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Exploring linguistic diversity in a globalising world

Korean bilinguals’ perspectives on varieties of English

ORCiD logo with link | City University of Macau
ORCiD logo with link | University of Auckland
Published online: 23 January 2026
DOI logo with link
https://doi.org/10.1075/aral.25064.rua
Abstract
This study explores how Korean-English bilinguals perceive and negotiate linguistic variety in English amid increasing globalisation and transnational intercultural connectivity. Despite growing acknowledgement of World Englishes, tensions persist between native-speaker norms and localised variations, especially in South Korea where American English remains the privileged standard. Through semi-structured interviews and reflective writing with seven Korean bilingual university students, this research examines their attitudes toward English varieties, accent preferences, and perceptions of Korean-English and Konglish. We characterise the findings as ‘reflexive linguistic pragmatism.’ Participants balance communicative effectiveness based on native English speakers’ norms with localised cultural expression, viewing English as both a global communication tool and a resource for identity performance. Their perspectives are shaped by transnational experiences and digital connectivity, which foster acceptance of linguistic diversity. Moreover, while distinguishing between Korean-English as globally legitimate and Konglish as erroneous yet locally meaningful cultural practice, participants demonstrate agency in navigating competing language ideologies. These findings suggest the continuing need for English language teaching practices in Korea and beyond to acknowledge the evolving role of English as a flexible communicative and identity expressive resource amid learners’ increasing transnational connectivity.
Article outline
  • Introduction
    • World Englishes and ELF: Global frameworks and critiques
    • AmE dominance and related ideologies in Korea
    • Socio-globalisation flows, digital mobility, and everyday identities
  • Methodology
    • Participants
    • Data collection and analysis
  • Results
    • Awareness and acceptance of English variety
    • Influence of globalisation on awareness of varieties of English
    • Attitudes toward standard forms and accent preferences
    • Attitudes toward Korean English and Konglish
  • Discussion
  • Conclusion
    • Declaration of contributions from Generative AI and AI-assisted technologies
  • References
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