The South Korea flag features three primary colors: White, Red, Blue, Black. The table below showcases the common and popular codes for these colors in HEX, RGB, and CMYK formats, along with Pantone (PMS), RAL, and NCS (Natural Color System) references. Remember, HEX and RGB codes are ideal for digital projects and web design (including HTML and CSS), while CMYK values are tailored for printing purposes.
The flag of South Korea, known as the Taegukgi, is a symbol rich in philosophical and historical significance, representing the nation's ideals, cultural heritage, and aspirations. Here is a detailed description of its design, symbolism, historical context, and overall significance:
Design and Elements
Colors and Layout:
- The flag has a white field with a central red and blue circle, and four black trigrams (sets of three lines) positioned in each corner.
Central Circle (Taeguk):
- The central circle is divided into two swirling halves: the upper half is red, and the lower half is blue.
Trigrams (Geon, Ri, Gam, and Gon):
- There are four black trigrams, one in each corner of the flag:
- Upper left: Geon (☰) - three unbroken lines
- Upper right: Ri (☲) - one broken line between two unbroken lines
- Lower left: Gam (☵) - one unbroken line between two broken lines
- Lower right: Gon (☷) - three broken lines
Proportions:
- The flag’s width-to-length ratio is typically 2:3.
Symbolism
White Field:
- Representation: The white background symbolizes peace, purity, and the Korean people's traditional love for peace.
Taeguk (Central Circle):
- Red and Blue Yin-Yang: The red and blue halves represent the concept of yin and yang, illustrating the balance and harmony of opposites in the universe. Red stands for positive cosmic forces, while blue represents negative cosmic forces.
Trigrams:
- Geon (☰): Symbolizes heaven, spring, east, and virtue.
- Ri (☲): Represents fire, summer, south, and wisdom.
- Gam (☵): Stands for water, winter, north, and vitality.
- Gon (☷): Denotes earth, autumn, west, and justice.
- Collectively, the trigrams symbolize the fundamental principles of reality, expressing movement, harmony, and balance.
Historical Context
Adoption:
- The Taegukgi was first adopted as the national flag in 1883 during the Joseon Dynasty, becoming the official flag of Korea.
Design Origin:
- The design is rooted in Eastern philosophy, particularly Taoism and Confucianism, reflecting Korea's historical and cultural values.
Historical Significance:
- The flag has been a symbol of the Korean people's struggle for independence and national pride, especially during the Japanese occupation (1910-1945) and the Korean War (1950-1953).
Overall Significance
The flag of South Korea is a powerful emblem of national identity, unity, and the country's philosophical heritage. It represents the nation's commitment to peace, balance, and harmony. The flag is prominently displayed during national holidays, official ceremonies, and international events, symbolizing South Korea’s sovereignty and its place in the global community.
Cultural and National Identity
The Taegukgi serves as a unifying symbol for the people of South Korea, reflecting their shared heritage and pride in their nation’s achievements. It is a source of national pride and a reminder of the country’s enduring legacy and its commitment to unity, peace, and development.
Unique Feature
- Philosophical Depth and Symbolism:
- The combination of the Taeguk circle and the trigrams makes the flag unique and deeply meaningful, encapsulating the balance of cosmic forces and the fundamental principles of the universe.
In summary, the flag of South Korea is not only a representation of the nation’s philosophical and cultural heritage but also a symbol of its unity and aspirations for the future. It embodies the spirit, resilience, and unity of the Korean people, celebrating their past while looking forward to continued growth and prosperity.