Entry 1.2: Internet Research

 

< Ancient image of dokkaebi_1 > 




< Ancient image of dokkaebi_2 > 

 

There are many supernatural beings throughout various cultures such as vampires, draculas, dragons, and unicorns. In Korea, we have an interesting supernatural being which is called ‘dokkaebi.’ What makes dokkaebi unique is that it is not just an object, but it also represents a spirit. From research, I learned that dokkaebi is “different from ghost in that they are not formed by the death of a human being, but rather by the transformation of an inanimate object” (Worldlingo). Sometimes Koreans are confused between the definition of ghost and dokkaebi. Dokkaebi is a spiritual object, but it is not as scary as a ghost. It is interesting that the dokkaebi is so mischievous, and it usually “plays pranks on people”(Worldling). Thanks to dokkaebi’s playful character, people are not scared of it. When dokkaebi plays around with people, it usually uses its club. Once dokkaebi flourishes its club, the club can make anything such as money, gold, pumkin, or even feces. Dokkaebi is a playful creature, but it can also be kind and give people money or food. As times go on, the icon of a dokkaebi is becoming an adorable character. That is why dokkaebi is often used as a character in online games in modern society.



  < Current animated dokkaebi>



Works sited

“Dokkaebi.” Worldlingo

22 Sep, 2010 <http://www.worldlingo.com/ma/enwiki/en/Dokkaebi>