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B2 noun #3,500 most common 9 min read

공익

gongik Top 3,500

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips 공익 in 30 Seconds

Explanation 공익 in your Level:

At the A1 level, you don't need to use the word '공익' (public interest) very often, as it is a complex and abstract noun. However, you might see it on posters or hear it in very basic contexts related to 'helping people.' Think of it as 'good for everyone.' At this stage, just remember that '공' means 'public' (like in '공원' - park) and '익' means 'benefit.' If you see this word, it usually means something is being done for the community. You might hear it in very simple sentences like '공익을 위해 도와주세요' (Please help for the public interest), though simpler words like '모두를 위해' (for everyone) are more common for beginners. Understanding this word early helps you recognize that Korean has specific terms for society's collective well-being.

At the A2 level, you begin to encounter '공익' in slightly more practical contexts. You might notice it in the name '공익광고' (public service announcements) while watching Korean television or YouTube. These are the ads that tell you to save water or be careful with fire. You might also hear about '공익' when people talk about jobs. Some people work for the '공익' in government offices. At this level, you should be able to recognize that '공익' is the opposite of '내 이익' (my benefit). You can start using it in simple sentences to explain why a rule exists. For example, '쓰레기를 버리지 마세요. 공익을 위해서입니다.' (Don't throw away trash. It's for the public interest.) This shows you are starting to understand social concepts in Korean.

At the B1 level, you should be comfortable seeing '공익' in news articles and social media. This is the stage where you learn about '공익근무요원' (social service agents), a common topic in conversations about military service. You will understand that '공익' is a formal noun used to justify laws and community projects. You should be able to use it with verbs like '추구하다' (to pursue) or '위하다' (to be for). For example, '많은 사람들이 공익을 위해 봉사활동을 합니다' (Many people do volunteer work for the public interest). You are also starting to see the difference between '공익' and '사익' (private interest), which is a key concept in intermediate Korean reading passages about society and ethics.

At the B2 level, you are expected to use '공익' with precision in both speaking and writing. You should understand the nuances of '공익적 가치' (public interest value) and '공익법인' (public interest corporation). You can discuss complex topics like whistleblowing (공익제보) or corporate social responsibility (CSR) using this term. At this level, you understand that '공익' is not just 'helping,' but a legal and ethical standard. You can participate in debates about whether a certain government action is truly for the '공익' or if it unfairly harms '사유 재산' (private property). You should also be able to distinguish '공익' from related terms like '복지' (welfare) and '공공성' (publicness) in academic or professional settings.

At the C1 level, '공익' becomes a tool for deep philosophical and legal analysis. You can explore how the concept of '공익' has evolved in Korean history and law. You might read Supreme Court rulings where the '공익' is weighed against '기본권' (fundamental rights). You understand the rhetorical power of the word and how it can be used in political speeches to build consensus. You are capable of writing essays on the '공익의 실현' (realization of public interest) in modern urban planning. Your vocabulary includes related advanced terms like '공공복리' (public welfare) and '사회적 공헌' (social contribution). You can also detect when the word '공익' is being used euphemistically or to mask other intentions in sophisticated texts.

At the C2 level, you have a native-like grasp of '공익' in all its complexities. You can discuss the word's Hanja roots and its relationship to Western concepts of 'the common good' or 'social utility.' You can navigate the most complex legal and academic texts, understanding how '공익' functions as a '불확정 개념' (indeterminate concept) that must be interpreted by courts. You can engage in high-level academic discussions about the tension between '공익' and '신자유주의' (neoliberalism). You are familiar with the historical context of '공익' in the development of the Korean state. Your usage is flawless, and you can use the word with varying degrees of formality and nuance to suit any professional or academic audience.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

공익 in 30 Seconds

공익 refers to the 'public interest' or 'common good,' focusing on benefits for society rather than individuals.
It is a formal noun commonly used in legal, political, and social contexts in South Korea.
It is frequently paired with verbs like '추구하다' (pursue) and '증진하다' (promote).
It is also a common shorthand for social service agents (공익근무요원) in the context of military service.

The Korean word 공익 (Gong-ik) is a critical noun in the Korean language that translates to 'public interest,' 'public good,' or 'common welfare.' It is composed of two Hanja (Sino-Korean) characters: 公 (공) meaning 'public' or 'official,' and 益 (익) meaning 'benefit' or 'profit.' Together, they represent the concept of benefits that serve the community or society as a whole, rather than a specific individual or private entity. This term is deeply embedded in Korean social, legal, and political discourse, serving as a guiding principle for government actions, non-profit organizations, and civic duties. When you hear this word, it almost always carries a weight of moral or social responsibility.

Societal Foundation: In South Korea, the concept of 공익 is often contrasted with 사익 (sa-ik), which refers to private interest or personal gain. The balance between these two is a frequent topic in news reports regarding urban development, environmental protection, and legislative changes.
Legal and Administrative Use: Government officials frequently use this term to justify policies. For instance, a law might restrict certain private property rights if those rights are deemed to conflict with the broader 공익.

개인의 자유도 중요하지만 공익을 위해 어느 정도 제한될 수 있습니다. (Individual freedom is important, but it can be restricted to some extent for the public interest.)

Beyond formal contexts, 공익 appears in daily life through 'Public Service Announcements' known as 공익광고 (gong-ik gwang-go). These are commercials aired on television and radio that promote social causes like environmental conservation, smoking cessation, or road safety. Furthermore, many young Korean men are familiar with the term because of 공익근무요원 (gong-ik geun-mu yo-won), the former title for social service agents who perform their mandatory military service in public institutions rather than on active duty. While the official name has changed to 사회복무요원, many people still colloquially refer to them simply as '공익'.

이 사업은 공익을 목적으로 운영됩니다. (This project is operated for the purpose of public interest.)

Corporate Context: Modern Korean companies often discuss 공익 활동 (public interest activities) as part of their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives, aiming to show they contribute to society beyond just making a profit.

In summary, 공익 is a versatile word that bridges the gap between individual ethics and national policy. It represents the collective well-being that a society strives to achieve. Whether you are watching a documentary, reading a news article about a new park being built, or discussing military service with a friend, understanding the nuance of 공익 will help you grasp the underlying values of Korean society.

Using 공익 correctly involves understanding its role as a noun and the specific verbs it typically pairs with. In Korean grammar, nouns like 공익 often function as the object of a sentence or as part of a compound noun phrase. Because it is a formal and abstract concept, it is frequently used with verbs that imply pursuit, protection, or contribution.

Common Verb Pairings: The most common verb is 추구하다 (to pursue). Saying '공익을 추구하다' means to seek the public good. Another common one is 해치다 (to harm), used when an action negatively impacts society: '공익을 해치다'.

정치인은 개인의 이익보다 공익을 우선시해야 합니다. (Politicians should prioritize the public interest over personal gain.)

When describing the purpose of an organization or a project, you will often see the construction 공익을 목적으로 (with the purpose of public interest). This is essential for non-profit organizations (NPOs), which are called 공익단체 (gong-ik dan-che) in Korean. These groups operate not for money, but for the betterment of the community.

그 회사는 공익 사업에 매년 거액을 기부합니다. (The company donates a large amount of money to public interest projects every year.)

In a more technical or legal sense, you might encounter the phrase 공익의 실현 (realization of public interest). This is often used in academic or legal writing to describe the ultimate goal of law or governance. For example, '법의 목적은 공익의 실현에 있다' (The purpose of law lies in the realization of the public interest).

Compound Nouns: 1. 공익광고 (Public Service Announcement)
2. 공익법인 (Public Interest Corporation)
3. 공익제보자 (Whistleblower - literally, one who reports for the public interest)

공익제보자를 보호하는 법안이 통과되었습니다. (A bill to protect whistleblowers has been passed.)

Lastly, in casual conversation, if someone is doing something very selfless, you might say jokingly or admiringly, '공익을 위해서 일하시네요' (You are working for the public interest). This shows how the word, while formal, has enough cultural presence to be used in various registers of speech.

Understanding where 공익 appears in real-life Korean contexts will help you move beyond textbook definitions. This word is a staple of Korean media, legal systems, and even the unique military culture of the country. Here is a breakdown of the most common places you will encounter it.

In the News and Media: Whenever there is a debate about a new government policy—such as building a new airport or implementing a tax—the news anchors and experts will discuss whether the policy serves the 공익. You will hear phrases like '공익적 가치' (public interest value) frequently.

이번 조치는 공익을 최우선으로 고려한 결정입니다. (This measure is a decision that considered the public interest as the top priority.)

One of the most specific and common places you will hear '공익' is in the context of 공익근무 (gong-ik geun-mu). In South Korea, men who are deemed unfit for active combat duty due to health issues or other reasons serve in public offices, subway stations, or community centers. While the official term was updated to '사회복무' (social service), the public still overwhelmingly uses the term '공익' to describe these individuals. For example, '제 친구는 공익으로 복무 중이에요' (My friend is serving as a social service agent).

텔레비전에서 감동적인 공익광고를 봤어요. (I saw a touching public service announcement on TV.)

In Legal and Civil Rights: Lawyers who take on cases for free to help the community are often called 공익변호사 (public interest lawyers). They work for the 공익 by defending those who cannot afford legal representation or by fighting for human rights.

Finally, you will find it in the names of various foundations and NGOs. A 공익재단 (public interest foundation) is a non-profit foundation established to fund social causes. If you are looking to volunteer or work in the social sector in Korea, '공익' is a keyword you must look for in job descriptions and mission statements.

그는 공익을 해치는 부정부패를 척결하자고 주장했다. (He argued for the eradication of corruption that harms the public interest.)

While 공익 is a straightforward concept, English speakers often make mistakes by using it interchangeably with other 'public' words or by misapplying it in casual contexts. Understanding these nuances will help you sound more natural and precise in your Korean usage.

Confusing '공익' with '공공': Many learners confuse 공익 (public interest) with 공공 (public/common). While related, '공공' is usually an adjective describing things shared by the public (like '공공장소' - public place), whereas '공익' is the benefit or interest itself. You wouldn't say '공익 장소' for a public park.
Overusing it in Casual Speech: '공익' is a very formal word. If you are just doing a small favor for a friend, saying you did it for '공익' sounds overly dramatic or sarcastic. For daily kindness, use '남을 돕다' (helping others) or '봉사' (service).

❌ 이 공원은 공익 장소입니다.
✅ 이 공원은 공공 장소입니다. (This park is a public place.)

Another mistake involves the military service context. If you call someone a '공익' (social service agent), be aware that in some contexts, this can be used disparagingly by those who served in active duty to imply the person had an 'easier' service. While common, use it carefully depending on your relationship with the person.

❌ 공익을 돕고 싶어요.
✅ 공익을 위해 일하고 싶어요. (I want to work for the public interest.)

Finally, don't confuse 공익 with 복지 (welfare). While the public interest often includes welfare, '복지' specifically refers to the well-being and support systems (like health insurance or pensions), while '공익' is a broader ethical and legal concept of the 'common good'.

To truly master 공익, you should understand how it relates to other Korean words that deal with the public sphere and benefits. Depending on the context—whether it's legal, social, or economic—a different word might be more appropriate.

공익 (Public Interest) vs. 사익 (Private Interest): These are direct opposites. In discussions about ethics and law, they are almost always paired. '사익을 버리고 공익을 택하다' (To give up private interest and choose public interest).
공익 vs. 공공의 이익 (Public Interest - expanded): '공공의 이익' is the expanded version of '공익'. They mean exactly the same thing, but the longer version is often used for emphasis in legal documents or formal speeches.
공익 vs. 복리 (Welfare/Well-being): '복리' (福利) focuses more on the happiness and health of the people. While '공익' is about the 'interest' or 'good' of society, '복리' is about the actual standard of living and happiness.

국가는 국민의 복리 증진을 위해 노력해야 합니다. (The state must strive for the promotion of the people's welfare.)

Another important comparison is with 공리 (Public Utility/Utilitarianism). While '공익' is a general term for public good, '공리' (公利) is often used in philosophical contexts, particularly when discussing Utilitarianism (공리주의), the theory that the best action is the one that maximizes overall utility/happiness.

그의 행동은 공익적 차원에서 평가받아야 합니다. (His actions should be evaluated from the perspective of public interest.)

In summary, use '공익' when talking about the abstract concept of the common good, '복지' for social support systems, '공공' for shared spaces/resources, and '사익' when you need a contrast for personal gain. Mastering these distinctions will make your Korean sound much more sophisticated.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

In the Joseon Dynasty, the concept of '공' (public) was often associated with the King and the state, but modern usage has shifted to mean the 'people' or 'citizens.'

Pronunciation Guide

UK kōŋ.ik

US ɡɔŋ.ik

In Korean, stress is generally even across syllables, but a slight emphasis may be placed on the first syllable '공' when used in compound nouns.

Rhymes With

국익 (guk-ik - national interest) 수익 (su-ik - profit) 편익 (pyeon-ik - convenience/benefit) 실익 (sil-ik - practical benefit) 유익 (yu-ik - beneficial) 사익 (sa-ik - private interest) 권익 (gwon-ik - rights and interests) 불이익 (bul-i-ik - disadvantage)

Common Errors

Pronouncing '공' as 'gang' (like 'gangster'). It should be a closed 'o' sound.
Failing to pronounce the final 'k' (ㄱ) in '익' clearly.
Pronouncing '익' like 'eek' with a long vowel; it should be short and clipped.
Confusing the 'ng' sound in '공' with a simple 'n' sound.
Over-aspirating the 'k' at the end of '익'.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 3/5

The word itself is simple, but it appears in complex legal and social texts.

Writing 4/5

Requires understanding of formal verb pairings like '추구하다' or '증진하다'.

Speaking 3/5

Common in news and military discussions, but rare in very casual chat.

Listening 2/5

Easy to hear and recognize in media and formal speeches.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

공원 (Park) 이익 (Benefit/Profit) 사회 (Society) 모두 (Everyone) 도움 (Help)

Learn Next

사익 (Private interest) 복지 (Welfare) 정의 (Justice) 윤리 (Ethics) 법률 (Law)

Advanced

공공복리 (Public welfare) 형평성 (Equity) 민주주의 (Democracy) 사회적 책임 (Social responsibility) 공리주의 (Utilitarianism)

Grammar to Know

~을/를 위해 (For the sake of)

공익을 위해 일합니다.

~적 (Adjective-forming suffix)

공익적 목적으로 사용됩니다.

~성 (Suffix meaning 'quality' or 'nature')

그 사업은 공익성이 높습니다.

~보다 (Comparison marker)

사익보다 공익이 중요합니다.

~에 기여하다 (To contribute to)

그는 사회 공익에 기여했다.

Examples by Level

공익을 위해 도와요.

Help for the public interest.

'위해' means 'for the sake of'.

이것은 공익 광고예요.

This is a public service announcement.

'광고' means advertisement.

공익은 모두의 이익이에요.

Public interest is everyone's benefit.

'~은/는' is the topic marker.

공익을 생각하세요.

Please think of the public interest.

'~세요' is a polite command.

그는 공익을 위해 일해요.

He works for the public interest.

'일하다' means to work.

우리는 공익이 필요해요.

We need public interest.

'필요해요' means to need.

공익은 좋은 것이에요.

Public interest is a good thing.

'것' means thing.

공익을 배워요.

Learn about public interest.

'배워요' means to learn.

공익 광고는 TV에 많이 나와요.

Public service ads appear a lot on TV.

'많이' is an adverb meaning 'a lot'.

공익을 위해 쓰레기를 줍시다.

Let's pick up trash for the public interest.

'~읍시다' means 'let's'.

제 형은 공익 요원으로 일해요.

My older brother works as a social service agent.

'요원' means agent or personnel.

공익은 우리 사회에 중요해요.

Public interest is important to our society.

'중요해요' means to be important.

개인의 이익보다 공익이 먼저예요.

Public interest comes before personal interest.

'~보다' is used for comparison.

공익 단체에 기부하고 싶어요.

I want to donate to a public interest organization.

'~고 싶어요' means 'want to'.

이 법은 공익을 위한 법입니다.

This law is a law for the public interest.

'~을 위한' means 'for'.

공익을 해치는 행동을 하지 마세요.

Do not do actions that harm the public interest.

'~하지 마세요' means 'don't do'.

정부는 공익을 증진하기 위해 노력해야 합니다.

The government must strive to promote the public interest.

'증진하다' means to promote or enhance.

그 사업은 공익적 목적으로 시작되었습니다.

That project was started for public interest purposes.

'공익적' is the adjectival form.

공익 제보는 사회를 맑게 만듭니다.

Whistleblowing (public interest reporting) makes society cleaner.

'맑게' means clearly or purely.

기업들도 공익 활동에 참여하고 있습니다.

Companies are also participating in public interest activities.

'참여하다' means to participate.

그는 공익을 위해 자신의 재산을 기부했다.

He donated his fortune for the public interest.

Past tense '기부했다'.

공익과 사익 사이에서 갈등이 생길 수 있습니다.

Conflict can arise between public and private interests.

'갈등' means conflict.

이 캠페인은 공익을 실현하기 위한 것입니다.

This campaign is for realizing the public interest.

'실현하다' means to realize or implement.

많은 변호사들이 공익 변론을 담당합니다.

Many lawyers handle public interest litigation.

'담당하다' means to be in charge of.

공익을 위해 사유 재산권이 일부 제한될 수 있습니다.

Private property rights may be partially restricted for the public interest.

'사유 재산권' means private property rights.

공익제보자 보호법은 매우 중요한 법안입니다.

The Whistleblower Protection Act is a very important bill.

'법안' means a bill or draft law.

그 정책은 공익보다는 정치적 이익을 앞세운 것 같습니다.

That policy seems to prioritize political interest over public interest.

'앞세우다' means to put something first.

공익법인은 투명하게 운영되어야 합니다.

Public interest corporations must be operated transparently.

'투명하게' means transparently.

이번 판결은 공익의 가치를 높게 평가한 결과입니다.

This ruling is the result of highly valuing public interest.

'판결' means ruling or judgment.

그는 공익을 해치는 행위를 강력히 비판했습니다.

He strongly criticized acts that harm the public interest.

'강력히' means strongly.

도시 개발 계획은 공익과 환경 보호를 조화시켜야 합니다.

Urban development plans must harmonize public interest and environmental protection.

'조화시키다' means to harmonize.

공익 활동을 통해 사회에 공헌하고 싶습니다.

I want to contribute to society through public interest activities.

'공헌하다' means to contribute.

공익과 사익의 균형을 맞추는 것이 민주주의의 핵심 과제입니다.

Balancing public and private interests is a core task of democracy.

'핵심 과제' means core task.

공익의 개념은 시대와 사회의 변화에 따라 달라집니다.

The concept of public interest changes according to shifts in time and society.

'~에 따라' means 'according to'.

헌법은 공공복리와 공익을 위해 기본권을 제한할 수 있음을 명시하고 있습니다.

The Constitution specifies that fundamental rights can be restricted for public welfare and interest.

'명시하다' means to specify or state clearly.

그 학자는 공익의 철학적 토대에 대해 깊이 연구해 왔습니다.

The scholar has deeply researched the philosophical foundations of the public interest.

'토대' means foundation.

국가 권력의 행사는 항상 공익에 부합해야 합니다.

The exercise of state power must always correspond to the public interest.

'부합하다' means to correspond or coincide.

공익을 빙자하여 개인의 욕심을 채우는 행태를 경계해야 합니다.

We must be wary of behaviors that satisfy personal greed under the guise of public interest.

'빙자하다' means to use as a pretext.

현대 사회에서 공익의 범위는 더욱 확장되고 있습니다.

In modern society, the scope of public interest is expanding further.

'확장되다' means to be expanded.

공익적 가치를 창출하는 혁신적인 비즈니스 모델이 필요합니다.

Innovative business models that create public interest value are needed.

'창출하다' means to create.

공익의 실현은 법치주의 국가가 지향해야 할 궁극적인 지표입니다.

The realization of public interest is the ultimate indicator that a state governed by the rule of law should aim for.

'궁극적인 지표' means ultimate indicator.

공익이라는 추상적 개념을 구체적인 법 규범으로 구체화하는 과정은 지난합니다.

The process of materializing the abstract concept of public interest into specific legal norms is arduous.

'지난하다' means to be very difficult or arduous.

다원화된 현대 사회에서 공익은 단일한 가치가 아니라 다양한 이해관계의 조정 결과입니다.

In a pluralistic modern society, public interest is not a single value but the result of coordinating various interests.

'이해관계' means interests/stakes.

공익의 이름으로 자행되는 소수자의 권리 침해를 묵과해서는 안 됩니다.

The infringement of minority rights committed in the name of the public interest must not be overlooked.

'묵과하다' means to overlook or condone.

공익의 우선성은 절대적인 것이 아니라 비례의 원칙에 따라 검토되어야 합니다.

The priority of public interest is not absolute but must be reviewed according to the principle of proportionality.

'비례의 원칙' means principle of proportionality.

그 논문은 공익의 재정의를 통해 공동체 의식의 회복을 역설하고 있습니다.

The paper emphasizes the recovery of community spirit through the redefinition of public interest.

'역설하다' means to emphasize or stress.

공익적 담론이 활성화될수록 사회적 자본의 축적이 가속화됩니다.

As public interest discourse becomes more active, the accumulation of social capital accelerates.

'담론' means discourse.

지속 가능한 발전을 위해서는 경제적 성장과 공익의 조화가 필수적입니다.

For sustainable development, the harmony between economic growth and public interest is essential.

'필수적' means essential.

Synonyms

공공 이익 사회적 이익 공동선 공공복리 일반 이익

Antonyms

사익 개인주의

Common Collocations

공익을 추구하다

공익을 해치다

공익을 위해

공익 광고

공익 제보

공익 단체

공익 사업

공익을 증진하다

공익적 가치

공익 우선

Common Phrases

공익을 우선시하다

— To prioritize the public interest over private ones.

공무원은 공익을 우선시해야 할 의무가 있다.

공익 활동에 참여하다

— To take part in activities that benefit the public.

대학생들이 방학 동안 공익 활동에 참여하고 있다.

공익의 실현

— The realization or achievement of the public good.

법의 궁극적인 목적은 공익의 실현에 있다.

공익을 목적으로 하다

— To have the public interest as one's goal or purpose.

이 재단은 오로지 공익을 목적으로 설립되었습니다.

공익을 저해하다

— To hinder or obstruct the public interest.

가짜 뉴스는 공익을 저해하는 심각한 문제입니다.

공익을 도모하다

— To promote or plan for the public interest.

지역 주민의 공익을 도모하기 위해 회의를 열었다.

공익적 차원에서

— From the perspective of public interest.

공익적 차원에서 이번 규제는 불가피합니다.

공익을 수호하다

— To protect or defend the public interest.

검찰은 공익을 수호하는 기관이어야 합니다.

공익에 기여하다

— To contribute to the public interest.

그의 연구는 인류의 공익에 크게 기여했다.

공익과 사익의 충돌

— The conflict between public and private interests.

공익과 사익의 충돌을 해결하기 위한 법안이 필요하다.

Often Confused With

공익 vs 공공 (Public)

공공 refers to the public as a group or shared space (e.g., public park), while 공익 refers to the interest or benefit of that group.

공익 vs 복지 (Welfare)

복지 refers to the well-being and social safety nets, whereas 공익 is a broader ethical/legal concept of the common good.

공익 vs 사익 (Private Interest)

These are opposites. Make sure not to use 공익 when you mean personal profit.

Idioms & Expressions

"공익을 앞세우다"

— To put the public interest first (sometimes used to mean using it as a pretext).

그는 항상 공익을 앞세우며 정직하게 일한다.

Neutral/Formal

"공익의 등불"

— A metaphor for someone or something that lights the way for the public good.

그 기자는 우리 사회 공익의 등불 같은 존재다.

Literary

"공익을 위해 몸을 던지다"

— To sacrifice oneself for the public good.

소방관들은 공익을 위해 위험한 현장에 몸을 던진다.

Emotive

"사익보다 공익"

— A common slogan meaning 'Public over Private.'

우리 팀의 슬로건은 '사익보다 공익'입니다.

Neutral

"공익의 파수꾼"

— A watchman or guardian of the public interest (often used for NGOs or media).

시민 단체는 공익의 파수꾼 역할을 해야 합니다.

Formal

"공익의 이름으로"

— In the name of the public interest.

공익의 이름으로 부당한 명령을 내려서는 안 된다.

Formal/Rhetorical

"멸사봉공 (滅私奉公)"

— A four-character idiom (Saja-seong-eo) meaning to destroy self-interest and serve the public.

멸사봉공의 정신으로 나라에 봉사하겠습니다.

Very Formal/Historical

"공익에 눈을 뜨다"

— To become aware of or interested in the public good.

그는 은퇴 후 공익에 눈을 뜨고 봉사를 시작했다.

Neutral

"공익을 담보로 하다"

— To use the public interest as collateral or a guarantee.

공익을 담보로 사적 이익을 챙겨서는 안 됩니다.

Formal

"공익의 큰 틀"

— The grand framework of public interest.

공익의 큰 틀에서 이번 문제를 바라봐야 합니다.

Formal

Easily Confused

공익 vs 공리 (Public Utility)

Both start with '공' and relate to benefit.

공리 is more philosophical (Utilitarianism) or relates to utility services, while 공익 is the general term for public interest.

그는 공익을 위해 공리주의를 공부했다.

공익 vs 공용 (Public Use)

Both involve the word 'public'.

공용 refers to things meant for public use (like a public phone), while 공익 refers to the benefit itself.

이 물건은 공용이지만, 사용 목적은 공익을 위해서입니다.

공익 vs 국익 (National Interest)

Both refer to a large group's interest.

국익 specifically refers to the interest of the nation-state (often in international relations), while 공익 is for the general public/society.

외교관은 국익을, 사회 활동가는 공익을 위해 일합니다.

공익 vs 편익 (Convenience/Benefit)

Both end in '익' (benefit).

편익 focuses on the convenience or specific advantage for users, while 공익 is the broader social good.

지하철 연장은 시민들의 편익과 사회적 공익을 모두 높입니다.

공익 vs 수익 (Profit)

Both end in '익'.

수익 is purely financial profit, while 공익 is social benefit.

기업은 수익과 공익 사이에서 고민합니다.

Sentence Patterns

공익을 위해 [Verb].

공익을 위해 도와요.

[Noun]은/는 공익 광고예요.

이것은 공익 광고예요.

공익을 위해 [Noun]을/를 [Verb].

공익을 위해 기부를 합니다.

공익을 [Verb]하는 것이 중요합니다.

공익을 추구하는 것이 중요합니다.

공익과 사익의 [Noun]이/가 필요합니다.

공익과 사익의 조화가 필요합니다.

공익의 실현은 [Noun]의 [Noun]입니다.

공익의 실현은 법치주의의 목표입니다.

공익적 [Noun]을/를 창출하다.

공익적 가치를 창출하다.

공익을 해치는 [Noun].

공익을 해치는 행동.

Word Family

Nouns

공익성 (public interest nature)

공익광고 (public service announcement)

공익법인 (public interest corporation)

공익단체 (public interest organization)

공익제보 (whistleblowing)

Verbs

공익을 추구하다 (to pursue public interest)

공익을 도모하다 (to promote public interest)

공익을 해치다 (to harm public interest)

Adjectives

공익적이다 (to be in the public interest)

유익하다 (to be beneficial - related root)

공공 (public)

사회 (society)

이익 (benefit)

복지 (welfare)

봉사 (service)

How to Use It

frequency

Highly frequent in news, law, and social discussions. Moderately frequent in daily life due to military service contexts.

Common Mistakes

Using '공익' for a public park. → 공원 (Gong-won)
Learners see '공' (public) and '익' (interest) and think it describes any public place. However, '공익' is the abstract benefit. For a physical park, use '공원' or '공공장소'.
Saying '공익을 돕다'. → 공익을 위해 일하다 / 공익에 기여하다
You don't 'help' the public interest; you 'work for' it or 'contribute to' it. The verb '돕다' (to help) is usually used for people, not abstract concepts.
Confusing '공익' with '복지'. → Context-dependent
While related, '복지' (welfare) refers to support systems like health care. '공익' is broader, covering everything from environmental laws to anti-corruption measures.
Using '공익' in a very casual way. → 남을 위한 일 (Something for others)
If you bought coffee for a friend, saying you did it for '공익' sounds strange and overly formal. It's better to say you did it as a favor or for the friend.
Mispronouncing '익' as '이'. → 공익 [Gong-ik]
If you drop the final 'k' sound, '공이' means 'ball' or 'number two.' The final consonant is crucial for the meaning of the word.

Tips

Pair with '추구'

Whenever you want to say someone is 'seeking' the public good, always use '공익을 추구하다'. It is the most natural and professional collocation for this word. This phrase is a staple in Korean essays and news reports.

Learn the Hanja

Learning that 公 (공) means 'public' will help you understand hundreds of other words like '공원' (park), '공항' (airport), and '공무원' (public official). It is one of the most useful characters in the Korean language.

Military Context

If someone says '저는 공익이에요' (I am gong-ik), they are telling you they are doing their military service in a public office. Don't be confused; they aren't saying they are the 'public interest' itself, but that they are a 'public interest worker'.

Use for Contrast

In any writing about ethics or society, using '공익' and '사익' in the same paragraph will immediately make your Korean sound more advanced. It shows you understand the fundamental tension in social structures.

Listen for the 'K'

In the word '공익', the final 'ㄱ' (k) in '익' is often very soft but distinct. If you don't hear it, you might confuse it with '공이' (ball/number two). Focus on the clipped ending of the second syllable.

Adjective Form

To use '공익' as an adjective, add '~적'. '공익적 목적' (public interest purpose) or '공익적 가치' (public interest value) are common phrases. This allows you to describe nouns directly.

Volunteer Work

If you are looking for volunteer opportunities in Korea, search for '공익 활동' (public interest activities). This is the standard term used by NGOs and community centers for social service work.

Whistleblower Protection

The term '공익제보' is very positive in modern Korea. It implies that the person is acting for the good of society, even at personal risk. Using this term shows respect for the act of reporting corruption.

Formal Debates

In a formal debate, starting a sentence with '공익의 관점에서 보면...' (Looking from the perspective of public interest...) is a great way to introduce a logical and community-focused argument.

Watch KOBACO Ads

Searching for '공익광고' on YouTube is a fantastic way to practice listening. These ads use clear, standard Korean and often include subtitles, making them perfect for B1-B2 level learners.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'Gong' as the sound of a big public bell that everyone hears, and 'Ik' as 'increase.' A big bell increases the benefit for everyone!

Visual Association

Imagine a giant umbrella covering a whole city. The umbrella is '공익'—it protects and benefits everyone underneath it.

Word Web

공익광고 (Ads) 공익제보 (Reporting) 공익법인 (Company) 공익단체 (Group) 공익요원 (Service) 공익성 (Quality) 공익사업 (Project) 공익활동 (Activity)

Challenge

Try to find one '공익광고' on a Korean website or YouTube channel and write down one sentence about what it is trying to teach society.

Word Origin

The word '공익' originates from Hanja, the Chinese characters used in the Korean writing system. It is a combination of two characters that have been used for centuries in East Asian administrative and philosophical texts.

Original meaning: The first character 公 (공) represents 'public' or 'open,' originally depicting a vessel shared by many. The second character 益 (익) represents 'benefit' or 'increase,' originally depicting water overflowing from a bowl.

Sino-Korean (Hanja-eo)

Cultural Context

Be careful when calling someone a '공익' in the military context; while common, it can sometimes be used to mock those who didn't serve in active duty.

In English-speaking countries, 'public interest' is often a legal term. In Korea, it is used more frequently in everyday media and social conversations.

공익광고협의회 (KOBACO) - The famous council that produces public service ads. Whistleblower stories in Korean films (like 'The Whistleblower' or 'Silenced'). K-pop idols serving as social service agents (often referred to as '공익' by fans).

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Military Service Discussion

공익 판정을 받다 (To be assigned to social service)
공익 근무를 하다 (To do social service)
현역 대신 공익 (Social service instead of active duty)
공익 요원 (Social service agent)

News and Politics

공익을 침해하다 (To infringe on public interest)
공익적 가치 (Public interest value)
공익을 최우선으로 (Public interest as top priority)
공익 실현 (Realization of public interest)

Corporate Environment

공익 사업 (Public interest project)
사회 공헌 (Social contribution)
공익 재단 (Public interest foundation)
기업의 공익 활동 (Corporate public interest activities)

Legal Context

공익 제보자 (Whistleblower)
공익 변호사 (Public interest lawyer)
공익을 위한 제한 (Restrictions for public interest)
공익 법인 (Public interest corporation)

Social Campaigns

공익 광고 (Public service announcement)
공익 캠페인 (Public interest campaign)
공익을 위해 참여하다 (To participate for the public interest)
공익의 중요성 (Importance of public interest)

Conversation Starters

"한국에서는 공익 광고가 아주 유명한데, 가장 기억에 남는 광고가 있나요? (Public service ads are very famous in Korea; is there one that is most memorable?)"

"공익을 위해 일하는 직업에는 어떤 것들이 있을까요? (What kind of jobs are there that work for the public interest?)"

"개인의 자유와 공익 중에서 무엇이 더 중요하다고 생각하세요? (Which do you think is more important, individual freedom or public interest?)"

"공익 제보자를 보호하는 것이 왜 중요할까요? (Why is it important to protect whistleblowers?)"

"요즘 기업들이 하는 공익 활동에 대해 어떻게 생각하세요? (What do you think about the public interest activities companies are doing these days?)"

Journal Prompts

내가 생각하는 '공익'의 정의는 무엇인지 써 보세요. (Write down what your definition of 'public interest' is.)

공익을 위해 내가 할 수 있는 작은 일은 무엇이 있을까? (What are some small things I can do for the public interest?)

최근 뉴스에서 본 공익과 관련된 사건에 대해 자신의 생각을 적어 보세요. (Write your thoughts on a recent news event related to the public interest.)

공익 광고를 하나 기획한다면 어떤 주제로 만들고 싶나요? (If you were to plan a public service ad, what topic would you choose?)

사익과 공익이 충돌할 때, 우리는 어떤 선택을 해야 할까요? (When private interest and public interest conflict, what choice should we make?)

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

공공 (gong-gong) is an adjective or noun referring to the 'public' as a collective body or shared space. For example, '공공장소' means 'public place.' 공익 (gong-ik) refers specifically to the 'benefit' or 'interest' of the public. You use 공공 to describe the 'who' or 'where,' and 공익 to describe the 'what' (the benefit). Think of 공공 as the people and 공익 as the good things that happen to them.

In Korea, men who are not fit for active duty serve in public roles like subway stations or government offices. This was officially called '공익근무요원' (Public Interest Service Personnel). Although the name changed to '사회복무요원' (Social Service Agent), the public still uses the shorthand '공익' to describe the service and the people doing it. It reflects their role in serving the community instead of the military.

Yes, '공익' is quite formal. You will most often find it in news reports, law books, and official government statements. While it is understood by everyone, you wouldn't typically use it in a very casual conversation with friends unless you are talking about something serious like a social cause or someone's military service status.

Not exactly. While charities work for the '공익' (public interest), the word for 'charity' itself is '자선' (jaseon). '공익' is the goal or the result of the charity's work. You might say a charity is a '공익 단체' (public interest organization), but you wouldn't say 'I gave to 공익' if you mean you gave to a charity.

'공익제보' (gong-ik-je-bo) translates to 'whistleblowing' for the public interest. It refers to someone inside an organization reporting corruption or illegal activities to protect society. The person doing this is called a '공익제보자.' It is seen as a brave act for the common good in Korean society.

It is '공익광고' (gong-ik gwang-go). These are very common on Korean TV and cover topics like recycling, safety, and health. They are produced by the '공익광고협의회' (Public Service Advertising Council).

The direct opposite is '사익' (sa-ik), which means 'private interest' or 'personal gain.' In many Korean ethical discussions, the struggle is between '공익' (the good of all) and '사익' (the greed of one). You might also hear '사리사욕' to describe selfish greed.

No, '공익' is strictly a noun. To express it as an action, you must use verbs like '추구하다' (to pursue), '위하다' (to be for), or '증진하다' (to promote). For example, '공익을 추구하다' means 'to pursue the public interest.'

Yes, especially in the context of CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility). Companies often talk about their '공익 사업' (public interest projects) or '공익 활동' to show that they are giving back to society and not just focusing on profits.

Pronounce it as [gong-ik]. The 'gong' sounds like the English word 'gong,' and 'ik' sounds like 'ick' but with a very short, sharp 'k' sound at the end. Make sure not to stretch the 'i' sound too long.