What core element differentiates the formal, polite, and informal levels of Korean speech, impacting word choice and sentence structure?

The core element differentiating the levels of Korean speech is the degree of *deferenceand *respectshown to the listener. This respect is grammatically realized through honorifics, specific verb endings, and vocabulary choices that reflect the speaker's perception of their relationship with the listener, considering factors like age, social status, and familiarity. Formal Korean (하십시오체) is used in very formal settings, such as public speeches or addressing someone of significantly higher status. It utilizes the '-습니다/ㅂ니다' verb endings and a high degree of honorific vocabulary. Polite Korean (해요체) is the most common level of formality used in everyday conversation with strangers or acquaintances. It employs the '-아요/어요' verb endings and incorporates appropriate honorifics based on the listener. Informal Korean (해체) is used with close friends, family members, or those younger or of lower status. It typically drops honorifics and uses plain verb forms. The choice of speech level directly affects word choice, as some words have specific honorific equivalents, and it also impacts sentence structure, with formal speech levels often employing more complex and indirect sentence constructions to demonstrate respect.