“Pyeong-eo (평어) and Ban-mal (반말) are not the Same” : Toward a Definition of Pyeong-eo (Korean Equalizing Language)

다국어 초록 (Multilingual Abstract)

In this study, I investigate the nature and characteristics of Pyeong-eo, a Korean Equalizing Language register, through a comparative analysis with Ban-mal. Drawing on both existing literature and empirical data collected between January and June 2025 from university classrooms, workplace meetings, online communities, and social media platforms, the research identifies Pyeong-eo as a distinct communicative register that, while borrowing elements from Ban-mal, diverges in form and ideological orientation. Specifically, Pyeong-eo omits vocative markers such as “-a” (아) and avoids pronouns like “neo” (너) and “ya” (야), instead favoring direct name references. Based on this analysis, the study synthesizes previously fragmented concepts and proposes a refined definition of Pyeong-eo as a formalized linguistic practice that promotes reciprocity, respect, and equality. I argue that Pyeong-eo represents a shift away from traditional dichotomy of Ban-mal and Jondaet-mal, embodying a new language ideology and establishing itself as a novel register within contemporary Korean discourse.