Officials and students of Incheon National University pose with the university's mascot Hwaetburi to celebrate winning the grand prize at the 2026 Korea Character Awards. [Incheon National University]
Officials and students of Incheon National University pose with the university's mascot Hwaetburi to celebrate winning the grand prize at the 2026 Korea Character Awards. [Incheon National University]

Hwaetburi, the official mascot of Incheon National University, took the grand prize at the 2026 Korea Character Awards.

The character combines the "torch" — symbolizing the university's educational ideals of pursuing truth and defending freedom — with a lion, the school's representative animal.

Hwaetburi is distinguished by a mane shaped like blue flames, and the character's design features a unique concept in which the flame's form shifts with weather conditions.

Portrayed as a passionate and adventurous yet approachable young lion, the mascot has earned wide affection from the university community.

Hwaetburi first appeared in 2021 after winning the top prize in an on-campus character design competition. Since then, the mascot has expanded its presence across university life — appearing in KakaoTalk emoji packs, student ID cards and official merchandise, and in photo zones installed around campus.

The character has also featured in short-form videos produced through the student council and official social media channels, as well as at major university events including festivals, entrance ceremonies and graduation ceremonies, helping build a warm and approachable image for Incheon National University.

Hwaetburi has further served as a bridge between the university and the wider community by taking part in local Incheon events and collaborative promotions with partner organizations.

"Hwaetburi is a key communications asset that effectively raises awareness of Incheon National University among students, alumni and the general public," a university official said. "We will continue to elevate our branding strategy around the character through a wider range of merchandise, animation production and stronger community-linked activities."


gilbert@heraldcorp.com