This is the 13376th most frequent Korean word.
따르지
"따르지" means "to follow" or "comply with" in English.
In this sentence, '따르지' is used in the negative form to indicate not following or obeying rules.
규칙을 따르지 않으면 문제가 생길 수 있습니다.
If you do not follow the rules, problems may arise.
Here, '따르지' expresses not adhering to or obeying the leader, indicating autonomous behavior.
지도자를 따르지 않고 독립적으로 행동하는 모습이 마음에 들었습니다.
I admired the way you acted independently instead of following the leader.
In this case, '따르지' denotes deciding not to adhere to or conform to customary practices.