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한국복식학회(IJCF) 학술지영문홈페이지
[ Article ]
International Journal of Costume and Fashion - Vol. 25, No. 1, pp.49-70
ISSN: 2233-9051 (Print) 2288-7490 (Online)
Print publication date 30 Jun 2025
Received 23 Feb 2025 Revised 07 May 2025 Accepted 27 May 2025
DOI: https://doi.org/10.7233/ijcf.2024.25.1.049

Interpreting Costume Color as Visual Literacy in Cinema: A Case Study of the Korean Film Decision To Leave

Mihee Bae ; Seonu Jang ; Hyewon Park†
Doctoral Course, Clothing & Textiles Major, Interdisciplinary Program in Senior Human Ecology, Graduate School, Changwon National University, Changwon, South Korea
Lecturer, Department of Clothing and Textiles, Changwon National University, Changwon, South Korea
Professor, Department of Clothing and Textiles, Changwon National University, Changwon, South Korea

Correspondence to: † hwpark@changwon.ac.kr

Citation Bae, M. H., Jang, S. U., & Park, H. W. (2025). Interpreting Costume Color as Visual Literacy in Cinema: A Case Study of the Korean Film DecisionTo Leave. International Journal of Costume and Fashion, 25(1), 49-70.

Abstract

This study is a case study that confirms the role of film costume colors as a form of visual literacy and employs a qualitative approach involving literature review and color analysis. The subject of the research is the film Decision To Leave(2022). Through prior studies and literature, the study identifies the concepts of visual literacy and color theory and examines the symbolism of costume colors in the film. Based on this foundation, a color analysis of 12 scenes was conducted according to their contexts. The results are as follows: First, in the media era, visual imagery can be explained as an expanded concept of language. Colors symbolize psychology and emotions, and their associations and imagery play a crucial role in visual literacy. Second, suspense films create tension that enhances audience immersion. This effect is achieved through visual elements, showcasing the function of mise-en-scène. Third, the colors of the background and the protagonist’s costumes in the film carry multiple meanings. The costume colors express internal states, while intermediate tones symbolize ambiguity. Thus, it can be concluded that the colors of film costumes play a vital role as a form of visual literacy in the media era.

Keywords:

Colors of film costume, Visual literacy, Korean Film Decision To leave, Suspense, Color associations and images

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