Dokkaebi: Korean Goblins of Folklore | Appearance, Powers, Legends & Symbolism
Dokkaebi, often translated as “Korean goblins”, are among the most recognizable and beloved beings in Korea’s vast folklore tradition. Unlike Western goblins, they are neither undead nor born from malice. Instead, they are spirits arising from things: old household objects, discarded tools, rice-straw brooms, worn-out utensils, or even abandoned farm implements. When an object lives long enough, experiences human touch