Lost in Translation – 13
Sarang – When You Wish to Be with Someone Until Death
Love is a universal feeling that transcends all boundaries of language and culture. The Korean word for love is ‘Sarang’ which is a beautiful expression of the intensity and depth of love. The word ‘Sarang’ is often used to convey the idea of loving someone until death. In this blog post, we will explore the meaning and significance of Sarang in Korean culture.
What is Sarang?
Sarang is a Korean word that denotes love, affection, and attachment. It is an intense emotion that can be felt towards a person, object, or even a place. Sarang is not just a feeling but a commitment that one makes to the person they love. It is about being there for the person through thick and thin, in sickness and health, until death do them apart.
The Significance of Sarang in Korean Culture
Sarang has a special significance in Korean culture. In traditional Korean society, love was not just an emotion but a duty. Couples were expected to stay together through all the ups and downs of life, and divorce was not an option. This cultural norm has evolved over time, but the idea of Sarang as a commitment to a lifelong partnership has remained.
Sarang is also closely tied to the concept of family in Korean culture. Family ties are highly valued, and the love between family members is often expressed through the word Sarang. Korean parents, for example, will often say that they love their children ‘Saranghae’ to express their deep affection and commitment to them.
The Use of Sarang in Popular Culture
Sarang is a popular theme in Korean music, movies, and dramas. Many Korean love songs use the word Sarang to express the intensity of romantic love. It is also a common theme in Korean dramas, where the protagonists often face various obstacles but ultimately overcome them to be together forever.
Sarang is not just limited to romantic love in popular culture. It is also used to express love for family, friends, and even pets. In this way, Sarang has become a powerful symbol of love and commitment in Korean popular culture.
Sarang as a Spiritual Concept
Sarang is not only a secular concept but also has spiritual implications. In Korean Buddhism, Sarang is seen as a form of compassion. Compassion is an essential part of Buddhist teachings, and the word Sarang is often used to describe the Buddha’s love for all beings. Sarang, in this context, is a form of selfless love that transcends individual attachments and desires.
Sarang in Korean Weddings
Korean weddings are full of traditional customs and rituals, and Sarang plays a prominent role in the ceremony. During the wedding, the bride and groom participate in the “Sarang-ga” ceremony, where they exchange vows and promise to love and cherish each other until death. The couple also exchanges “Sarang Bang” bracelets, which symbolize their commitment to each other and their families.
The Dark Side of Sarang
While the concept of Sarang is beautiful, it is not without its limitations. Sarang can become possessive, obsessive, and even destructive. The idea of a lifelong partnership can put a lot of pressure on couples, and it may not be possible for everyone to maintain such a commitment. It is essential to recognize that Sarang is not a panacea for all relationship problems.
While Sarang is a beautiful expression of love and commitment, it can also have a dark side. When love becomes possessive or obsessive, it can lead to destructive behaviors, such as stalking or violence. The pressure to maintain a lifelong commitment can also lead to people staying in unhappy or even abusive relationships. It is important to recognize the warning signs and seek help if Sarang becomes unhealthy.
Conclusion
Sarang is a powerful expression of love and commitment in Korean culture. It is a symbol of the depth and intensity of human bonds, and it is deeply ingrained in Korean society. However, it is important to recognize that Sarang has limitations and that not everyone can maintain a lifelong commitment. Overall, Sarang is a beautiful expression of love and an essential part of Korean culture and identity.
Dive Deeper
Book Recommendation
One book that delves into the concept of Sarang in Korean culture is “Korean Words and Culture: Sarang (Love)” by Taebum Kim. This book provides an in-depth exploration of the meaning and significance of Sarang, its cultural roots, and how it has evolved over time. It also discusses how Sarang is expressed in various aspects of Korean society, such as language, art, and literature. The book is written in English and is a great resource for anyone interested in learning more about this fascinating concept in Korean culture.
Documentary/ Video
One recommended documentary that explores the concept of Sarang in Korean culture is “Love and Marriage in Seoul” produced by National Geographic. This documentary focuses on the unique customs and traditions of Korean weddings and the deep cultural significance of love and commitment in Korean society. The film features interviews with Korean couples and families as they prepare for their weddings and exchange vows of Sarang. It also provides a glimpse into the history and evolution of Korean weddings and how they have adapted to modern times. The documentary offers a fascinating insight into the cultural importance of Sarang in Korean society and is a great resource for anyone interested in learning more about Korean culture and traditions.
If this article piqued your interest, you may also enjoy delving into this piece – Saudade: The Bittersweet Longing of Love and Loss