As the world pays attention to the dazzling chart performance of K-Pop Demon Hunters, a new trend is being detected within the global fandom. It is none other than the change of smartphone lock screens.
Recently, an unusual phenomenon has been observed in the K-Culture community on social media platforms like TikTok and X. What adorns the screens of the cutting-edge iPhone 17 and Galaxy S26 is none other than Korea's traditional 'Bujeok'. The red letters written on rough yellow paper have combined with the latest digital devices.
This goes beyond simple consumption of animated goods. It is evidence that the global Gen Z has begun to embrace Korea's 'Shamanism' as a digital accessory to alleviate their anxieties. Magazine Kave focuses on the rising phenomenon of 'K-Occult'.
'Siri, Ward Off Evil': The Evolution of Digital Talismans
As of January 2026, the search volume for 'Korean Talisman Wallpaper' has surged on global handmade markets like Etsy and Gumroad.
Notably, there is a change in consumption patterns. While past superstitions were in a solemn and heavy realm, the talismans of 2026 are consumed purely as 'digital goods'.
Purpose: Reflects very realistic and specific desires such as 'successful ticketing', 'passing exams', and 'ex-repellent'.
Form: Downloaded as high-quality PNG files to set as lock screens or made into hologram stickers to attach to AirPods cases.
Instead of visiting fortune tellers in Seoul, American teenagers are seen focusing on their studies with 'Samjae Extermination Talismans' displayed on their iPads, showcasing a facet of the 'Pixelated Life' mentioned by Professor Kim Nan-do. They require light 'spiritual pixels' to alleviate momentary anxieties rather than grand religious beliefs.
Why 'K-Occult' Now: A Market Created by Anxiety
Following the global success of the movie Exhuma, Korea's shamanic beliefs have been elevated from objects of fear to a 'hip' genre. For overseas fans, Korean shamans (Mudang) are no longer seen as fearful beings but as 'Spiritual Problem Solvers' wearing Converse sneakers while performing rituals.
This trend peaked through K-Pop Demon Hunters. Fans began to seek "something that can actually protect me" beyond fantasy. Serious discussions are ongoing in Reddit occult forums about the meanings of Korea's 'Obangsaek' and how to hang 'ex-repelling pollack' at the entrance.
From a business perspective, this suggests a massive opportunity. It indicates that K-content is evolving from visual entertainment to a 'psychological dependency object'. 'Anxiety' is the most powerful business driver across eras.
Reinterpreting the 'Halmaenial' Look: The Rise of Shaman Fashion
This unique trend is expanding into the fashion realm. As part of the so-called 'Halmeoni+Millennial' trend, the 'flower-patterned quilted vest' (also known as Kimjang vest), a symbol of the Korean countryside, has emerged as a hip item.
As images of Blackpink's Jennie and Aespa's Karina wearing 'Kimjang vests' spread, the global fashion scene is reinterpreting it as 'K-Cottagecore' or 'Shaman-Chic'. The intense Obangsaek patterns and retro floral designs combine with the cyberpunk image of Seoul, transforming into "the most Korean is the most avant-garde".
The Arrival of New Business Opportunities
This is a clear blue ocean. While foreign media are still analyzing the success factors of Demon Hunters, the fandom is already searching for 'talismans' and purchasing 'Kimjang vests' directly, forming a market.
