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An Investigation of the Current State of Loan Words in Broadcasting.

  • The Sociolinguistic Journal of Korea
  • Abbr : 사회언어학
  • 2005, 13(2), pp.19-42
  • Publisher : The Sociolinguistic Society Of Korea
  • Research Area : Humanities > Linguistics

Soohyun Kim 1

1이화여자대학교

Candidate

ABSTRACT

This study attempts to analyze loan words from news programs, educational programs, and entertainment programs broadcast by three major Korean television stations (KBS, MBC, and SBS) during the period of one month. Results show that loan words tend to be widely used in daily life―even in those situations in which appropriate Korean words exist―and that the tendency to prefer loan words is increasing. Accordingly, in those cases where the meanings of loan words and existing Korean words are identical and the loan word has not already been fixed in a dominant position, this study suggests that what can be expressed with existing Korean words should be. With regard to pronunciation and spelling, this study points out the phenomenon of loan words being spelled as they are pronounced due to ignorance regarding orthographic rules governing such loan words. Throughout this study it is argued that a more active attitude should be taken in increasing awareness of orthographic rules, as well as in regulating them. Television networks function not only as conveyers of information but also as language educators. Accordingly, in order to perform both functions successfully, gradual implementation of policies on Korean language refinement, a proactive attitude among people in the broadcasting field, and consciousness among Korean speakers are needed.

Citation status

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