From Sino-Korean 努力 (努 *nu*, "to strive/exert" + 力 *ryeok*, "strength/power"). The same compound is shared across Chinese (nǔlì), Japanese (努力, *doryoku*), and Korean, reflecting the deep Sinitic stratum in East Asian vocabularies.

노력 is a deeply valued concept in Korean culture, closely tied to the Confucian ideal that diligent effort — more than innate talent — determines success. Students and workers are frequently praised for their 노력 in contexts where English speakers might credit "talent." The phrase 노력하면 된다 ("If you try hard, you can do it") is a common motivational expression heard in schools and families alike.