부산대학교 도서관

Emoticons have evolved from being simple communication aids to becoming universal tools for communication. This study focuses on heavy emoticon users in their twenties and explores their emoticon usage in the contexts of emotions, situations, and relations. The results reveal that participants use emoticons to enhance emotional expression and conceal negative emotions. Additionally, emoticons function differently depending on the situational context. They are used to convey intentions, navigate transitions, show sensitivity, and observe conversational rituals. Emoticons are also employed for relationship-building, influenced by the level of social presence between individuals. This research demonstrates the interconnected nature of emotions, situations, and relations in emoticon usage. Emoticons, often perceived as simple tools for emotional expression, actually serve as multifaceted and organic means of communication in repeated exchanges. Furthermore, study participants use emoticons creatively to establish new communication norms, share message meanings, and strengthen relationships between interlocutors.