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Why did Korean architects often avoid sharp angles and bright colors?

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Pagoda of Jeongrimsa Temple in Buyeo, South Korea — Korean architecture Five-story stone pagoda of Jeongrimsa Temple, first half of the 7th century, Baekje period; in Buyeo, South Korea. Height 8.33 meters (27.3 feet).

Traditional Korean architecture is defined by a naturalistic aesthetic that prioritizes simplicity, economy of shape, and a quiet inner harmony. Architects avoided sharp angles, strong lines, steep planes, and garish colors because these elements were seen as extremes that disrupted the desired sense of balance.12

This preference reflects a broader cultural tradition of accepting nature as it is, which fostered an appreciation for the unadorned and the modest. For example, while Chinese architectural styles often featured sharply curving roofs, Korean builders modified these designs into gently sloping roofs to achieve a more mellow and fluent appearance. By minimizing the intervention of the human hand and avoiding rigid or overly decorative features, Korean architecture seeks to maintain a seamless, harmonious relationship with the natural environment.21