A term used to describe a longing or nostalgia for one's homeland.

Origin: The word 향수 (hyangsu) is derived from the combination of two Sino-Korean characters: 향 (hyang), meaning 'fragrant' or 'scent', and 수 (su), meaning 'water'. Historically, the term was used metaphorically to evoke the idea of a fragrance that brings back memories of one's homeland.
Historical and Cultural Context: The concept of longing for one's homeland has been a recurring theme in Korean literature and poetry for centuries, often associated with the deep emotional ties to one's roots and the natural landscapes of Korea.
Evolution: Over time, 향수 (hyangsu) evolved from its literal components to represent a more abstract sense of nostalgia and longing for home, especially among those who have emigrated or been displaced.
Modern Relevance: Today, 향수 is widely used in Korean culture to express the sentimental yearning for the past and one's origins, reflecting the universal human experience of nostalgia.

In Korean literature, 향수 (hyangsu) is often depicted as a powerful force that can evoke vivid memories and emotions related to one's childhood and homeland.