10 Books That Will Take You To A Ride To South Korea

Zee Media Bureau
Nov 17, 2023

“Pachinko” by Min Jin Lee:

A multigenerational saga that explores the lives of a Korean family living in Japan, offering a rich narrative spanning decade.

“The Vegetarian” by Han Kang:

A surreal and haunting novel that delves into the psychological and cultural complexities of a woman’s decision to stop eating meat.

“Please Look After Mom” by Kyung-Sook Shin:

This emotionally resonant novel explores the impact of a mother’s disappearance on her family, reflecting on love, sacrifice, and cultural identity.

“Kafka on the Shore” by Haruki Murakami:

While written by a Japanese author, this novel has a part set in Takamatsu, South Korea. Murakami’s work often weaves a dreamlike narrative with elements of Korean culture.

“The Calligrapher’s Daughter” by Eugenia Kim:

Set in early 20th-century Korea, this novel follows a young girl’s journey through a time of political upheaval and social change.

“If You Leave Me” by Crystal Hana Kim:

This novel explores the lives of three characters caught in the tumultuous events of the Korean War, examining love, loyalty, and the impact of choices made during difficult times.

“Seoul Man” by Frank Ahrens

A memoir that provides insights into South Korean corporate culture, offering a unique perspective from the author’s experiences working for Hyundai.

“The Hen Who Dreamed She Could Fly” by Sun-mi Hwang:

A heart-warming allegorical tale about a hen’s quest for freedom and self-discovery, touching on themes of individualism and societal expectations.

“Human Acts” by Han Kang:

Another powerful work by Han Kang, this novel explores the aftermath of the Gwangju Uprising in 1980 and its profound impact on individuals.

“The Birth of Korean Cool” by Euny Hong:

A non-fiction exploration of South Korea’s rise to global pop culture dominance, covering music, film, and television, offering insights into the “Korean Wave” or “Hallyu.”

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