A shaman in a white hanbok performs a gut ritual deep in the mountains, with cloths filled with Hangeul fluttering in the wind. Monsters in the video appear wearing masks. This is a scene from the trailer for the gameProject Tal, released last month.Project Talis a PC and console game under development by Mad Engine, a subsidiary of Wemade Max, targeting a 2027 release.
It is an AAA-level traditional action RPG based on an original worldview that reinterprets Korean traditional masks and centuries-old myths and folktales in a modern way. The video, released through PlayStation’s official YouTube channel, surpassed 1.5 million views in less than two weeks. Comments such as “The Korean classical background is so cool” and “Take my wallet” were posted in various languages.
Games set in Korean fantasy worlds are being released. In the existing console and PC game markets, Western fantasy games featuring elves or dragons were common. Global gamers were familiar with Nordic myths and medieval worlds, but now works set in Korea, such as Joseon, are aiming to conquer the global market. With the popularity of the “K-Pop Demon Hunters” trend, Korean elements are expected to become a weapon. An industry source said, “Beyond K-pop, the scope of K-culture, including K-beauty, K-food, and K-fashion, is very wide, and games are one of the genres that can comprehensively incorporate these elements.”
Project Talis a single-player action RPG game inspired by Korean traditional masks. The trailer features a phoenix, and protagonists wielding long swords and bows defeat masked monsters, with detailed Korean elements. Son Myeon-seok, representative of Wemade Max, explained, “Amid the global attention on K-content, this is a new attempt to express Korea’s traditional aesthetics in modern gaming language.”
A game based on the classic novelJeon Woochi-jeonis also set to be released. Nexon Games’ subsidiary Loarbolt Studio plans to releaseWoochi the Wayfarer, a console and PC game and AAA-level new title. The release date is undecided. The trailer released this year features a shaman performing a gut ritual using a snake as an offering and Jeon Woochi, who smokes a pipe and wears a gat. Nexon Games is collaborating with experts in Korean literature and traditional music to incorporate Korea’s unique history and culture into the game, and has directly surveyed historical sites across Korea. The soundtrack includes participation by composer Jung Jae-il, known for global hitsParasiteandSquid Game. After the trailer’s release, numerous reaction videos by overseas YouTubers have already been uploaded to YouTube.
There is also a game set in near-future Korean society.Mudang: Two Hearts, scheduled for release next year by EVR Studio, is based on a webtoon of the same name. Set in a chaotic Korea after unification, it pioneers a new genre called “K-dystopia.” This work is also set to be released as a console and PC game.
Emerging Trends in Korean Fantasy Gaming
Several new games are emerging that draw heavily from Korean cultural and historical elements. These titles are not only capturing the attention of local audiences but are also gaining traction internationally. The use of traditional masks, folklore, and historical settings provides a unique backdrop that differentiates these games from their Western counterparts.
Key Features of Korean-Inspired Games
- Cultural Authenticity: Developers are working closely with experts in Korean literature, music, and history to ensure that the games accurately reflect traditional elements. This includes the use of authentic costumes, rituals, and mythological references.
- Modern Interpretations: While rooted in tradition, these games often reinterpret ancient stories and settings through a contemporary lens, making them more accessible to a global audience.
- Genre Innovation: Some games are pioneering new genres, such as “K-dystopia,” which blends futuristic elements with Korean societal themes.
Impact on the Global Market
The success of these games signals a growing interest in Korean content beyond K-pop and other forms of entertainment. As more players explore these titles, they are likely to develop a deeper appreciation for Korean culture and history. This could lead to increased demand for similar games and further expansion of the Korean gaming industry.
Collaborative Efforts
Developers are not working in isolation. They are partnering with historians, musicians, and cultural experts to create immersive experiences that resonate with both local and international audiences. For example, the involvement of composers like Jung Jae-il brings a level of musical sophistication that enhances the overall gaming experience.
Future Prospects
With the upcoming releases of games likeProject Tal,Woochi the Wayfarer, andMudang: Two Hearts, the Korean gaming industry is poised for significant growth. These titles not only showcase the rich cultural heritage of Korea but also demonstrate the potential for Korean narratives to captivate a global audience.
As the industry continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how these games perform in the international market and whether they can establish a lasting presence in the world of gaming.