14) Korea - 8. Eodukshini

Eodukshini is a Korean yokai that first appeared in the Goryeo Dynasty and continued to be sighted into the Joseon Dynasty. The name 'Eodukshini' is believed to be a combination of 'eoduk-hada,' meaning 'quite dark,' and 'shini,' a presumed variation of 'shin.' It is said to be called 'Eodukseoni,' 'Eodeokseoni,' 'Adokshini,' or 'Adukshini' depending on the region. It fundamentally symbolizes darkness and grows larger the more a person watches it. The more you stare at it or look up at it, the larger it becomes, eventually crushing the person. Conversely, if you force yourself to look down at the growing Eodukshini or completely avert your gaze and ignore it, it shrinks and eventually disappears. Modern interpretations suggest that its characteristic of growing larger the more it is observed is a personification of the human fear of darkness, serving as a warning against escalating fundamental fears of the dark. Ultimately, it is interpreted that Eodukshini is merely an illusion created by the human mind.