Usage and Perceptions of Anglicised Queer Terminology in Korea

This study examines how the English language mediates Korean speakers’ expressions and understanding of gender identity. Two groups of participants—a queer group and a general group—were asked to rate their familiarity with 21 English terms using a Likert scale, suggest corresponding Korean terms, and respond to an open-ended question on the role of English terms. The results indicate that the English terms of gender identity have provided labels for various concepts that are unnamed in the Korean language and have empowered queer speakers to assert their identity and have a sense of belonging. Many of the terms, however, were esoteric to those outside the queer community and created a barrier. The study calls for creating accessible language that can capture the experiences of queer Koreans and critically assessing Euro-American centric categories of sexual identities and language.