Saengmyeong

Saengmyeong (생명) is a Korean term meaning life. In science, it denotes the condition that distinguishes living organisms from inanimate matter and encompasses life processes such as metabolism, growth, and reproduction. In everyday use, it often refers to the vitality or sanctity of living beings and is frequently encountered in discussions of health, medicine, and ethics.

The word is formed from Sino-Korean morphemes 生 (life, birth) and 命 (fate, life). It is more formal and scientific than 삶 (daily life) and 생존 (survival).

In biology and the life sciences, 생명 is used alongside 생물 (organism) and 생물학 (biology). Terms such as 생명공학 (biotechnology), 생명과학 (life sciences), 생명윤리 (bioethics), and 생명권 (right to life) appear in academic and policy contexts, addressing medical intervention, cloning, organ donation, and end-of-life decisions.

Cultural and philosophical discussions emphasize the intrinsic value of life, influencing public policy, medical practice, and education. In Korea, debates over euthanasia, abortion, animal welfare, and environmental stewardship frequently invoke the concept of saengmyeong.