D. Confucian Idea of Order

On the other hand, it was understood that the patriarch of the family would be fair in dealing with the family members. A man must first manage fairly and properly, his own family before he could govern the nation. This was the basic tenant of the Confucian idea of order. Obedience to a superior was regarded as the natural and most admirable virtue of Confucianism. Man was traditionally given the responsibility of representing, supporting, and protecting the family as well as the power to command. If he cannot wield this power and exercise this responsibility, he loses face as the head of the family.

Order at home is maintained through obedience to superiors, that is, children obeying parents, the wife the husband, the servants, the master and so on. Koreans obey and respect elders in accordance with social decorum have been a long social tradition. In Korea there are many monuments commemorating loyal subjects, filial sons, and faithful women. These were erected to honor such persons as models for society to emulate. Thus community service and spirit were nurtured through acknowledgement of the importance of family, social order, loyalty, filial piety, and fidelity.

Women would not marry again even if their husbands died young but instead would be faithful in serving the dead husband's parents. Monuments have been erected to some who exemplified this behavior. Filial piety concerns not only one's parents but also one's conduct towards others and one's conduct in society. This concept of filial piety is also reflected in speech. The Korean language has complicated, elaborate sets or honorific words, depending on the speakers position. If not correct in speech and deportment, it is difficult to gain and maintain respect. There are strict rules of conduct both within and out of the home.

At home younger members or inferiors were not allowed to drink of smoke in front of superiors or older people. Ignorance of this sets apart an uncultured man and he was censured as such. Sentiment, love, and duty between family members were strong and could not be severed. Relations among family members were not merely self-serving ones, but extended far beyond. Family members were conscious of their bondage of blood, and established a tradition of cooperation and mutual assistance.