Sea or ocean.

Origin: The Korean word '바다' (bada) originates from Middle Korean 'ᄇᆞᄃᆞ', which has been used since the 15th century. The word '바다' was first documented in the Hunminjeongeum Haerye, the guidebook for the Korean script, Hangul, developed in the 15th century by King Sejong and his scholars. Historical and Cultural Context: '바다' has played a significant role in Korean culture and economy, given the peninsula's geographical location surrounded by the Yellow Sea, East China Sea, and Sea of Japan. The sea has been integral for fishing, trade, and cultural exchanges. Evolution: Over time, the pronunciation and spelling of '바다' have remained relatively stable, showcasing the consistency of the Korean language's phonetic system. The word is cognate with the Korean word '바람' (baram), meaning wind, indicating natural elements. Modern Relevance: Today, '바다' is used in everyday language to refer to the sea or ocean, frequently appearing in literature, music, and art, symbolizing vastness, mystery, and life. The word is also used in idiomatic expressions such as '바다처럼 넓은 마음' (a heart as wide as the sea), illustrating generosity.

In Korean folklore, the sea is often personified as a deity, with numerous legends about the Sea God, Yongwang, who controls the waters and protects sailors.