korok

Korok is a fictional race of forest spirits in The Legend of Zelda video game series. They are depicted as small, plant-like humanoids connected to nature and the health of forests. In various games, Koroks serve as guardians of natural areas and as helpers who guide or aid the player through nature-themed tasks. Their appearance typically includes a leaf-like headpiece or clothing and a childlike, curious demeanor.

In The Wind Waker, the Koroks are introduced as the evolved form of the Kokiri and are described as seeds of the forest carried to different islands across the Great Sea. They live on many islands and sustain forest vitality. Throughout the game, Link assists Koroks with tasks and quests, and in return they provide information, items, or access to forested areas.

In The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, Koroks appear as forest sprites connected to the forest’s life force. They transform into Korok Seeds once discovered or freed, and these seeds can be exchanged for inventory expansion at certain NPCs. The Koroks’ primary role in BotW is closely tied to puzzle-solving and exploration, reinforcing their identity as nature-associated beings rather than combatants.

Design and cultural impact: Koroks are one of the series’ most recognizable recurring motifs, often depicted as cute, leaf-themed figures that embody a playful, forest-centric aesthetic. They appear across multiple titles with variations in art style, but consistently emphasize nature, exploration, and environmental balance within the Zelda universe.