design: Some intricate designs might be very time-consuming, expensive, or structurally difficult, especially with certain cake types (like soft fresh cream cakes). Be open to the baker’s suggestions or modifications. Ask: 이 디자인이 가능할까요? (i di-ja-in-i ga-neung-hal-kka-yo? – Is this design possible?).
• Pricing Structure: Custom cakes are priced based on size, complexity of design, ingredients, and labor. Ask for an estimate early: 대략적인 가격을 알 수 있을까요? (dae-ryak-jjeo-gin ga-gyeo-geul al su i-sseul-kka-yo? – Can I know the approximate price?).

Balancing your desires with the bakery’s capabilities leads to a realistic and satisfying outcome.

3. Logistics and Confirmation: This covers the practical aspects of the order:

• Lead Time: How far in advance do you need to order? (얼마나 미리 주문해야 하나요? – eol-ma-na mi-ri ju-mun-hae-ya ha-na-yo?). This varies greatly.
• Ordering Process: How are orders placed? In person, phone, online form, KakaoTalk?
• Payment: When and how is payment made? Deposit required? (결제 방식 – gyeol-je bang-sik, 예약금 유무 – ye-yak-geum yu-mu).
• Pick-up/Delivery: Confirm the exact date and time for pick-up (픽업 날짜/시간 – pi-geop nal-jja/si-gan). Ask if delivery (배달 – bae-dal) is an option and its cost/range.
• Final Confirmation: Before ending the conversation or submitting the order, reiterate all key details: size, flavor, design, text, price, pick-up time. 마지막으로 주문 내용 확인 부탁드립니다. (ma-ji-mak-eu-ro ju-mun nae-yong hwa-gin bu-tak-deu-rim-ni-da – Lastly, please confirm the order details.). Get confirmation from the baker.

Handling the logistics properly ensures you get your cake when and how you need it, without any last-minute hitches.

Practice Tips: Mastering Your Custom Cake Order

Ordering a custom cake in Korean might seem complex, but with practice, you can do it confidently~! Here are some tips to help you master the process:

First, review the key phrases often! Try reading them aloud, paying attention to the pronunciation guides. You can even record yourself and compare. Focus on the most crucial ones like asking if custom orders are possible (주문 제작 가능한가요?), stating the number of people (_명 먹을 거예요), asking for a specific design (이 사진처럼 해주세요), inquiring about price (얼마인가요?), and confirming the pick-up time (_시에 찾으러 와도 될까요?).

Next, try role-playing! Ask a friend or language partner to pretend to be the baker. Practice the entire conversation flow, from initial inquiry to final confirmation. This helps you get comfortable using the phrases in sequence and responding to potential questions from the baker. You can simulate different scenarios – ordering a simple cake, a complex one, or dealing with dietary restrictions.

If you’re in Korea, visit local bakeries! Even if you’re not ordering a custom cake right away, you can practice asking simple questions like 이 케이크는 얼마예요? (i ke-i-keu-neun eol-ma-ye-yo? – How much is this cake?) or 이건 무슨 맛이에요? (i-geon mu-seun ma-si-e-yo? – What flavor is this?). This builds confidence in interacting with bakery staff. You can also observe how others place orders.

Use online resources! Look up Korean bakeries on Instagram (#주문제작케이크, #레터링케이크). Read their ordering instructions (often in Korean) and look at the types of cakes they make. This familiarizes you with current trends and vocabulary used in real-life contexts.

Don’t be afraid to use visual aids! Your phone with pictures is your best friend. Pointing and using simple phrases like 이거요 (i-geo-yo – This one) combined with your key phrases can be very effective.

Finally, remember that perfection isn’t necessary! Bakers are often accustomed to dealing with customers with varying levels of Korean proficiency. Speak clearly, use the phrases you know, be polite (감사합니다!), and don’t hesitate to ask them to repeat something (다시 말씀해 주시겠어요? – da-si mal-sseum-hae ju-si-ge-sseo-yo?). With preparation and practice, you’ll be ordering amazing custom cakes in no time! 화이팅! (hwa-i-ting! – Fighting!/You can do it!)