In this story, we explore how the Korean word “uri” (우리), often translated as “we” or “our,” holds far deeper cultural meaning. Through the eyes of a foreigner, we discover how ‘uri’ reflects collective identity, emotional connection, and the Korean way of belonging.
What Does ‘Uri’ Really Mean?
In Korean culture, the term “uri” (우리) extends beyond its literal translation of “we” or “our.” It reflects a profound sense of collective identity, emotional connection, and shared responsibility. Whether it’s “our family,” “our house,” or even “our country,” the Korean usage of “uri” includes the speaker and listener in a relationship built on unity rather than ownership.
This concept is often unfamiliar to foreigners, especially those from individualistic cultures where “my” and “your” are strictly defined. But for one foreigner in Korea, a simple conversation would spark a journey into this unique social bond.
Episode 2 – “Our Husband?”
Mark, still getting used to life in Korea, was chatting with his Korean friend after class. They were sipping coffee and practicing simple phrases when she said :
“Our husband doesn’t really like meat.
He prefers fish.”
Mark froze.
Did I hear that right? OUR husband?
Wait—what??
He blinked, unsure whether he had misunderstood her Korean or… if Korean relationships were way more intense than he thought.
Seeing his puzzled expression, she laughed.
“Ah—sorry, I mean my husband. But in Korean, we often say ‘uri’ instead of ‘my’. It’s like… including you, too.”
Mark tilted his head.
“You’re saying our... but it’s your husband?”
She nodded. “Yes, but not because we’re sharing. It’s more like… we’re all connected. ‘Uri’ makes things feel closer, like we’re on the same side.”
A Language of Connection
Mark began noticing “uri” everywhere.
“Our country is doing well.”
“Our apartment is near the station.”
“Our mom makes great kimchi.”
At first, it felt strange. Why “our” and not “my”? But slowly, Mark realized that this word wasn’t about grammar. It was about belonging.
Koreans weren’t just speaking—they were weaving invisible threads between each other with every “uri.”
Each time someone used that word, it felt like they were saying,
“You’re included. You’re not alone.”
A Cultural Awakening
One day, his teacher asked the class to describe their family in Korean. Mark stood up and hesitated.
Then he said :
“Uri eomeoni-neun...”
Our mom.
He smiled. It felt strange… and yet warm.
By saying “uri,” it didn’t feel like he was just describing his mother—he was inviting others into his world.
Why ‘Uri’ Matters
In a culture where relationships are the foundation of society, language reflects connection.
“Uri” is more than a word—it’s a worldview.
It creates inclusion instead of separation, connection instead of possession.
For Mark, it was a reminder that even in a foreign land, there was a way to feel part of something bigger.
Not “mine.” Not “yours.”
But ours.
> Start with Part 1 : A Bowl of Kimchi Stew and the Quiet Warmth Called Jeong
> Read Part 3 : A Bag of Oranges and the Unspoken Language of Jeong
#KoreanCulture #UriInKorea #EmotionalConnection #CulturalBelonging #KoreanLanguage #WeNotMe #WarmthInWords #UnderstandingJeong #LifeInKorea #CulturalInsight
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