1. What is ‘Kkondae’? (Introduction)
You may have heard the term "kkondae" before. Originally, it was a slang term for a teacher or an elder, but today, it is used to describe authoritative and old-fashioned people, often from older generations.
🔹 However, not all older people are kkondae.
🔹 The key difference lies in attitude and mindset.
So, what are the characteristics of kkondae, and how can we avoid becoming one? In this article, we will explore how kkondae culture developed in Korean society and how we can overcome it.
2. Characteristics & Types of Kkondae (Main Content)
🔹 Key Traits of Kkondae
1️⃣ Authoritative attitude – Believing that older people are always right
2️⃣ One-sided preaching – Ignoring others' opinions and giving unnecessary advice
3️⃣ Resistance to change – Rejecting new trends and sticking to outdated methods
4️⃣ Over-involvement in others' lives – Unwanted interference in workplaces or families
5️⃣ Emphasis on hierarchy – Prioritizing seniority, age, and social status over merit
📌 Example:
The classic kkondae phrase: "Back in my day…"
🔹 4 Types of Kkondae
✅ Traditional Kkondae – Demands respect simply based on age and experience
✅ Progressive Kkondae – Pretends to be open-minded but still enforces personal beliefs
✅ Workplace Kkondae – Forces juniors to follow their methods with "I've been there, I know best."
✅ Family Kkondae – Controls children’s lives under the excuse of "It's for your own good."
3. Why Does Kkondae Culture Exist in Korea?
🔹 Influence of Confucianism
- Korean culture traditionally values respect for elders
- Senior people’s opinions are often treated as superior
🔹 Rigid Hierarchical Structures
- Korean workplaces still have military-like hierarchical systems
- Seniority often matters more than skills or ideas
🔹 Rapid Generational Changes
- MZ Generation (Millennials + Gen Z) values individuality and freedom
- This causes frequent clashes between older and younger generations
🧐 In short, Kkondae culture is a result of traditional values conflicting with modern perspectives.
4. How to Overcome Kkondae Culture?
🔹 How to Avoid Becoming a Kkondae
✅ Listen to others instead of preaching
✅ Build relationships based on respect, not authority
✅ Avoid forcing past experiences onto others
✅ Embrace change and new ideas with an open mind
💡 For example, instead of saying "I know best because I've been there," try asking "What do you think?"
🔹 Why We Need to Move Away from Kkondae Culture
- People with flexible mindsets tend to be more successful
- Being a mentor is more respected than being a Kkondae
- Reducing generational conflicts improves communication and teamwork
5. Conclusion: Will You Be a Kkondae or a Mentor?
Traditional values are not necessarily wrong, but in today’s society, communication and empathy are more important than ever.
🙅♂️ Instead of being a Kkondae, why not aim to be a 🏆 respected mentor?
👉 Are you a Kkondae or a mentor? It’s never too late to change! 😊