한글 옛 글자체의 발굴과 개발에 관한 연구(3) -15-20세기 옛 문헌에 따른 복원 옛 활자체 개발 현황을 중심으로-

Abstract

Evolving digital technologies today have enabled the development of a variety Hangul typefaces that roughly amount to more than 6,000 different kinds. Yet, it is difficult to witness typefaces in old Korean literature being studied in-depth or developed to preserve the Korean alphabet Hangul’s cultural heritage and identity founded by our ancestors. This study therefore aims to review cases of old Hangul typefaces being developed through digital technologies and thereby make suggestions for future development in order to contribute to forming a culture for old Hangul typefaces in the twenty-first century information society. For this study, four leading type design companies and two public agencies have been selected to analyze their cases of old typeface development. The analysis found that old typefaces accounted for a mere 4% (approximately 27 typefaces) out of the 736 or so different Hangul typefaces developed by the companies or agencies. It also revealed the need to develop old typefaces that better suit today’s age of internationalization. Hence, this study suggests the following for the restoration and development of old Hangul typefaces so that they may meet the demands of the twenty-first century’s digital technology-based environment. First, the stylistic characteristics of Hangul typefaces in old Korean literature needs to be revived as much as possible with legibility and readability. Second, considering the trend of mixed typesetting, an environment needs to be established for developing and supporting typefaces with characteristics common across multiple languages. Third, the technical perfection of horizontal typesetting as well as traditional vertical typesetting should be encouraged. Fourth, type families need to be formed for their efficient use. Fifth, inter-disciplinary research and development needs to be attempted. Based on these suggestions, actively developing old Hangul typefaces should be able to help them sustain their role in our future as an evolving part of Korean culture and also contribute to the identification and study of historical material.