Korean Proverb : The Frog Forgets When It Was a Tadpole

Korean Proverb Series 40

The Frog Forgets When It Was a Tadpole
“개구리 올챙이 적 생각 못 한다”
(Gaeguri olchaengi jeok saenggak mot handa)

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🕰️ 1. The Proverb’s Core Meaning

The Korean proverb “개구리 올챙이 적 생각 못 한다” literally means
“A frog forgets the time when it was a tadpole.”

It describes someone who, after achieving success or comfort,
forgets their humble beginnings or the hardships they once faced.
The saying is a gentle reminder to stay humble,
no matter how high one rises.

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🪄 2. Meaning & Key Lesson

▪️ Success should deepen humility, not erase it.
▪️ Never forget the path that shaped who you are.
▪️ Remembering your roots keeps your heart grounded.

This proverb teaches that true greatness lies not in achievement alone,
but in gratitude and remembrance of where you started.

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👀 3. Real-Life Applications

▪️ A leader who forgets their early struggles may lose empathy for others.
▪️ A successful person who remembers their past inspires respect and trust.
▪️ In daily life, staying humble keeps relationships sincere and kind.

When we remember our “tadpole days,”
we grow not just in position, but in heart.

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🌏 4. Similar Proverbs Around the World

▪️ United States / United Kingdom — “Don’t forget where you came from.”
　→ A reminder to stay humble despite success.
▪️ China — “饮水思源 (Yǐn shuǐ sī yuán).”
　→ “When drinking water, remember its source.”
▪️ Japan — “初心忘るべからず (Shoshin wasuru bekarazu).”
　→ “Do not forget your beginner’s mind.”
▪️ France — “N’oublie pas d’où tu viens.”
　→ “Do not forget where you come from.”

Every culture cherishes humility —
for even the highest frog once swam as a small tadpole.

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💬 A Warm Saying

“The higher you jump,
the more beautiful it is to remember where you began.”

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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.