Why Does Korea Wear Red?
The use of red in Korea is multifaceted and depends heavily on context. While red once held negative connotations associated with communism after the Korean War, its meaning has evolved significantly.
- Negative Connotations (Post-Korean War): Following the Korean War, red became strongly associated with communism, leading to negative perceptions.
- Symbol of Passion and Cohesion (Post-2002): Since the 2002 World Cup, red has transformed into a symbol of national pride, passion, and social unity. This is largely due to its widespread adoption by Korean sports fans and its prominent display during national events. The "Red Devils," for instance, is the common moniker for South Korea's national football team's supporters, showcasing this positive shift.
Context Matters: Different Uses of Red
The significance of red changes drastically depending on the situation:
- Sports: In the sporting world, red is vibrant and symbolizes energy and national unity. The association with the "Red Devils" exemplifies this.
- Clothing: While not universally worn, red clothing can represent passion or make a bold statement. It is also seen in traditional Korean attire like the Hanbok, though not exclusively. However, choosing to wear a red dress for a public appearance can also create political controversy. The case of lawmaker Ryu Ho-jeong is a prime example.
- Ink: Using red ink to write someone's name is generally avoided, as it's traditionally associated with death notices and other forms of negative announcements.
- Traditional Ceremonies: Red and blue threads might be used in traditional Korean wedding ceremonies, symbolizing a marital bond. This is depicted in folklore and can be seen in media portrayals.
In summary: The use of red in Korea is not uniform. Its meaning depends heavily on the context. While previously carrying negative communist connotations, it has since become a powerful symbol of national pride, passion, and unity, especially in the realm of sports and national identity. However, specific cultural sensitivities regarding the use of red ink persist.
