Imugi (이무기)

SerpentKorea · East AsiaMythFear 5/10

Description

Massive serpent that must endure 1000 years to ascend as a true dragon (yong). Dwells in deep rivers and caves. Failed imugi become corrupted monsters

The Legend

Imu-gi is a legendary being passed down in Korean folklore, generally depicted as a lower-grade dragon resembling a giant snake. Imu-gi lives in water or caves, and its sightings are believed to be associated with good fortune. There is a legend that Imu-gi must catch a Yeouiju (여의주) that fell from heaven or survive for a thousand years to become a true dragon. Imu-gi is also known by various names such as Ishi-mi, Miri, Yeong-no, Gangcheol-i, Kkwangcheol-i, Kkangcheol-i, Bari, Hwaeryong, and Il-yong.

In Popular Culture

Imu-gi also appears in modern popular culture. In the 2007 Korean film 'D-War', the story depicts two Imu-gi competing for the source of power known as Yeouiju. In the 2020 drama 'Gumiho: Tale of the Fox Sister', Imu-gi appears in human form as a villain who possesses humans, spreads diseases, and has the ability to read people's minds. In the 2025 drama 'Ghost Palace', the story unfolds after Imu-gi Gangcheol-i fails to ascend to the sky and seeks revenge on humans.

This article is based on the Wikipedia article "Korean dragon" (CC BY-SA 4.0) · Wikipedia