The national symbols of South Korea reflect it history, the beauty of the country, and the pride and patriotism of its people. Korean symbols such as the national flag, the anthem, the national flower, and national emblem are born out of the culture in Korea and represent the heart and 'Seoul' of the nation.
The South Korean National Flag
The national flag of South Korea (Taegeukgi) represents the independence of the country after 36 years of Japanese occupation. Chinese philosophy influenced Korean culture and it is this philosophical thought that is evident in the use of the Taegeuk symbol on the national flag. The Taegeuk is a sideways yin-yang symbolizing the unified force of opposites. Korean s have taken this symbol to represent their sense of peace, harmony, and unity in the world.
The South Korean National Anthem
The national anthem of South Korea, entitled Aegukga (애국가:愛國歌), had a bumpy road on its way to anthemdon, but it never lost its place in the hearts of South Koreans. It first make its musical debut in 1896 where it was often sung to the tune of 'Auld Lang Syne', the Scottish fold song brought over by American Christian missionaries. Music was created for the anthem in 1937 by the composer Ahn Ik-tae (안익태;安益泰), who felt the anthem should have a tune that was uniquely Korean. The new anthem music took hold throughout the country after liberation from Japanese occupation at the end of World War II.
The South Korean National Flower
The national flower is the mungunghwa (무궁화;無窮花), called garden hibiscus or rose of Sharon in English. The hibiscus syriacus has been beloved to the Korean people for centuries. Beginning in July, the beauty of this flower can be found gracing the Korean landscape. The flower takes its name from the Korean words for immortality, mugung (무궁;無窮), and flower, hwa (화;花). The mugunghwa is known for being a hearty flower, and thus aptly represents the tenacity of the Korean people.
The South Korean National Emblem
National emblems are a symbolic representation of a nation's patriotism. They are often animals and are generally displayed on flags and other item of national pride. The national emblem of South Korea is the magpie.
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