Questions & Answers

Nopinmal refers to using expressions/language (mal) that convey courtesy and politeness as well as a certain distance between speakers. For example, the speaker will show that s/he honours the person to whom or about whom s/he is speaking by using the infi 'si'. Banmal implies a much closer and information relationship.

The different levels are intended to show mutual respect. One can be disrespectful by using a higher form to someone with whom one should be using panmal, for instance. We should not think so much in terms of the language use designating the hierarchical position of the speakers, but rather as courteous acknowledgements of relationships.

In some of the European languages that still use different levels, such as du and sie in German, or the old thee and you of English, the choice of which 'you' to use may sometimes reflect either a close relationship or condescension, putting someone in their place. Korean does not generally function that way. 

In addition,  Korean language has many more levels than European languages; possibly more than Japanese. Another question in the K4E Q&A section asks about the common greeting "Have you eaten?". There are at least seven different ways to ask that, all at a different level.

Koreans often address non-Koreans, regardless of their rank or relationship, using banmal rather than the more appropriate nopinmal they would use with a Korean in a similar situation. This may not be done to express disrespect but rather a reflection of what they think is appropriate when speaking to someone they feel does not have such honourifics in their language and consequently, culture. In fact, they may be doing their best to acknowledge the non-Korean's background, to show that they know the other person's language and culture do not have these levels.

A Korean-speaking Westerner in his 60's, with Korean (in-law) relatives, describes how he has to be  careful to use the courteous forms to his younger generation relatives. He says that he has been taken to task for failing to use panmal with his nephews and nieces, despite the fact that they are now in their late 30's to early 40's, and accomplished professionals, because it is disrespectful to not use the familiar form with them even though he doesn't see them very often.

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