Language Purism in Korea today

Abstract

This paper discusses various aspects of language purism as it is practiced in the Republic of Korea today. Among other things, it deals with the socio-political context of language purism in contemporary Korea, its major practitioners, its targets, its rhetoric, and its strategies. The paper also addresses the question of reverse purification, i.e. purification of foreign-language materials contaminated by Korean-language sources. It is suggested that this reverse purification can contribute to better international communication. It is also suggested that reverse purification can best be achieved through dramatic improvements in the quality of Korea's foreign-language education.