Korean Proverb : Well Begun Is Half Done

Korean Proverb Series 12

Well Begun Is Half Done

"시작이 반이다"
(Sijak-i ban-ida)

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🕰️ 1. The Proverb’s Core Meaning

The Korean proverb “시작이 반이다” literally translates to:
“Starting is half of the task.”

It captures the essential truth that taking the first step toward any goal is often the hardest — and most crucial — part of the entire journey. Once the inertia of hesitation is broken, momentum naturally begins to carry you forward.

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🪄 2. Meaning & Key Lesson

• Every major accomplishment begins with action; hesitation is the greatest obstacle to success.
• The proverb teaches that overcoming procrastination and fear of the unknown already constitutes half the journey.
• It serves as a powerful call to initiative, reminding us that progress is born not from perfection, but from the courage to begin.

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👀 3. Real-Life Applications

• A student who has long dreaded studying finds that once they open the book, focus and flow follow naturally.
• An artist who finally puts brush to canvas discovers that inspiration grows with each stroke.
• A person starting a new job or complex project realizes that the true difficulty lay only in taking that first step.

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🌏 4. Similar Proverbs Around the World

CountryProverb / SayingInterpretation

 

United States	“Well begun is half done.”	A direct and widely used equivalent emphasizing the value of a good start.
United Kingdom	“The first step is always the hardest.”	Highlights the courage needed to begin something new.
China	“万事开头难” (Wàn shì kāi tóu nán)	“All beginnings are difficult.” — stresses the universal challenge of starting.

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💬 A Warm Saying

“Every great journey
begins with a single brave step.”

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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.