Korean Proverb : Words Have No Feet, Yet They Travel a Thousand Miles

Korean Proverb Series 18

Words Have No Feet, Yet They Travel a Thousand Miles

"발 없는 말이 천 리 간다"
(Bal eomneun mal-i cheon ri ganda)

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🕰️ 1. The Proverb’s Core Meaning

The Korean proverb “발 없는 말이 천 리 간다” literally translates to:
“Words have no feet, yet they travel a thousand miles.”

It means that what people say — whether true or false — spreads quickly and far. The proverb reminds us that careless speech can travel beyond our control, often bringing unintended consequences. It highlights the power of words and the importance of speaking thoughtfully.

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🪄 2. Meaning & Key Lesson

• Words spread faster than we imagine, and once spoken, they cannot be taken back.
• The proverb teaches mindfulness and responsibility in communication.
• It reminds us to think before we speak, for even a single sentence can affect others deeply or reach places we never expect.

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👀 3. Real-Life Applications

• A small rumor in school or the workplace quickly becomes exaggerated and widespread.
• A careless comment on social media causes misunderstanding and conflict.
• On the other hand, a sincere compliment or kind word can travel far, inspiring and uplifting many.

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🌏 4. Similar Proverbs Around the World

CountryProverb / SayingInterpretation

 

United States	“Bad news travels fast.”	Harmful or shocking words spread quickly.
United Kingdom	“A lie can travel halfway around the world before the truth puts on its shoes.”	False words spread faster than truth.
China	“好事不出门，坏事传千里” (Hǎo shì bù chū mén, huài shì chuán qiān lǐ)	“Good news stays inside, bad news travels a thousand miles.”

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💬 A Warm Saying

“Words move without wings —
so let them carry kindness, not harm.”

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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.