공공 이익
공공 이익 in 30 Seconds
- A formal noun meaning 'public interest' or 'common good'.
- Used in law, politics, and media to justify collective actions.
- Opposite of '사익' (private interest) or '사적 이익'.
- Commonly paired with verbs like '추구하다', '증진하다', and '위해'.
The Korean term 공공 이익 (Gong-gong I-ik) is a sophisticated noun that translates directly to 'public interest' or 'common good.' It is composed of two main parts: '공공' (public/communal) and '이익' (interest/benefit/profit). In a societal context, it refers to the collective well-being, safety, and prosperity of the general population rather than the specific gains of an individual or a private corporation. This term is foundational in Korean discourse regarding law, politics, urban development, and social ethics. When you hear this word, think of things that benefit everyone: clean air, public transportation, national security, and public health systems. It is the yardstick by which many government policies are measured in South Korea.
- Social Responsibility
- In Korean culture, the concept of the collective often outweighs individual desires. Therefore, '공공 이익' is frequently invoked as a justification for limiting individual rights, such as during a pandemic or when building essential infrastructure like highways or dams.
The term is most commonly found in formal settings. You will encounter it in news broadcasts discussing new legislation, in courtrooms where the rights of the public are balanced against private property, and in academic papers focusing on sociology or political science. It carries a heavy, serious tone. If a politician says they are acting for the '공공 이익', they are claiming a high moral ground, suggesting that their actions serve the nation as a whole. It is rarely used in casual conversation between friends unless the topic is quite serious, such as debating a new tax or a local construction project that affects the entire neighborhood.
정부는 공공 이익을 위해 새로운 공원을 조성하기로 결정했습니다. (The government decided to create a new park for the public interest.)
Understanding '공공 이익' also requires understanding its counterpart: '사적 이익' (private interest) or '사익'. The tension between these two is a constant theme in Korean news. For example, when a new subway station is built, it serves the '공공 이익', but if it requires demolishing private homes, it conflicts with '사적 이익'. The ability to navigate this vocabulary is essential for reaching an upper-intermediate (B2) or advanced level of Korean, as it allows you to engage with the 'real' world of Korean media and professional life.
개인의 자유는 공공 이익과 조화를 이루어야 합니다. (Individual freedom must harmonize with the public interest.)
- Legal Context
- In the Korean Constitution, the concept of '공공복리' (public welfare) is similar to '공공 이익', emphasizing that the exercise of rights can be restricted for the greater good.
Furthermore, '공공 이익' is linked to the idea of '공정성' (fairness). Because public resources are limited, their distribution must benefit the majority fairly. This is why the term is so prominent in discussions about social welfare, education, and healthcare. If a policy is perceived to favor a specific group over the '공공 이익', it often leads to public outcry and protests, which are a vibrant part of South Korean democracy.
기업은 공공 이익을 해치지 않는 범위 내에서 이윤을 추구해야 합니다. (Corporations should pursue profit within a range that does not harm the public interest.)
그 정책은 공공 이익에 반하는 결정이었습니다. (That policy was a decision that went against the public interest.)
- Environmental Protection
- Preserving the environment is often classified as a '공공 이익' because the health of the planet affects everyone, regardless of individual ownership.
마스크 착용은 공공 이익을 보호하기 위한 필수적인 조치입니다. (Wearing a mask is an essential measure to protect the public interest.)
Using '공공 이익' correctly requires pairing it with the right verbs and particles. Since it is a formal noun, it often appears with verbs like '추구하다' (to pursue), '증진하다' (to promote/enhance), '보호하다' (to protect), and '해치다' (to harm/damage). Let's explore the grammar and syntax patterns that will make your Korean sound natural and professional.
- Pattern: [Noun] + 을/를 위해 (For the sake of...)
- This is the most common way to use the word. '공공 이익을 위해' means 'for the public interest.' It acts as an adverbial phrase explaining the purpose of an action.
시민들은 공공 이익을 위해 기꺼이 불편을 감수했습니다. (Citizens willingly endured inconvenience for the public interest.)
Another common structure involves the particle '에' when expressing that something is 'conducive to' or 'detrimental to' the public interest. For example, '공공 이익에 기여하다' (to contribute to the public interest) or '공공 이익에 반하다' (to go against the public interest). Notice how the verb choice changes the nuance significantly.
이 법안이 공공 이익에 얼마나 기여할 수 있을지 의문입니다. (I doubt how much this bill can contribute to the public interest.)
In more complex sentences, you might see it paired with '우선시하다' (to prioritize). This is a key verb for B2 learners. '공공 이익을 우선시하다' means 'to prioritize the public interest.' This is often used when discussing leadership qualities or policy priorities.
진정한 지도자는 사적인 욕심보다 공공 이익을 우선시해야 합니다. (A true leader must prioritize the public interest over private greed.)
- Verb Pairing: 증진시키다 (To Enhance/Promote)
- This causative verb is very common in government reports. '공공 이익을 증진시키다' implies an active effort to make the public good even better.
Finally, consider the negative usage. If something is 'harmful' to the public interest, you use '해치다' or '침해하다' (to infringe upon). These are strong words used in legal disputes or ethical debates. For instance, '공공 이익을 침해하는 행위' refers to an act that violates the collective well-being.
개인 정보 유출은 공공 이익을 심각하게 해칠 수 있습니다. (The leakage of personal information can seriously harm the public interest.)
우리는 공공 이익과 개인의 권리 사이에서 균형을 찾아야 합니다. (We must find a balance between the public interest and individual rights.)
- Common Adjective: 부합하는 (Consistent with)
- When a plan matches the public interest, we say it is '공공 이익에 부합하는 계획'.
이 사업은 공공 이익에 부합하지 않는다는 비판을 받고 있습니다. (This project is being criticized for not being consistent with the public interest.)
If you live in Korea or consume Korean media, you will hear '공공 이익' in specific, predictable environments. It is not a word used while buying groceries, but it is a staple of the 'News at 9.' Let's look at the domains where this word dominates.
- The Evening News and Newspapers
- Whenever the government announces a new policy—like a tax hike, a new regulation on plastic use, or a change in the school curriculum—the phrase '공공 이익' is used to justify the change. News anchors use it to frame the debate between different political parties.
정부는 이번 규제가 공공 이익을 극대화하기 위한 것이라고 설명했습니다. (The government explained that this regulation is intended to maximize the public interest.)
You will also hear this word frequently in legal dramas and real-life court cases. In Korea, the 'Public Interest' is a legal concept used to determine if a search warrant is valid or if a whistle-blower should be protected. If you watch dramas like 'Stranger' (비밀의 숲) or 'Law School,' pay attention to how prosecutors and lawyers debate whether an action served the '공공 이익' or was a cover-up for corruption.
검찰은 피고인의 행위가 공공 이익을 심각하게 훼손했다고 주장했습니다. (The prosecution argued that the defendant's actions seriously damaged the public interest.)
Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) reports from large Korean companies (like Samsung or Hyundai) also use this term. They want to show that they aren't just making money but are also contributing to the '공공 이익' through charity, environmental initiatives, or supporting small businesses. In this context, it sounds more like 'social contribution' (사회 공헌).
우리 기업은 공공 이익을 실현하기 위해 사회 공헌 활동을 확대하고 있습니다. (Our company is expanding social contribution activities to realize the public interest.)
- Educational Settings
- In Korean ethics classes (도덕) and social studies (사회), students learn about the importance of '공공 이익'. It is a core part of being a 'good citizen' (민주 시민).
Finally, you'll see it on signs in public places. Parks, libraries, and subways are '공공 시설' (public facilities) built for the '공공 이익'. Signs might remind people to keep these areas clean 'for the public interest'. Even in apartment complexes, the 'management office' (관리사무소) might use this term when asking residents to follow certain rules regarding noise or trash disposal.
이곳은 공공 이익을 위한 공간이오니 깨끗하게 사용해 주십시오. (This is a space for the public interest, so please keep it clean.)
그의 용기 있는 행동은 공공 이익에 큰 도움이 되었습니다. (His courageous action was a great help to the public interest.)
- Debate Context
- In a debate, if you want to win, you often argue that your opponent's plan harms the '공공 이익' while yours promotes it.
For English speakers, the most common mistake is confusing '공공 이익' with other similar-sounding words or using it in contexts that are too casual. Let's break down these pitfalls so you can avoid them.
- Mistake 1: Confusing '공공 이익' and '사적 이익'
- New learners often mix up '공' (public) and '사' (private). Remember: '공' is like 'open/public' (think of '공원' - park), while '사' is like 'personal/private' (think of '사무실' - office or '사생활' - private life). Using the wrong one completely flips the meaning of your sentence.
Another mistake is overusing '공공 이익' when you actually mean '공익' (Public Interest). While they are synonymous, '공익' is much more common as a prefix. For example, '공익 광고' (Public Service Announcement) or '공익 근무 요원' (Public Service Worker). Using '공공 이익 광고' would sound very strange and unnatural to a native speaker.
❌ 공공 이익 광고를 봤어요. (Incorrect)
✅ 공익 광고를 봤어요. (Correct)
Learners also struggle with the particles. Because '이익' ends in a consonant, the object marker is '을' and the subject marker is '이'. However, in the phrase '공공 이익에 반하다' (to go against the public interest), learners often forget the '에' and try to use '을'. Remember that '반하다' (to oppose/go against) usually takes the '에' particle when referring to a principle or interest.
❌ 그 결정은 공공 이익을 반해요. (Incorrect)
✅ 그 결정은 공공 이익에 반해요. (Correct)
- Mistake 2: Using it for Personal Benefits
- Never use '공공 이익' to describe something that only benefits you or a small group of friends. If you say 'Our study group's 공공 이익,' it sounds incredibly pompous and incorrect. Instead, use '우리 팀의 이익' or '공동의 이익' (shared interest).
Finally, be careful with the word '이익' itself. In business, '이익' often means 'profit.' However, in '공공 이익,' it means 'benefit' or 'welfare.' If you translate 'Public Interest' as 'Public Profit,' you might think it's only about money, but it includes safety, health, and happiness. Don't limit your understanding of the word to just financial gains.
❌ 돈을 많이 버는 것이 공공 이익의 전부입니다. (Incorrect)
✅ 건강과 안전도 공공 이익에 포함됩니다. (Correct)
❌ 공공 이익을 위해 나 혼자만 잘되면 돼요. (Incorrect logic)
✅ 공공 이익을 위해 우리 모두가 노력해야 해요. (Correct logic)
- Vocabulary Distinction: 공익 vs 공공 이익
- '공익' is the standard noun for 'public interest' in most contexts. '공공 이익' is the full, formal version. Use the latter in academic writing or formal speeches to sound more precise.
To truly master the concept of '공공 이익,' you should know its synonyms and related terms. Korean has a rich vocabulary for 'benefit' and 'public,' and choosing the right one depends on the register and the specific nuance you want to convey.
- 공익 (Gong-ik) - Public Interest
- This is the most direct synonym. It's shorter and used more frequently in daily news and fixed expressions like '공익 재단' (public interest foundation).
그는 공익을 위해 평생을 바쳤습니다. (He dedicated his life to the public interest.)
Another important term is '공공복리' (Gong-gong-bok-ri), which translates to 'public welfare.' This is a very formal, legalistic term often found in the Constitution. While '이익' focuses on the benefit or gain, '복리' focuses on the well-being and happiness of the people. Use this when discussing the state's duty to its citizens.
- 국익 (Guk-ik) - National Interest
- While '공공 이익' is about the people within a society, '국익' is about the benefit of the nation-state, especially in international relations or trade. A policy might serve the '국익' but not necessarily the '공공 이익' of every citizen.
외교 정책은 항상 국익을 최우선으로 고려해야 합니다. (Foreign policy must always consider the national interest first.)
If you want to talk about a 'shared benefit' between a small group of people (like a family or a team), use '공동의 이익' (Gong-dong-ui i-ik). '공동' means 'joint' or 'communal.' This is less formal than '공공' and fits better in business partnerships or group projects.
두 회사는 공동의 이익을 위해 협력하기로 했습니다. (The two companies decided to cooperate for their mutual interest.)
- 사회적 가치 (Sahoe-jeok Gachi) - Social Value
- This is a modern buzzword in Korea, often used in business to describe things that are good for society. It's broader than '이익' and includes ethical and environmental considerations.
현대 사회에서는 경제적 이익뿐만 아니라 사회적 가치도 중요합니다. (In modern society, not only economic profit but also social value is important.)
Finally, '혜택' (Hye-taek) means 'benefit' or 'perk.' While '이익' is more formal and abstract, '혜택' is used for practical benefits like discounts, welfare subsidies, or a new library in the neighborhood. You might say, '시민들이 공공 이익의 혜택을 누리다' (Citizens enjoy the benefits of the public interest).
새로운 도서관은 지역 주민들에게 큰 혜택을 줄 것입니다. (The new library will provide great benefits to local residents.)
How Formal Is It?
Fun Fact
The character '利' (interest) originally depicted a knife (刂) cutting grain (禾), symbolizing a successful harvest and the resulting benefit.
Pronunciation Guide
- Pronouncing '공' like 'gon' without the 'ng' sound.
- Merging 'i-ik' into a single long 'i' sound.
- Confusing the 'o' in 'gong' with the 'u' in 'gung'.
Difficulty Rating
Common in news and formal texts, but requires knowing Hanja-based roots.
Using it correctly in context requires a good grasp of formal grammar and collocations.
Pronunciation is straightforward, but it's rarely used in casual speech.
Used frequently in broadcasts; understanding the nuance is key.
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
Advanced
Grammar to Know
Noun + 을/를 위해 (For the sake of)
공공 이익을 위해 협조해 주세요.
Noun + 에 기여하다 (To contribute to)
이 기술은 공공 이익에 기여할 것입니다.
Noun + 에 반하다 (To go against)
그 행위는 공공 이익에 반하는 일입니다.
Noun + (으)로서 (As a...)
시민으로서 공공 이익을 생각해야 합니다.
Noun + 에 부합하다 (To be consistent with)
계획이 공공 이익에 부합하는지 확인하세요.
Examples by Level
공공 이익은 중요합니다.
The public interest is important.
Simple Subject-Adjective sentence.
공원은 공공 이익을 위한 곳입니다.
Parks are places for the public interest.
Using '위한' as a modifier.
모두의 공공 이익을 생각해요.
Think of everyone's public interest.
Object marker '을' used with '생각하다'.
이것은 공공 이익입니다.
This is the public interest.
Simple identification sentence.
공공 이익을 위해 도와주세요.
Please help for the public interest.
Using '위해' to show purpose.
우리는 공공 이익을 좋아합니다.
We like the public interest.
Simple Subject-Object-Verb.
공공 이익이 필요합니다.
Public interest is needed.
Subject marker '이' used with '필요하다'.
작은 공공 이익도 소중해요.
Even small public interests are precious.
Adding '도' for 'even/also'.
정부는 공공 이익을 위해 일합니다.
The government works for the public interest.
Standard 'A works for B' structure.
길을 닦는 것은 공공 이익입니다.
Paving roads is for the public interest.
Nominalizing a verb with '-는 것'.
우리는 공공 이익을 지켜야 해요.
We must protect the public interest.
Using '-아야/어야 하다' (must).
공공 이익을 위해 쓰레기를 버리지 마세요.
Don't litter for the public interest.
Negative imperative '-지 마세요'.
새 학교는 공공 이익에 도움이 됩니다.
The new school is helpful for the public interest.
Using '에 도움이 되다' (to be helpful to).
공공 이익을 생각하는 사람이 됩시다.
Let's become people who think of the public interest.
Using '-는' as an adjective clause and '-읍시다' (let's).
그 정책은 공공 이익을 위한 것이에요.
That policy is for the public interest.
Ending with '-인 것이에요' for explanation.
공공 이익이 개인 이익보다 커요.
Public interest is bigger than personal interest.
Using '보다' for comparison.
환경 보호는 장기적인 공공 이익을 위한 것입니다.
Environmental protection is for the long-term public interest.
Using '장기적인' (long-term) to modify the noun.
공공 이익을 위해 개인의 자유를 조금 제한할 수 있습니다.
Individual freedom can be slightly restricted for the public interest.
Using '제한하다' (to restrict) and '-ㄹ 수 있다' (can).
우리는 공공 이익을 증진하기 위해 노력해야 합니다.
We must strive to promote the public interest.
Using '증진하다' (to promote/enhance).
그 사업은 공공 이익에 기여하는 바가 큽니다.
That project contributes greatly to the public interest.
Using '기여하는 바가 크다' (to have a large contribution).
공공 이익을 해치는 행위는 처벌받아야 합니다.
Acts that harm the public interest must be punished.
Passive form '처벌받다' (to be punished).
이 법안이 정말 공공 이익을 위한 것인지 토론합시다.
Let's debate whether this bill is really for the public interest.
Using '-ㄴ지' to express 'whether'.
공공 이익을 무시하고 사익만 챙겨서는 안 됩니다.
You shouldn't just look after private interests while ignoring the public interest.
Using '-어서는 안 된다' (should not).
공공 이익을 실현하는 것은 쉬운 일이 아닙니다.
Realizing the public interest is not an easy task.
Using '실현하다' (to realize/actualize).
정부는 공공 이익을 우선시하여 정책을 수립해야 합니다.
The government must establish policies by prioritizing the public interest.
Using '우선시하다' (to prioritize).
개인의 재산권도 중요하지만 공공 이익과 조화를 이루어야 합니다.
Individual property rights are important, but they must harmonize with the public interest.
Using '조화를 이루다' (to achieve harmony).
공공 이익을 위해 정보를 공개하는 것이 바람직합니다.
It is desirable to disclose information for the public interest.
Using '바람직하다' (to be desirable).
이 결정은 공공 이익에 반한다는 비판을 피하기 어렵습니다.
It is difficult for this decision to avoid criticism that it goes against the public interest.
Using '반하다' (to go against/oppose).
기업의 사회적 책임은 공공 이익을 보호하는 것에서 시작됩니다.
Corporate social responsibility begins with protecting the public interest.
Using '사회적 책임' (social responsibility).
공공 이익을 침해하지 않는 범위 내에서 자유를 누릴 수 있습니다.
Freedom can be enjoyed within a range that does not infringe upon the public interest.
Using '침해하다' (to infringe/violate) and '범위 내에서' (within range).
공공 이익의 관점에서 볼 때, 이 사업은 중단되어야 합니다.
From the perspective of the public interest, this project should be stopped.
Using '관점에서 볼 때' (viewed from the perspective of).
시민 사회는 공공 이익을 위해 목소리를 높여야 합니다.
Civil society must raise its voice for the public interest.
Using '목소리를 높이다' (to raise one's voice).
공공 이익과 사적 자치 사이의 균형점을 찾는 것이 법의 핵심입니다.
Finding the balance between public interest and private autonomy is the core of the law.
Using '사적 자치' (private autonomy) and '균형점' (balance point).
공공 이익을 명분으로 개인의 기본권을 과도하게 제한해서는 안 됩니다.
Individual fundamental rights should not be excessively restricted under the pretext of public interest.
Using '명분으로' (under the pretext of) and '기본권' (fundamental rights).
현대 민주주의에서 공공 이익의 개념은 끊임없이 재정의되고 있습니다.
In modern democracy, the concept of public interest is being constantly redefined.
Using '재정의되다' (to be redefined).
공공 이익을 추구하는 행정은 투명성과 공정성을 담보해야 합니다.
Administration pursuing the public interest must guarantee transparency and fairness.
Using '담보하다' (to guarantee/ensure).
어떤 행위가 공공 이익에 부합하는지에 대한 사회적 합의가 필요합니다.
A social consensus is needed on which actions are consistent with the public interest.
Using '부합하다' (to correspond/agree) and '사회적 합의' (social consensus).
공공 이익의 극대화를 위해 자원을 효율적으로 배분해야 합니다.
Resources must be efficiently allocated to maximize the public interest.
Using '극대화' (maximization) and '배분하다' (to allocate).
때로는 공공 이익을 위해 소수의 희생이 강요되는 비극이 발생하기도 합니다.
Sometimes, tragedies occur where the sacrifice of a few is forced for the public interest.
Using '강요되다' (to be forced/coerced).
공공 이익을 실현하기 위한 제도적 장치가 마련되어야 합니다.
Institutional mechanisms to realize the public interest must be established.
Using '제도적 장치' (institutional mechanism).
공공 이익은 결코 고정된 실체가 아니라, 사회적 담론을 통해 형성되는 역동적인 가치입니다.
The public interest is by no means a fixed entity, but a dynamic value formed through social discourse.
Using '고정된 실체' (fixed entity) and '역동적인' (dynamic).
공공 이익의 미명 아래 자행되는 국가 권력의 남용을 경계해야 합니다.
We must be wary of the abuse of state power committed under the guise of public interest.
Using '미명 아래' (under the guise of) and '자행되다' (to be committed).
공공 이익의 추구가 특정 집단의 이익으로 변질되지 않도록 감시 체계를 강화해야 합니다.
Monitoring systems must be strengthened so that the pursuit of public interest does not degenerate into the interests of a specific group.
Using '변질되다' (to degenerate/deteriorate).
공공 이익과 개인의 존엄성 사이의 변증법적 지양을 통해 성숙한 사회로 나아갈 수 있습니다.
We can move toward a mature society through the dialectical sublation between public interest and individual dignity.
Using '변증법적 지양' (dialectical sublation/Aufheben).
법치주의 국가에서 공공 이익은 헌법적 가치 체계 내에서 정당성을 확보해야 합니다.
In a state governed by the rule of law, the public interest must secure legitimacy within the constitutional value system.
Using '정당성' (legitimacy) and '확보하다' (to secure).
공공 이익의 정의는 시대의 변화와 시민 의식의 성장에 따라 외연을 확장해 왔습니다.
The definition of public interest has expanded its denotation according to changes in the times and the growth of civic consciousness.
Using '외연' (denotation/extension) and '확장하다' (to expand).
다수결의 원칙이 반드시 공공 이익의 실현을 보장하는 것은 아니라는 점을 명심해야 합니다.
We must keep in mind that the principle of majority rule does not necessarily guarantee the realization of the public interest.
Using '명심해야 한다' (must bear in mind).
공공 이익의 담론은 파편화된 개인들을 하나의 공동체로 묶어주는 구심점 역할을 합니다.
The discourse of public interest acts as a centripetal force that binds fragmented individuals into one community.
Using '파편화된' (fragmented) and '구심점' (centripetal point/hub).
Synonyms
Antonyms
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
— Protecting the public interest.
이 법은 공공 이익 보호를 목적으로 합니다.
— Realizing or achieving the public interest.
공공 이익 실현을 위해 노력하겠습니다.
— Maximizing the public interest.
자원을 효율적으로 써서 공공 이익을 극대화합시다.
— Hindering or obstructing the public interest.
독점은 공공 이익 저해의 원인이 됩니다.
— Consistency with the public interest.
이 계획은 공공 이익 부합 여부를 검토해야 합니다.
— Promotion of the public interest.
공공 이익 증진을 위한 캠페인을 시작합니다.
— Damaging or spoiling the public interest.
그 스캔들은 공공 이익을 훼손했습니다.
— From the level or dimension of the public interest.
공공 이익 차원에서 지원이 필요합니다.
— Public interest-centered.
공공 이익 중심의 사고가 필요합니다.
— Emphasis on the public interest.
그 연설은 공공 이익을 강조했습니다.
Often Confused With
The shorter version. Used more for titles like '공익 광고' (PSA).
The opposite. Means private interest or personal gain.
National interest. Focuses on the country's benefit in a global context.
Idioms & Expressions
— Sacrificing one's personal interests to serve the public good.
그는 멸사봉공의 정신으로 일했습니다.
Formal/Literary— Putting public matters before private ones.
공직자에게 가장 필요한 덕목은 선공후사입니다.
Formal/Legal— To put the public interest first (literally 'in front').
항상 자신의 이익보다 공익을 앞세워야 합니다.
Neutral— To throw away personal greed and interest.
사리사욕을 버리고 공공 이익을 위해 일하세요.
Neutral— To pursue a great cause (the public interest).
그는 눈앞의 이익 대신 대의를 쫓았습니다.
Literary— To be blinded by private interest.
사익에 눈이 멀어 공공 이익을 해쳐서는 안 됩니다.
Neutral— To act for the sake of the country (often implying public interest).
나라를 위하는 마음이 공공 이익의 시작입니다.
Neutral— To distinguish between public and private matters.
공과 사를 구별하는 것이 공공 이익을 지키는 길입니다.
Neutral— Drawing water into one's own field (only looking after one's own interest).
공공 이익은 뒷전이고 제 논에 물 대기만 하고 있군요.
Informal/Proverb— To be in the same boat (sharing a common interest/fate).
우리는 공공 이익을 위해 한 배를 탄 사이입니다.
NeutralEasily Confused
They mean the same thing.
'공익' is more common in fixed phrases, while '공공 이익' sounds more academic and formal.
공익 광고 (Correct) / 공공 이익 광고 (Awkward)
Both refer to public good.
'공공복리' is a legal term specifically focusing on 'welfare' (happiness/well-being), often found in the Constitution.
헌법은 공공복리를 명시하고 있다.
Related to 'public'.
'공동체' is the 'community' (the people), while '공공 이익' is the 'benefit' for that community.
공동체를 위해 공공 이익을 지킵시다.
Both end in '익' (interest/profit).
'수익' is purely financial profit, whereas '공공 이익' is a broader social benefit.
회사의 수익이 늘었습니다.
Both mean benefit.
'혜택' is a concrete perk or advantage received by individuals, while '공공 이익' is an abstract collective good.
복지 혜택을 받다.
Sentence Patterns
N은/는 공공 이익이에요.
공원은 공공 이익이에요.
공공 이익을 위해 V-아요/어요.
공공 이익을 위해 청소해요.
공공 이익을 위해 N을/를 V-아야 해요.
공공 이익을 위해 환경을 보호해야 해요.
N이/가 공공 이익에 도움이 돼요.
새 도서관이 공공 이익에 도움이 돼요.
공공 이익을 우선시하는 N
공공 이익을 우선시하는 정책이 필요합니다.
N이/가 공공 이익을 침해하다
그 법은 공공 이익을 침해할 수 있습니다.
공공 이익의 관점에서 볼 때 ~
공공 이익의 관점에서 볼 때 이 결정은 옳지 않습니다.
공공 이익과 사익의 조화
공공 이익과 사익의 조화를 이루는 것이 중요합니다.
Word Family
Nouns
Verbs
Adjectives
Related
How to Use It
High in formal media/law, Low in casual conversation.
-
공공 이익 광고
→
공익 광고
'공익' is the standard prefix for 'Public Service' labels.
-
공공 이익을 반하다
→
공공 이익에 반하다
The verb '반하다' (to oppose) requires the particle '에'.
-
나의 공공 이익
→
나의 이익
'Public' and 'My' are contradictory in this context.
-
공공 이익을 만들다
→
공공 이익을 실현하다
'Realize' or 'Achieve' is more natural than 'Make' for abstract concepts.
-
공공 이익이 돈이다
→
공공 이익은 행복과 안전을 포함한다
It's not just about money; it's about general welfare.
Tips
Learn the Roots
Knowing that '공' (公) means public will help you learn words like 공원 (park), 공항 (airport), and 공중 (public).
Verb Pairs
Memorize the pairs: 공공 이익을 '추구하다' (pursue), '증진하다' (promote), '해치다' (harm).
Formal Contexts
Save this word for essays, news reports, and formal presentations to sound more intelligent.
TOPIK Tip
If you are taking the TOPIK II exam, use '공공 이익' in the writing section (Question 54) when discussing social problems.
News Keywords
When watching the Korean news, listen for '공공 이익' as a signal that a government policy is being explained.
Collective Mindset
Understand that in Korea, the 'public interest' is a very strong moral justification for many things.
Debate Strategy
In a debate, use '공공 이익에 부합하다' to argue that your point is good for everyone.
Context Clues
If you see '공공 이익', look for '사익' nearby. They are often used together to show conflict.
Mnemonic
Gong-Gong (Public) + I-Ik (Benefit). Keep it simple!
Don't Overuse
Don't use it for small group benefits; keep it for 'the general public'.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Think of 'Gong-Gong' as the sound of a big public bell that rings for everyone. 'I-Ik' sounds like 'Eek!'—the sound you make when you see a profit or something good. So, a bell ringing for a good thing for everyone!
Visual Association
Imagine a large, green public park (공원) in the middle of a busy city. Everyone is happy and healthy there. This park represents the '공공 이익'.
Word Web
Challenge
Try to find one news article today in Korean that uses the word '공공 이익' and summarize why the author used it.
Word Origin
Derived from Hanja (Sino-Korean characters). '공' (公) means public or official. '공' (共) means together or common. '이' (利) means profit, advantage, or interest. '익' (益) means benefit or increase.
Original meaning: The original meaning refers to the accumulation of benefits that are shared among the general public or the state.
Sino-Korean (Hanja-based vocabulary).Cultural Context
Be careful when using this word to justify actions; if used insincerely, it can sound like government propaganda.
In English-speaking countries, 'Public Interest' is often viewed through the lens of individual rights and civil liberties. In Korea, it might lean more toward collective harmony and national progress.
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
Government Policy
- 정책을 수립하다
- 공공 이익을 고려하다
- 예산을 배정하다
- 시민들의 의견
Environmentalism
- 자연 보호
- 미래 세대를 위해
- 지속 가능한 개발
- 공공의 자산
Legal Disputes
- 권리를 제한하다
- 법적 근거
- 판결을 내리다
- 침해 여부
Corporate Ethics
- 사회적 책임 (CSR)
- 윤리 경영
- 상생 협력
- 이윤 추구
Public Safety
- 전염병 예방
- 질서 유지
- 안전 수칙
- 협조 부탁
Conversation Starters
"한국 사회에서 공공 이익이 왜 중요하다고 생각하세요? (Why do you think public interest is important in Korean society?)"
"개인의 자유와 공공 이익이 충돌할 때 무엇이 더 중요할까요? (What is more important when individual freedom and public interest clash?)"
"최근 뉴스에서 공공 이익에 관한 내용을 본 적이 있나요? (Have you seen anything about public interest in the news recently?)"
"우리 동네의 공공 이익을 위해 우리가 할 수 있는 일은 무엇일까요? (What can we do for the public interest of our neighborhood?)"
"기업이 공공 이익을 위해 노력해야 한다고 생각하시나요? (Do you think companies should strive for the public interest?)"
Journal Prompts
오늘 내가 공공 이익을 위해 한 작은 일에 대해 써보세요. (Write about a small thing you did today for the public interest.)
내가 생각하는 '공공 이익'의 정의를 한국어로 설명해 보세요. (Explain your definition of 'public interest' in Korean.)
공공 이익을 위해 개인의 권리를 제한하는 것에 대한 나의 생각. (My thoughts on restricting individual rights for the public interest.)
우리나라에서 가장 시급한 공공 이익 문제는 무엇인가요? (What is the most urgent public interest issue in our country?)
공공 이익을 우선시하는 지도자의 덕목에 대해 써보세요. (Write about the virtues of a leader who prioritizes the public interest.)
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsOnly if you are discussing a very serious topic or joking about being a 'public servant.' It is too formal for everyday texting.
They are nearly identical in meaning. '공익' is more common as a prefix (e.g., 공익 단체), while '공공 이익' is used more as a standalone noun in formal writing.
Use the phrase '공공 이익을 위해' (Gong-gong i-ik-eul wi-hae).
Yes, especially when talking about Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and how a company helps society.
The most direct opposite is '사익' (Sa-ik) or '사적 이익' (Sa-jeok i-ik), meaning private interest.
No, that would be '공금' (public funds). '공공 이익' refers to the benefit or welfare itself, not the money.
No, '공공' means public, so it cannot be 'mine.' You should say '나의 이익' (my interest) or '나의 이득' (my gain).
It has been part of Korean legal and social vocabulary for decades, but it gained more public usage during the democratic movements and the growth of civil society.
Yes, but it is often framed within the context of the state and the party's interests (인민의 이익 - interests of the people).
Usually, but non-profits (NGOs) and individuals can also work for the '공공 이익' through volunteering or activism.
Test Yourself 200 questions
Write a sentence using '공공 이익을 위해'.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate: 'The government prioritizes the public interest.'
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Explain why environmental protection is '공공 이익' in one sentence.
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Write a sentence contrasting '공공 이익' and '사익'.
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Translate: 'That policy harms the public interest.'
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Describe a public facility in your city using '공공 이익'.
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Write a formal sentence about 'promoting' the public interest.
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Translate: 'From the perspective of public interest, this is wrong.'
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Write a sentence using '공공 이익에 기여하다'.
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Translate: 'Individual rights must harmonize with the public interest.'
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Write a sentence about 'protecting' the public interest.
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Translate: 'This bill is consistent with the public interest.'
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Write a sentence using the word '공공복리'.
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Translate: 'Don't infringe upon the public interest.'
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Write a sentence about 'realizing' the public interest.
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Translate: 'Public interest is bigger than private profit.'
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Write a sentence using '공공 이익에 반하다'.
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Translate: 'We work for the public interest.'
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Write a short paragraph (2-3 sentences) about a leader you admire and their focus on '공공 이익'.
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Translate: 'Public interest is a core value of democracy.'
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Pronounce '공공 이익' clearly.
Read this aloud:
You said:
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Say: 'For the public interest.' in Korean.
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You said:
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Explain in Korean: 'What is public interest?'
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You said:
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Say: 'We must protect the public interest.'
Read this aloud:
You said:
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Tell a short story about a time you did something for the public interest.
Read this aloud:
You said:
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Say: 'This project is for the public interest.'
Read this aloud:
You said:
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Argue in favor of a new park using '공공 이익'.
Read this aloud:
You said:
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Say: 'Public interest is important.'
Read this aloud:
You said:
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Pronounce '공익 광고' correctly.
Read this aloud:
You said:
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Say: 'Don't harm the public interest.'
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You said:
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Ask a question: 'Is this for the public interest?'
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You said:
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Say: 'I prioritize the public interest.'
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You said:
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Pronounce '공공복리' correctly.
Read this aloud:
You said:
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Say: 'Public interest and private interest.'
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You said:
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Explain why taxes are for the public interest in Korean.
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You said:
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Say: 'It contributes to the public interest.'
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You said:
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Say: 'From a public interest perspective.'
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You said:
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Say: 'Public interest is a shared value.'
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You said:
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Say: 'Let's work together for the public interest.'
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You said:
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Pronounce '멸사봉공' correctly.
Read this aloud:
You said:
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Listen and write the word: [Audio: 공공 이익]
Listen to the sentence and translate: [Audio: 공공 이익을 위해 일합시다.]
Listen and identify the verb: [Audio: 공공 이익을 증진하다]
Listen and identify the noun: [Audio: 사익보다 공공 이익이 중요해요.]
Listen to the news snippet and summarize the topic: [Audio snippet about public health and 공공 이익]
Listen and write: [Audio: 공공 이익에 반하는 결정]
Listen and translate: [Audio: 환경 보호는 공공 이익입니다.]
Listen and identify the particle: [Audio: 공공 이익에 기여하다]
Listen and write: [Audio: 공공복리]
Listen and identify the tone: [Audio: Very formal speech about 공공 이익]
Listen and write: [Audio: 공익 광고]
Listen and translate: [Audio: 공공 이익을 해치지 마세요.]
Listen and identify the subject: [Audio: 정부는 공공 이익을 위해 노력합니다.]
Listen and write: [Audio: 우선시하다]
Listen and translate: [Audio: 공공 이익의 관점]
/ 200 correct
Perfect score!
Summary
공공 이익 (Public Interest) is a central concept in Korean society that prioritizes the collective well-being over individual gain. For example: '공공 이익을 위해 마스크를 씁니다' (We wear masks for the public interest).
- A formal noun meaning 'public interest' or 'common good'.
- Used in law, politics, and media to justify collective actions.
- Opposite of '사익' (private interest) or '사적 이익'.
- Commonly paired with verbs like '추구하다', '증진하다', and '위해'.
Learn the Roots
Knowing that '공' (公) means public will help you learn words like 공원 (park), 공항 (airport), and 공중 (public).
Verb Pairs
Memorize the pairs: 공공 이익을 '추구하다' (pursue), '증진하다' (promote), '해치다' (harm).
Formal Contexts
Save this word for essays, news reports, and formal presentations to sound more intelligent.
TOPIK Tip
If you are taking the TOPIK II exam, use '공공 이익' in the writing section (Question 54) when discussing social problems.
Example
개인의 자유는 공공 이익을 위해 어느 정도 제한될 수 있다.
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권위
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표방
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유착
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절충하다
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결집
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합의
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보수적
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보수적이다
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통제
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