Hello,
How is your day going today?
I hope your day is filled with joy and happiness!
Do you know the word “형” (hyung)?
If you are interested in Korea, you may have heard of “형.”
In the world-famous BTS, Jungkook expressed his feelings toward his “hyungs” in the song Begin.
"Love you my brother, 형들이 있어
형이 아프면 내가 아픈 것보다 아파"
- BTS Jungkook, Begin
In Korea, the dictionary definition of “형” is as follows:
형
1. A term used to refer to or call an older male sibling or a male relative of the same generation in the family. It is commonly used between brothers.
2. A term of affection used by a younger male to address an older male in a respectful and friendly manner.
For Jungkook, who is the youngest member of BTS, the other members are “형.”
Korea has a culture of respecting those who are older.
Younger people must speak respectfully to older people.
That's why Koreans may ask, "How old are you?" if there is a conflict when meeting someone for the first time.
However, the term “형” is used in everyday life to show respect and consideration, not to belittle or disregard the younger person.
As I mentioned before, Korea has a history of over 5,000 years.
If you didn’t know, you can check the link below.
“안녕하세요” - "Hello"
There are many languages in the world. There are about 7,000 languages. : It is known that there are approximately 7,000 languages worldwide. However, this number can change over time. Some languages disappear, while new dialects or languages emerge. Addi
ahiya.co.kr
So, where does the word “형” come from?
The etymology of "형" comes from ancient Korean, originally derived from the Chinese character "형(兄)," which means "older brother." This character has been used to refer to male siblings.
In ancient Korean, “형” simply referred to an older male sibling. Over time, its usage expanded to refer to an older male in a more affectionate or respectful sense.
For example, people started to call an older man "형" as a term of endearment or respect.
Etymologically, "형" started as a term to indicate a sibling relationship, but it has evolved into a term used for male peers who are older.
The word "형" has deep ties to the concept of "brotherhood" and has become an important word in Korean society, symbolizing respect and familiarity for older males.
Now that we know the meaning of “형,” why did a culture of respecting “형” develop?
To understand this, we need to learn about Korean history.
Simply put, the Iron Age, starting from 37 BCE, marked the founding of the kingdom of Goguryeo.
After the establishment of Goguryeo, the country stabilized, and a governing class emerged to manage state affairs.
At that time, the word “형” was attached to official titles.
This use of “형” in titles can be found in historical texts like the Samguk Sagi and Goguryeo Bonki (The Annals of Goguryeo), especially in the titles of various Goguryeo officials. “형” was used to indicate the significance or rank of the position, and its meaning evolved as time went on.
Examples of official titles with “형” include:
1. 대형 (Dae-hyeong) - A prominent official title in Goguryeo, used for high-ranking individuals in the kingdom.
2. 태형 (Tae-hyeong) - A high-ranking position used for important advisors or officials close to the king in Goguryeo.
These titles reflect the important roles these individuals held in the political system of Goguryeo, and the term “형” in these titles symbolizes the relationship between the ruler and the important officials, similar to that of brothers.
The concept of “형” as a symbol of respect and importance has been a part of Korean society since ancient times.
The Goguryeo era lasted from 37 BCE when King Gojumong (Wang Geom) founded the kingdom until 668 CE, when it was destroyed by the Silla-Tang alliance. This period lasted for about 705 years.
This cultural respect for “형” has been deeply ingrained for a long time.
Many foreigners may find it difficult to pronounce "형" accurately.
It is similar to how some people find it hard to pronounce Steven Yeun’s last name, who is famous for his role in The Walking Dead.
Unlike Korean characters, English spellings can vary depending on the reader's cultural background or personal interpretation.
However, with interest and practice, anyone can pronounce it correctly.
Everyone, if we want to be respected, we must also learn to respect others.
Just as I am treated with consideration by my older brother, I too can be someone’s “형.”
Let’s be people who consider others with a healthy body and mind.
We can do it.
https://youtu.be/IL2U0_mNLfw?si=AJBcsAtz4jYf6qYh
#2025 challenge say "안녕하세요"
#stop the war
#save children
#life is the most precious value of all
#life is precious to everyone
#freedom for all people
#peace
#Ukraine-Russia War
#Israel-Hamas War
#Afghanistan Freedom
#Myanmar Military Dictatorship
#Kenya Youth Liberation
#And the end of many other conflicts.
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