For much of Korea's modern history, physical punishment was not just accepted—it was expected. The Confucian values that heavily shaped Korean society emphasized strict hierarchy, respect for elders, and the idea that discipline was an act of love. A common Korean saying, "The love of a parent is found in the rod," encapsulated this belief for centuries.
In schools, teachers wielded canes and rulers. At home, parents used slippers, belts, or their bare hands. This wasn't seen as abuse. It was seen as teaching. The goal was to correct behavior and build character. A child who was not disciplined was considered poorly raised, and the parents were often blamed for being too lenient.
This cultural framework made Korean spanking a deeply ingrained social norm. It was rarely questioned. Children who were spanked were expected to understand it was for their own good. The emotional and psychological impact was largely ignored in favor of the immediate goal of obedience.
