Interactive NFT Art that Utilizes NFT as Unique Promises for Social Responsibility

Background Since NFT (non-fungible token) is based on blockchain technology, which is a distributed network, it achieves decentralization and can confirm the uniqueness and scarcity of digital content with irreplaceable tokens that are not replicated. Most NFT art indicates that blockchain-based NFTs were minted as certificates of ownership in digital type works. However, we attempt to utilize NFT in a new way by applying the characteristics of NFT, uniqueness and scarcity, to social responsibility, rather than to assets and products. Methods This study intensively dealt with the interactive NFT art MungMung. Three research methods were used. First, we theoretically approached NFT art by utilizing NFTs in the art field through literature studies and case studies. Second, we attempted a practical approach to interactive NFT art through MungMung, an artwork that is the focus of this paper. Third, we conducted a user experience evaluation of the work for the audience by FGI (focus group interview). Results MungMung is an interactive NFT art in the form of a web-based text adventure game that can be played online and offline at the same time. The NFT in MungMung was used to demonstrate irreplaceable responsibility for companion animals, rather than assets and products. Furthermore, we aimed to evoke a genuine sense of responsibility by completing the work based on unique responses from users regarding their pets and incorporating interactive elements such as quests and game-over features in the form of game-like interaction. Conclusions We attempt a novel approach using the uniqueness and scarcity of NFT as a testament to unique commitments to companion animals through MungMung. Moreover, we attempt to examine the unique value of an NFT, which is usually described in terms of assets and ownership. Therefore, this study is significant in that the irreplaceable characteristics of an NFT are used from a perspective rather than as an asset. Furthermore, through user evaluations, we confirm that the new application of NFT in this study provides a positive impact on users by offering a participatory process that demonstrates their unique responsibility and commitment to indirect experiences of social issues.