Abstract
This article presents a comparative-typological analysis of two well- known folk heroes in English and Korean tradition, Robin Hood and Hong Gil-dong. The main purpose of the study is to identify their common and distinctive features and to explain their literary, ethical, and social functions. Robin Hood is interpreted as a folk hero in English folklore who defends social justice and resists oppressive authority. Hong Gil-dong, in turn, is analyzed as a heroic figure in Korean tradition who challenges class inequality, social restrictions, and discrimination. The article examines the place of these two characters in popular consciousness and compares their symbolic association with justice, courage, freedom, and human dignity. The results of the study show that although Robin Hood and Hong Gil-dong belong to different cultural traditions, they share common typological features as defenders of the people, opponents of injustice, and symbols of moral superiority. The article argues that both heroes should be understood not only as literary characters, but also as cultural symbols shaped by collective memory and social ideals.References
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