Article by Gil "hannaone"
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Dokkaebi, Korea's Mischievous and Powerful Goblins

The Dokkaebi are fascinating figures in Korean folklore, often depicted as mischievous and powerful spirits.

These supernatural beings are believed to inhabit the earthly realm, causing havoc and chaos wherever they go.

Their presence is both feared and revered, as they possess incredible powers and abilities that can be used for good or evil.

From shape-shifting to controlling the elements, Dokkaebi have captivated the imaginations of generations with their mysterious nature and unpredictable behavior. 

Where do Dokkaebi Come From?

In Korean folklore, dokkaebi are believed to originate from the spiritual energy of objects that have been used for a long time, especially those with strong emotional connections or memories attached to them. These objects may also be imbued with the emotions and thoughts of their previous owners, creating a powerful source of spiritual energy.

Some stories say that dokkaebi can also be created when humans die under certain circumstances, such as a violent death or deep regret. In these cases, their spirits may merge with an object they were closely associated with in life, giving birth to a dokkaebi.

Additionally, dokkaebi are said to be born from natural elements and forces, such as lightning strikes or strong winds. These elemental dokkaebi are often more powerful and dangerous than other types.

Overall, the exact origin of dokkaebi is not clear and can vary between different folktales and beliefs. However, they are generally seen as creatures born from the spiritual energy of everyday objects and phenomena. 

Dual Nature:

The Dokkaebi are known for their dual nature; they are capable of both being benevolent and malevolent. They can play tricks on people or help them, and they are skilled in wrestling.

They are believed to bring good harvests, big catches, and great fortunes, but also to be the cause of bad luck, such as fires and contagious diseases.

They are often depicted as mischievous and playful creatures, but they can also be vengeful and dangerous if crossed. This dual nature is reflected in their appearance, which can range from cute and childlike to grotesque and frightening.

In some stories, the Dokkaebi are described as being kind and helpful towards humans, often using their supernatural powers to aid them in times of need. They are said to protect travelers on their journeys and assist those who are lost or in danger.

However, they can also be pranksters and love to play tricks on unsuspecting humans. They are known for stealing food, clothes, and other household items just for fun. In some cases, they may even take human form to trick people into giving them what they want.

On the other hand, the Dokkaebi can also be cruel and malevolent. They are said to have a particular dislike for arrogant or greedy individuals, whom they will punish with sickness or misfortune.

Their reputation for being powerful wrestlers also adds to their dual nature. While they may use their strength for good causes like protecting the weak or defending their land from invaders, they can also challenge humans to wrestling matches just for the thrill of it.

Magical Items:

Dokkaebi are also associated with Dokkaebi fire, a glistening light or tall blue flames that signal their appearance.

They possess magical items such as the dokkaebi bangmangi, a club that can summon anything at will, and the dokkaebi gamtu, a hat that grants invisibility.

Another important magical item associated with dokkaebi is the dokkaebi moktak, a wooden drum that can summon powerful winds and control the weather. They also have the dokkaebi gourd, which can produce endless amounts of food and drink.

Dokkaebi are also known for their use of enchanted coins called dokkaebi yeopjeon. These coins hold great power and can be used to grant wishes or create illusions.

In some stories, dokkaebi are said to possess a magical feather that allows them to fly anywhere they desire.

The most famous magical item associated with dokkaebi is the dokkaebi hat, or dokgabi gamtu. This hat not only grants invisibility but also has the power to control people's minds and make them do the dokkaebi's bidding.

Other Abilities:

In addition to their magical items, dokkaebi are known for their shape-shifting abilities. They can transform into any form they wish, from animals to inanimate objects.

They are also skilled in fortune-telling and divination, often using their powers to help or trick humans.

Some legends say that they have control over life and death, being able to bring back the dead or extend a person's life.

Dokkaebi are also said to have immense strength and speed, making them formidable opponents in battle.

In some stories, they are known to possess the power of resurrection, being able to revive themselves and others from death.

Overall, dokkaebi possess a wide range of magical abilities and items that make them powerful and feared creatures in Korean folklore.

Appearance:

 

The Dokkaebi are tall and slender, standing at around 6 feet in height. Their skin is a vibrant shade of red, with some variations in tone among different individuals. Their faces are long and narrow, with sharp cheekbones and pointed chins. They have large, almond-shaped eyes that can range from dark brown to bright yellow in color.

Their most distinctive feature is their horns, which grow from the top of their heads and curve backwards. These horns can vary in size and shape, with some Dokkaebi having multiple smaller horns while others have one large horn.

They typically have one or two legs, but there are also accounts of Dokkaebi with four or six legs. These additional legs allow them to move quickly and agilely, making them excellent tricksters.

Their clothing is usually a hanbok, a traditional Korean dress consisting of a full skirt for women or loose pants for men paired with a jacket or top. The colors of their hanbok also tend to be vibrant shades of reds and yellows.

Dokkaebi also often wear accessories such as beads or tassels in their hair, adding to their colorful appearance. 

And So:

The Dokkaebi has an important role in Korean culture, symbolizing the unpredictable nature of fortune and the mysterious aspects of the world.

Fortunately the Dokkaebi here seem to love food more than anything else.