The Legend of Ban-Dal

By: Jessica Yoon

Published by little bee books, 2026-05-05

This modern Korean folktale about how the Asian black bear got its characteristic patch is a timely story about the delicate balance humans have with nature and about the trappings of greed and overconsumption. In a small mountainside village, people live in harmony with nature, only taking as much as they need. But one day, a mysterious visitor tempts the villagers with a luxurious life of leisure, if only they catch more fish from their streams. The visitor's suggestion brings the villagers wealth and relaxation, until suddenly their nets come up empty. The villagers fear that a terrible beast has put a curse on their waters, so a brave young girl journeys to confront the creature. Along her way, she meets Ban-Dal, a towering bear protecting the mountain forest. Is Ban-Dal her foe? Or a kindred spirit who will help her break the curse and restore harmony between nature and her people?