This paper reviews the concept of purifying the Korean language and the direction of research it is headed in as discussed by researchers of language purification. It further examines the current state of refined words in terms of their maintenance and policy. Current line of research in language purification is limited in that it is restricted to generating refined terms. In order to overcome such limitation, the need to address the fundamental questions of ‘why’ and ‘how’ language purification should take place is highlighted. Successful language purification may be achieved provided the goals of purification as well as those put forth by the policies are clear and explicit. Six steps of language purification and how they should be implemented as a policy is suggested. Finally, the paper argues that language purification as a policy must be met with close inspection and evaluation, whose findings should be reincorporated into the process of creating refined words, allowing for a purification policy that is harmonious.
