"국민국가" (national state) refers to a political entity characterized by a defined territory, a permanent population, a government, and the capacity to enter into relations with other states. It emphasizes the connection between a nation, which shares common cultural or ethnic identity, and the state that governs it. This concept is fundamental in understanding modern political organization and sovereignty. In a 국민국가, the identity of the nation is often tied to the state’s legitimacy and governance. This relationship can influence national policies, citizenship, and the rights of individuals. Examples of 국민국가 include countries like France and Japan, where the cultural identity plays a significant role in the state's functioning.