The Korean Language

Structure, Use and Context

Suitable for students of all levels, this book provides a general description of the Korean language by highlighting important structural aspects whilst keeping technical details to a minimum. By examining the Korean language in its geographical, historical, social and cultural context the reader is able to gain a good understanding of its speakers and the environment in which it is used. The book covers a range of topics on Korean including its genetic affiliation, historical development, sound patterns, writing systems, vocabulary, grammar and discourse.

The text is designed to be accessible, primarily to English-speaking learners of Korean and scholars working in disciplines other than linguistics, as well as serving as a useful introduction for general linguists. The book complements Korean language textbooks used in the classroom and will be welcomed not only by readers with a wider interest in Korean studies, but also by Asian specialists in general.

Table of Contents

1. Korea: History, Culture and Language 2. Sounds and their Patterns: Phonology 3. Writing Systems: Hankul and Hanca 4. Words and Fixed Expressions: Vocabulary 5. Sentences and their Structure: Grammar 6. Beyond Sentences: Discourse 7. North and South Korea: Language Policy and Planning