In Korean, the word for “work” is 일 (il). The etymology and history of this word can be understood in both a linguistic and cultural context.

Etymology of the word 일 (il)

The Korean word 일 (il) is a native Korean word that refers to “work,” “task,” or “job.” Its usage has been present throughout Korean history as a general term for labor or activity. The word has no direct roots in Chinese or other foreign languages, which makes it part of Korea’s indigenous vocabulary.

However, the influence of Classical Chinese (Hanja) on the Korean language has shaped many aspects of Korean, and there are Sino-Korean compounds where the character 事 (사, sa) is used in relation to “work” or “affairs.” For example:

• 사무 (samu) means “office work.”
• 업무 (eomu) means “business work.”

In these examples, the Chinese character 事 (사) translates to “affair” or “task,” and it functions similarly to the native Korean word 일.

Historical Context

Historically, the concept of work in Korea has evolved, influenced by social structures, Confucianism, and economic changes. Traditionally, Korean society was heavily agricultural, and the idea of work largely revolved around farming, craftsmanship, and communal labor.

1. Pre-modern Period (Three Kingdoms to Joseon):

• During the Three Kingdoms period (57 BCE – 668 CE), work was often tied to agricultural labor and the service of the ruling elites. Labor was seen as a communal effort, especially in farming communities.
• Under the Joseon Dynasty (1392–1897), influenced by Confucian ideals, work was classified in a hierarchical manner. The ruling class (yangban) often distanced themselves from manual labor, as physical work was viewed as less prestigious compared to scholarly or governmental work. Still, 일 was a crucial part of daily life for most Koreans.

1. Modern Period (Late 19th Century to Present):

• In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, with industrialization and modernization, the nature of work shifted toward urban labor, including factory work and office jobs.
• The term 일 broadened to encompass new kinds of labor, from professional jobs to industrial work, reflecting the changing economy.
• The 20th century saw rapid economic growth, particularly in the post-Korean War period. Work culture in Korea became strongly associated with diligence, productivity, and commitment, values deeply embedded in the society’s approach to both blue-collar and white-collar jobs.

Influence of Confucianism on the Concept of Work

Confucianism, which deeply influenced Korean culture, played a role in how work was perceived. It emphasized a clear distinction between intellectual labor and physical labor. Scholarly pursuits were more respected, while manual labor, though necessary, was often seen as the duty of the lower classes. Despite these social distinctions, the concept of 일 (work) remained central to Korean life.

In modern Korea, 일 (il) is a common, everyday term used to describe both professional and personal tasks, reflecting a wide variety of work, from simple chores to complex occupations.

In summary, the Korean word for “work,” 일 (il), has roots in native Korean and has remained central to Korean society throughout history, evolving along with cultural and economic changes. Its meaning, while consistent, has expanded over time to encompass a broader range of activities in both agricultural and modern, industrialized contexts.