Showcase: DOKKAEBI (KR)

DOKKAEBI is a performance duo inspired by the mythical goblins from ancient Korean folklore. Comprising vocalist Han(Hankyul Yoo) and modular synthesist Deja(Sungjun Won), the duo debuted with their performance, ‘Sighting,’ which served as the closing act of an art exhibition in September 2023.

Han and Deja met professionally at Supertone, an AI voice technology company acquired by K-POP powerhouse HYBE. By day, the pair have created advanced AI voice content for diverse media, including music, video, virtual artists, and gaming. As DOKKAEBI, they integrate Supertone’s cutting-edge technology—such as voice design, singing voice synthesis, controllable voice conversion, and real-time voice conversion—into selected live performances and productions.

Drawing inspiration from traditional Korean shamanistic rituals known as Gut (굿)—ceremonies performed to communicate with spirits or ancestors for healing, fortune, and protection—DOKKAEBI reimagines these rituals in a futuristic context. Their strictly improvisational performances merge mesmerizing vocals with intricate electronic textures, guiding audiences toward trance-like states. They have brought their immersive soundscapes to diverse venues, ranging from outdoor spaces and galleries to museums and underground clubs. Through their distinctive blend of tradition and innovation, DOKKAEBI delivers a fresh and original exploration of Korean spiritualism.