President Lee Says Incorrect Words Must Be Pointed Out for Language to Develop Properly

President Lee Jae-myung pointed out today (October 6) that "there are many instances of people using bogus words that do not conform to Korean grammar," adding, "We must pay close attention to official language used in broadcast remarks and government documents."

President Lee made the remarks during a Cabinet meeting after Ju Byung-gi, chairman of the Fair Trade Commission, explained that standard terms and conditions had been revised to prevent funeral homes from arbitrarily disposing of wreaths without the consent of the bereaved families. President Lee commented, "Don't people usually call them 'johwa' (condolence flowers)? Flowers used for celebratory occasions are called 'hwahwan' (flower wreaths)."

President Lee said, "I heard there is a country where you must receive approval before using a new word on broadcast. I believe France does that," adding, "I was told that we also have such a function."

Citing "jeohi nara" (a humble expression erroneously used for "our country") as an example of grammatically incorrect usage, he noted, "This is self-deprecation that insults our own people, yet many people do not realize it." He also pointed out the word "daeinbae" (an improper mock word meant to refer to a magnanimous person), saying, "'Daeinbae' is an even worse derogatory term, yet it appears in news reports as if it were a proper word."

He went on to say, "Someone, somewhere, must point out words that are incorrectly used in news reports so that the language can develop properly. Of course, I am not at all suggesting that we should restrict things like abbreviations. But shouldn't we cherish Hangeul, which is a great language, a bit more?"

President Lee also brought up the idea of placing a Hangeul signboard alongside the Chinese-character signboard at Gwanghwamun. "The debate has been ongoing, and isn't public opinion split right down the middle?" he asked, adding, "My view is that displaying both together would be fine, but I cannot just do whatever I want."

He added, "I think we must settle the matter and reach a conclusion somehow by next year."

(Photo: Yonhap News)
※ Please note: This article was translated by AI and may contain errors.