The plasma electrolytic carbonitriding (PEC/N) on the Q235 steel was investigated in an aqueous solution containing monoethanolamine and KCl in a very short period of time. The microdischarge characteristics of the voltage/current on the Q235 were observed using real-time imaging during the PEC/N. The microstructure and element distribution of the carbonitriding layer were examined using scanning electron microscope (SEM) equipped with energy dispersive spectroscope (EDS). The effect of microdischarge on roughness, thickness and microhardness was evaluated. The formation of the carbonitriding layer was discussed. Research shows that it is similar in the microstructure and properties between the plasma electrolytic carbonitriding and the traditional gas carbonitriding. The formation of the carbonitriding layer results from the carbon and nitrogen fluctuation in PEC/N process. The microhardness and thickness can be up to HV 779 and 0.360 mm in 180 s, respectively, which is close to the results of the gas carbonitriding in the microhardness. Therefore, the plasma electrolytic carbonitriding has a potential to substitute the gas carbonitriding.