Colors and their meanings
The Korean Flag or 태극기 (Taegeukgi)
The flag of South Korea, also known as the Taegeukgi, is a national symbol rich in meaning. It consists of a white background with a red and blue circle in the center, divided into two equal parts by a yin-yang symbol called "Taegeuk." This symbol represents the balance between positive (yang) and negative (yin), as well as harmony and unity. The four trigrams located in the corners of the flag symbolize the four elements of nature: heaven, earth, water, and fire. Together, these elements represent the idea of perpetual movement and universal harmony. The South Korean flag is a powerful symbol of the nation’s identity and history.
The flag of South Korea was adopted on August 15, 1948, during the founding of the Republic of Korea. It was designed by the Korean calligrapher and poet, Bak Yeong-hyo. Each element of the flag has deep significance, reflecting the values and culture of the Korean people. The white represents purity and peace, while the red symbolizes passion and courage. The Taegeuk in the center embodies unity and harmony, fundamental values in Korean culture. The South Korean flag is a symbol of national identity, proudly displayed during official events, celebrations, and patriotic gatherings. It serves as a constant reminder of the values and history of the Korean people.
Below is a very detailed image provided by Wikipedia, which precisely describes the South Korean flag. (https://fr.wikipedia.org/wiki/Drapeau_de_la_Cor%C3%A9e_du_Sud)
Obangsaek: the five traditional colors of Korea
Obangsaek (오방색) is a traditional Korean concept that literally translates to "five directional colors." These colors are an integral part of Korean culture and are rooted in the Asian philosophies of yin-yang and the five elements (Wu Xing). The five colors are white, black, blue (or green), red, and yellow. Each color carries symbolic meanings and is associated with a specific direction, a natural element, and various aspects of daily life in Korea.
The five colors and their meanings
White (흰색 or 백색, Hinsek or Baeksek)
Direction: West
Element: Metal
Symbolism: Purity, innocence, peace, and truth. White is also associated with death and mourning in Korea, where traditional funeral attire is often white.
Use: Traditional Korean clothing (hanbok) for formal or ritual occasions, and decorations for mourning ceremonies.
Black (검은색 or 흑색, Geomeunsek or Heuksek)
Direction: North
Element: Water
Symbolism: Wisdom, depth, and meditation. Black also represents tenacity and resilience.
Use: Commonly used in martial arts and certain traditional decorations.
Blue (or Green) (파란색 or 청색, Parangsek or Cheongsek)
Direction: East
Element: Wood
Symbolism: Spring, youth, life, and growth. In Korea, blue can also symbolize cleanliness and clarity.
Use: Clothing, arts, and decorations symbolizing renewal and hope.
Red (빨간색 or 적색, Ppalgangsek or Jeoksek)
Direction: South
Element: Fire
Symbolism: Passion, energy, vitality, and power. Red is also associated with protection against evil spirits.
Use: Festivals and celebrations to bring good luck and joy, as well as in talismans and temple gates.
Yellow (노란색 or 황색, Norangsek or Hwangsek)
Direction: Center
Element: Earth
Symbolism: Stability, balance, nobility, and authority. Yellow is often linked to fertile land and the emperor in Asian culture.
Use: Decorations, clothing, and symbolic objects representing centrality and harmony.
Applications of obangsaek
Traditional clothing (Hanbok)
The colors of Obangsaek are often used in the design of hanboks, traditional Korean garments. Each color can be selected for hanboks specific to certain occasions, such as weddings, festivals, and mourning ceremonies.Architecture and decoration
Obangsaek colors appear in the paintings of traditional Korean buildings, such as Buddhist temples and palaces. Roofs, doors, and interior walls are often adorned with these colors to balance energy and bring harmony and prosperity.Cuisine
Obangsaek also influences the presentation of traditional Korean dishes. Foods like bibimbap (mixed rice) use a variety of ingredients in different colors to represent the balance and harmony of the five colors.Festivals and rituals
During festivals and rituals, Obangsaek colors are omnipresent. For instance, during Lunar New Year and Chuseok (harvest festival), decorations and clothing incorporate these colors to attract good fortune and prosperity.
Obangsaek is a fundamental concept in Korean culture, permeating many aspects of daily life, from architecture to clothing, cuisine, and rituals. These five colors, representing the cardinal directions and natural elements, symbolize harmony and balance, central values in Korean philosophy and life. Understanding Obangsaek provides deeper insight into the richness of traditional and contemporary Korean culture.
