Graphic design is a form of language. Language itself functions as a dynamic, cultural, and political force, explored here with a particular focus on Hangeul, the Korean writing system. Language identifies, embodies, encodes and transmits cultural identities, and, both visually and verbally, acts as a medium of transformation and a battleground for control, particularly in the context of globalization.

Korea’s King Sejong personally developed Hangeul to democratise literacy and establish a unique Korean cultural identity. Previously, the written language was limited to Hanja, a Chinese script used exclusively by the aristocracy, impeding literacy among the general population. By designing an entirely new, simplified and easily-learnable alphabet, he enabled broad access to knowledge, commerce, and cultural expression, demonstrating how language can serve as a tool for empowerment as well as control. Hangeul has recently been evolved by Ahn Sang Soo as a modern, expressive typeface that aligns practically with modern technological requirements, further democratising the language.

Language relies on the power of symbols, shaping thought and social structures. The contemporary phenomenon of increasingly-accelerated cultural homogenisation is a process of "condensation," wherein diverse languages, cultures, and identities are reduced to simplified, commodifiable and transactional forms. Global branding, digital media, algorithms, AI and mass communication amplify and accelerate this entropic process, replacing complexity with efficiency. The reduction of communication into hashtags, slogans, and corporate messaging, discourages deep, critical thinking and limits sophistication, discussion and nuance, fostering social and political polarization.

Linguistic and cultural diversity and evolution must be protected, and needs a conscious effort to counteract this process of homogenisation. Creative resistance can be pursued through education, innovation, and design practices promoting cultural richness rather than assimilation. By studying areas such as Hangeul as model of democratic and adaptive linguistic evolution, we emphasise the constant need for new frameworks that preserve individualism and identity while embracing the changing dynamics of global communication.