What Korean Drama Perfectly Highlighted South Korea's Filial Piety: The Touching Scene from Reply 1988

Introduction

The episode of Reply 1988 where Bo-ra, Deuk-sun, and No-eul wrote a heartfelt tribute to their father left a profound impact on me. This segment not only encapsulates the essence of Korean family values but also provides valuable insights into the socio-cultural landscape of South Korea. Today, we delve deeper into this scene and explore the broader context surrounding filial piety in the country.

Depiction of Filial Piety in Reply 1988

Chapter 19 of Reply 1988 features a touching moment where the siblings Bo-ra, Deuk-sun, and No-eul inscribe a plaque to honor their father's retiring after 26 years of dedicated service at the same bank. Deuk-sun's emotional recitation during the ceremony encapsulates the profound emotional connection and gratitude many Korean families share:

“And the thing that my father loved the most was our family. As your daughters and son because we could not give him a warm word, we couldn’t have a drink with him that he liked so much, or hold him in our arms first, or tell him that we love him first, and we could not consider the weight of the title ‘Dad’. We’re sorry and apologize.
Even then he was a tree that could never stop giving. A dad that Bo-ra respected, a dad that was like a friend to Deok-sun and No-eul, a dad that provided stability.”

This scene resonated with many viewers, bringing tears to their eyes as it evoked the universal themes of gratitude and regret commonly associated with familial obligations. The emotional narrative of this tribute showcases the depth of filial devotion and the moral burden many Koreans bear.

Reflections on Korean Family Dynamics

Bo-ra, Deuk-sun, and No-eul’s heartfelt apology and admiration for their father reflect the quintessential Korean sentiment of filial piety. The scene highlights the intricate bond between generations, where children feel a deep sense of responsibility and sacrifice their personal desires to honor their parents' selfless contributions.

My generation, the same era as the main characters in Reply 1988, has experienced a similar dynamic. Our parents, who came of age during challenging times, prioritized our success over their own aspirations. While this may seem like a societal burden to some, it underscores the profound love and devotion Koreans feel for their parents. Parents worked tirelessly, often at the expense of their own dreams and personal fulfillment, to ensure their children’s future success.

For example, in interviews, even K-pop idols, like NCT Taeyong and several other participants from mainstream K-pop shows such as Produce 101 and Produce X101, often break down in tears, expressing remorse for harming their parents and their enduring desire not to disappoint them. These instances highlight the enduring impact of filial piety in contemporary Korean society.

The Cultural Significance of Filial Piety

Bo-ra, Deuk-sun, and No-eul’s emotional apology also reflects the broader cultural significance of filial piety in South Korea. This concept, deeply rooted in Confucianism, is a cornerstone of Korean societal norms. It emphasizes the importance of respect, gratitude, and self-sacrifice within the family.

Filial piety is not just confined to the family sphere; it permeates many aspects of life in South Korea. For instance, the concept of jangsin joss (longing to see your parents) is common, where young adults often feel a strong desire to return home during holidays or special occasions, even if they live far away. This longing is a testament to the deep emotional bond between parents and children.

Despite the overwhelming sense of love and devotion, filial piety can be psychologically taxing. Many Koreans carry the weight of their parents' sacrifices, feeling a constant sense of obligation and guilt. This emotional burden can lead to complex emotional dynamics, ranging from joy and gratitude to sadness and regret.

Conclusion

In many Western contexts, the concept of filial piety may strike one as strange or even burdensome. However, it is crucial to understand that this cultural practice is deeply ingrained in Korean society, shaping the way Koreans interact with their family members and defining their roles within the family unit.

While filial piety brings about a strong sense of community and respect, it can also create an unspoken expectation for children to meet their parents' unfulfilled dreams and to honor their parents above all else. The Reply 1988 scene serves as a powerful reminder of the weight of these expectations and the emotional complexities they engender.

In conclusion, Reply 1988 highlights the nuances and complexities of filial piety in modern South Korea, providing a window into the cultural fabric that structures Korean familial relationships.