Korean Literature Exhibition

The selection includes internationally acclaimed titles such as “Cursed Bunny” by CHUNG Bora (translated by Anton Hur) and “Whale” by CHEON Myeong-kwan (translated by Chi-Young Kim), both finalists for the International Booker Prize, as well as “The Hole” by PYUN Hye-young (translated by Sora Kim-Russell), recognized with the Shirley Jackson Award, and “The Disaster Tourist” by YUN Ko-eun (translated by Lizzie Buehler), recognized with the CWA Dagger. The exhibition is curated by Dr. Eugene Kim, a UK-based scholar specialising in transnational literature and aesthetics. She completed her PhD in English Literature at Kingston University. She is Editor-in-Chief of “Nabillera”, an online magazine dedicated to Korean literature in translation. Five Keywords: A Self-Portrait of Contemporary Korean Society The exhibition is structured around five thematic keywords — “Distance,” explores invisible gaps and relational tensions between individuals and the world. “Weariness” examines the weight of existence generated by the invisible norms and barriers of modern society. “Endurance” highlights the quiet strength of vulnerable beings who continue moving forward despite hardship. “Care” sheds light on the ethics of relationships and the refusal to look away from the lives of others. Finally “Imagination” emphasizes the literary power of the fantastic, the fable, and futuristic imagination to reinvent our perception of reality. From A to Z: Freedom of Movement and Immersion All 20 works are displayed alphabetically by author, in original Korean editions and English translations, with introductory texts. Visitors can freely explore the exhibition and discover their own reading path. A reading area is available within the exhibition space, where visitors can consult the twenty featured titles on site in both the original Korean editions and their English translations. In addition, QR codes installed in the space provide access to several major digital platforms. Visitors will be able to discover “Korean Literature Now,” an English-language webzine provided by the Literature Translation Institute of Korea, offering reviews and author interviews. They will also be able to explore “K-Book Trends,” provided by the Korean Publishing Industry Promotion Agency, which offers an overview of the latest trends and the current dynamism of Korean publishing. Literary Encounter: Translator Clare Richards On Thursday, April 16, the Center will host a literary event with Clare Richards, translator of “Another Person” by KANG Hwagil and “The Healing Season of Pottery” by YEON Somin. She will share her experience of translating the subtleties of the Korean language into English, demonstrating how translation serves as a vital bridge between cultures.