Korean Proverb : Even a Flea Has a Face

Korean Proverb Series 42

Even a Flea Has a Face
“벼룩도 낯짝이 있다”
(Byeorukdo natjjagi itda)

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🕰️ 1. The Proverb’s Core Meaning

The Korean proverb “벼룩도 낯짝이 있다” literally means
“Even a flea has a face.”

It teaches that no matter how small, weak, or insignificant someone may seem, everyone has pride, dignity, and feelings.
Mocking or belittling others is shameful, because respect is not about size or status — it’s about humanity.

This proverb reminds us to treat all beings, even the smallest, with respect.

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🪄 2. Meaning & Key Lesson

▪️ Every person deserves respect, regardless of rank or wealth.
▪️ Even the powerless have pride and emotions.
▪️ True nobility lies in humility and kindness toward others.

The saying reflects the Korean value of 인(仁) —
human-heartedness, empathy, and moral respect for all.

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👀 3. Real-Life Applications

▪️ In workplaces, speaking harshly to subordinates damages trust and morale.
▪️ In families, respecting each other’s feelings builds lasting harmony.
▪️ In daily life, kindness to strangers shows true character.

Respect begins not with status, but with attitude — for even a flea, small as it is, has a face.

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🌏 4. Similar Proverbs Around the World

▪️ United States / United Kingdom — “Respect must be mutual.”
　→ Everyone, high or low, deserves respect.
▪️ China — “人皆有脸 (Rén jiē yǒu liǎn).”
　→ “Every person has a face.” — meaning everyone has dignity and pride.
▪️ Japan — “どんな虫にも魂がある (Donna mushi ni mo tamashii ga aru).”
　→ “Even an insect has a soul.”
▪️ France — “Il n’est si petit qu’il ne mérite respect.”
　→ “No one is so small that they deserve no respect.”

Across cultures, the wisdom is shared:dignity is universal, not conditional.

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💬 A Warm Saying

“Respect is not about size —
it’s about the heart that recognizes worth.”

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📌 Note
This is a creative cultural content from the Misojieum Story Blog (kor-telling.com).

Please do not copy without permission.
Sharing is welcome with proper source citation.