Gumiho or Kumiho: The Nine-Tailed Fox of Korean Mythology in K-Dramas 

Who Is the Gumiho in Korean Mythology

The Gumiho (sometimes spelled Kumiho) is a legendary creature from Korean mythology. Its name literally means “nine-tailed fox.”

According to tradition, the Gumiho is a fox that has lived for a thousand years and has gained supernatural powers. Thanks to this long lifespan, the creature can transform into a human being, often taking the appearance of a beautiful woman.

In the oldest stories, the Gumiho is described as a deceptive and dangerous spirit. Some legends say it approached men to seduce them and feed on their life force or even their heart.

Over time, however, this figure has evolved, and in modern culture it is often portrayed in a more romantic or tragic way.

The Symbolic Meaning of the Nine-Tailed Fox

In East Asian mythology, the fox is a spiritual creature associated with transformation, magic, and wisdom.

In Korea, the Gumiho often represents:

• the power of transformation
• the duality between good and evil
• the desire to become human
• the conflict between spiritual nature and human emotions

Many modern stories portray Gumihos who wish to live as humans and experience love.

The Gumiho in K-Dramas

The figure of the Gumiho has become very popular in K-dramas, where it is often reinterpreted in romantic, fantasy, or comedic ways.

Here are some of the most famous dramas in which this legendary creature appears.

My Girlfriend Is a Gumiho (2010)

One of the most iconic dramas dedicated to the Gumiho is My Girlfriend Is a Gumiho.

The story follows a nine-tailed fox who is accidentally freed by a young man. A unique relationship develops between the two, filled with comedic situations, emotional moments, and romance.

This drama helped make the Gumiho figure extremely popular among K-drama fans.

(Lee Seung-gi, Shin Min-a)

Tale of the Nine-Tailed (2020)

Another very popular drama is Tale of the Nine-Tailed.

The series follows the story of Lee Yeon, a nine-tailed fox who lives in the human world while protecting the balance between the spirit world and the world of humans.

The drama blends fantasy, action, and romance, and has become widely loved by international audiences.

(Jo Bo-ah, Lee Dong-wook)

My Roommate Is a Gumiho (2021)

In the romantic drama My Roommate Is a Gumiho, the mythological creature is portrayed as a male gumiho who has lived among humans for centuries.

The story unfolds when a university student accidentally comes into contact with his spiritual power and ends up living with him.

The drama combines fantasy elements with a romantic campus comedy.