Yield to Korean Signage
Comparing Korean and American “Yield” Signs
Effective Design (Korean)
The design of the Korean yield sign is more effective than that of the American sign in various aspects. The thinner red border allows greater negative white space for the triangle. The scale between the red and white creates a more balanced look overall. The sharp edges of the white triangle give it a cleaner finish. The big, black lettering is much easier to read because of the greater contrast. The emphasis on the Korean word for “slow” is appropriate for its context .The simplicity of the word itself makes it easier for both the drivers and pedestrians to understand what to do and what to expect.
Ineffective Design (American)
The red border is proportionally too thick compared to the inner white triangle, making the triangle look suffocated. The fillet radius of the white triangle should be proportional to its size, but it is the same size as that of the red border, making both fillets look awkwardly unbalanced. The small, red lettering makes it harder to read from afar. The meaning of the word, “yield,” itself, is not as straightforward and creates confusion to both drivers and pedestrians alike. Even drivers who are expected to know what “yield” means get confused — often unnecessarily stopping instead of just slowing down. For pedestrians who haven’t taken their permit tests (usually younger people), it isn’t a simple enough word for them to understand that they have the right of way.
