Commemorating the 569th anniversary of the creation of Hangul, the Korean alphabet, Seoul National University Hospital opened the “Korean Textbook Exhibition”. The exhibition displays 40 works of calligraphy of Hangul from 20 established artists and designers. Each of the artists contributed two pieces, each of which is characterized by a unique font and writing design. Based on excerpts from the Korean Language textbooks, the artworks are full of comforting messages for the viewers. Targeted mainly for patients who have to stay within hospital premises, the exhibition provides patients a cultural experience to celebrate Hangul Day in the hospital.
The “Korean Textbook Exhibition” is located in the connecting corridor between the main SNU Hospital building and the Cancer Hospital. As viewers step into the corridor, the otherwise sterile, grave hospital atmosphere is livened with an array of quotes and stylistic writing displayed on the wall. The viewers are greeted with a wave of nostalgia from the promotional banner’s signature art style of timeworn Korean textbooks.
The exhibition promotional banner
The pieces are organized with banners on one side of the corridor and framed works on the other. The artwork all vary widely in style, and it comes as a revelation to see all the different types of fonts and writing techniques there are with the use of Hangul. From the traditional vertical calligraphy in right to left form to classic manuscript boxes, the exhibition contains many styles of Hangul and appeals to all generations. Furthermore, the excerpt from textbooks range from well-known verses to familiar nursery rhymes, and the exhibition attempts to connect with the viewers on a personal level, evoking memories of childhood. A hospital official expressed, “This exhibition will allow viewers to appreciate the simple and defined nature of our beautiful language. We expect the exhibition to provide messages of hope and comfort to patients, family members and the hospital staff with the beauty of Hangul.”
Hangari by Yu Gyeong-rae and Baekseok’s Gujangro by Shin Dong-uk
Dasi Gyogwaseo font by Gwon Jin-hee and Bom Maji font by Kim Seong-yeun
SNU Hospital’s efforts in accommodating the needs of the patients and patient families extend beyond medical treatment to cultural services. The “Korean Textbook Exhibition” is one of the many cultural events at SNU hospital. Providing patients respite from their daily battles with afflictions, the exhibition takes viewers a trip down memory lane with its sentimental collection. The artworks have been on display since Hangul Day, October 9th, and the exhibition will close on November 30th.
Written by Yun Hwan Chae, SNU English Editor, yunhwanchae@snu.ac.kr
Reviewed by Eli Park Sorensen, SNU Professor of Liberal Studies, eps7257@snu.ac.kr