Imagine waking up to strange voices that keep calling you day and night! How would that sound? If that’s scary enough for you, how do you think the little boy, Tong Tong, feels when it happens to him? Once Tong Tong tastes the “Magic Candies,” everything is never the same. He begins realizing all the hidden voices he had never expected to hear. Join us as we discuss more about “Magic Candies,” an animated short film based on a Korean children book by best-selling author Baek Hee Na, and where to read the original masterpiece.
“Magic Candies” Animated Short Film Nominated for 2025 Oscar
An animated short film based on a Korean children book with the same name, “Magic Candies,” has been officially nominated for 2025 Oscar.
Previously, The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences announced the complete list of names who entered the nominations for the 97th Academy Awards in 2025. Among all the names listed in the “Animated Short Film” category was “Magic Candies.”
The animated short film “Magic Candies” is a Japanese production by Toei Animation. Directed by Nishio Daisuke and Washio Takashi, this short animation tells the story of Dong Dong, who eats a bag of candies that allows him to hear voices from everything around him: his dad, his dog, and even his couch!
With an approximate run time of 20 minutes, the “Magic Candies” animated short film is simple, heartwarming, and quirky at the same time. Its strange but heartfelt story will make you reconsider how you treat your treasured belongings and beloved people.
Adapted from Korean Children Book by Best-Selling Author, Baek Hee Na
While the animated short film may be a Japanese production, “Magic Candies” was originally a children book by another Korean best-selling author Baek Hee Na. Originally published in 2017, “Magic Candies” Korean children book tells the same story of Tong Tong (Dong Dong).
Tong Tong is a little boy who likes to play marbles by himself. The other kids never ask him to play, and he’s fine because he simply likes playing marbles on his own. One day, as he makes his way to buy new marbles, Tong Tong is fascinated by some hard candies. They are shaped like marbles with different colors and sizes. And so, Tong Tong decided to try them out.
As he observes the familiar patterns and begins eating the candies, strange voices emerge from his surroundings. First, he starts hearing the voices coming from his couch, telling him what it feels like. Then, his dog started describing what had upset it. Heck, Tong Tong even gets to hear what his dead grandmother says. But what shocks him the most is knowing that his demanding dad actually loves him.
With this imaginative storytelling and beautiful 3D illustration, “Magic Candies” became a critically acclaimed Korean children book. This brilliant masterpiece has successfully garnered an impressive 4.16 reviews on Goodreads from 1,100 ratings. Not only did the readers praise its heartfelt story, but they also adored the 3D claymotion character visuals.
Why Should You Read “Magic Candies”?
If you’re still on the fence about picking up “Magic Candies,” let’s talk about why this book is an absolute must-read.
“Magic Candies” is more than just your regular whimsical children’s story. Baek Hee Na carefully crafted the book to be a beautifully layered exploration of loneliness, connection, and the power of understanding those around us. She has masterfully blended humor and emotion, allowing readers of all ages to relate to Tong Tong’s quiet struggles.
While this book appeals so much to adults, “Magic Candies” will also provide new insights for children.
With “Magic Candies,” children will embark on an imaginative adventure—what if everyday objects could talk? What would they say? Meanwhile, for older kids, this Korean book will tap into something deeper: the realization that we often overlook the emotions of those closest to us.
Through Tong Tong’s newfound ability to hear voices, he gains insights into his dog’s frustration, his couch’s exhaustion, and, most importantly, his father’s unspoken love.
On top of everything, the book’s visuals are another reason to dive in. Baek Hee Na’s signature 3D claymation-style illustrations bring a unique depth and warmth to the story. Each character, each tiny prop, and every little shadow in her meticulously crafted scenes make “Magic Candies” feel more alive than a traditional picture book. It’s like stepping into a miniature, handcrafted world filled with magic and emotions.
Where to Read “Magic Candies” by Baek Hee Na?
Now, does the above discussion pique your interest? If you’re wondering where to read “Magic Candies,” you don’t have to bother searching for long because the Korean children book is widely available everywhere.
Not only that but thanks to the brilliant English translation from Sophie Bowman, you don’t have to bother using a translation app to read “Magic Candies.” The English version of this Korean children book is available to purchase and read via Amazon. You can choose between reading this book’s hardcover or Kindle editions.
Finally, through the animated short film and original Korean book, “Magic Candies” will give you a story that lingers long after turning the last page. It is a gentle reminder to listen more closely—to the people around us, the unspoken emotions, and the little voices we often overlook.
So, if you haven’t read it yet, now’s the perfect time to experience the magic for yourself. “Magic Candies” is a book that deserves a spot on every bookshelf.
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