影壁에 나타난 중국인의 심리표상

Abstract

Focusing on the location and roles of Youngbuek, this paper examined its significance as the psychological representation of the Chinese People. It was discovered during Seoju period and had been used as part of housing structures that reflected upper classes such as imperial family, the nobility, and the rich until Cheong Dynasty. Influenced by the dry climate of the northern regions, it was characterized with thick outer walls and tall walls, thus so called ‘a folding screen’ that protected interior space and entrance. As entrance was considered more important, Youngbuek was believed to control the circulation of ‘Ki (energy)’ and bring luck into a house. The various designs on Youngbuek reflected the ideology and world view of then-ruling classes. The interior space of Youngbuek strictly follows the balance of balance of yin (negative) and yang (positive) and simultaneously pursues freedom and safety. Youngbuek incorporates unity into spatial arrangement and composition and emphasizes delicate consideration of climatic characteristics, landscape and sunlight. In addition, various colors, sizes, poets, and light were used to express the prestige and ideal of the ruling classes in designing it. As Youngbuek reflects their emotional reluctance to expose personal secret room (family space) to the outside, it possesses closure and secrecy, which is apparent enough to be called ‘an inside folding screen’. It became a line that divides social status and order in a family, stressing psychological shield and safety. Although it externally shows a tendency of respecting the closed, conservative and face-saving characteristics of the Chinese people, it also displays their intent and ideal, which is bold enough to try to overcome the reality optimistically. Therefore, it still stands firmly in the middle of their life space. Accordingly, we can say that Youngbuek is the esthetic symbol that culminates the Chinese emotion that wants to maximize the practical use of living space.