Eobsin & Eobdung-i in Tale of the Nine Tailed 1938(업신, 업둥이)

The Eobsin and Eobdung-i featured in "Tale of the Nine Tailed 1938" are deities that appear in ancient Korean mythology. Today, we will explore the origins of Eobsin and Eobdung-i

'Eobsin', the god who brings wealth to the family

'Eobsin' is one of the indigenous deities that has long been established as a folk belief through traditional Korean folklore. People believed that 'Eobsin' brought luck and prosperity to households, often residing in storage spaces such as grain warehouses. Descriptions of 'Eobsin' vary depending on the region and storytelling traditions. Among them, the most prevalent stories depict 'Eobsin' appearing in the form of a snake or a toad, dwelling in the deepest corners of the house. It is said that by sincerely praying to and honoring them, they bring peace and wealth to the household. 

Conversely, there is also a belief that if a snake, presumed to be 'Eobsin,' ventures outside the house, it could bring misfortune and ruin to the household. Therefore, there are stories of people ensuring that the snake does not leave if it resides in an old house.

'Eobdung-i' brings 'Eobsin'.

'Eobdung-i' is a long-standing tradition in Korea. It is closely related to the term 'Eobsin' and refers to abandoned children left in front of other people's houses. In Korea, these abandoned children were called 'Eobdung-i,' which meant a child who brings blessings to the household by bringing 'Eobsin.' Due to this belief, the practice of placing children who couldn't be raised due to poverty in front of wealthy households emerged as a cultural custom. It was believed that by taking care of these children and treating them well, the household would receive blessings instead. This tradition aimed to prevent the children from facing a tragic fate and was considered a precious symbol within the household, associated with receiving good fortune.

'Eobsin and Eobdung-i' in Tale of the Nine Tailed 1938

In Tale of the Nine Tailed 1938, 'Eobsin' and 'Eobdung-i' are portrayed with their inherent meaning of bringing wealth and exhibiting extraordinary powers as deities. One of the most memorable aspects is their leaving behind the constellation known as the Big Dipper. This constellation has long served as a guiding star, and in this story, the protagonist 'Yeon' receives it from them as one of the ways to navigate through the imminent challenges she will face. The influence of this constellation on the future developments of the story can only be revealed by following the unfolding narrative.