Cheongsachorong
Traditional Korean lantern
The Cheongsachorong, a traditional Korean lantern made from a wooden or bamboo frame and covered with hanji paper, is historically used in ceremonies and believed to ward off evil spirits. Today, it symbolizes Korea’s cultural heritage, seen in traditional events and attractions. This design uses the Cheongsachorong to represent South Korea as a unified light, with its colors evoking the Taeguk symbol of harmony and balance. The colors also symbolize Korea’s division, with red representing communism and blue representing democracy, blending tradition with modern design to highlight Korea’s cultural heritage and innovation.
Chema
Eaves of traditional building
Korean cheoma, the extended eaves of traditional buildings, protect against rain and sunlight while enhancing balance and harmony with nature. Often adorned with dancheong patterns, cheoma symbolizes the beauty and functionality of Korean architecture. The design incorporates cheoma due to the tradition of hanging Cheongsachorong lanterns from them, simplifying the corner into a triangular shape to symbolically capture its essence, blending traditional significance with a modern, minimalist aesthetic.
If we see the Cheongsachorong as depicting the divided geography of Korea, the colors also represent the fact that the country is surrounded by the sea on three sides.
한글(Hangeul)
The Korean Language
Hangueul is the Korean writing system created by King Sejong in 1443 and promulgated in 1446. Initially named “Hunminjeongeum,” meaning “the correct sounds for the instruction of the people,” it was designed to address the difficulties posed by using Chinese characters, which were complex and not easily accessible to the common people.
Hangueul is composed of consonants and vowels that combine to form syllables, making it easy to learn and based on scientific principles. It has become the official script of Korea and was recognized as a UNESCO Memory of the World in 1997.
During the Japanese occupation in 1911, there was an attempt to eradicate the Korean language as part of the suppression of Korean identity. However, through the efforts of many independence activists, the Korean language and Hangul were preserved as key elements of Korean identity.
Today, Hangul is used in both South and North Korea and is globally recognized for its excellence and originality. Combining ‘Hangueul’ with ‘traditional Korean elements and colors’ offers a unique opportunity to create contemporary art that reflects the soul of the Korean people.
Obangsaek
Five traditional Korean colors
Obangsaek refers to the five traditional Korean colors: blue, red, yellow, white, and black. These colors represent different directions and elements in nature, symbolizing harmony and balance. Obangsaek is deeply integrated into Korean culture, seen in traditional clothing, art, and architecture, and continues to influence modern design.
Jogakbo
Traditional Korean patchwork textiles
This term refers to the traditional Korean patchwork textiles made from sewing together small pieces of fabric, typically used for wrapping or covering items.
Jogakbo is a specific type of Bojagi (a broader term for Korean wrapping cloths) that is created using leftover or scrap fabric pieces, often forming intricate and colorful designs.
ㄱㄴㄷㄹㅁㅂㅅ ㅇㅈㅊㅋㅌㅍㅎ ㄲㄸㅃㅆㅉ
ㅏㅑㅓㅕㅗㅛㅡ ㅣㅐㅒㅖㅘㅙㅚ
ㅝㅞㅟㅢ
The Korean Language
Hangeul is the alphabetic system used for writing the Korean language. It was created in the 15th century by King Sejong the Great and his scholars to promote literacy among common people. Unlike logographic systems such as Chinese, Hangul is a featural writing system, meaning its characters are designed to indicate the phonetic features of the spoken language. It consists of 14 consonants and 10 vowels, which can be combined to form syllabic blocks. Hangul is praised for its scientific design and efficiency in representing Korean phonetics.
Hangeul
Hangeul Poster
During the Joseon Dynasty, the elite used Chinese characters, Hangul and Jogakbo were created for the common people, reflecting their resourcefulness and creativity. Hangul made literacy accessible, and Jogakbo involved stitching leftover fabrics. I combined these elements by creating a square patchwork design that features Hangul characters with black and white accents, framed by the traditional Obangsaek colors, blending traditional values with a modern aesthetic.
해학과 풍자
Humor and satire are vital aspects of Korean culture, used to express life’s contradictions through laughter and critique. They help overcome hardships, strengthen community bonds, and challenge authority by addressing social and political issues. These elements are deeply embedded in traditional and modern Korean performances, literature, and art, playing a crucial role in shaping Korean cultural identity.
Talchum, a traditional folk performance, is a prime example of how humor and satire deliver social messages. It often mocks different social classes to critique societal injustices. The Hahoe Byeolsin Exorcism Mask Dance, a well-known form of talchum, highlights this by portraying nobles as dignified yet foolish and hypocritical figures. Through humor and sharp critique, talchum encourages social reflection and resistance against oppression.
humor and satire
Hahoe masks are iconic Korean cultural artifacts. They are celebrated for their artistic value and symbolize the spirit of Korean humor and satire. I chose the Hahoe mask to represent these themes, using Photoshop to create a stencil-like effect in black to convey the hardships of life.
Graffiti
Graffiti is a street art form that uses spray paint, markers, and stencils to create images or text in public spaces. It began as a way for younger generations to express rebellious and political messages, gaining prominence with hip-hop culture in 1960s and 1970s New York. While often illegal, it is also seen as a unique artistic expression, with some graffiti artists achieving international recognition.
To create a rebellious and satirical tone, I used Procreate to hand-draw calligraphy, converting it into a design-ready file and chose red for its impact.
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Hahoe Mask
Graffiti
Graffiti is one of the most effective ways to showcase satire and humor, as well as to express resistance against social and political issues through its rich artistic history. I found a strong connection between these aspects of graffiti and Korea’s traditional mask dance, Talchum. This led me to incorporate the iconic Hahoe mask and lines from the performance into a graffiti piece, merging these two art forms to convey powerful social commentary.
“Han” is a complex emotion deeply rooted in Korean history and culture, reflecting unresolved bitterness and sorrow from long periods of foreign invasion and oppression, particularly during the Japanese occupation and the Korean War. It also stems from the repression faced by women in traditional Confucian society. “Han” is prominently expressed in Korean literature, art, and music, symbolizing both deep sorrow and the resolve to overcome suffering. This emotion is a key element in understanding Korean identity, representing a shared empathy and the enduring determination of the Korean people..
Sadness, Bitterness, Sorrow, Longing
Cheongja
Traditional Korean ceramic
Cheongja (Celadon), a traditional Korean ceramic from the Goryeo Dynasty, is prized for its jade-green color and elegant design, particularly the Cheongja Maebyeong, known for its curves inspired by plum branches. This vessel, originally for holding flowers, symbolizes resilience and fortitude, qualities I see reflected in the Korean people, especially women, who have maintained their strength through adversity. My minimalistic design approach aims to honor Cheongja not just as a decorative element but as a reflection of its deep historical and cultural significance.
Orchids
The orchid, or “nancho” in Korean, symbolizes nobility, elegance, and integrity, embodying the Korean spirit of “Han” through its representation of resilience and dignity in adversity. I created a minimalistic digital sumukhwa on an iPad, using blue—a color associated with nobility, trust, and vitality in Korean culture—to represent the orchid. This choice highlights the resilience and inner strength of the Korean people, linking traditional symbolism with a modern artistic approach.
The orchid, or “nancho” in Korean, symbolizes nobility, elegance, and integrity, representing a humble yet refined gentleman as one of the Four Gentlemen plants. Its connection to the emotion of “Han” lies in this symbolism, reflecting the perseverance and dignity of a gentleman who maintains inner strength in adversity. Thus, the orchid embodies the Korean spirit of “Han,” symbolizing the enduring strength and integrity in the face of suffering.
HAN Poster
The emotion of “han” is deeply complex and painful, rooted in the struggles of survival during times when human rights were not protected. Despite war and loss, our ancestors preserved their resilience, which is reflected in traditional culture, particularly celadon pottery. South Korea has grown through such suffering, learning patience and strength, which is also expressed in traditional art. I have aimed to capture these emotions through minimalistic expressions while incorporating traditional elements.
democratization movement in Korea
The South Korean democratization movement refers to a series of political struggles during the latter half of the 20th century, aimed at resisting military dictatorships and establishing democracy. Key events include the April 19 Revolution in 1960, which led to the resignation of President Syngman Rhee, and the May 16 Military Coup in 1961, where General Park Chung-hee took power, solidifying a dictatorship with the Yushin Constitution in 1972. The movement persisted despite repression, with the Gwangju Democratization Movement in 1980 becoming a pivotal moment. This resistance culminated in the June Democratic Uprising of 1987, which led to the establishment of a direct presidential election system, marking South Korea’s transition to democracy.
The
This design symbolizes the flame of a candle, illuminating the darkness and serving as a beacon of light. The light held by these individuals shines through a world shrouded in darkness, symbolizing the enduring struggle for justice and the ultimate victory that will be achieved.
The striped pattern represents both a candlestick and the countless people who took to the streets, holding candles in protest against injustice. It symbolizes that the true power of a nation lies with its citizens, who stand at the center of the country and take action to correct its course when necessary.
The slogan “Darkness cannot overcome the light,” inspired by a biblical verse, was used during the candlelight protests to represent the strength of democracy. The word “Light” was designed in various fonts to reflect the diverse participants in the protests. Additionally, the letter “i” was shaped like a candle to symbolize the protesters as the source of light in the darkness.
The democracy we enjoy today is built on the sacrifices of countless ancestors who gave their lives. We must honor these sacrifices by never forgetting them, preserving the democracy they fought for, and passing it on to future generations. South Korea’s democracy stands on the foundation of their blood and sacrifice.
The democratization movement in Korea Poster
The South Korean democratization movement, marked by the April 19 Revolution and the Gwangju Uprising, culminated in the June 1987 Uprising, which secured democratic elections. The striped pattern and slogan “Darkness cannot overcome the light” symbolize the power of citizens and the strength of democracy built on the sacrifices of countless ancestors. The candle flame design represents the ongoing struggle for justice and victory.
Korean Reunfication
Korea’s division into North and South dates back to 1945 when the U.S. and Soviet Union split the peninsula along the 38th parallel after World War II. Intended as temporary, the division became permanent with the establishment of two separate governments in 1948—South Korea, backed by the U.S., and North Korea, supported by the Soviet Union. The Korean War (1950-1953) deepened the divide, leaving the peninsula split along the DMZ. Reunification remains complex due to political, economic, and social differences, as well as global powers’ interests. Many young South Koreans view reunification negatively, fearing economic burdens and cultural differences, though it could bring long-term benefits.
• Background :
Korea’s history has been marked by continuous conflicts with China and Japan, followed by suffering under foreign invasions. After enduring the hardships of the Japanese occupation, Korea finally gained independence following Japan’s defeat in World War II. However, the country soon became a victim of the Cold War rivalry between the United States and the Soviet Union, which led to an ideological war and ultimately resulted in the division of the nation into two separate states. This tumultuous history inspired the choice of a rough and challenging setting to reflect these struggles.
• Map & Colour
The map of Korea, traditionally divided along the 38th parallel, symbolizes the separation caused by ideological conflicts and the Korean War. Removing this border represents a future of reunification and coexistence. The use of purple to symbolize a unified Korea is meaningful, as it combines red and blue, representing North and South Korea, respectively. This blending signifies the merging of the two regions into a harmonious whole, conveying a message of unity, cooperation, and the possibility of peaceful coexistence, transcending past divisions.
• Paper tearing symbolizes Korea’s division :
Using the symbolism of paper, you represented the division and reunification of North and South Korea. The tearing of the map symbolizes the painful reality of the division, while taping the pieces back together represents the reunification process, showing that, despite the visible scars, healing and unity are possible. You chose not to include crumpled paper, as the torn and mended map effectively conveys both the harshness of the division and the hope for a unified future, emphasizing the possibility of overcoming historical challenges.
Korean Reunification Poster
This poster, though small, powerfully conveys the significance of Korea’s division and the importance of reunification through symbolic elements. The torn map represents the deep wounds of division, while the tape over the tear symbolizes hope and determination for reunification, emphasizing that even small efforts must be persistent. The purple color signifies the integration of North and South Korea, transcending ideological differences. The poster also highlights the need to address issues like the plight of North Korean defectors and human rights, underscoring that reunification is essential for the future and prosperity of the Korean people.
대한독립만세
live Korean Independence!
“Long live Korean independence” (대한독립만세 ) was a powerful rallying cry during the Japanese occupation of Korea (1910-1945), symbolizing Koreans’ fierce desire for freedom. The slogan became especially prominent during the March 1st Movement in 1919, where peaceful protests demanding independence were met with brutal force by Japanese authorities. Despite the repression, the movement galvanized Korean national identity and inspired further resistance, leading to the formation of the Provisional Government of the Republic of Korea in exile. Korea eventually achieved independence on August 15, 1945, a day now celebrated as Liberation Day (광복절). The slogan remains a powerful symbol of Korea’s enduring fight for freedom and independence.
Long
Before Ahn Jung-geun assassinated Ito Hirobumi, he and his comrades formed the Danji Alliance. This alliance was a symbolic ritual where they each cut off the first joint of their left ring finger to solidify their commitment to the independence movement. After cutting their fingers, they used the blood to write “Korean Independence”. This act symbolized their unwavering determination for independence and demonstrated the strong resolve of Ahn Junggeun and his fellow patriots.
This handprint symbolizes Ahn Jung-geun and is closely linked to Korea’s independence movement during the Japanese colonial period. The “Long Live Korean Independence” poster featuring this handprint honors the ancestors who sacrificed for Korea’s freedom. Ahn Jung-geun, like many independence activists, dedicated his life to fighting Japanese imperialism and restoring national sovereignty. Despite Japanese prohibitions, Ahn boldly inscribed “Daehan Goonin Ahn Junggeun” (Korean Soldier Ahn Jung-geun) alongside the handprint, symbolizing his unwavering commitment to independence and deep love for his homeland, even in the face of death.
Ahn Jung-geun’s handprint
The Mugunghwa, South Korea’s national flower, symbolizes perseverance, indomitable spirit, and eternal prosperity. Blooming anew each day, it represents the resilient spirit of the Korean people and their history of overcoming hardships. The Mugunghwa is deeply embedded in South Korea’s national identity, appearing in the national emblem, government logos, military symbols, educational emblems, and on currency and stamps. It embodies the nation’s pride and desire for continued growth. Including the Mugunghwa in this poster highlights South Korea’s resilient spirit, which has endured through occupation, war, and economic hardship, rising to become the economic powerhouse it is today.
Mugunghwa, also known as the Rose of Sharon, is the national flower of South Korea. It symbolizes resilience, endurance, and the spirit of the Korean people. The name “Mugunghwa” comes from the Korean word “mugung,” meaning “eternity” or “immortality,” reflecting the flower’s ability to bloom continuously. This flower holds significant cultural importance, representing national pride and identity, and is featured in various state emblems and symbols, highlighting its role as a symbol of the nation’s enduring spirit.
Mugunghwa
Rose of Sharon
The overall tone of the design was centered around the Taegeuk Symbol colour. Using the colours of the Taegeuk is one of the simplest and most effective ways to represent South Korea. The Taegeuk symbolizes the balance of yin and yang, reflecting the harmony and equilibrium of nature and the universe. This symbol, a simplified version of the South Korean national flag, is widely recognized and used on the international stage and in various contexts. Therefore, I believed it to be an ideal choice for creating a poster with the theme “대한독립만세 (Long Live Korean Independence).”
The national flag
Taegeukgi
The Taegeukgi, South Korea’s national flag, symbolizes harmony and balance. The central Taegeuk represents the harmony of yin and yang, while the surrounding trigrams signify heaven, earth, water, and fire, reflecting the unity of nature and humanity. The Taegeukgi is deeply connected to Korea’s independence movement and the cry of “Long Live Korean Independence”. During the struggle against colonial rule, it was a powerful symbol of resistance, hope, and national pride, especially during the March 1st Movement. The Taegeukgi embodies both the values of peace and the enduring spirit of Korea’s fight for freedom and ultimate liberation.
The poster includes three slogans expressing the desire for independence during the independence movement and liberation, presented in English, Korean, and the classical Chinese characters used by scholars. The phrase “대한민국 만세” (Long Live Korea) is specifically rendered in white, symbolizing the Korean people, who have historically been known as the “Baekui Minjok” or “People of the White Garments” due to their tradition of wearing white clothing. This preference for white represents integrity, purity, and simplicity, values deeply rooted in Korean culture. By featuring “대한민국 만세” in white, the poster underscores the identity and pride of the Korean people.
“Long Live Korean Independence” Poster
This poster aims to convey the symbolic meaning of Korea’s struggle for independence, emphasizing the collective resolve and pride of the Korean people rather than focusing on specific individuals. By combining modern elements with traditional Korean aesthetics, I used a representative image of the independence movement and the Mugunghwa to highlight the nation’s perseverance. The slogans are strategically placed to reinforce the pride and determination of the Korean people, blending modern design with the essence of Korean tradition.
