The Korean alphabet, commonly known as han'gul, has been called one of the greatest intellectual achievements of humankind. Experts agree that few writing systems can match its simplicity and efficiency, its elegance and intelligence. The only alphabet completely native to East Asia, han'gul distinguishes itself among writing systems of the world with its scientific qualities and unusual linguistic fit to the Korean language. Most strikingly, the theoretical underpinnings of the language, as well as the time and circumstances of its creation, are clearly known and recorded. Han'gul was invented in 1443 and promulgated in 1446 by King Sejong (1418-1450), sage ruler of the Yi dynasty (1392-1910). This volume, the first book-length work on han'gul in English by Korean-language specialists, is comprised of ten essays by the most active scholars of the Korean writing system. An instructive commentary by eminent linguist Samuel Martin follows, offering perceptive comments on the essays as well as a discussion on Martin's own research findings on the script.
Product Identifiers
Publisher
University Of Hawai'i Press
ISBN-13
9780824817237
eBay Product ID (ePID)
107048777
Product Key Features
Author
Young-Key Kim-Renaud
Publication Name
The Korean Alphabet: Its History and Structure
Format
Paperback
Language
English
Subject
Engineering & Technology
Publication Year
1997
Type
Study Guide
Number of Pages
336 Pages
Dimensions
Item Weight
1130g
Additional Product Features
Editor
Young-Key Kim-Renaud
Country/Region of Manufacture
United States
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