AGE: 45

Date of performance: 04/01/2025

Language: English

Nationality: South Korean 

Occupation: Teacher 

Primary Language: Korean/English 

Title- Imugi  

Context- J tells me about the legend of “imugi”, which were believed to be giant serpents that want to be dragons but have to live to be 1,000 years before becoming one. In order to become a true dragon, they must be 1,000 years old and obtain a pearl of power. J says that imugi can either be nice, or come off as mean due to frustration of not being fulfilled. 

Analysis- Legends are a part of the narrative genre of folklore that may or may not be true. The legend of imugi in Korean culture can be equated with legends such as Loch Ness monster or seeing aliens—the likelihood of the stories being true is low, but people continue to believe and carry the legend on due to its cultural significance. Dragons are seen as wise beings in East Asian culture, and imugis are a level inferior to dragons. Koreans also use imugi to reference someone who hasn’t reached their full potential yet.