Bestselling and Beloved: Korean Literary Treasures

The Korean Cultural Centre UK is pleased to present ‘Bestselling and Beloved,’ a special exhibition that delves into the heart of Korean literature, showcasing both its enduring classics and its dynamic contemporary scene, with a spotlight on Nobel Laureate Han Kang.

Exploring beloved Korean literature and contemporary classics, the exhibition illuminates the broader contours of each generation—its politics, economy, society, culture, social systems, ideologies, and people’s daily life. Each one serves not only as a narrative but as a cultural artifact, offering insights into the collective psyche and societal shifts within Korea.

Structured around five thematic sections, the journey begins with ‘Timeless Masterpieces’ exploring Korea’s literary roots in the late 17th century. Then it progresses from ‘The First Bestseller’ to ‘A Mirror of the Times’ exploring how literature followed societal changes during the post-liberation, economic booms, and globalisation eras. ‘The Future of Korean Books’ looks ahead at the direction literature may take and finally ‘Nobel Laureate Han Kang’.

The exhibition celebrates the 2024 Nobel Prize in Literature awarded to Korean author Han Kang. The ‘Nobel Laureate Han Kang’ section highlights the significant cultural exchange her works have had between Korea and the UK through her collaboration with translator Deborah Smith and more.

Seunghye Sun, Director of KCCUK, stated, “We congratulate Han Kang on receiving the Nobel Prize in Literature.This exhibition connects Korean bestselling books with Aesthetics, highlighting the collaboration between Han Kang and Deborah Smith. Han Kang’s globally bestselling work reflect deep empathy for human suffering, and its translation has conveyed this sentiment worldwide. This empathetic connection paves the way for a new future, affirming that Korean aesthetics are now part of world literature.”

Jaemin Cha, Curator of KCCUK, stated, “Despite Korean literature’s powerful voice, it’s still little known internationally. This exhibition not only aims to deepen the understanding of the roots of Korean literature but also repositions it within a global context. I hope this exhibition will offer audiences the opportunity to reflect on the past, present and future of Korean literature.”

This exhibition is organised in collaboration with the National Museum of Korean Contemporary History, Cultural Heritage Administration, National Museum of Korea, Literature Translation Institute of Korea, National Hanguel Museum, Yun Dong-ju memorial Hall, British Library and Foyles.

For further press information and a selection of press images about the exhibition, please contact Jaemin Cha on jaemin.cha@kccuk.org.uk

Notes to Editors

About the Korean Cultural Centre UK

The Korean Cultural Centre UK (KCCUK) was opened by the Korean Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism in January 2008 under the aegis of the Embassy of the Republic of Korea. The role of the KCCUK is to further enhance friendship, amity and understanding between Korea and the UK through cultural and educational activities. From the KCCUK’s central London location, near Trafalgar Square, its dedicated cultural team work to further develop cultural projects, introduce new opportunities to expand their Korean events programme in the UK, and encourage cultural exchange.

Main partner: National Museum of Korean Contemporary History

The National Museum of Korean Contemporary History (MUCH) holds great historical and cultural significance as it celebrates and honours the diverse historical experiences of our people, who have shaped the birth and progress of the Republic of Korea. It also aims to delve into the multifaceted aspects of everyday life in Korea, highlighting the pivotal role played by the ordinary individuals who have shaped our history through exhibitions on diverse topics, including finance, health, energy, and disasters, that resonate with all Koreans.