Once Dismantled as Too Grim, Sejong Statue Faces Possible Return (Image source: Yonhap & Netflix)
SEJONG, Sept. 4 (Korea Bizwire) — A statue in Sejong that was dismantled more than a decade ago after residents complained it resembled the Grim Reaper may be resurrected, thanks in part to the global success of Netflix’s animated film “K-Pop Demon Hunters.”
The Government Complex Management Office confirmed Wednesday that officials are reviewing whether to reinstall the metal sculpture, titled “Joyful Korean Rhythm.” Calls for its return have resurfaced through public petitions after viewers noted similarities between the figure’s appearance and characters from the hit film’s fictional boy band, the “Lion Boys.”
The piece, created in 2014 at a cost of 1.1 billion won ($800,000), depicted a man in traditional hanbok and gat hat mid-dance, arms outstretched in a gesture meant to highlight the elegance of Korean classical performance. It was one of six works originally placed outside the National Tax Service building in Sejong.
But soon after its unveiling, the work was derided by locals as “eerie” and “frightening.” Mounting complaints led the agency to relocate it near the fire department before ultimately removing it altogether.
The renewed debate reflects the unexpected influence of pop culture on public art policy. Yet officials remain cautious. “We cannot simply reinstall and remove a statue based on shifting public sentiment,” one government representative said, adding that no final decision has been made.
If reinstated, the sculpture’s location would be determined through a formal review under the Cultural Arts Promotion Act.
Lina Jang (linajang@koreabizwire.com)
