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The Unspoken Rules of Korean Military Communication

 In the End, Language is Always About People


I once read an article about the issue of addressing ranks between officers and non-commissioned officers (NCOs). The core argument was this:

During a video conference with NCOs, the Army Chief of Staff made a statement that led to a petition being filed with the Human Rights Commission. His remark was:
"If a young officer gives an order to an older NCO in informal speech and is questioned about it, that should not happen in military culture. NCOs should be grateful that officers use honorifics when speaking to them."

The context in which this statement was made is unclear, but it sparked controversy. Many, including politicians, defended the Chief of Staff, arguing that in the military, rank takes precedence above all else.

Reflecting on my own military experience, most officers I worked with over my six years of service used honorifics when addressing older NCOs. For newly commissioned officers, speaking informally to someone of their father's age would not come naturally. Additionally, using respectful speech often fosters a cooperative work environment, leading to smoother and more efficient operations. In the end, maintaining good relationships benefits everyone.

It is not a lack of awareness that makes officers use honorifics. NCOs are required to salute officers, and officers are expected to issue orders as per military regulations, just as they would with junior officers. But what I have learned in those six years is that the military ultimately revolves around people. A well-functioning military, built on layers of bureaucracy, can only thrive when people work together. If relationships crumble, so does the military structure.

In a society deeply influenced by Confucian traditions that emphasize respect for elders, and a military culture that prioritizes hierarchy and obedience, was it necessary to state the obvious and cause unnecessary controversy? Words, even when unintentional, can wound. We must always consider the impact of our words on those who listen.

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