The purpose of this study is to explore how text-based generative AI interprets traditional Korean Obangsaek (the five directional colors: yellow, blue, red, white, and black) and applies them to modern indoor living spaces, specifically aiming to systematize the AI’s color application characteristics by focusing on color hierarchy and tone neutralization. As a case study utilizing Midjourney v7, a pilot analysis was first conducted by generating 30 images of the yellow theme to objectively verify the AI’s consistent color application patterns. Following this, representative images for each of the five Obangsaek themes were generated using fixed text prompts with controlled variables. For objective data extraction, Adobe Photoshop and Color CC were utilized to extract RGB and HEX values from key spatial elements—base color, assort color, accent color, and background/texture—based on a standardized mid-tone extraction protocol. These digital values were then converted into Munsell color system estimates and PCCS (Practical Color Coordinate System) tone symbols to systematically analyze the tone-on-tone configurations. The analysis revealed that the generative AI did not apply the vivid primary colors of traditional Obangsaek directly to the spaces; instead, it successfully executed color neutralization by significantly lowering the chroma and adjusting the value to ensure psychological stability suitable for residential environments. The AI effectively established a clear color hierarchy, utilizing muted and grayish tones for base and assort colors while preserving the cultural identity of Obangsaek through high-chroma accent colors. These findings demonstrate that generative AI possesses a sophisticated understanding of practical interior color proportions and tone coordination beyond mere text-to-image translation. Ultimately, these exploratory findings suggest the potential of AI as a supplementary reference tool for color planning, providing foundational data for integrating traditional cultural palettes into contemporary spatial design.
Jisang Liew (Sun,) studied this question.