Exploring some concepts of Visual Semiotics via analysing the poster of the K-drama “Marry My Husband”
Diving into “Marry My Husband”, a South Korean drama that recently concluded its thrilling saga of love, betrayal and second chances. Directed by Park Won-guk and Han Jin-seon, starred Park Min-young as Kang Ji-won and Na In-woo as Yoo Ji-hyuk. This series takes viewers on a rollercoaster ride of emotions due to its twists and turns in the compelling storyline. It was released on 1st January 2024 and quickly became a sensation amongst the audience due to its thrilling plot and relatable characters. By the end of this blog you will be able to understand 4 important concepts of visual semiotics which are signifier, signified, connotation and denotation.
An outline of the K-drama:
The TV series, “Marry My Husband” follows the journey of Kang Ji-won, an ordinary woman burdened and forced by life’s challenges including an incompetent husband Park Min-hwan and in-laws also with a terminal illness. When she discovers her husband’s affair with her best friend Jeong Su-min, Kang Ji-won’s life takes a tragic turn. Through a twist of fate, Kang Ji-won awakens ten years in the past, determined to rewrite her future and seek revenge on those who wronged her alongside her ally Yoo Ji-hyuk. As Kang Ji-won navigates the complexities of love, betrayal and second chances, viewers are drawn into a gripping narrative filled with unexpected twists and emotional depth.
Now let’s explore the concepts of visual semiotics through the k-drama’s promotional poster:
1. Signifier:
The signifier is the visual element that immediately catches our attention in the poster. In simple terms, it's what we see first – in this case, Kang Ji-won depicted in two contrasting forms: one in a bridal dress and holding hands with her confidant Yoo Ji-hyuk and other one in a black office suit holding hands with Park Min-hwan.
2. Signified:
The signified refers to the deeper meanings conveyed by the signifier. It's what the visual elements represent or symbolize. In the poster, the Kang Ji-won in the bridal dress signifies joy, hope and new beginnings with Yoo Ji-hyuk, while the Kang Ji-won in the office suit represents stress, obligation and betrayal from her husband Park Min-hwan and her best friend Jung Su-min.
3. Connotation:
The connotation refers to the emotions or associations that we attach to the visual elements. It's the feelings or impressions that the images evoke. With reference to the poster, the bridal dress conveys happiness and optimism, while the office suit conveys tension and despair. The contrasting emotions invites us to empathize with Kang Ji-won's plight and engage emotionally with the narrative.
4. Denotation:
The denotation is the literal or surface-level meaning of the visual elements. It's what we can directly observe in the poster. Here, it includes Kang Ji-won's different outfits, the surrounding characters and the overall setting depicted in the poster which sets a stage for the story’s unveiling drama. Also, on one side she's seen holding hands with Yoo Ji-hyuk which symbolises their connection and potential for happiness. On the other, she is holding hands with Park Min-hwan while he looks away towards Jeong Su-min which suggests betrayal and infidelity.
Through the lens of visual semiotics, the poster of “Marry My Husband” is more than just promotional artwork – it becomes a visual narrative that communicates themes of love, betrayal and second chances. By analyzing the concepts signifier, signified, connotation and denotation of the poster, we gain insight into the complexities of the characters' relationships and emotions inviting us to delve deeper into the captivating world of the story.
So, the next time you gaze upon a movie poster take a moment to consider the hidden language of visuals that awaits your discovery. Who knows what enchanting secrets you may uncover?
