Korean Calligraphy—A Modern Perspective on a Traditional Art Form
If you are studying the Korean language, known as Hangul (한글), you may appreciate its simplicity. 한글 is a relatively new writing system with a scientific background; its 24 characters represent the features of the mouth when pronouncing each shape, letter. It was invented by King Sejong during the Joseon Dynasty in 1446, but was not fully recognized until Korea’s independence from Japan in 1945. Therefore, 한글 is closely tied to Koreans’ national pride. To further show an appreciation for 한글, “한글 Day” is celebrated on October 9th.
What better way to showcase 한글 and “한글 pride” than through calligraphy? The Korean word for calligraphy is “서예”; transliteration: “seoyeh”. 서예 is considered a high art form in Korea, and it is taught as an elective at most Korean universities and cultural centers.
한글 서예 is unique, subtle, and elegant. Often written and read from top to bottom, it differs from Chinese and Japanese calligraphy because its lines are written differently. 한글 has a geometric-like “personality” with its scientific background, and the circular “O” stroke is exclusive to 한글 서예.
A few weeks ago, I met a modern day Korean-American Calligrapher named Myong-Won Kwong; his calligraphic “pen name” is Mook Jae. He exudes a deep appreciation for 한글 and 서예. His artwork can be found at the Library of Congress and the Smithsonian Institute in Washington, D.C.—to name a few. He has had numerous solo exhibitions in the U.S. and South Korea; you can read more about him via his website: http://mookjae.com . I also discovered a fascinating calligraphic performance by Mr. Kwon—a 150 foot scrolled message of “Let us pray for world peace and well-being.”— on YouTube: http://youtu.be/liaauEpSFuQ.
Mr. Kwon states that, “Calligraphy mirrors one’s mind [and soul]. The words I write reflect my personal thoughts and emotions. Through their meaning, shapes, images, and illusions of color, I hope to be able to write with a clean and clear mind, which I can share with those around me.”
- 한글 서예 celebrates the beautiful simplicity of 한글, and Mr. Kwon’s messages are beautifully written. I appreciate the 한글 서예 painting he made for me, which says, “Luck on top of luck”. My wish for everyone learning Korean, “Luck on top of luck“!
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- Have you taken a class in 한글 서예? Care to share your experience by posting a comment?
Or, are you interested in learning the art of 한글 서예? Contact your country’s Korean Cultural Center, or check out this link: http://bit.ly/yCpo0p for a list of books regarding in-depth study of the history and philosophies behind this traditional, yet strikingly modern art form.
In summary, here is a short vocabulary review:
Words:
Hangul (한글) + calligraphy (서예) = 한글 서예 ;
(transliteration: hangul seoyeh)
A simple sentence:
“I like Hangul calligraphy.” = “나는 한글 서예 좋아하다.” ;
(transliteration: “Naneun hangul seoyeh joh-ahada.”)
