“In Banmal I Can Just Let My Freak Flag Fly”: Authenticity and Second Language Identity in Korean (Non-)Honorifics

Honorifics are one of the most difficult aspects of Korean as a foreign language (KFL). Part of this difficulty stems from their highly cultural and indexical nature. Previous studies have shown that while these forms are difficult to acquire, second language (L2) Korean speakers use them in intentional and individual ways. However, studies have not shown how L2 speakers' use of honorific and non-honorific language is, or is not, authentic to them. This study sought to analyze the relationship between authenticity and L2 identity through L2 Korean speakers' use of honorific and non-honorific language. Through semi-structured interviews with 10 intermediate and advanced L2 Korean speakers, the results of this study reveal that identity is a mediating factor in authentic (non-)honorific language use. Based on participants' identities, honorific forms were at times authentic and inauthentic whereas non-honorific forms were only described as authentic.