Korean Proverb Series 97
Telling Others Where to Put Persimmons and Pears at Someone Else’s Feast
“남의 잔치에 감 놔라 배 놔라 한다”
(Nam-ui janchi-e gam nwarra bae nwarra handa)
🕰️ 1. The Proverb’s Core Meaning
The Korean proverb “남의 잔치에 감 놔라 배 놔라 한다” literally means
“At someone else’s feast, telling them where to place the persimmons and pears.”
It refers to a person who interferes unnecessarily in someone else’s affairs,
offering unwanted opinions or trying to control things
that are not their responsibility.
This proverb criticizes meddling behavior and reminds us
that excessive interference can create discomfort and conflict.
🪄 2. Meaning & Key Lesson
▪️ Don’t interfere in matters that are not yours.
▪️ Unwanted advice can become a burden.
▪️ Respecting boundaries is part of wisdom.
The saying teaches that help is meaningful only when it is truly needed or welcomed.
👀 3. Real-Life Applications
▪️ Someone constantly tells others how to manage their family or work.
▪️ A person gives endless advice without understanding the full situation.
▪️ In group projects, one individual controls everything despite not being responsible for it.
This proverb reminds us that respecting others’ space is also a form of kindness.
🌏 4. Similar Proverbs Around the World
▪️ United States — “Mind your own business.”
→ Don’t interfere unnecessarily.
▪️ United Kingdom — “Too many cooks spoil the broth.”
→ Excessive interference creates problems.
▪️ China — “多管闲事 (Duō guǎn xián shì).”
→ Meddling in other people’s affairs.
▪️ Japan — “余計なお世話 (Yokei na osewa).”
→ Unwanted help or interference.
Across cultures, people understand that boundaries are essential for healthy relationships.
💬 A Warm Saying
“Sometimes the kindest thing you can do is quietly let others lead their own path.”
📌 Note
This is a creative cultural content from the Misojieum Story Blog (kor-telling.com).
Please do not copy without permission. Sharing is welcome with proper source citation.
More Korean Proverbs
Explore more traditional Korean sayings here:
https://www.kor-telling.com/category/한국속담과-세계속담
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