The gong is a large, circular metal percussion instrument used for centuries in East and Southeast Asian ceremonies, orchestras and theatre to signal important moments. Its deep, sustained tone made it a natural choice for film and television sound design, where a single strike could suggest ceremony, danger or revelation without any words. Online creators adopted the same effect for short videos and memes, using it to frame reveals, verdicts and dramatic pauses. Its simplicity and instant recognisability keep it in regular use across edits today.