Hong Won-sik  Michael Bujold  Young-ki You

10.18399/acta.2008.11.2.003

forming relationships based on the notion of uri (we) communitarianism Li-Qi theory (理氣論) theory of Li Yi Fen Shu (理一分殊說 principle is one but its manifestations are many) theory of wu wo tong bao (物我同胞說 all beings originate from the energy of the universe)

Koreans have long preferred using the term uri (we or us) over na (I or me). In this regard, this preference can be perceived as one of the unique characteristics of the process through which Koreans establish relationships with others. Moreover, this perception is closely intertwined with the Confucian notion of communitarianism, and especially with Confucianism’s family-oriented ethics. Meanwhile, from a philosophical standpoint, this preference can be regarded as being closely related to the neo-Confucian School (朱子學)’s Li-Qi theory (理氣論, Principle and Material Force). Some have argued that while Koreans emphasize uri, they tend to not only avoid nae (my) but also to exclude those who they perceive as standing outside of this notion of uri. Nevertheless, the neo-Confucian School’s Li-Qi theory argues that not only has this notion of na always existed within a relationship, but that this na can be extended endlessly once this narrow fence of relationships is expanded. Certain scholars have advanced the belief that the notion of communities has by now all but collapsed. Furthermore, we now live in an era in which the notion of the blood tie-based family also finds itself coming under attack. This situation has led to calls for communities to be rebuilt. Koreans naturally feel more comfortable with the word uri than na. Here, it is important to note that the term uri does not include any desire to ensure the supremacy of na while excluding others. To this end, the Korean concept of uri can serve as a basis for the rebuilding of warm communities.