South Korea is no stranger to digital trends—from cutting-edge K-pop visuals to groundbreaking beauty tech. But lately, a new kind of artistic wave is sweeping through social media: AI image generation. More specifically, Koreans are embracing AI tools to bring their imaginations to life in the whimsical style of Studio Ghibli, the beloved animation studio founded by Hayao Miyazaki.
From Prompts to Ghibli Dreams
In 2025, the trend of AI-generated imagery has become particularly popular in Korea, with users combining tools like ChatGPT and image generators such as Midjourney, DALL·E, or Leonardo AI to create breathtaking scenes.
What’s trending right now? Ghibli-style reinterpretations of everyday Korean life:
- A hanok (traditional Korean house) under a dreamy Ghibli sky
- Seoul subway stations reimagined as magical portals
- Korean street food stalls with floating lanterns and forest spirits
These images are not just for fun—they’re used in storytelling, short animations, and even in university design presentations. The fusion of Korean culture and Ghibli fantasy feels both nostalgic and fresh.
How Do They Create These Images?
- Choose an AI platform: Tools like Leonardo AI, DALL·E, or Midjourney are commonly used. Many Korean creators also use ChatGPT to refine their prompts.
- Write a detailed prompt: For example—
“A traditional Korean village at sunset, in the style of a Studio Ghibli film, soft lighting, magical atmosphere, forest background.” - Adjust the style settings: Most platforms allow you to select a visual style—Ghibli being one of the most searched.
- Generate and iterate: It might take a few tries to get the perfect image. Creators often tweak the prompt or upscale the final image for more detail.
- Share on social media: Platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and Korean forums like Naver Cafe or DC Inside are filled with these stunning visuals.
A New Chapter in Visual Storytelling
In Korea, AI image generation is more than a tech gimmick—it’s becoming a powerful storytelling tool. With platforms making creative expression more accessible than ever, young artists, students, and even marketers are blending tradition and fantasy in a whole new way.
For anyone looking to explore AI art, Korea’s Ghibli-inspired trend might just be the perfect place to start—where creativity meets nostalgia, and imagination becomes visual magic.
