溫故知新 Old wisdom, today’s insight — ONGO
각자도생 各自圖生
To seek one's own means of survival independently, focusing on carving out a path for oneself without relying on others.
각자도생 (各自圖生) means "To seek one's own means of survival independently, focusing on carving out a path for oneself without relying on others.". The phrase Gak-ja-do-saeng frequently appears in the Annals of the Joseon Dynasty, often rooted in t
1 Meaning
각자도생 (各自圖生) means “To seek one's own means of survival independently, focusing on carving out a path for oneself without relying on others.”.
Gak-ja-do-saeng (各自圖生) describes the act of seeking one's own way to survive. It emphasizes a spirit of self-reliance and the necessity of forging a personal survival strategy when external help is unavailable.
2 Examples
A volatile job market where the concept of a 'forever job' has disappeared and employment is uncertain.
Focusing on personal branding and continuous self-development to build expertise rather than relying solely on a company's reputation.
When a relationship becomes strained due to an over-reliance on a partner or friend for emotional stability.
Investing in solo time and personal hobbies to recover emotional independence instead of obsessing over constant contact.
A collaborative project where team members are acting irresponsibly and failing to do their part.
Preparing a 'Plan B' and ensuring one's own tasks are flawless instead of wasting energy and time blaming others.
Which situation fits this idiom?
Pick the everyday scene where “각자도생” fits best.
3 Origin
4 Key Lessons
The ultimate responsibility and leadership over your life belong solely to you.
Instead of waiting for external validation or rescue, cultivate the inner strength to heal and stand on your own.
Maintaining your internal peace and independent rhythm is crucial when the external environment is unstable.
5 English Expression
English Vocabulary
lifeline
구명줄, 생명선, 의지할 곳
"In times of trouble, her family was her only lifeline."
reclaim
되찾다, 환원하다
"He decided to reclaim his time by quitting social media."
fade
희미해지다, 서서히 사라지다
"The music began to fade as the party came to an end."
hold one's own
자신의 입장/능력을 유지하다, 굴하지 않다
"Even as a newcomer, she could hold her own in the debate."
6 Learn with Music
Related Idioms
각자도생
Memorize idiom meanings and examples with various music genres
Listen to Track