Abstract
As interest in psychological well-being continues to increase worldwide,
the effective communication of positive mental health information has
become increasingly important. Information visualization contributes to this
process by transfo...
Abstract
As interest in psychological well-being continues to increase worldwide,
the effective communication of positive mental health information has
become increasingly important. Information visualization contributes to this
process by transforming complex information into intuitive visual forms,
thereby improving understanding, reducing cognitive burden, and enhancing
user engagement. However, research examining the relationship between
culture and positive mental health information visualization remains limited,
particularly in comparative studies between Korea and China.
This study aims to compare the visualization of positive mental health
information in Korea and China and to explore how cultural characteristics
influence visual communication strategies. Based on information visualization
theory, intercultural communication theory, and Hofstede’s cultural
dimensions theory, this study employed literature review, content analysis,
comparative analysis, and case study methods. Five representative cases
from China and five representative cases from Korea were selected and
analyzed from five dimensions: color usage, information structure, graphic
symbols, visual style, and emotional expression.
The findings indicate that Chinese cases tend to emphasize
professionalism, authority, and structural clarity, reflecting a
knowledge-oriented communication approach. In contrast, Korean cases
place greater emphasis on emotional resonance, empathy, and user-centered
communication, creating a more approachable and psychologically supportive
experience. These differences are closely related to cultural characteristics
and communication preferences. Furthermore, the study found that effective
information visualization can reduce cognitive load, alleviate psychological
resistance, enhance trust, and encourage behavioral intention, thereby
improving the psychological acceptability of positive mental health
information.
Based on these findings, this study proposes a Core + Adaptation model
for cross-cultural positive mental health information visualization. The Core
layer includes universal design principles such as clarity, simplicity,
consistency, and accessibility, while the Adaptation layer consists of
culturally responsive elements including color, visual symbols, image style,
emotional expression, and language strategies. The model seeks to balance
universal communication effectiveness with cultural adaptability.
This study contributes to the integration of information visualization,
mental health communication, and intercultural communication research. It
also provides practical guidelines for public health organizations, mental
health platforms, and designers in multicultural contexts.