Grammar
-아/어 버리다
do completely, often unexpectedly
Form
Verb stem + -아/어 버리다: presents an action as completed, often with an emotional reaction (relief, regret, surprise).
Function
Marks an action as fully completed, often with a feeling such as regret, relief, or surprise.
Why this form?
-고 말다 — “end up doing”: focuses on an outcome, often regrettable or unintended; -아/어 버리다 stresses completion.
Forms not to confuse
-고 말다
결국 울고 말았어요. — I ended up crying.
Examples
그들이 나를 말다툼 중인 두 남자 쪽으로 밀어 버린다! — They shove me toward the two men who are arguing!
숙제를 다 해 버렸어요. — I went ahead and finished all my homework.