Earticle

This study aims to categorize ‘topic coherence function’ of Korean discourse markers and analyze ‘starting a topic function’. First, the study analyzes the functions of discourse markers from the perspective of ‘discourse coherence’ and analyzes their functions to classify them into seven types of coherence layers. The topic coherence function was further divided into ‘macroscopic coherence of topic’ including starting a topic, changing a topic, and returning to a topic and ‘microscopic coherence of topic’ including ‘filling the gap,’ ‘modifying the articulation,’ and ‘listing.’ Then discourse markers provided according to the functions and the usage of each function have been analyzed. A list of discourse markers by function is provided. The significance of the present study comes from systematically classifying the topic coherence functions of discourse markers that have been sporadically suggested and providing a list of discourse markers for Starting a topic function from the perspective of teaching Korean as a foreign language. The results of the present study can be utilized as fundamental data in selecting discourse markers as a lesson and in composing a syllabus.

This study aims to categorize ‘topic coherence function’ of Korean discourse markers and analyze ‘starting a topic function’. First, the study analyzes the functions of discourse markers from the perspective of ‘discourse coherence’ and analyzes their functions to classify them into seven types of coherence layers. The topic coherence function was further divided into ‘macroscopic coherence of topic’ including starting a topic, changing a topic, and returning to a topic and ‘microscopic coherence of topic’ including ‘filling the gap,’ ‘modifying the articulation,’ and ‘listing.’ Then discourse markers provided according to the functions and the usage of each function have been analyzed. A list of discourse markers by function is provided. The significance of the present study comes from systematically classifying the topic coherence functions of discourse markers that have been sporadically suggested and providing a list of discourse markers for Starting a topic function from the perspective of teaching Korean as a foreign language. The results of the present study can be utilized as fundamental data in selecting discourse markers as a lesson and in composing a syllabus.

This study aims to analyzes the discourse marker “ije” (이제; now) in formal discourse settings by examining its functions through the analysis of related discourse corpora. Discourse markers play a crucial role in structuring discourse, conveying speaker intentions or attitudes, and aiding listeners in comprehending the discourse more effectively. As such, this study investigates how “ije” functions beyond its role as a temporal adverb by analyzing spoken corpora from formal discourse contexts, thereby contributing to the study of Korean discourse markers and highlighting their pedagogical importance in Korean language education. The study offers crucial insights that may aid Korean language learners in effectively understanding and utilizing “ije” by providing detailed analyses of its specific functions. Furthermore, this research highlights the importance of teaching discourse markers to enhance learners' ability to engage in natural Korean communication, thereby contributing to discourse education and Korean language education overall.