📖 Three Books to Understand Korea

and two book-to-screen adaptations

2024. 4. 22.

Korean families: are you a DINK, TONK or DEWK?

📢 IN THIS NEWSLETTER:

✍️ COLUMN: Literary Oasis in the Center of Seoul

🎎 LIFESTYLE: Korean Fiction Book Recommendations

🇰🇷 Upcoming Events

Do you need an excuse to spend all day outside in this delightful weather? Well, how about adding a little cultural adventure to your outdoor experience? Dive into the world of Korean literature and let the stories whisk you away!

In this month's Funday newsletter, we're exploring the rich reading culture of Korea and shedding light on the underappreciated brilliance of Korean authors.

Happy reading, and may your outdoor adventures be as enriching as they are delightful!

1️⃣ Literary Oasis in the Center of Seoul

Last Thursday, the Seoul Outdoor Library reopened its doors after attracting a whopping 1.7 million visitors last year. It's staying open until November!

Operating hours

Seoul Plaza (4 times a week, Thu-Sun);
Gwanghwamun Square (3 times a week, Fri-Sun);
Cheonggyecheon Stream (2 times a week, Fri-Sat).

But wait, there's more! During the hottest summer nights, we're transforming into a "Night Library" from 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM, offering you a unique evening reading experience.

Four awesome zones for you to explore:

Need a break from the chaos? The Performance Zone offers solace and healing.
The Reading Zone is complete with bean bags, mats, and standing parasols for the ultimate comfort.
The Play Zone: Let the kids have a blast and run wild.
The Pop-up Zone: Check out exhibitions and grab a snack or drink.

But here's the best part: it's not just about reading. It's a cultural experience! Imagine lounging on a bean bag at Seoul Plaza, surrounded by the soft glow of LED bookshelves and moon balloon lights. Last year, they even showcased Nobel Prize-winning works and cultural programs from around the world!

And mark your calendars for our special events every last Sunday of the month, from 19:00 to 21:00. From musical performances to animations and travel films, there's something for everyone to enjoy.

2️⃣ Korean Novels on Screen

Some Korean novels were adapted into films and were quite successful. Take, for instance, the beloved rom-com "My Sassy Girl" by Kim Ho-sik. Released in 2001, it quickly became the highest-grossing Korean comedy film ever. Its success wasn't confined to Korea either – it spawned numerous remakes and adaptations across Asia. What set it apart was its simple rom-com plot, elevated to comedic greatness through stellar execution.

But did you know that "My Sassy Girl" originated from the author's blog? Kim Ho-sik's candid writings about his relationship with his then-girlfriend were compiled into a book, giving us an unconventional and uproarious tale of love between a college student and his unpredictable girlfriend.

Then there's "Memoir of a Murderer" by Kim Young-ha, a gripping story about a former serial killer grappling with Alzheimer's disease. As his memory fades, he must confront his horrific past while navigating new threats. This book delves into profound themes of memory, identity, and morality, leaving readers pondering the nature of truth and the reliability of one's own thoughts. It's no wonder the film adaptation found success on the festival circuit in Europe.

3️⃣ Korean Fiction Book Recommendations

It's no secret that Korean and overall Asian modern literature is underappreciated in the world, but today, we're changing that narrative.

Introducing the best of Korean novels in English translation

by Funday

First up, we have "The Court Dancer" by Kyung-sook Shin. This isn't just a book; it's a tragic tale that transcends time and place, reminding us all that a woman's life is worth fighting for. Set in the final years of 19th-century Korea, amidst the looming threats of China, Russia, and Japan, this gripping narrative captivates hearts and minds.

Next, we have "Your Utopia" by Bora Chung, a science fiction short story collection that pushes the boundaries of imagination. From far-future space-faring humans to artificially intelligent cars and sentient elevators, each story invites readers to explore uncharted territories of the mind.

And finally, we have "Walking Practice" by Dolki Min, an ingenious blend of horror, science fiction, and satire. This speculative Korean fiction challenges conventions and leaves readers spellbound with its thematic depth and shocking revelations.

🇰🇷 Upcoming Events

[Recruitement] MUD Festival Social Ambassadors

Are you ready to be a part of something fun and extraordinary? As a social ambassador, you'll have the opportunity to spread the word about the Boryeong Mud Festival to your friends, family, and followers. Together, we'll spread joy, laughter, and muddy memories to people around the globe.

💁 Information