백절불굴
baekjeolbulgul
The Korean phrase for "indomitable spirit" is 백절불굴 (baekjeolbulgul).
This phrase describes a strong will that refuses to be defeated or discouraged despite facing many hardships. In practice, it is often used as a noun phrase by adding the particle 의 (of) to the idiom to connect it to the word 정신 (spirit/mind), resulting in 백절불굴의 정신.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
백절불굴 is a formal, literary idiom. It is typically used in writing, speeches or when describing a person's character rather than in casual daily conversation.
How do you pronounce it?
baekjeolbulgul
Did you know?
- In Korean history, the concept of 백절불굴의 정신 was prominently used in national rhetoric to describe the resilience of the people during the Japanese colonial period.
- Because 백절불굴 is a four-character idiom known as a 사자성어, it is often written in calligraphy and displayed as a motto in martial arts studios or corporate offices to inspire discipline.
- The term 불굴 (unyielding) is frequently used in Korean sports commentary to describe an underdog team that continues to fight despite a massive scoring deficit.
Examples in context
- 제 강한 의지로 어떤 어려움도 극복할 수 있습니다.With my indomitable spirit, I can overcome any obstacle.
- 그는 백절불굴의 정신을 가지고 있다.geuneun baekjeolbulgul-ui jeongsin-eul gajigo itda.He possesses an indomitable spirit.
- 백절불굴의 의지가 필요합니다.baekjeolbulgul-ui uiji-ga piryohapnida.An indomitable will is necessary.
- 그 선수는 백절불굴의 자세로 경기에 임했다.geu seonsu-neun baekjeolbulgul-ui jase-ro gyeonggi-e imhaetda.The athlete entered the game with an indomitable attitude.
Example conversation
Two colleagues are discussing a famous historical leader's biography.
- 수빈 Su-bin그 위인의 백절불굴 정신이 정말 대단해요.geu wiin-ui baekjeolbulgul jeongsin-i jeongmal daedanhaeyo.That great figure's indomitable spirit is truly amazing.
- 현우 Hyeon-woo맞아요, 수빈 씨. 저도 본받고 싶어요.majayo, subin ssi. jeodo bonbatgo sipeoyo.That's right, Subin. I want to emulate him too.
- 수빈 Su-bin현우 씨도 할 수 있을 거예요.hyeonu ssi-do hal su isseul geoyeyo.You can do it too, Hyunwoo.
- 현우 Hyeon-woo고마워요, 열심히 노력해 볼게요.gomawoyo, yeolsimhi noryeokhae bolgeyo.Thank you, I will try my best.
