Uncovering the Layers of Symbolism in Korean Cinema

Korean cinema has exploded in popularity all around the globe in recent years. There are many reasons for this growth, including clever and engaging storytelling, superb acting, and incredible production. On top of this, symbolism is used heavily in Korean cinema, which can enrich stories and provide audiences with much more than 90 minutes or so of entertainment, as these films will keep you thinking for long after the credits roll. With this in mind, this post will uncover the layers of symbolism in Korean cinema and how it is used to provide deeper meanings in films. Read on to find out more.  

Communication Through Visual Symbolism

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The most obvious way that symbolism is used in Korean cinema is through visuals. This can include the use of objects, colours, and settings to communicate emotions, themes, and messages to the audience, often on a subconscious level. Bong Joon-ho's Oscar-winning "Parasite" mastered visual symbolism with a number of notable examples in the film, including the house being a physical manifestation of class division and the viewing stone representing false hope. Visual symbols like this can cleverly complement the plot and enhance the viewing experience.

Communication Through Music & Sound

Of course, it is not just visual symbolism that can be used to reinforce ideas and messages. Music is one of the most effective ways to evoke an emotional subtext or suggest connections between characters, while diegetic sounds can also be used as a tool to keep viewers engaged and informed. Silence can also be a powerful weapon in Korean cinema and is often used to dramatically increase tension or feelings of isolation.

Communication Through Themes

Themes that the audience relates to are often woven into the narrative, which can make any movie more engaging and relatable, even if the plot is hard to relate to. This includes films like "Train to Busan", which has a highly dramatic storyline of a zombie outbreak on a train, but is relatable through the characters' relationships and themes of family. 

Chance and fate are also themes that are often integrated into Korean cinema, which are themes that everyone can relate to in one way or another. For instance, some can relate by playing online casino games at sites like kiwitreasures.com. Here you can play popular slots like Amazing Link Zeus, Dark Waters Power Combo, and Eggs Bonanza. Games like this and others are down to chance, which helps to create a fun and highly engaging gaming experience.

Communication Through Characters

In Korean cinema, characters are often designed to represent much more than themselves. Many will also embody an entire group of people, which can be an effective way to tackle large topics like class struggle and generational conflict. Many are able to relate to these characters and the struggles they face, which allows the audience to feel heard and more invested in the story.

Symbolism has always played an important role in cinema, and there are many talented Korean filmmakers who have mastered the art. Whether it is visual symbolism, the choice of music, relatable themes, or character design, symbolism can enrich the film and heighten the experience for the viewer.