Linguistic hybridization in K‐Pop: discourse of self‐assertion and resistance

Abstract: English mixing in Korean popular music (K‐Pop) is prevalent and heterogeneous in its forms and functions. The size of a mixed English constituent in K‐Pop lyrics varies from a single word to an entire song. The manifestation of linguistic sophistication differs from Koreanized English only intelligible to the Korean public to American English with African American Vernacular English (AAVE) features. Functions of English mixing are also varied from a simple attention‐getter for stylistic purposes to assertion of liberated self and exercising freedom of speech. K‐Pop is a sociolinguistic breathing space for young South Koreans to construct identity and socially connect with others. The findings of the study show that K‐Pop provides discursive space for South Korean youth to assert their self‐identity, to create new meanings, to challenge dominant representations of authority, to resist mainstream norms and values, and to reject older generations’ conservatism. English is used as discourse of resistance. Young South Korean artists are empowered by tactical English switches into Korean. Appropriations between global and local dialogues yield resultant linguistic hybrids. Mixing two language codes epitomizes South Korean youth's battle with their unsettling identities in dealing with the tension between global and local dialogues to which they are simultaneously exposed.