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뒷간에 갈 때 마음 다르고, 올 때 마음 다르다 Dwitgane Gal Ttae Maeum Dareugo, Ol Ttae Maeum Dareuda - One's Mind Is Different Going into the Outhouse Than Coming Out

 


One's Mind Is Different Going into the Outhouse Than Coming Out

Korean Proverb

뒷간에 갈 때 마음 다르고, 올 때 마음 다르다

🔤 Romanization

Dwitgane Gal Ttae Maeum Dareugo, Ol Ttae Maeum Dareuda

📖 Literal Meaning

A person's feelings are different when going to the outhouse than when coming back.

Before entering the outhouse, a person is anxious and eager for relief. Afterward, that urgency disappears, and their attitude completely changes.

The image humorously illustrates how people's emotions often shift once their immediate need has been satisfied.

💡 Figurative Meaning

This proverb teaches that people sometimes change their attitude after getting what they wanted.

When they need help, they may be humble, polite, and grateful. Once their goal has been achieved, however, they may forget the people who helped them or no longer show the same appreciation.

The proverb reminds us that true character is revealed by how we treat others after our needs have been met.

Gratitude should remain even after success.

🌍 English Equivalent

Closest Match

People change once they get what they want.

Other Similar Expressions

  • Need changes people.

  • Gratitude is often forgotten after success.

  • Don't forget the hand that helped you.

  • Success should not erase appreciation.

📝 Example Sentences

1.

Before receiving the promotion, he was always respectful to his mentor. Afterward, he rarely even returned phone calls.

His attitude changed after getting what he wanted.

2.

The customer was extremely polite while asking for a favor but became demanding once it was granted.

His mind was different coming out than going in.

3.

Always remember those who supported you during difficult times.

Gratitude should not disappear after success.

🏯 Why Koreans Say This

In traditional Korea, homes commonly had outhouses (뒷간) located outside the main house.

Anyone rushing to the outhouse felt an immediate sense of urgency and relief.

Once finished, however, that urgency vanished completely.

People recognized this simple change in emotion and used it as a metaphor for human nature.

Over generations, the proverb came to describe people whose attitudes change after their needs have been fulfilled, especially when they forget kindness, promises, or gratitude.

❤️ Life Lesson

  • Never forget those who helped you.

  • Gratitude should outlast success.

  • Character is measured by consistency.

  • Stay humble even after achieving your goals.

📚 Learn Korean

뒷간 (Dwitgan) = Outhouse / Traditional outdoor toilet

갈 때 (Gal Ttae) = When going

마음 (Maeum) = Mind / Heart / Attitude

다르고 (Dareugo) = Is different

올 때 (Ol Ttae) = When coming back

다르다 (Dareuda) = Is different

⭐ Fun Fact

Although modern indoor bathrooms have replaced traditional outhouses, this proverb remains widely used throughout Korea.

Today, it appears frequently in conversations about business, politics, friendships, family relationships, and customer service, whenever someone changes their attitude after achieving their goal.

Its vivid imagery has helped keep the proverb alive for generations.

🌎 Real Life Applications

Business & Leadership

Successful leaders remember the colleagues, mentors, and employees who supported them before they achieved success.

Friendships

True friends remain appreciative and loyal even after receiving help.

Customer Service

Long-term trust is built when appreciation continues after a problem has been solved.

Personal Growth

Success should strengthen humility—not replace it.

🔍 SEO Keywords

Korean Proverbs, Korean Wisdom, Dwitgane Gal Ttae Maeum Dareugo Ol Ttae Maeum Dareuda, Gratitude, Human Nature, Korean Culture, Character, Humility, Life Lessons, BB MASTER SERIES

#️⃣ Hashtags

#KoreanProverbs #LearnKorean #KoreanWisdom #Gratitude #Character #Humility #HumanNature #LifeLessons #BBMasterSeries #DailyWisdom

🏆 BB Master's Insight

"Anyone can be grateful when they need help. True character is revealed by those who continue to show respect, loyalty, and appreciation long after their needs have been met. Never forget the hands that lifted you on your journey."

✨ Closing Quote

Success should change your life—not your gratitude.

Remember those who stood beside you before you succeeded, honor every kindness you receive, and let gratitude remain long after the need has passed.

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