[korean proverb] GaegwaCheonseon(改過遷善) Tum over a new leaf

1. GaegwaCheonseon (改過遷善)

gaegwacheonseon (改過遷善) is a four-character idiom in Korean that translates to “correcting one’s mistakes and becoming virtuous.” It signifies the act of reflecting on one’s wrongdoings, repenting, and striving to become a better person.



GaegwaCheonseon

1.1. The term can be broken down as follows

◾ Gaegwa” (改過): Correcting faults or errors.
◾ Cheonseon” (遷善): Transforming to become good or virtuous.

Together, Gaegwa cheonseon encapsulates the idea of making amends for past mistakes and embarking on a righteous path.


1.2. Gaegwa cheonseon means

Throughout life, people make both big and small mistakes. The process of learning and reflecting through these mistakes is a universal experience. Among such journeys of growth, there is a term that refers to acknowledging one’s faults, making changes, and starting anew. That term is gaegwacheonseon.

In this article, we will delve into the meaning, examples, and origins of gaegwacheonseon. Additionally, we will explore its importance and discuss how its significance can be applied in modern society.





2. The Origin of Gaegwacheonseon

In the Qin Dynasty of China, there was a man named Zhu Che, who, after losing his father at a young age, lived a violent and reckless life. Zhu Che, a large man with great strength, was feared by those around him.

As he grew older, however, Zhu Che began to gain wisdom and decided to change his ways, vowing to become a new person. But no one believed in him.

In an attempt to earn the trust of the people, Zhu Che killed a tiger from the mountain and a dragon from under a bridge, then stood before the villagers. Yet, they still did not believe his words, nor did they welcome him.


Disheartened, Zhu Che decided to leave his hometown. On the day of his departure, he encountered a famous scholar and shared his story. After listening to him, the scholar said, “If you are truly determined to correct your past mistakes and live a virtuous life, your path will open! Always do your best, no matter where or when.” Inspired by these words, Zhu Che devoted himself to studying and eventually became an accomplished scholar.



3. similar expression Hwangoltaltae (換骨奪胎)

A similar expression is Hwangoltaltae (換骨奪胎), which means “to change one’s bones and take a new body.” This phrase signifies a complete transformation, achieved through relentless effort, and carries the same meaning as Gaegwacheonseon—referring to a total change and renewal.




4. English expression

Turn over a new leaf

An English expression equivalent to Gaegwacheonseon is “turn over a new leaf.”

Example 1: “I have made a mess of my life. I’ll turn over a new leaf and hope to do better.”

Example 2: “Apparently, he’s turned over a new leaf and he’s not drinking anymore.”

This phrase can be used in a similar context.


5. A Character of Gaegwacheonseon in Literature

In Les Misérables, Jean Valjean, a poor and uneducated rural worker, is sentenced to 19 years of imprisonment after stealing a loaf of bread to feed his starving nephews. After being released, he is consumed by despair and hatred toward humanity, tempted again by theft and even murder. However, after being deeply moved by Bishop Myriel, who forgives him for attempting to steal silver candlesticks, Valjean decides to change his life. This is an example of Gaegwacheonseon.

After establishing a successful factory in a city, Valjean helps the poor and unfortunate, including Fantine and her daughter Cosette, gaining the respect of people and eventually becoming the mayor of the town.

Jean Valjean is a representative example of a character who undergoes a transformation of Gaegwacheonseon in literature. This is the situation in which the four-character idiom is used.


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