Korean Confucian culture has deeply influenced Korean society over many centuries. The core of Korean Confucian culture is a value system rooted in propriety, filial piety, loyalty, and harmony with nature, which became deeply embedded in the politics, society, education, and daily life of the Joseon Dynasty (조선). Diligence and sincerity, obedience to law and order, emphasis on communal interests, hierarchical order, and male superiority over women (남존여비) are representative Confucian social and cultural characteristics, leaving a significant imprint on the national character. Even in modern times, Korean society remains under the influence of these Confucian values and norms.
1. Overview and Characteristics of Confucian Culture
Confucianism is originally a moral philosophy that places great importance on “benevolence” (인, 仁) and “propriety” (예, 禮), regarding the proper way of human life and the maintenance of social order as the highest values. Rather than focusing on a religious deity or belief in the afterlife, it developed by concentrating on duties, etiquette, and social order in this world. This is the greatest difference between Confucianism and religions centered on God, such as Christianity. For this reason, it was well suited as a governing ideology for a monarchic state and became the central state ideology from the Joseon period onward. Confucianism functioned as a national ideology in Korea for a long time, and even today it remains as a normative influence in nearly all areas of society, including family, school, and workplace.
One of the most prominent characteristics of traditional Korean culture is its emphasis on harmony and balance. This value system was formed under the influence of Confucian thought and prioritizes the well-being of the community over individual interests. This perspective is clearly reflected in Korean family culture, where strong family bonds and mutual respect are regarded as important virtues.
2. Hierarchical Order
Confucianism places importance on hierarchy according to age, status, and role. The culture of respecting elders and having juniors follow seniors continues to function strongly in organizations, schools, and families. While this has traditionally contributed to maintaining an orderly society, it also has the drawback of hindering individual freedom and the spirit of equality.
3. Male Superiority and Patriarchy
Male superiority is a male-centered culture that was reinforced by Neo-Confucianism during the Joseon period. In family relations, inheritance, and social roles, men held a dominant position, while women’s social participation and rights were relatively suppressed. The spread of awareness regarding gender equality in Korean society is a relatively recent development, and traces of this legacy can still be found in certain cultural practices and customs.
4. National Character and the Influence of Confucian Culture Today
Confucian culture has played a significant role in shaping the Korean national character. Examples include filial piety and propriety, family-centered values, collectivist thinking, and behavior determined by age or position. Even today, Confucian traditions remain deeply rooted in family rituals and funerals, social etiquette, and school and workplace culture. Thus, contemporary Korean society cannot be considered free from the “deep codes” of Confucianism.
Confucianism emphasizes self-cultivation, practice, and social order. It holds that the moral character and personal perfection of individuals create harmony in society as a whole, and it places trust in human life and moral potential in this world rather than in a religious concept of God.