Colour Theory
Colour meaning
Korea has a unique colour culture called 'Obangsaek'. Korean ancestors, who understood all the principles of the universe as the principle of yin-yang and five elements, found five colours: blue, white, red, black, and yellow in the five directions of east, west, north, south, and centre.
Black
Representing the North and the Water element, Heuk symbolizes winter, mystery, and tranquility. Black is associated with formality and the unknown.
Recommended use:
- Formal Solemn events
- Mystery
- Tranquility
- Elegance
- Funeral
Yellow / Gold
Representing the Center and the Earth element, Hwang symbolizes the changing seasons, the harvest, and stability. Yellow is associated with warmth and abundance.
Recommended use:
- Harvest festival
- Autumn theme design
- Warmth
- Prosperity
- Children
Red
Representing the South and the Fire element, Hong symbolizes summer, passion, and energy. Red is often used to convey strong emotions and celebrations.
Recommended use:
- Festive occasions
- Passion
- Energy
White
Representing the West and the Metal element, Baek symbolizes autumn, purity, and reverence. White is often associated with simplicity and solemnity.
Recommended use:
- Formal occasions
- Weddings
- Purity
Blue
Representing the East and the Wood element, Jeong symbolizes spring, youth, and vitality. It is associated with new beginnings and growth.
Recommended use:
- Youth
- Vitality
- New beginning
- Celebration
Green
Life, vitality, and growth. Green is associated with the Wood element and symbolizes spring and youthfulness.
Recommended use:
- Nature
- Environment
- Youth
- Health & Wellness
Brown
Earthiness, stability, and simplicity. Brown is often associated with the Earth element. Brown may be used to convey warmth, comfort, and reliability in contemporary contexts.
Recommended use:
- Stability
- Raw & Organic
- Natural & Earthy
- Autumn themed
- Outdoor & Adventure
Pink
Love, romance, and femininity. Pink is often used in traditional Korean weddings.
Recommended use:
- Romantic design
- Wedding
- Feminine design
- Sweet & Playful theme
Purple
Nobility, wealth, and sophistication. Purple is associated with the colour of kings and queens in historical Korea.
It's also associated with creativity and individuality.
Recommended use:
- Luxury gifts
- Creativity
- Feminine
- Elegant design
Top colour groups
Sae-dong
Recommended use
- Korean fan
- Traditional event
- Traditional textile
Sam-Saek
Recommended use
- Korean food / vegetable
- Eco-friendly design
- Symbolic to past, present and future
Be careful with these colours
Be careful using Red
Red can be a contentious colour in relation to neighboring countries such as China and Japan.
Be careful using White or Black
Both black and (or) white can also be associated with mourning / death, so it's advisable to be mindful of how these colours are used.
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Earthy natural
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