Korean Cultural Center opens door to the heritage behind 'K‑Pop Demon Hunters'

The Korean Cultural Center in the Philippines (KCC) is launching a unique cultural program that dives deep into the traditional roots behind the global animated hit K‑Pop Demon Hunters. Running from 18 July to 4 August, the four-part event series titled “Step Into the World of K‑Pop Demon Hunters” will give fans an immersive experience linking pop culture with Korea’s centuries-old artistry and folklore.

“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 KCC Philippines Director Kim Myeongjin. “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.”

Tracing pop icons back to tradition

The visual world of K-Pop Demon Hunters takes cues from traditional Korean motifs — from the Kkachi Horangi folk paintings to Joseon-era hats and hand-knotted charms.

• The gat, a semi-transparent black hat worn by the film’s demon idols, was once a symbol of intellect and dignity.

• The maedeup, or traditional Korean knot, is shown in the movie as a bracelet gifted in an emotional scene.

• The characters Sussie and Derpy, a magpie and tiger duo, are modern renditions of a beloved painting known as Kkachi Horangi.

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

Event highlights

Part I: Show Us What You Gat × Hanbok Fridays
18 and 25 July, 1:30–3:30 PM at KCC Exhibition Hall
Fans can wear traditional hanbok and gat, with costumes provided by KCC. Participants can also take photos at the “Lights of Korea: Jinju Silk Lanterns” exhibit.

Part II: Maedeup DIY Activity
18 and 25 July, 10:00 AM–3:30 PM at KCC Library
Guests can craft their own maedeup charms similar to those seen in the film.

Part III: Kkachi Horangi Minhwa Workshop
2 August, 10:00 AM & 2:00 PM at KCC Art Classroom
Paint your own tiger-and-magpie folk art masterpiece with guided instruction. Slots are limited and pre-registration opens July 14 at bit.ly/DerpyAndSussieMinhwaWorkshop.

Part IV: Show Us What You Gat – Online Edition
28 July to 4 August via Instagram & Facebook
Fans can post their best film-inspired look and tag KCC with #ShowUsWhatYouGat for a chance to win exclusive gat-themed prizes.

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

All activities are free and open to the public, with limited slots for the painting workshop.