South Korea and Japan, countries driven by unique historical, cultural, and linguistic contexts, have developed distinct approaches to managing the influx of foreign words while also trying to preserve their native languages. In South Korea, the language refinement movement has shaped a proactive stance against excessive foreign words and towards the promotion of native Korean equivalents. Especially with the effects of wars and modernization in the past and the current influence of globalization, South Korea’s aim to refine its native language showed itself in many forms of language policy-making. However, a more balanced approach was adopted in Japan. While efforts exist to preserve the integrity of the Japanese language and culture, there is a notable acceptance and incorporation of foreign words. No official policy was accepted but there were many proposals made to promote native Japanese vocabulary. Although both countries had unique approaches to protecting their native languages, some similarities can be found in their processes of loanword adaptation. This thesis examines the influx of foreign languages in both Japan and South Korea, how foreign languages have been established in both countries and what policies both countries have adopted in the process.
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