Korea has a long and rich history dating back thousands of years. Throughout its history, Korea has developed important national symbols that represent the culture, values, and identity of the Korean people. These national symbols are widely recognized both within Korea and around the world today.
One of the most significant national symbols of Korea is the national flag, known as the Taegukgi. The Taegukgi features a white background, with a red and blue circle in the center, surrounded by four black trigrams. This flag was first used in the late 19th century during the Joseon Dynasty. The circles represent harmony between Yin and Yang, while the trigrams symbolize movement and balance. The white background represents peace and purity.
In addition to the national flag, Korea also has designated national flowers, trees, animals, dishes, and more. These symbols help unite the Korean people through shared culture and pride. Understanding Korea’s national symbols provides insight into the long, complex history of the Korean nation.
History of National Symbols in Korea
The use of national symbols in Korea has a long history stretching back over one thousand years. During the Goryeo Dynasty in the 10th century, the plum blossom was regarded as the national flower while the pine tree was seen as the national tree. In the succeeding Joseon Dynasty, new national symbols emerged including the rose of Sharon as the national flower and the Korean tiger as the national animal.
However, it was not until the late 19th and early 20th centuries that the current set of national symbols became formalized. This occurred alongside a growing national identity and independence movement against the encroaching Japanese colonization. In 1882, the Taegukgi flag was adopted by the Joseon government. Soon after, the mugunghwa rose of Sharon was designated the national flower in 1902.
Over the next few decades leading up to independence, Korea adopted several other main symbols including the black pine tree (1936), Siberian tiger (1942), and oryza sativa rice (1946) among others. This helped strengthen national cohesion and pride during trying times. Following independence in 1945, the newly established South Korean government officially codified all of these symbols which are still used in North and South Korea today.
Major National Symbols of Korea
Korea has numerous national symbols spanning official state symbols, cultural symbols, natural symbols, and more. Here are some of the most significant Korean national symbols recognized today:
National Flag – Taegukgi
As mentioned, the Taegukgi is the most prominent national symbol of both North and South Korea. This flag features the taeguk symbol (Yin-Yang circle) surrounded by four trigrams on a white background. The taeguk represents balance with the four trigrams symbolizing major elements of the world. The white background stands for peace and purity.
National Flower – Mugunghwa
The mugunghwa, known as the Rose of Sharon or Korean hibiscus, is a bright flower that blooms across Korea during summer. It was designated the national flower in 1902, though has a much longer history and cultural significance. The mugunghwa is resilient and seen to represent Korean perseverance.
National Tree – Pine Tree
The pine tree, specifically the black pine native to Korea, was designated the national tree in 1936. Pine trees are evergreen, representing longevity, strength, and prosperity. Pine trees have long held an important place in Korean culture.
National Animal – Tiger
The Korean tiger was designated the national animal in 1942. Once common on the Korean peninsula, tigers represent courage and dignity. Unfortunately, this subspecies is now believed extinct in South Korea. However, conservation efforts continue to restore their population.
National Bird – Korean Magpie
The distinctive Korean magpie, with black and white plumage, was designated the national bird in 1949. It represents good fortune and is culturally seen as a sign of the coming of spring and renewal. Korean magpies are a common sight across the countryside.
National Dish – Kimchi
Kimchi, the spicy fermented cabbage dish ubiquitous with Korean cuisine, was designated the national dish in 1962. It represents the long culinary history of Korea and the cultural values of community spirit, generosity, and health. There are over 100 varieties of kimchi across the country.
National Sport – Taekwondo
Taekwondo is Korea’s national martial art, as well as the national sport. Originating in the 1940s and 1950s, taekwondo practices discipline, strength, and technique through its throwing, punching, and kicking moves. Taekwondo is today practiced globally by over 70 million people.
National Monument – Gyeongbokgung
Built in 1395, Gyeongbokgung Palace is an iconic monument located in Seoul. It served as the main royal palace during the Joseon dynasty until its destruction during Japanese occupation. Following independence, it was rebuilt and designated the national monument of Korea in 1990.
Other Notable National Symbols
In addition to the major national symbols above, there are numerous other Korean symbols that represent the culture and identity of Korea:
- National Seal – Symbol used to certify Korean state documents
- National Motto – “Benefit broadly in the human world”
- National Anthem – Aegukga
- National Color – White
- National Hanbok – Traditional Korean attire
- Sejong the Great – National hero who created Hangul writing system
- Jikji
