In Korean folklore, the Dokkaebi is a goblin-like supernatural being known for mischief and a magical club.
Dokkaebi are not simply evil demons. Korean traditions describe them as spirits or nature-associated beings with extraordinary powers who may trick, challenge, punish, or help humans. Unlike gwishin, or ghosts, they are traditionally understood as arising from spiritually charged inanimate objects rather than from the dead.
Their magical club, called a dokkaebi bangmangi, can summon objects and function like a wand. Some legends also give Dokkaebi an invisibility hat. They may challenge travelers to ssireum, Korean wrestling, and stories often explain that cleverness or exploiting a weakness is more useful than brute strength.
The figure has a long literary history. The earliest known documentation is connected with the Silla-era tale of Lady Dohwa and Bachelor Bihyeong, preserved in the Goryeo-period Samguk Yusa. Dokkaebi imagery also appears on ancient Korean roof tiles. Modern depictions often add horns or a club, while traditional forms vary considerably.