What fundamental difference exists between the literal and figurative meaning of the Korean idiom '식은 죽 먹기', and what cultural context informs its usage?

The fundamental difference lies in the shift from a concrete action to an abstract concept. The literal meaning of '식은 죽 먹기' is 'eating cold porridge'. Eating cold porridge is effortless since it doesn't require chewing or dealing with high temperatures. Figuratively, it means something is 'as easy as pie' or 'a piece of cake'. It describes a task or activity that requires minimal effort or skill. The cultural context informing its usage stems from the historical significance of porridge in Korean society, particularly for those who were ill or elderly. Porridge was a staple food that was easily digestible and required little effort to consume. Therefore, comparing something to eating cold porridge emphasizes its simplicity and ease. Using this idiom implies that the task in question is so simple it's akin to eating a food that requires virtually no effort, drawing upon a culturally understood association with ease and simplicity.