24) Korea - 11. Gangcheori

A monster appearing in Korean legends, it is a corrupted imugi (a mythical serpent) that failed to become a dragon. Depending on the region, it is called by various names such as Gwangcheori, Kkangcheori, Kkwangcheori, Kkangcheori, or Gangcheori. Like typical imugi, it lives in swamps or deep lakes, but unlike them, it is said to be able to fly, and its appearance is often described as being similar to that of a cow or horse. Normally, an imugi trains for hundreds of years to become a dragon with the characteristics of a water deity. However, Gangcheori is said to have acquired the characteristics of a fire deity, the opposite of a water deity, due to extreme rage and resentment over failing to become a dragon. It breathes fire from its mouth, and its body emits intense heat and flames, drying up or burning the surrounding flora and fauna, and instantly evaporating clouds or large bodies of water. It can also cause damage to crops through storms, lightning, hail, or heavy rain. Therefore, there is a Korean proverb that says, "Where Gangcheori goes, autumn becomes spring," and in North Korea, there is a saying, 'Gangcheori's autumn,' to refer to a severe famine.