Why South Korean Shamanism Is So Popular in K-Dramas Again: The Cultural Comeback Explained!
- Disha Paul
- Jul 4
- 3 min read
Spiritual themes are taking centre stage in Korean entertainment, and one element that has been making waves is shamanism. In 2024 and 2025, many K-dramas and films are using this ancient tradition to tell fresh, emotional stories. Viewers in Korea and around the world are loving the mix of mystery, culture, and heart that comes with it.
From Revenant to Exhuma to Head Over Heels: The Shamanic Revival
The growing interest in shamanic themes started with dramas like Revenant, which showed what happens when angry spirits aren’t at peace. Then came the hit movie Exhuma, which sold over 10 million tickets in Korea. It followed young shamans who faced the scary consequences of disturbing a cursed grave. Viewers were hooked by the rituals and intense spiritual moments.
Now in 2025, Head Over Heels is trending everywhere. The drama tells the story of Seong-ah, a high school student who is also a shaman. She deals with ghosts, school stress, and her growing spiritual powers. The drama blends real-life struggles with the supernatural, and fans can’t stop talking about it.
Why It’s the Right Time for These Stories
In South Korea, religion is a mix of many beliefs. While many people follow Christianity or Buddhism, lots of others don’t follow any religion. Still, traditional beliefs like shamanism have remained, especially with older people.
As modern life gets more stressful, young people are connecting more with stories about the spirit world. The colorful rituals, drumming, and chants add strong emotions and visual beauty. These stories help people feel comfort, healing, and even strength. That’s why so many viewers are drawn to them now.
Tradition Meets Modern Storytelling
In the past, shamans were often shown as funny or strange side characters. But now, dramas treat them with respect. They are shown as powerful, emotional, and important to the story.
This change has been building for years. Movies like Along with the Gods and The Wailing made room for more serious spiritual stories. Later, dramas like The Guest, Priest, and Black gave us deeper looks at the battle between spirits and humans. New shows like The Haunted Palace and Fortune Teller’s Love continue this trend.
What Makes Head Over Heels Stand Out
Head Over Heels is different because it puts a young female shaman in the spotlight. Seong-ah isn’t just a helper—she’s the main character with her own story, fears, and goals. Actress Cho Yi-hyun even studied real shamanic rituals to bring her role to life.
The drama also shows a new side of ghosts. Not all spirits are bad. Some are just sad or stuck because of past pain. This makes the story more emotional and deep, not just scary. That’s a big reason why fans are so attached to it.
The Future of Supernatural K-Content?
Shaman-themed dramas are not going away anytime soon. Younger shamans are even gaining followers on social media, and big stars are joining these types of projects. Streaming sites like Netflix are helping these shows reach the world.
Shamanism is no longer just a horror theme. It’s becoming a powerful way to tell stories about family, healing, and tradition.
Final Thoughts
Shaman stories in K-Dramas are more than just ghost tales. They are deep stories that connect the past with the present and show the power of belief and love.
Are you enjoying this wave of spiritual K-Dramas? Which show has moved you the most?
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