MBC Documentary 'Korean Monsters' Illustration – SamguIldugwi

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Client: MBC Broadcasting / Korea
Role: Illustrator
Year: 2023

Project Overview

I was commissioned by MBC for their cultural documentary “Korean Monsters (한국의 괴물)” to illustrate Samgu-Ildugwi (三口一頭鬼), a lesser-known yokai from ancient Korean folklore. This mysterious creature, whose name translates to “Three Mouths, One Head Ghost,” was said to predict natural phenomena and weather changes through its eerie presence.

My Role & Approach

I visualized this rare yokai as a fusion of symbolic and emotional elements—three mouths for observation, whisper, and warning, and a solitary head that sees beyond the ordinary.

The design drew inspiration from traditional Korean ink painting, with layered brush textures and modern digital shading to create a spiritual yet grounded presence. I aimed to strike a balance between historical reverence and contemporary imagination.

Design Outcome

The final illustration was featured as part of animated segments and key visuals within the documentary, helping to bring forgotten folklore to life through modern visual storytelling. It also served to reintroduce ancient mythologies to a new generation in a captivating, artistic form.