KCC Philippines Invites Audiences to Discover the Korean Heritage Behind K‑Pop Demon Hunters

-Series of interactive experiences celebrate the traditional painting Magpie–Tiger, the timeless ‘gat’ (type of Korean hat), and the art of maedeup (Korean knots)-

(July 15, 2025) — The Korean Cultural Center in the Philippines (KCC) is turning the worldwide buzz around the hit animated film “K‑Pop Demon Hunters” into a deeper encounter with Korea’s rich artistic traditions. From July 18 to August 4, KCC will host a four‑part program—Step Into the World of K‑Pop Demon Hunters—that invites fans to trace the movie’s unmistakable visual icons back to their cultural roots.

“When viewers fall in love with Sussie & Derpy, marvel at the sleek black gat, or spot the maedeup bracelet on screen, they’re actually looking at centuries‑old symbols of Korean life,” said Kim Myeongjin, Director of KCC Philippines. “Our role is to open the door from pop culture to cultural appreciation, so the Filipino audience can experience the stories, skills, and values woven into these elements.”

THE CULTURE BEHIND THE CHARACTERS

The visual world of “K-Pop Demon Hunters” draws heavily from Korean folklore and traditional aesthetics. Sussie and Derpy, the magpie and tiger duo who have captured viewers’ hearts, are modern interpretations of an iconic Korean painting. The mysterious gat, worn by the film’s demon idols, has long stood as a symbol of intellect and dignity during the Joseon dynasty. Meanwhile, the hand-knotted maedeup bracelet shown in a key emotional scene is rooted in centuries of traditional Korean knots, which were worn and decorated people and places of Korea. .

These three elements serve as the cultural foundation for KCC’s four-part public event series: 

WHY THIS MATTERS

Each visual motif featured in “K-Pop Demon Hunters” tells a story that stretches back hundreds of years, and KCC hopes to inspire more Filipinos to learn about those stories. By connecting the aesthetics of modern media with their origins in Korean folk culture, the program highlights how heritage continues to evolve, survive, and thrive in popular entertainment.

“Cultural appreciation is about recognizing the deeper meaning behind what we see on screen,” added Director Kim. “We want this event to be a fun and meaningful celebration of creativity, tradition, and the bond between Korean and Filipino audiences.”

HOW TO JOIN

All activities are free and open to the public. However, Minhwa workshop slots are limited, and interested participants can sign through <bit.ly/DerpyAndSussieMinhwaWorkshop>.

Join us at KCC and uncover the meaning, magic, and history behind every gat, every knot, and every brushstroke.

The world of K‑Pop Demon Hunters is more than just action and style, it’s a doorway to tradition. Open it with us!