A LOOKING GLASS OF CLASSIC KOREAN FOLKTALE ELEMENTS IN KOREAN DEAMA ADAPTATION

This study is qualitative in nature and employed content analysis. The study analyzed selected Korean dramas and folktales of Korea. This study employed Formalistic Approach along with comparative analysis to determine the recurring elements of folktales— The Fox Sister and The Goblin Treasure in terms of plot, character, settings, and themes present in the Korean Drama adaptation— My Girlfriend is a Gumiho and Goblin (Guardian: The Lonely and Great God). The results showed the following: The selected folktales and dramas highlight desperation as one of the reasons evil deeds are punished and good ones rewarded on their journey to become noble. The characters in Korean dramas are characterized by the folktale element of being good in nature and the combination of magical' enchantments intensifies their intrinsic good qualities as the drama progresses, which include being fair, charitable, caring, honorable, courageous, and unselfish. The setting of both versions took place during the Goryeo Dynasty in Korea or a long time ago and was a reflection of their country's historical past. Modern Korea was set to crop out the evil connotations of foxes and goblins. The themes of the folktales center on the desperation and selfishness of the characters while the modern versions used revolved around the transcendence of love to surpass evil.