Post: From K-Pop to Norigae: How a New Animation Sparks Tourist Craze

The global boom of Korean pop culture continues to shape travel trends. A new animated film about demon-hunting heroes, infused with K-pop energy, has gone viral across Asia, Europe, and the Americas. Beyond the music and action, one surprising detail captured international imagination: the norigae pendant.

In the animation, the protagonists wear stylized pendants inspired by norigae, adding both mystique and authenticity to their costumes. Viewers began searching online for the accessory, curious to know whether it was a fictional talisman or a real cultural item. Travel agencies report a rise in tourists booking experiences where they can make their own norigae in Seoul and other cities.

Historically, norigae served as decorative pendants attached to women’s hanbok. Made of jade, silver, coral, or embroidered fabric, they symbolized wealth, blessings, and protection. The design combined three main parts: a central ornament, a silk knot, and a tassel. Styles ranged from simple everyday pieces (danjak norigae) to elaborate multi-pendant versions reserved for royal ceremonies.

Today, workshops allow visitors to craft modern interpretations — choosing colors and symbols that match personal wishes. For many foreign travelers, this experience becomes a bridge between the fantasy world of Korean pop media and the timeless artistry of Korean tradition.

Not all norigae were purely decorative. Many had practical or protective purposes, making them both beautiful and useful:

Baneuljip Norigae (바늘집 노리개)
A pendant in the form of a needle case, used to safely carry sewing needles. To prevent rust, people often placed hair or powder inside the case. Materials varied from fabric and metal to leather, paper, or brass. Fabric versions were often embroidered with flowers, phoenixes, or butterflies, while metal ones were richly decorated with blue enamel.

Chimtong Norigae (침통 노리개)
A small container pendant for storing acupuncture needles, carried at the waist. It was meant for emergency medical use, making it both a practical and symbolic accessory.

Jangdo Norigae (장도 노리개)
A pendant featuring a miniature ornamental knife. The jangdo was used in daily life for small tasks but also served as a self-defense weapon. Due to its expense, it was mostly owned by upper-class women. It could be worn visibly as part of a samjak norigae (three-piece set) or discreetly as a single danjak norigae, hidden from sight but always ready to use.

Hyang Norigae (향 노리개)
A perfume pendant containing musk or similar substances. It gave off a subtle fragrance as part of the outfit, but in emergencies could serve as a first-aid remedy. Thus, it was both decorative and functional.