Formality and informality in Korean is probably one of the very first cultural aspects one would learn about Korea. Since formality is extremely important in Korean culture, it is important to be able to distinguish between formal and informal speech.
Formality is a way of showing respect through speech. When speaking to somebody older or somebody you are not familiar with, you are expected to use formal speech (honorifics). Formal speech differs from informal speech based on special nouns or verb endings. In formal speech, one would usually add 요 ("yo") at the end of a sentence. Special pronouns such as 누나 (older sister- from male), 언니 (older sister-from female), 형 (older brother- from male) , 오빠 (older brother- from female) are expected as well. Honorifics are often used towards relatives, an older person, customer, employer, teacher, or the like.
Informality is a more casual and friendly way of speaking. One uses informal speech when speaking to a friend or somebody they are comfortable with. Dropping honorifics is a good way to become closer and friendlier with somebody, but that should be agreed upon by both parties.
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