Korean speech levels

In Korea, people use different words and ways of speaking depending on who they are talking to. This is called "speech levels". Just like how you talk differently to your parents, friends, or teacher, Koreans have different ways of speaking to people they are close to, people they respect, or people they don't know very well.

There are three different types of speech levels:

1. Formal Language (Jondaemal): This is the most respectful way of speaking and is used when talking to someone older or of higher status. It requires using special honorific terms and titles to show respect.

2. Polite Language (Haejumal): This is used when talking to someone who you are not very close with, but still shows respect. It's similar to how you might talk to a teacher or a stranger.

3. Informal Language (Banmal): This is used when talking to someone who is close to you, like a friend or a family member. It's a more casual and relaxed way of speaking.

So, when you're in Korea, it's important to pay attention to who you're talking to and use the appropriate speech level. just as you might adapt your tone, phrases, and vocabulary when you speak with someone according to your relationship status with that person.