Korean Confucianism, or Ruism, has profoundly shaped the nation's moral system, social relations, and legal framework, remaining a fundamental part of Korean society today. This influential philosophy originated with the Chinese philosopher Confucius (551–479 BC), whose teachings on righteousness and proper conduct were compiled in The Analects. Centuries later, Zhu Xi (AD 1130–1200) developed Neo-Confucianism by integrating Taoist and Buddhist ideas, which then became the orthodox view across East Asia, including Korea.
Early traces of Confucian ideals in Korea date back to Chinese influences in regions like the Lelang Commandery, with its study by higher classes growing significantly after the splitting of Korea. Ultimately, Confucianism served as a pragmatic ideology to foster national unity and prevent internal dissent, solidifying its lasting legacy in Korean culture.