Heungbu and Nolbu

In ancient Korea, there lived two brothers who could not have been more different. The older brother, Nolbu, was rich, selfish, and harsh, while the younger brother, Heungbu, was poor but gentle and kindhearted. After their father’s death, Nolbu inherited everything and forced his younger brother out, leaving Heungbu and his family in poverty. Although Heungbu often had nothing to eat, he never let bitterness change his heart. He chose kindness over anger, even toward the brother who wronged him.

One spring day, Heungbu saw a swallow with a broken leg. Instead of ignoring it, he picked it up carefully and nursed it back to health. He fed the bird and wrapped its tiny leg until it healed. The swallow flew away, and Heungbu thought nothing more of it. Months later, when the seasons changed, the bird returned carrying a small gourd seed in its beak. Heungbu planted the seed in his garden, and soon a giant gourd grew on the vine. When he and his family split it open, they were stunned to see gold, silver, and jewels pouring out. From that moment, Heungbu’s life of hardship ended, and his family finally lived in comfort. His simple act of compassion had been rewarded beyond imagination.

When Nolbu heard of his brother’s sudden wealth, he was overcome with envy. Instead of being happy for Heungbu, he became greedy and wanted the same fortune for himself. He deliberately caught a swallow, cruelly broke its leg, and pretended to heal it, hoping to receive a magical seed in return. Just as before, the swallow brought him a seed, and Nolbu planted it eagerly. The gourd grew massive, and Nolbu cut it open expecting treasure. But instead of riches, terrifying goblins and poisonous snakes poured out. They destroyed his home, devoured his wealth, and left him in ruins. His cruelty and greed had brought about his downfall, turning fortune into disaster.

Broken and desperate, Nolbu had no choice but to go to his brother. He expected anger, but instead, Heungbu welcomed him with open arms, shared his wealth, and forgave his past cruelty. Heungbu’s kindness not only saved his brother but also healed their relationship. Over time, Nolbu learned humility and came to understand that true happiness was not found in riches but in compassion and generosity. In the end, it was forgiveness that restored peace between the brothers, proving that love is stronger than greed.

This timeless Korean folktale continues to resonate across generations because its message is universal. Real wealth is not measured by gold or possessions but by kindness, generosity, and the ability to forgive. Heungbu gained prosperity not because he sought it, but because he cared for another living being without expecting anything in return. Nolbu lost everything because his heart was ruled by envy. Even today, this story reminds us that the way we treat others shapes our destiny, and that compassion always creates rewards far greater than greed.