South Korea, the land of "us"
In South Korea, it is common to prioritize collective interests before one's own. In this society deeply marked by Confucianism.
In South Korea, it is common to prioritize collective interests before one's own. In this society deeply marked by Confucianism, the "us" thus replaces the "I" ! To understand this phenomenon, we explain how this doctrine influences the daily lives of South Koreans…
A society where individualism does not exist
While in the 1960s it was one of the poorest countries on the planet, South Korea quickly became one of the world's greatest economic powers ! In this country where natural resources are non-existent, it is human values and wealth that make the nation's strength. Work, hierarchy, and courtesy are the values that every South Korean must respect.
That is why individualism does not exist in South Korea. On the contrary, everyone must put the interests of society before their own, regardless of their circle or social class. The idea of the group is very important for society to function. This is evident through the Korean language which commonly uses the plural and never the singular. People do not say "my country" or "my mother" but rather "our country" or "our mother".
The influence of Confucianism
South Korea would not have become a modern and dynamic global power without the influence of Confucianism, or rather Neo-Confucianism. Imported from China, this doctrine was established in Korea to suppress individualistic motivations. This philosophy places great emphasis on education, respect for elders, and hierarchy. This made Korean society one of the most disciplined.
The result is an incredible mutual aid society where the group always comes before the individual ! At work, employee rights are always defended collectively (through ultra-powerful unions). Within a family, each individual must help both the elders and the youngest. In a sports association, you don't abandon your teammates for anything… In other words, displaying egocentric behavior in South Korea is very frowned upon !
The limits of Confucianism
Confucian doctrine is omnipresent in the minds of South Koreans. And it doesn't always have only advantages. When an individual belongs to a group (regardless of the field), they must honor it and never disappoint its members. In a couple, for example, it is very frowned upon to separate. Appearance must always be well-maintained : couples dress by matching the same colors, schools have their own uniforms, etc. In fact, every action is conditioned by what others will think. A quest for perfection that has its limits…
In order to be accepted in society, to find work more easily, or even love, many South Koreans resort to cosmetic surgery. South Korea is even the 3rd country in the world with the most surgical procedures according to the International Society of Plastic, Aesthetic and Reconstructive Surgeons (ISAPS). Studies have even determined that one in five women has already undergone cosmetic procedures !
A race for success
Confucian roots have also made education an obsession. The pressure linked to professional success creates a spirit of exhausting competition for workers. According to the PISA study, South Korea very often ranks at the top in terms of academic performance. The flip side of the coin ? South Korean students are among the unhappiest ! In the professional world, the pressure is so intense that demolition rooms are even opening up. The objective : pay to let off steam and smash dishes and other objects of all kinds…
Faced with this competitiveness pushed to extremes, South Korea's younger generation is increasingly rebelling. Young people want to slow down the pace, assert themselves and exist differently. While in 1980, youth rose up against military dictatorship calling for democracy, today's generation is waging a new fight: that of freedom !
In December 2016, Korean youth united and the protests led to the impeachment of South Korean President Park Geun-hye for corruption and the imprisonment of Samsung's CEO. A few months later, they voted in an election, choosing a more popular president: Moon Jae-in. But what stands out most from this tumultuous episode is the completely peaceful atmosphere of the protests. Now, all that remains is to wait and see how the younger generation will drive change…
Frequently asked questions
Confucianism is a philosophical doctrine imported from China that values respect for elders, hierarchy, education, and collective interest. In South Korea, it has shaped a highly disciplined society where the group takes precedence over the individual, influencing the workplace, family life, and education alike.
According to the International Society of Plastic, Aesthetic and Reconstructive Surgeons (ISAPS), South Korea is the 3rd country in the world for the number of procedures. This reality is linked to the strong Confucian social pressure: appearance is seen as a determining factor for professional and social success, pushing many South Koreans to resort to cosmetic surgery.
The Korean language perfectly reflects the collectivism of society: you don't use 'my country' or 'my mother', but 'our country' and 'our mother'. The plural and collective forms are naturally favored over the singular in everyday speech.
In South Korea, it is important to respect hierarchy and elders, avoid egocentric or overly individualistic behavior. Greeting properly, waiting your turn, accepting collective invitations, and being discreet are attitudes that are greatly appreciated. A well-maintained appearance is also valued in this country.
Yes, the younger generation of Koreans tends to rebel against collective pressure and the race for success. In 2016, young people massively participated in the protests that led to the impeachment of President Park Geun-hye. Today, they are demanding more individual freedom, a less intense pace of life, and a more balanced model of society.
