Faculty of Design

Graphic Design

Chaelim Yu

KOBI

The Dokkaebi is a beloved symbol of Korean culture and tradition, and it has long been associated with the Korean way of life. The Dokkaebi has been a representation of the people's desire for freedom in times of oppression, and it has taken on many different forms throughout the years. In this project, we aim to modernize the Dokkaebi tale by reinterpreting it in a contemporary context while keeping the original message and lesson intact.My thesis exhibition aims to modernize the old Korean folk tale of Dokkaebi by reinterpreting the character in a contemporary context while preserving its timeless message and lesson.The Dokkaebi, with its playful and mischievous personality, has been a beloved symbol of Korean culture for centuries. In my modernized version, the Dokkaebi named Kobi finds himself transported to a modern city where he befriends a timid biracial girl named Gabi and together they navigate the challenges of modern society. Through Kobi's mischief and Gabi's newfound strength, they inspire others and spread positivity and laughter as they await new adventures.

“The Art of Kobi is a book that delves into the background and research of the Dokkaebi, with a focus on the story of Kobi, a mischievous Dokkaebi who finds himself transported to a modern city in 2023. Through his friendship with a timid biracial girl named Gabi, Kobi learns to adapt to modern society while helping Gabi gain the confidence to embrace her background identity. The book also includes the character design for Animation Kobi, a playful and mischievous character that embodies the essence of the Dokkaebi.In addition to the book, I have created the opening title for Animation Kobi. Using the playful and mischievous characteristics of Kobi, the typography of the Kobi title is designed to capture the spirit of the Dokkaebi and the adventures that Kobi and Gabi embark on in the modern world. Through this project, I hope to breathe new life into the Dokkaebi tale and inspire a new generation of Koreans to embrace their cultural heritage.My project aims to modernize the Dokkaebi tale by reinterpreting it in a contemporary context while preserving the essence of the original story. By creating a modern version of Kobi, a mischievous Dokkaebi who finds himself transported to a modern city, I hope to capture the imagination of a new generation of Koreans and inspire them to embrace their cultural heritage. The Art of Kobi book and the Animation Kobi opening title showcase my efforts to bring the Dokkaebi into the modern era and to ensure that the legacy of this beloved symbol of Korean culture lives on for generations to come.My modernized design of Dokkaebi aims to bridge the gap between traditional folklore and contemporary society, while preserving the essence and values of the original story. By presenting the character of Kobi in a modern setting, I hope to create a relatable and memorable experience for audiences of all ages. Through the story, Kobi and Gabi's friendship and the challenges they overcome, my design seeks to inspire a sense of resilience, adaptability, and hope in the face of adversity. My goal is to celebrate the enduring power of storytelling and folklore in shaping cultural identity and promoting social cohesion.”