Simcheong: In Search of Light
This project is a visual development concept inspired by the Korean folktale Simcheongjeon. It reimagines the story of Simcheong, a devoted daughter who makes a heartfelt deal with a shaman to restore her father’s sight. Through this work, I aimed to express the emotional depth of love, sacrifice, and hope while blending traditional Korean motifs with a contemporary visual language. Designed as a concept for a potential animated series, it envisions how the story could be reintroduced to modern audiences. All visuals were created in Procreate, using soft watercolor and colored pencil textures to evoke warmth and nostalgia.

Role
Creator, Visual Development Artist

Created with
Procreate

Synopsis
Simcheong, a devoted daughter, makes a heartfelt deal with a shaman to restore her blind father’s sight. Moved by her sincerity, the shaman grants her the power of light and sends her back to her world. With this gift, Simcheong reunites with her father and brings light back into both his eyes and their lives.

Simcheong

A kind and devoted daughter who is willing to sacrifice anything for her father’s happiness. She represents purity and compassion, and her journey reflects an inner transformation from sorrow to light. The lotus motif symbolizes her rebirth and resilience.

Simcheong’s Father

A blind man who depends on his daughter for both livelihood and emotional support. Though physically sightless, his love and trust in Simcheong embody emotional clarity and faith.

The Shaman

A mysterious figure who tests Simcheong’s sincerity. Though seemingly distant, the shaman ultimately helps her realize that true light comes from within. The character symbolizes wisdom and spiritual awakening.

Moodboard: Symbols, Textures, and Colors
The moodboard centers on Korean tradition, lotus flowers, quagmires, deep water, and shamans, symbolizing purity, struggle, and spiritual depth. Since Simcheong’s journey takes place underwater, I used a blue-based palette with watercolor and color pencil textures to capture a soft, fluid, and emotional atmosphere.