Creatures of
Korean Mythology
Discover the mystical beings of the Korean Peninsula—from nine-tailed foxes and celestial dragons to mountain gods and ancestral spirits that have shaped Korean culture for millennia.
The Korean Spirit World
Korean mythology blends indigenous shamanic beliefs with Buddhist, Taoist, and Confucian influences, creating a unique spiritual landscape.
🏠 Shamanic Roots
Korean shamanism (Muism or Sinism) forms the bedrock of Korean mythology. Mudang (shamans) serve as intermediaries between the human world and the spirit realm, communicating with gods, ghosts, and ancestral spirits through elaborate rituals called gut.
Unlike many mythologies focused on a pantheon of gods, Korean beliefs emphasize harmony between humans, nature spirits, and ancestors. Every mountain, river, and village has its guardian spirit (Sansin, Yongwang, Seongsu), creating a living landscape of the divine.
Mountain Gods
Sansin, the mountain spirits, are among the most revered deities, often depicted as elderly sages with white tigers.
Shape-Shifters
The Gumiho (nine-tailed fox) and Kumiho are infamous for their ability to assume human form.
Ancestral Spirits
Ancestor veneration is central to Korean spirituality, with elaborate rituals honoring the deceased.
Celestial Dragons
Yong are benevolent dragons associated with water, weather, and agriculture.
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Featured Creatures
From seductive fox spirits to benevolent dragons, Korean mythology features unforgettable supernatural beings.
Dokkaebi
Korean Goblins
Mischievous nature spirits born from discarded household objects, known for their magic clubs and love of wrestling.
Yong
Korean Dragon
Benevolent dragons associated with water, agriculture, and good fortune. Unlike Western dragons, they bring blessings.
Sansin
Mountain God
The venerable mountain spirit, depicted as a wise elder with a white tiger, guardian of Korean mountains.
Chollima
Thousand-Li Horse
A legendary winged horse too swift for any mortal to ride, symbolizing speed and the Korean spirit.
Haetae
Fire-Eating Beast
A lion-like creature that protects against fire and disaster, often placed at palace gates as guardian statues.
Key Deities & Spirits
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Hwanung
Son of the Lord of Heaven, founder of the first Korean kingdom -
Dangun
Legendary founder of Gojoseon, born of Hwanung and a bear-woman -
Yongwang
Dragon King of the Sea, ruler of underwater palaces -
Jeoseung Saja
Grim Reapers who escort souls to the afterlife -
Jacheongbi
Goddess of agriculture, grains, and the harvest
Continue Exploring Korean Mythology
Discover how Korean creatures connect to the broader world of Asian mythology and explore other fascinating traditions.
