Korean Proverb Series 33
Give an Extra Rice Cake to the One You Dislike
“미운 놈 떡 하나 더 준다”
(Miun nom tteok hana deo junda)
🕰️ 1. The Proverb’s Core Meaning
The Korean proverb “미운 놈 떡 하나 더 준다” literally means
“Give one more rice cake to the person you dislike.”
It may sound paradoxical at first, but it carries deep emotional wisdom.
It teaches that when anger or dislike arises, we should respond with kindness — not out of weakness, but as a way to keep our own heart peaceful and wise.
🪄 2. Meaning & Key Lesson
▪️ Responding to hate with hate only multiplies conflict.
▪️ Showing kindness to those we dislike reflects emotional maturity.
▪️ Generosity can often soften even the hardest hearts — including our own.
This proverb reminds us that true strength lies in compassion,
especially toward those who make it hardest to give.
👀 3. Real-Life Applications
▪️ In the workplace, when a coworker is rude, offering help instead of hostility may ease tension.
▪️ In family life, responding gently to misunderstanding often leads to reconciliation.
▪️ Even online, replying with respect instead of anger can change the tone of an entire conversation.
Kindness doesn’t mean surrender — it’s a quiet power that transforms both sides.
🌏 4. Similar Proverbs Around the World
▪️ United States — “Kill them with kindness.”
→ Respond to hostility with unexpected gentleness.
▪️ United Kingdom — “Kind words conquer.”
→ Soft responses can overcome hard feelings.
▪️ China — “以德报怨 (Yǐ dé bào yuàn).”
→ Repay resentment with virtue.
▪️ India — “A kind heart is stronger than a thousand fists.”
→ Love and patience have lasting power.
Across many cultures, people have found that kindness is not weakness,
but wisdom in action.
💬 A Warm Saying
“When your heart dislikes someone,
let your hands do one kind thing more.”
📌 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.
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