Chronicle of Exorcism.1. A voice calls for you to open your eyes

Author: Li Yuhui
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2003-06-01
Features: Fantasy, Wuxia, Suspense, Horror. A seminal work by the pioneer of Korean fantasy, Li Yuhui. The same-name movie and online game adapted from the novel are set to be introduced to China. The English version has caused a sensation in Europe and America, hailed as a classic of Eastern fantasy. In the summer of 1993, in a Korean online chatroom named "SUMMER," Li Yuhui, a young engineer who graduated from Seoul National University with a degree in mechanical design, uploaded excerpts of his creation, "The Demonic Record," to the internet. It immediately sparked a sensation, causing his popularity to soar, and the entire chatroom transformed into a "The Demonic Record" room. In 1994, the first seven volumes of "The Demonic Record" were published by Seoul-based Dulnyouk Publishing, causing a massive stir and nearly turning the entire country into a fan of the series. Some readers even said that he lived solely to wait for the next volume of "The Demonic Record."
Continuing until July 2001, "The Demonic Record" was published in its 19th volume, becoming a monumental work. Statistics show that by the end of last year, "The Demonic Record" had sold over 10 million copies in Korea, while the country's total population exceeds 40 million. Although only the first three volumes of the novel—A Voice Calling You to Open Your Eyes, The Portrait Paints a Lure, and The Secret of the Grasshopper Sword—are being launched in China this time, the magical, wuxia, suspenseful, and horror elements characteristic of Korean horror fiction are fully present. Additionally, the unique esoteric Buddhism and legendary tales inherent in Korean culture are also woven into this work.
"The Demonic Record" is hailed as the cornerstone of "Korean Horror." It follows the struggles between four main characters—four "Exorcists"—and the evil forces of the human world. These four "Exorcists" are portrayed as super-powered individuals with extraordinary abilities who confront supernatural demons, ghosts, and other paranormal phenomena tormenting humanity. Alongside them are wise figures who aid them and formidable adversaries who obstruct their path. The four "Exorcists" are masters of extraordinary skills and have experienced countless odd encounters. Under no circumstances do they harm humans or impose their powers on ordinary people. Initially, they secretly rescue those tormented by malevolent spirits and ghosts, gradually embarking on the path of "exorcism" and ultimately embracing their mission to dispel evil.
"The Demonic Record" is divided into four parts—Domestic, International, Worldly, and Apocalyptic—comprising 19 volumes. Each book contains several stories of varying lengths and quantities. These stories are relatively independent yet interconnected. Not only does "The Demonic Record" feature thrilling and exhilarating plots, but its background setting is also meticulously crafted. The use of Eastern symbols such as spirit summoning, demon exorcism, samurai imagery, and supernatural mental powers constructs a unique atmosphere that blends fantasy and wuxia, enhancing the novel's horror ambiance.