Korean Literature Reading Challenge
l've decided to give myself a reading challenge: Over the next few months, l'm diving deep into Korean literature!
This idea came about because:
The few Korean books l've read over the years instantly became all-time favorites.
• The Silence of Bones by June Hur 🦴
• Violets by Kyung Sook Shin 🪻
After years of loving K-dramas and Korean films, I want to explore another incredible form of storytelling Korea has to offer.
So, I went digging and was surprised that unlike Western lit, a lot of Korean literature is short story collections! Some famous ones include:
• Bluebeard's First Wife - Ha Seong-nan
• Diary of a Murderer - Kim Young-ha (adapted into the award-winning film 🎬)
• Shoko's Smile - Choi Eun-young
Many korean authors use this form to grapple with topics like modernization, colonialism, and identity.
I also found novels with wildly unique premises like The Dallergut Dream Department Store, The Hole, The Vegetarian, and The Impossible Fairytale.
My goal is to read most if not all of these books and gain an appreciation for Korean Literature.
The plan?
🔹I'll pick a book at random
🔹I'll read that book
🔹And once I'm done, I'll share my
thoughts/review of it.
Rinse and repeat until l've completed a majority of books on this list.
the full list of books can be found in my linktree in my bio ;)
#koreanbooks #asianliterature #lemon8bookclub #Lemon8Diary #books
Korean literature offers a rich tapestry of themes and narratives that reflect the country's historical and cultural experiences. In addition to the titles mentioned like 'The Silence of Bones' by June Hur and 'Violets' by Kyung Sook Shin, there are many other significant works worth exploring. Notable authors like Han Kang, known for 'The Vegetarian', challenge traditional narratives and encourage readers to think deeply about contemporary issues. Short story collections are particularly prevalent, making it easier for readers to sample a variety of styles and themes. For those new to Korean literature, starting with the short stories of authors like Ha Seong-nan in 'Bluebeard's First Wife' or the gripping narratives of Kim Young-ha in 'Diary of a Murderer' offers a glimpse into the intricacies of Korean culture and life. As you set off on this literary journey, consider creating a reading log to document your thoughts and reflections on each book. This approach will not only enhance your understanding but also help you connect the dots between different stories and their cultural significance. Another exciting aspect of Korean literature is its growing recognition on international platforms. Many works are now being translated and gaining popularity, which opens doors for discussions and shared insights with readers worldwide. Join online book clubs or forums dedicated to Korean literature to engage with fellow readers, share recommendations, and trade insights about your favorite titles. With each story you explore, you will gain a deeper appreciation of the vibrant and complex narratives that define Korean literature.
