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

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.