Taegeukgi

Taegeukgi is the national flag of the Republic of Korea (South Korea). The name combines taegeuk, the symbol at the flag’s center, with gi, meaning flag. It is commonly referred to as the South Korean flag.

Design and symbolism

The flag has a white field, a central Taegeuk circle in red and blue, and four trigrams (from the I Ching) in the corners. The white background signifies peace and purity. The Taegeuk circle represents the harmony of opposing forces in the universe—yin and yang—embodying balance, motion, and the interconnectedness of all things. The red portion of the circle represents positive cosmic forces, while the blue portion represents the negative, with their interaction illustrating ongoing change and equilibrium. The four trigrams symbolize ideas such as heaven, earth, water, and fire, as well as related natural elements and directions.

Origins and use

The design originated in the late 19th century and was adopted as the national flag of the Korean Empire in 1883. After Korea’s liberation and the establishment of the Republic of Korea, Taegeukgi remained the national flag and is used on government buildings, during national holidays, and at various state events. The flag is governed by national laws that specify its design, proportions, and appropriate use.

Overview

Taegeukgi combines a white field, a central yin–yang symbol, and four I Ching trigrams to express a philosophy of balance, harmony, and order. It is widely regarded as a symbol of national identity and cultural heritage for Korea.