The Korean National Flag, Tae Guh Ki

The flag of the Republic of Korea is unique among the national emblems of the world. Its design does not symbolize geographical or political division. It also does not portray any great historical event, national aim or ideals of this country. Rather, the Korean flag symbolizes much of the thought, philosophy and mysticism of Asia. It encourages contemplation and philosophic interpretation of the varied meanings of the universe.

This red and blue swirl and sometimes the flag itself is called the T'aeguk. The central thought in the t'aeguk form illustrates constant motion in the sphere of infinity where thereis also balance.

The three bars at each corner also illustrate the concept of opposites and balance. The three unbroken bars represent heaven while the three broken bars represent earth. The three bars in the upper right hand corner symbolize water while the three bars in the lower left handcorner represent fire.

For the Korean people their flag, the t'aegukki, is a source of pride and inspiration. During the Japanese occupation period beginning in 1910 the Korean flag was outlawed in public places and for about thirty five years the t'aeguk flags were kept hidden until Liberation Day in1945. The Korean flag has been a symbol of this country's struggle for independence and freedom.