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호혜성

B2 noun #7,500 most common 9 min read

호혜성

hohyeseong Top 7,500

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips 호혜성 in 30 Seconds

Explanation 호혜성 in your Level:

At the A1 level, '호혜성' is too difficult a word to use directly. Instead, we focus on the idea behind it: 'helping each other' (서로 도와요). Imagine you give a friend a pencil, and later they give you an eraser. This 'give and take' is what '호혜성' means in simple terms. Even though you won't use this big word yet, you are already practicing it when you say 'Thank you' or share your toys. It's about being a good friend and making sure everyone is happy by sharing and helping. In A1, we use simple words like '좋아요' (it's good) and '같이' (together) to show this feeling.

At the A2 level, you can start to understand that relationships are about balance. While '호혜성' is still a very formal word, you might see it in simple news captions or signs. Think of it as 'Give and Take' (기브 앤 테이크). For example, if you help your mom clean the house, and she buys you a snack, that is a kind of mutual benefit. At this level, you should learn the word '서로' (each other) and '도움' (help) very well. '호혜성' is just a fancy way to say 'the quality of helping each other for everyone's benefit.' You might hear it when people talk about two countries being friendly.

At the B1 level, you are moving into more formal Korean. You should recognize '호혜성' when reading news articles about business or social issues. It means 'reciprocity.' You can understand it as a principle where if I do something good for you, you do something good for me. This is important for making 'win-win' (윈윈) situations. You might start using it in your writing to describe why a project was successful: 'Because of the principle of reciprocity (호혜성의 원칙), both teams were happy.' It's a great word to use when you want to explain that a deal was fair for everyone involved.

At the B2 level, you should be able to use '호혜성' (reciprocity) accurately in formal contexts. This word is essential for discussing diplomacy, international trade, and social theories. You should understand the Hanja roots: 互 (mutual) and 惠 (benefit). At this stage, you can distinguish between '호혜성' (the quality) and '호혜적' (the adjective form). You might use it to analyze a situation, such as: 'The sustainability of this business model depends on its inherent reciprocity.' You are expected to understand that this word implies a professional, balanced, and ethical exchange, often used to justify policies or agreements between organizations or nations.

At the C1 level, you should have a nuanced understanding of '호혜성' and be able to discuss its philosophical and legal implications. You might explore how '호혜성' differs from '상호주의' (mutualism) in political science or how it functions as a social norm that maintains order. You can use it in academic debates about social capital or international law. For instance, you could discuss the 'Principle of Reciprocity' in the context of bilateral treaties or intellectual property rights. Your usage should be precise, recognizing that '호혜성' is not just about simple exchange but about a structured system of mutual grace and obligation that underpins complex social structures.

At the C2 level, you possess a native-like command of '호혜성.' You can use it fluently in high-level discourse, such as diplomatic negotiations, legal drafting, or philosophical treatises. You understand its historical development and how the concept of 'Hye' (惠 - grace/benefit) has shaped East Asian social ethics. You can use the word to critique social phenomena, perhaps arguing that modern digital economies are shifting the traditional definitions of reciprocity. You can effortlessly switch between '호혜성' and its more specific synonyms like '상보성' (complementarity) or '상호의존성' (interdependence) to convey exact shades of meaning in complex professional or academic environments.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

호혜성 in 30 Seconds

A formal noun meaning 'reciprocity' or 'mutual benefit' where both parties give and receive something valuable.
Primarily used in diplomatic, economic, and academic contexts to describe fair, balanced, and ethical exchanges.
Derived from Hanja: 互 (mutual), 惠 (benefit), and 性 (nature/quality), emphasizing the nature of mutual grace.
Essential for understanding Korean social norms and formal negotiation strategies where 'Jeong' meets professional logic.

The term 호혜성 (Hohyeseong) is a sophisticated noun that translates to 'reciprocity' or 'mutual benefit.' In its simplest form, it describes a 'give-and-take' relationship where both parties involved gain something of value. However, in a Korean context, it goes beyond just a simple transaction; it often implies a moral or social obligation to return a favor or a kindness received. You will encounter this word frequently in formal discussions regarding diplomacy, international trade, and social psychology. It is the underlying principle that keeps societies functioning smoothly by ensuring that cooperation is rewarded and selfishness is discouraged.

Etymology Breakdown: The word is composed of three Hanja characters: 互 (호 - ho) meaning 'each other,' 惠 (혜 - hye) meaning 'benefit' or 'grace,' and 性 (성 - seong) meaning 'nature' or 'quality.' Together, they describe the quality of mutual grace or benefit.

국제 사회는 호혜성의 원칙에 따라 서로 돕고 살아야 합니다. (The international community must live by helping each other according to the principle of reciprocity.)

In everyday Korean life, while the word itself might sound a bit academic, the concept is deeply embedded in the culture of 'Jeong' (정). When a neighbor brings you food, the unspoken rule of hohyeseong suggests that you should eventually return the favor. In business, it refers to a partnership where both companies provide resources or expertise to achieve a common goal that neither could reach alone. It is a foundational concept for building trust. Without hohyeseong, relationships become exploitative and unsustainable. Therefore, when you use this word, you are highlighting a balanced, fair, and mutually respectful interaction.

Key Contexts: 1. Diplomatic Relations: Treaties based on mutual concessions.
2. Social Psychology: The instinct to return a favor.
3. Economic Trade: Lowering tariffs mutually between two nations.

To truly master this word, understand that it is a 'quality' (性). You don't 'do' hohyeseong; rather, a relationship 'has' hohyeseong or is 'based on' the principle of hohyeseong. It is often paired with words like 원칙 (principle), 기반 (foundation), or 관계 (relationship). By recognizing the importance of this concept, you gain a deeper insight into how Koreans perceive social harmony and the necessity of maintaining equilibrium in all types of exchanges, from the dinner table to the UN General Assembly.

Using 호혜성 correctly requires placing it in a context of balance and mutual action. It is almost exclusively used as a noun, often followed by the particle '의' (of) to describe a 'principle' (원칙) or 'relationship' (관계). Because of its formal tone, you will rarely hear it in casual slang, but it is a staple in news broadcasts, academic papers, and business meetings.

Common Sentence Structures: - [Subject]은/는 호혜성의 원칙에 기반한다. (Subject is based on the principle of reciprocity.)
- 호혜성을 바탕으로 협력을 강화하다. (Strengthen cooperation based on reciprocity.)
- 양국 간의 호혜적 관계. (A reciprocal relationship between two countries.)

우리는 호혜성을 바탕으로 한 무역 협정을 체결했습니다. (We signed a trade agreement based on reciprocity.)

When discussing interpersonal relationships, you might use it to describe why a friendship feels balanced. If one person is always giving and the other is only taking, you might say, "이 관계에는 호혜성이 부족하다" (This relationship lacks reciprocity). This sounds much more sophisticated and objective than saying "You are being selfish." It shifts the focus from a personal attack to a structural imbalance in the relationship dynamic.

In academic writing, hohyeseong is used to explain social contracts. For instance, a sociologist might argue that the stability of a community depends on the hohyeseong of its members. If people stop believing that their good deeds will eventually be returned or recognized, the social fabric begins to tear. Thus, the word carries a weight of social responsibility. In a business context, it is used to justify why a company should invest in its partners; by ensuring the partner's success (hohyeseong), the company ensures its own long-term stability.

진정한 우정은 호혜성이 전제되어야 지속될 수 있습니다. (True friendship can only last when reciprocity is a prerequisite.)

Advanced Usage: In law, '호혜성 원칙' (Principle of Reciprocity) refers to a state granting certain rights to citizens of another state only if its own citizens are granted the same rights in that other state. This is common in copyright laws and visa requirements.

You are most likely to encounter 호혜성 in environments where formal negotiations or theoretical discussions take place. If you watch the evening news in Korea, specifically the segments on foreign policy or global economics, you will hear news anchors use this term to describe interactions between South Korea and its neighbors. For example, when discussing a new Free Trade Agreement (FTA), the reporter might emphasize that the deal was struck with hohyeseong in mind, ensuring that neither side was unfairly disadvantaged.

정부는 이번 회담에서 호혜성의 원칙을 끝까지 고수했습니다. (The government stuck to the principle of reciprocity until the end of this summit.)

University lecture halls are another common place. Professors in the departments of Sociology, Political Science, and Economics use this word as a fundamental building block of their curriculum. They might discuss 'Social Reciprocity' (사회적 호혜성) as a way to explain why people donate to charity or help strangers. In these settings, the word is treated as a scientific variable—something that can be measured and analyzed within a population. If you are a student in Korea, mastering this word is essential for writing high-quality essays and participating in seminars.

In the corporate world, hohyeseong appears in mission statements and annual reports. Companies often claim that their relationships with suppliers and local communities are built on hohyeseong. This is part of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). It signals to stakeholders that the company isn't just out for profit, but is interested in creating a sustainable ecosystem where everyone thrives. Even in HR (Human Resources), the concept is used to describe the ideal relationship between an employer and an employee: the employee provides labor and loyalty, and in return, the employer provides fair wages and growth opportunities.

기업과 지역 사회의 호혜성은 지속 가능한 성장의 핵심입니다. (Reciprocity between corporations and local communities is the key to sustainable growth.)

Real-world Examples: 1. Press Releases: "The two leaders agreed to expand cooperation based on mutual reciprocity."
2. Legal Contracts: "This clause ensures the reciprocity of intellectual property rights."
3. Academic Journals: "The study examines the role of reciprocity in online gift-giving communities."

One of the most common mistakes learners make with 호혜성 is using it in a context that is too casual. While the concept of 'giving and taking' is common in daily life, saying "호혜성을 위해 커피를 살게요" (I will buy coffee for the sake of reciprocity) to a friend would sound incredibly strange and overly stiff. In casual settings, words like '기브 앤 테이크' (Give and Take) or '서로 돕기' (helping each other) are much more appropriate. Save hohyeseong for situations where you want to emphasize a formal principle or a structural balance.

Mistake 1: Confusing with '상호성' (Sanghoseong): While '상호성' (mutuality) and '호혜성' (reciprocity) are related, they aren't identical. '상호성' simply means that two things affect each other (interaction), whereas '호혜성' specifically implies that the interaction is beneficial to both. Something can be '상호적' (mutual) but negative, but '호혜적' is almost always positive.

❌ 어제 네가 밥 샀으니까 오늘 내가 사는 건 호혜성이야. (Too formal)
✅ 어제 네가 밥 샀으니까 오늘은 내가 살게. (Natural)

Another mistake is treating it as a verb. You cannot say "우리는 호혜성한다." It is a noun indicating a property or quality. You must use it with verbs like '지키다' (to keep/observe), '바탕으로 하다' (to be based on), or '강조하다' (to emphasize). Learners also sometimes forget the Hanja roots and confuse the '혜' (hye - benefit) with '해' (hae - harm). Remember that hohyeseong is always about 'grace' and 'benefit,' never about mutual harm.

Finally, don't over-rely on the English translation 'reciprocity.' In English, reciprocity can sometimes imply a 'tit-for-tat' retaliation (e.g., negative reciprocity). In Korean, hohyeseong leans much more heavily toward the positive side of 'mutual favor.' If you are talking about someone getting revenge, hohyeseong is definitely the wrong word. It is a word of peace, cooperation, and constructive partnership.

Checklist for Proper Use: 1. Is the context formal? (Yes)
2. Are both parties benefitting? (Yes)
3. Am I using it as a noun or a '적' adjective? (Yes)
4. Is it a positive or neutral interaction? (Yes)

Understanding 호혜성 becomes easier when you compare it with its synonyms and related terms. Each has a slightly different nuance and is used in specific registers of the Korean language. By learning these alternatives, you can choose the most precise word for your intended meaning.

호혜성 vs. 상호주의 (Sangho-juui): While hohyeseong is the 'quality' of reciprocity, 상호주의 is the 'ideology' or 'doctrine' of reciprocity. You'll hear '상호주의' more often in political science when discussing a specific policy approach, like 'Reciprocal Unification Policy.' Hohyeseong is broader and can apply to social norms, not just political doctrines.

상호주의는 정치적 전략이며, 호혜성은 그 전략이 추구하는 가치입니다. (Mutualism is a political strategy, and reciprocity is the value that strategy pursues.)

호혜성 vs. 상부상조 (Sangbu-sangjo): 상부상조 is a more traditional, warm, and community-focused four-character idiom (Saja-seong-eo) meaning 'helping each other.' You would use this when talking about neighbors helping each other during a harvest or a funeral. It feels much more 'human' and 'warm' than the cold, analytical hohyeseong.

Another interesting comparison is with 공생 (Gongsaeng), which means 'symbiosis' or 'living together.' While hohyeseong focuses on the exchange of benefits, 공생 focuses on the state of living in a way that allows both to survive. A shark and a remora fish have a '공생' relationship. Humans in a market have a relationship based on '호혜성'.

Finally, consider 보답 (Bodap), which means 'repayment' or 'returning a favor.' This is a verb-based noun. If hohyeseong is the abstract concept, bodap is the actual action of giving back. You might say, "그의 친절에 보답하고 싶다" (I want to repay his kindness). You wouldn't say "I want to hohyeseong his kindness." Understanding these layers of formality and meaning will help you navigate Korean social nuances like a native speaker.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The character 惠 (Hye) also appears in names of many Korean women, signifying 'grace' or 'kindness,' showing that the root of 'reciprocity' is tied to the concept of being a graceful and giving person.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /ho.hwe.sʌŋ/

US /ho.hwe.sʌŋ/

In Korean, syllables generally have equal stress, but there is a slight emphasis on the first syllable '호' in formal speech.

Rhymes With

가능성 (Ganeungseong) 필요성 (Pilyoseong) 중요성 (Jung-yoseong) 일관성 (Ilgwanseong) 다양성 (Dayangseong) 전문성 (Jeonmunseong) 창의성 (Chang-uiseong) 적합성 (Jeok-hapseong)

Common Errors

Pronouncing 'hwe' (혜) as 'hae' (해).
Making the 'h' sounds too strong, like an English 'H'.
Pronouncing 'seong' (성) like 'song' (송).
Dropping the final 'ng' sound.
Failing to distinguish the 'o' (호) from the 'u' (후).

Difficulty Rating

Reading 4/5

Requires knowledge of Hanja-based academic vocabulary.

Writing 4/5

Hard to use naturally without sounding overly formal.

Speaking 5/5

Rarely used in daily speech; mostly for speeches or debates.

Listening 3/5

Common in news and documentaries.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

서로 (Each other) 이익 (Benefit/Profit) 도움 (Help) 관계 (Relationship) 원칙 (Principle)

Learn Next

상호주의 (Mutualism) 협약 (Agreement/Convention) 외교 (Diplomacy) 상생 (Win-win/Coexistence) 의무 (Obligation)

Advanced

정언 명령 (Categorical Imperative) 사회적 자본 (Social Capital) 게임 이론 (Game Theory) 비대칭성 (Asymmetry) 보편성 (Universality)

Grammar to Know

~에 따라 (According to)

호혜성의 원칙에 따라 행동합니다.

~를 바탕으로 (Based on)

호혜성을 바탕으로 계약을 맺었습니다.

~적 (Suffix to make adjectives)

호혜적 관계가 중요합니다.

~성 (Suffix to make abstract nouns)

이 관계는 호혜성이 부족합니다.

~로써 (As/By means of)

호혜성으로써 갈등을 해결했습니다.

Examples by Level

우리는 서로 도와요.

We help each other.

서로 (each other) is the base concept of reciprocity.

친구가 사과를 주었어요. 나도 과자를 주었어요.

A friend gave me an apple. I gave them a snack too.

Simple past tense showing an exchange.

같이 하면 더 좋아요.

It's better to do it together.

같이 (together) emphasizes mutual action.

고마워요, 저도 도와줄게요.

Thank you, I will help you too.

-ㄹ게요 (will) shows a promise to return a favor.

우리 같이 놀아요.

Let's play together.

Social reciprocity starts with play.

너 하나, 나 하나.

One for you, one for me.

Equality is the root of reciprocity.

선물을 주고받아요.

We give and receive gifts.

주고받다 (give and take) is a key compound verb.

좋은 친구는 서로 도와요.

Good friends help each other.

Topic marker -는 with '서로'.

우리는 서로에게 도움이 되는 관계예요.

We are in a relationship that is helpful to each other.

도움이 되다 (to be helpful).

기브 앤 테이크가 중요해요.

Give and take is important.

Loanword used for reciprocity in casual settings.

서로 이익을 얻는 것이 좋아요.

It is good for both to get a profit.

이익 (profit/benefit) is part of 'hohyeseong'.

정부는 두 나라의 호혜적인 관계를 원해요.

The government wants a reciprocal relationship between the two countries.

Adjective form: 호혜적인.

가는 말이 고와야 오는 말이 곱다.

To get kind words, you must speak kind words.

A proverb about behavioral reciprocity.

서로 양보하면 모두가 행복해요.

If we both concede, everyone is happy.

양보 (concession) is often needed for reciprocity.

이 계약은 서로에게 공평합니다.

This contract is fair to both.

공평 (fairness) is a requirement for hohyeseong.

우리는 상부상조하는 이웃입니다.

We are neighbors who help each other.

상부상조 (mutual help) is a common idiom.

이 프로젝트는 호혜성의 원칙에 따라 진행됩니다.

This project is carried out according to the principle of reciprocity.

~에 따라 (according to).

양측이 호혜적인 결과를 얻을 수 있도록 노력합시다.

Let's strive so that both sides can get reciprocal results.

-도록 (so that/in order to).

호혜성은 사회를 유지하는 중요한 가치입니다.

Reciprocity is an important value that maintains society.

Noun + 은/는 + Noun + 입니다 structure.

우리는 호혜성을 바탕으로 협력을 강화하기로 했습니다.

We decided to strengthen cooperation based on reciprocity.

~를 바탕으로 (based on).

이 무역 협정은 호혜성을 목표로 하고 있습니다.

This trade agreement aims for reciprocity.

~를 목표로 하다 (aim for).

진정한 파트너십은 호혜성에서 시작됩니다.

True partnership begins with reciprocity.

~에서 시작되다 (begin from).

서로의 이익을 존중하는 호혜적 태도가 필요합니다.

A reciprocal attitude that respects each other's interests is needed.

존중하는 (respecting) modifies 'attitude'.

그들은 호혜적 관계를 맺기 위해 계약을 수정했습니다.

They modified the contract to establish a reciprocal relationship.

~기 위해 (in order to).

국제 관계에서 호혜성의 원칙은 매우 엄격하게 적용됩니다.

In international relations, the principle of reciprocity is applied very strictly.

엄격하게 (strictly) modifies the verb 'applied'.

이 정책은 국가 간의 호혜성을 증진하기 위해 설계되었습니다.

This policy was designed to promote reciprocity between nations.

증진하다 (promote/enhance).

호혜성이 결여된 계약은 지속 가능하지 않습니다.

A contract lacking reciprocity is not sustainable.

결여되다 (to be lacking).

심리학적으로 인간은 호혜성의 법칙에 따라 행동하는 경향이 있습니다.

Psychologically, humans tend to act according to the law of reciprocity.

~하는 경향이 있다 (tend to).

양국은 호혜적 조치를 통해 갈등을 해결했습니다.

Both countries resolved the conflict through reciprocal measures.

~를 통해 (through/via).

기업의 사회적 책임은 지역 사회와의 호혜성을 전제로 합니다.

Corporate social responsibility assumes reciprocity with the local community.

~를 전제로 하다 (to assume/presuppose).

문화 교류는 호혜성을 바탕으로 할 때 가장 효과적입니다.

Cultural exchange is most effective when based on reciprocity.

~할 때 (when doing).

호혜성은 단순한 보상을 넘어선 상호 존중의 표현입니다.

Reciprocity is an expression of mutual respect that goes beyond simple reward.

~를 넘어서다 (to go beyond).

호혜성의 원칙은 국제법상 국가 간의 권리와 의무를 규정하는 핵심 요소입니다.

The principle of reciprocity is a key element in international law that stipulates rights and obligations between states.

규정하다 (stipulate/define).

사회적 자본의 형성은 구성원들 사이의 호혜적 네트워크에 의존합니다.

The formation of social capital depends on reciprocal networks among members.

~에 의존하다 (depend on).

비대칭적 권력 관계에서는 진정한 의미의 호혜성이 실현되기 어렵습니다.

In asymmetric power relations, it is difficult to realize reciprocity in its true sense.

비대칭적 (asymmetric).

그 논문은 온라인 커뮤니티에서의 지식 공유와 호혜성의 상관관계를 분석했습니다.

The paper analyzed the correlation between knowledge sharing and reciprocity in online communities.

상관관계 (correlation).

호혜성은 인간 진화 과정에서 협력을 가능하게 한 진화적 기제입니다.

Reciprocity is an evolutionary mechanism that enabled cooperation in the process of human evolution.

진화적 기제 (evolutionary mechanism).

외교적 결례에 대해 호혜성 차원에서 동일한 조치를 취하기로 결정했습니다.

It was decided to take the same measures in terms of reciprocity regarding the diplomatic discourtesy.

~ 차원에서 (in terms of/from the dimension of).

경제학자들은 호혜성이 시장의 효율성을 어떻게 증대시키는지 연구합니다.

Economists study how reciprocity increases market efficiency.

증대시키다 (to increase/augment).

이타주의와 호혜성은 종종 구별하기 어렵지만, 동기 측면에서 차이가 있습니다.

Altruism and reciprocity are often hard to distinguish, but they differ in terms of motivation.

측면 (aspect/side).

호혜성의 원칙은 칸트의 정언 명령과도 맥을 같이 하는 윤리적 토대라 할 수 있습니다.

The principle of reciprocity can be said to be an ethical foundation that aligns with Kant's categorical imperative.

~와 맥을 같이 하다 (to align with/share the same context).

글로벌 거버넌스의 붕괴는 국가 간 호혜성에 대한 신뢰가 무너진 결과입니다.

The collapse of global governance is a result of the breakdown of trust in reciprocity between nations.

거버넌스 (governance).

디지털 플랫폼 경제에서 데이터 주권과 호혜성의 문제는 새로운 법적 쟁점으로 떠오르고 있습니다.

In the digital platform economy, issues of data sovereignty and reciprocity are emerging as new legal points of contention.

쟁점 (point of contention).

호혜적 이타주의는 생물학적 생존 전략으로서의 협력을 설명하는 강력한 이론입니다.

Reciprocal altruism is a powerful theory explaining cooperation as a biological survival strategy.

호혜적 이타주의 (reciprocal altruism).

현대 철학은 호혜성을 단순한 교환 가치를 넘어선 타자와의 실존적 만남으로 재해석합니다.

Modern philosophy reinterprets reciprocity as an existential encounter with the 'other' that goes beyond simple exchange value.

실존적 (existential).

무역 분쟁의 장기화는 호혜성 원칙이 자국 우선주의에 의해 위협받고 있음을 보여줍니다.

The prolongation of trade disputes shows that the principle of reciprocity is being threatened by 'my country first' policies.

자국 우선주의 (nationalism/protectionism).

법적 호혜성은 외국인의 지위를 국내법으로 보호하는 데 있어 상호 확약의 기능을 수행합니다.

Legal reciprocity performs the function of mutual assurance in protecting the status of foreigners under domestic law.

상호 확약 (mutual assurance).

호혜성의 담론은 현대 사회의 파편화된 인간 관계를 복원할 수 있는 유력한 대안으로 제시됩니다.

The discourse on reciprocity is presented as a powerful alternative that can restore the fragmented human relationships of modern society.

담론 (discourse).

Synonyms

상호 이익 상호성 교환

Antonyms

일방성 이기주의

Common Collocations

호혜성의 원칙

호혜적 관계

호혜성을 바탕으로

호혜적 조치

사회적 호혜성

호혜성을 강화하다

호혜성을 무시하다

호혜적 이익

실질적 호혜성

호혜성을 고수하다

Common Phrases

호혜 평등

— Reciprocity and equality. Used to describe the ideal state of international relations.

호혜 평등의 원칙 아래 조약을 맺다.

호혜적 협력

— Reciprocal cooperation. Working together in a way that benefits everyone.

우리는 호혜적 협력을 약속했습니다.

호혜적 교류

— Reciprocal exchange. Exchanging culture, goods, or ideas for mutual growth.

문화의 호혜적 교류가 필요합니다.

호혜성 결여

— Lack of reciprocity. A situation where one side is not giving back.

이 거래는 호혜성 결여가 문제입니다.

호혜성을 보장하다

— To guarantee reciprocity. Ensuring that the other side will return the favor.

정부는 기업의 호혜성을 보장했다.

호혜적 기반

— Reciprocal foundation. A starting point built on mutual benefit.

호혜적 기반 위에서 대화를 시작하다.

호혜성을 실현하다

— To realize reciprocity. Making the concept of mutual benefit a reality.

우리는 마침내 호혜성을 실현했습니다.

호혜적 관점

— Reciprocal perspective. Looking at a situation from the lens of mutual benefit.

호혜적 관점에서 문제를 바라보세요.

호혜성을 추구하다

— To pursue reciprocity. Actively seeking out mutual benefits.

기업은 장기적인 호혜성을 추구해야 한다.

호혜적 대우

— Reciprocal treatment. Treating others the way they treat you (positively).

외국인에게 호혜적 대우를 제공하다.

Often Confused With

호혜성 vs 상호성 (Sanghoseong)

Sanghoseong is just 'mutuality' (interaction), while Hohyeseong is 'reciprocity' (mutual benefit).

호혜성 vs 공생 (Gongsaeng)

Gongsaeng is 'symbiosis' (living together), often used in biological or long-term systemic contexts.

호혜성 vs 상응 (Sang-eung)

Sang-eung means 'corresponding' or 'matching,' focusing on the equivalence of the reaction.

Idioms & Expressions

"가는 말이 고와야 오는 말이 곱다"

— If the words going out are pretty, the words coming in will be pretty. This is the golden rule of verbal reciprocity.

가는 말이 고와야 오는 말이 고운 법이니, 먼저 친절하게 말해봐.

Informal/Proverb

"되로 주고 말로 받는다"

— To give a 'doe' (small measure) and receive a 'mal' (large measure). Usually used negatively, but can refer to the amplification of reciprocity.

작은 도움을 줬는데 이렇게 크게 돌려받다니, 되로 주고 말로 받은 기분이야.

General

"오는 정이 있어야 가는 정이 있다"

— There must be affection coming for affection to go. Reciprocity of 'Jeong' (affection).

오는 정이 있어야 가는 정도 있는 법이지, 나만 노력할 순 없어.

General

"손바닥도 마주쳐야 소리가 난다"

— It takes two palms to make a clap. Cooperation and reciprocity require two active participants.

협력은 혼자 하는 게 아니야. 손바닥도 마주쳐야 소리가 나지.

General

"콩 심은 데 콩 나고 팥 심은 데 팥 난다"

— You reap what you sow. A fundamental form of causal reciprocity.

열심히 노력했으니 좋은 결과가 올 거야. 콩 심은 데 콩 나는 법이니까.

General

"받은 만큼 돌려주다"

— To return as much as one received. The core action of reciprocity.

그는 받은 만큼 돌려주는 확실한 사람이다.

General

"누이 좋고 매부 좋다"

— Good for the sister and good for the brother-in-law. A win-win situation.

이 계약은 누이 좋고 매부 좋은 호혜적인 거래야.

Informal

"도랑 치고 가재 잡는다"

— Clearing the ditch and catching crawfish. Getting two benefits at once, often through a reciprocal act.

공부도 하고 장학금도 받으니 도랑 치고 가재 잡는 격이다.

Informal

"일석이조"

— Killing two birds with one stone. Often the result of a well-planned reciprocal strategy.

이 협력은 우리 모두에게 일석이조의 효과가 있다.

General

"상부상조"

— Helping each other mutually. The quintessential idiom for community reciprocity.

어려운 시기일수록 상부상조하는 마음이 필요합니다.

Formal/Traditional

Easily Confused

호혜성 vs 상호주의

Both involve mutual action.

상호주의 is a political 'ism' or doctrine; 호혜성 is the general quality of reciprocity.

상호주의 원칙을 지키는 것은 호혜성을 달성하기 위함이다.

호혜성 vs 혜택

Both share the 'Hye' (benefit) character.

혜택 is the 'benefit' itself; 호혜성 is the 'reciprocity' of benefits.

그는 많은 혜택을 받았지만 호혜성을 보여주지 않았다.

호혜성 vs 보답

Both involve giving back.

보답 is an action (repaying); 호혜성 is an abstract principle or quality.

그의 호의에 보답하는 것이 호혜성을 지키는 길이다.

호혜성 vs 평등

Both imply a level playing field.

평등 is 'equality' in status; 호혜성 is 'reciprocity' in exchange.

평등한 관계에서만 진정한 호혜성이 나타난다.

호혜성 vs 협력

Both involve working together.

협력 is 'cooperation' (the act); 호혜성 is the 'reciprocal nature' that makes it fair.

우리는 호혜성을 바탕으로 협력하고 있다.

Sentence Patterns

A와 B는 호혜적인 관계입니다.

회사와 직원은 호혜적인 관계입니다.

호혜성의 원칙에 따라 [Action].

호혜성의 원칙에 따라 관세를 인하했습니다.

[Subject]은/는 호혜성을 바탕으로 합니다.

우리의 협력은 호혜성을 바탕으로 합니다.

호혜성이 결여된 [Noun]은/는 [Negative Result].

호혜성이 결여된 외교는 실패할 수밖에 없습니다.

호혜성을 실현하기 위해 [Action].

호혜성을 실현하기 위해 새로운 법안을 발의했습니다.

호혜성의 담론이 [Verb].

호혜성의 담론이 학계에서 활발하게 논의되고 있습니다.

호혜적 이타주의의 관점에서 [Analysis].

호혜적 이타주의의 관점에서 인간의 협력을 분석하다.

호혜성을 강화할 필요가 있다.

지역 사회와의 호혜성을 강화할 필요가 있다.

Word Family

Nouns

호혜 (Reciprocity/Mutual favor)

호혜주의 (Reciprocalism)

호혜성 (Reciprocity - the quality)

Verbs

호혜하다 (To be reciprocal - rare, usually used as an adjective)

Adjectives

호혜적 (Reciprocal)

호혜적인 (Reciprocal - attributive form)

상호 (Mutual)

혜택 (Benefit)

은혜 (Grace/Favor)

성질 (Nature/Property)

동등 (Equality)

How to Use It

frequency

Common in news, law, and business; rare in daily conversation.

Common Mistakes

Using 호혜성 for revenge. → 보복 or 상응하는 조치.
Hohyeseong implies 'Hye' (grace/benefit), so it is strictly for positive or neutral mutual exchanges.
Saying '호혜성하다'. → 호혜적이다 or 호혜성을 가지다.
Hohyeseong is a noun. You cannot turn it into a verb directly with 'hada'.
Using it with friends at a party. → 우리 서로 돕자 or 기브 앤 테이크.
It's too formal for casual social gatherings and will sound awkward.
Confusing with '상호주의'. → Depends on context.
Use '상호주의' for political doctrines and '호혜성' for the general concept of mutual benefit.
Pronouncing it as '호해성'. → 호혜성.
Changing 'hye' to 'hae' changes the meaning from 'benefit' to 'harm/understanding'.

Tips

Learn the Hanja

Knowing 互 (Mutual) and 惠 (Benefit) helps you unlock dozens of other advanced Korean words.

Keep it Formal

Only use this word in professional or academic settings to avoid looking like you're trying too hard.

Use with '원칙'

The most natural way to use this word is in the phrase '호혜성의 원칙'.

Diplomatic Context

If you hear this on the news, it almost always refers to trade or international treaties.

Whole Help

Remember the sound 'Ho-Hye' as 'Whole Help'—everyone helps each other.

Essay Power

Using '호혜성' in a TOPIK II essay will significantly boost your vocabulary score.

News Keywords

When you hear '호혜성', expect to hear words like '수출' (export) or '수입' (import) soon after.

Win-Win

It's the Korean equivalent of the 'Win-Win' philosophy in business.

Soft H

Don't over-aspirate the 'H'. Korean 'H' is softer than English 'H'.

Balance

Always think of a balance scale when using this word. Both sides must have weight.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'Ho' as 'Home' and 'Hye' as 'Help'. At 'Home', you 'Help' each other. That is 'Ho-Hye'. The 'Seong' just makes it a 'Status' or 'Quality'.

Visual Association

Imagine a bridge connecting two islands. Each island sends a boat full of unique fruits to the other. The bridge represents the 'Hohyeseong' that makes this exchange possible.

Word Web

Diplomacy Fairness Trade Balance Jeong Win-Win Treaty Giving

Challenge

Try to find one example of 'hohyeseong' in your life today. Did you hold the door for someone? Did they say thank you? Write it down using the word '호혜성' in a sentence.

Word Origin

The word is a Sino-Korean term (Hanja). It was likely introduced or formalized during the modernization of the Korean legal and political systems in the late 19th or early 20th century to translate Western concepts of international law.

Original meaning: 互 (Mutual) + 惠 (Benefit) + 性 (Nature) = The nature of mutual benefit.

Sino-Korean (Hanja)

Cultural Context

Be careful not to use this word to describe a situation where someone is forced to give back. It should imply a willing and fair exchange.

In English-speaking cultures, reciprocity is often discussed in terms of 'social psychology' (Robert Cialdini's principles) or 'tit-for-tat' in game theory. It is seen as a psychological trigger.

The Principle of Reciprocity in International Law. Robert Cialdini's 'Influence' (mentions the rule of reciprocation). The Golden Rule (Do unto others...).

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Diplomacy

호혜성의 원칙 (Principle of reciprocity)
국가 간의 호혜성 (Reciprocity between nations)
호혜적 조치를 취하다 (Take reciprocal measures)
외교적 호혜성 (Diplomatic reciprocity)

Business

호혜적 파트너십 (Reciprocal partnership)
상호 호혜의 이익 (Benefits of mutual reciprocity)
호혜적 계약 (Reciprocal contract)
비즈니스 호혜성 (Business reciprocity)

Sociology

사회적 호혜성 (Social reciprocity)
호혜적 네트워크 (Reciprocal network)
인간 관계의 호혜성 (Reciprocity in human relations)
호혜적 이타주의 (Reciprocal altruism)

Law

법률적 호혜성 (Legal reciprocity)
호혜 조약 (Reciprocal treaty)
권리의 호혜성 (Reciprocity of rights)
호혜성 보장 (Guarantee of reciprocity)

Academic Research

호혜성 분석 (Reciprocity analysis)
호혜성의 가치 (Value of reciprocity)
호혜적 메커니즘 (Reciprocal mechanism)
호혜성 이론 (Reciprocity theory)

Conversation Starters

"국제 사회에서 호혜성의 원칙이 왜 중요하다고 생각하세요?"

"친구 사이에서도 호혜성이 꼭 지켜져야 할까요?"

"최근 뉴스에서 호혜성이라는 단어를 들어본 적이 있나요?"

"비즈니스 파트너십에서 호혜성을 높이는 방법은 무엇일까요?"

"한국의 '정' 문화와 호혜성은 어떤 관계가 있을까요?"

Journal Prompts

오늘 내가 누군가에게 베푼 호혜적인 행동에 대해 써보세요. (Write about a reciprocal action you did today.)

내가 생각하는 이상적인 호혜적 관계란 무엇인지 설명해보세요. (Explain what an ideal reciprocal relationship is to you.)

호혜성이 사라진 사회는 어떤 모습일지 상상해서 써보세요. (Imagine and write about a society where reciprocity has disappeared.)

최근 읽은 뉴스 중 호혜성의 원칙이 적용된 사례를 찾아 정리해보세요. (Find and summarize a recent news case where the principle of reciprocity was applied.)

나의 인간 관계에서 호혜성이 부족하다고 느꼈던 순간과 그 이유를 적어보세요. (Write about a moment you felt reciprocity was lacking in your relationships and why.)

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Rarely. It's a formal term. In daily life, Koreans say '서로 돕다' or use the English 'Give and Take'.

Hohyeseong is the 'property' of being reciprocal. Sangho-juui is the 'policy' or 'doctrine' of reciprocity, often used in North-South Korean relations.

Generally, no. It implies 'Hye' (grace/benefit). For negative 'tit-for-tat', use words like '보복' (retaliation) or '상응하는 조치'.

You say '호혜적 관계' (Hohye-jeok Gwangye).

It is a noun. By adding '-적', it becomes an adjective (호혜적).

Yes, 'Hye' (혜) is the same character found in '혜택' (benefit).

It is '호혜성의 원칙' (Hohyeseong-ui Wonchik).

Yes, it is very appropriate for formal business proposals to emphasize mutual gain.

In a way, yes. 'Jeong' often involves unspoken reciprocity, but 'Hohyeseong' is the formal, logical version of that feeling.

It's like 'h' + 'way'. Try to keep the 'h' light and the 'way' sound crisp.