“The Vegetarian” by Han Kang

Korean Title: 채식주의자 Chaesigjuuija

A Haunting Exploration of Identity and Rebellion
A Booker Prize-winning novel, “The Vegetarian” by Han Kang is a haunting and thought-provoking novel that delves into the depths of one woman’s transformation and the societal pressures that shape her journey. Through the lens of Yeong-hye’s decision to become a vegetarian after a troubling dream, the narrative unveils a web of family dynamics, cultural expectations, and personal struggles. Han Kang’s prose is both lyrical and piercing, capturing the essence of Yeong-hye’s internal turmoil as she rebels against societal norms and seeks to assert control over her own body and desires. With its evocative themes of self-discovery, mental health, and the search for autonomy, “The Vegetarian” lingers in the reader’s mind long after the final page, leaving a haunting and resonant impact.

“Please Look After Mom” by Kyung-sook Shin

Korean Title: 엄마를 부탁해 Eomma reul Butaghae

A Reflective Journey Through Love and Loss
“Please Look After Mom” by Kyung-sook Shin follows the emotional trajectory of a family when their mother goes missing in a crowded Seoul subway station. Through multiple perspectives, the novel delves into the individual and collective guilt, regrets, and unspoken emotions of each family member as they grapple with the sudden absence of their devoted mother. Kyung-sook Shin’s narrative touches on themes of motherhood, sacrifice, and the often overlooked complexities of familial bonds, prompting a poignant exploration of how we perceive and appreciate those closest to us. The novel’s introspective storytelling and evocative prose capture the spectrum of emotions surrounding love, loss, and the lasting impact of maternal presence.

“Human Acts” by Han Kang

Korean Title: 소년이 온다 Sonyeoni Onda

A Heart-Wrenching Exploration of Collective Trauma
“Human Acts” by Han Kang delves into the aftermath of the Gwangju Uprising, a pivotal event in South Korean history marked by government violence against pro-democracy protestors. Through a series of interconnected stories, the novel unveils the profound impact of the tragedy on the lives of individuals who experienced its horrors. Han Kang’s narrative paints a vivid picture of the physical and emotional trauma endured by those caught in the crossfire, and it delves into themes of memory, resilience, and the struggle for justice. The novel’s haunting prose and empathetic portrayal of its characters create a poignant reflection on the enduring consequences of violence and the human spirit’s capacity for survival.

“I’ll Be Right There” by Kyung-sook Shin

Korean Title: 어디선가 나를 찾는 전화벨이 울리고 Eodiseonga Na reul Cha neun Jeonhwaberi Urigo

A Tale of Memory and Connection
“I’ll Be Right There” by Kyung-sook Shin follows the story of Jung Yoon, a literature student in 1980s South Korea, as she grapples with the complexities of love, friendship, and political turmoil. When Jung Yoon’s past resurfaces with a phone call from an old friend, memories of her university days come rushing back, transporting her to a time of youthful idealism and societal unrest. As she navigates her relationships with her friends and mentors, including the enigmatic Professor Yoon, Jung Yoon reflects on the power of literature to transcend time and circumstance, ultimately leading her to confront the past and reconcile with the present. Through introspective storytelling and intricate character development, Kyung-sook Shin crafts a heartfelt narrative that beautifully weaves together personal transformation and historical context.

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

Korean Title: 마당을 나온 암탉 Madang eul Naon Amtag

A Tale of Liberation and Self-Discovery
“The Hen Who Dreamed She Could Fly” by Sun-mi Hwang tells the enchanting story of Sprout, a determined hen who yearns for a life beyond the confines of the coop. When she escapes and discovers an abandoned egg, Sprout’s longing for motherhood becomes a transformative journey of courage and self-discovery. Through encounters with various animals and challenges in the wild, Sprout learns to navigate the complexities of life, nurturing her egg and pursuing her dreams against all odds. Sun-mi Hwang’s fable-like narrative resonates with themes of identity, freedom, and the pursuit of one’s passions, inviting readers of all ages to reflect on the power of resilience and the beauty of embracing one’s true self.

“The Court Dancer” by Kyung-Sook Shin

Korean Title: 리진 Rijin

A Tale of Passion and Cultural Exchange
“The Court Dancer” by Kyung-ran Jo transports readers to late 19th-century Korea and Japan, following the captivating journey of Yi Jin, a gifted dancer from Korea who becomes a court dancer in the Joseon Dynasty. As Yi Jin navigates the complexities of the royal court, she encounters cultural clashes, political intrigue, and a forbidden love that defies societal boundaries. Kyung-Sook Shin’s vivid prose and meticulous historical research create a rich tapestry that illuminates the splendor and contradictions of the time. Through Yi Jin’s experiences, the novel delves into themes of artistry, love, and the profound impact of cultural exchange, offering a mesmerizing glimpse into a world of opulence and hidden desires.

“Kim Jiyoung, Born 1982 ” by Cho Nam-Joo

Korean Title: 82년생 김지영 82 Nyeonsaeng Gim Jiyeong

A Candid Exploration of Gender Inequality
“Kim Jiyoung, Born 1982” by Cho Nam-Joo is a striking narrative that follows the life of Kim Jiyoung, an unassuming woman who embodies the struggles and limitations faced by countless women due to gender inequality. Through Jiyoung’s experiences, Cho Nam-Joo masterfully dissects the societal norms, systemic biases, and subtle sexism that shape her trajectory. The novel serves as a mirror to contemporary South Korean society, revealing the everyday discrimination and ingrained biases that women endure. With raw honesty and a keen societal critique, Cho Nam-Joo’s work sheds light on the pervasive nature of gender-based constraints, resonating with readers globally as it magnifies the persistent fight for women’s agency and equality.

“The Cloud Dream of the Nine” by Kim Man-jung

Korean Title: 구운몽 Guun Mong

A Visionary Journey Through Dream and Reality
“The Cloud Dream of the Nine” by Kim Man-jung is a classic Korean tale that transports readers to the mystical world of dreams and aspirations. Set in the Silla Kingdom, the story revolves around the young monk Hyech’o who experiences a vivid dream where he visits the heavenly world of the Nine Clouds. As he navigates this ethereal realm, encountering divine beings and celestial landscapes, he becomes entwined in a tale of love, duty, and the fleeting nature of existence. Through allegory and symbolism, Kim Man-jung weaves a mesmerizing narrative that blurs the boundaries between dream and reality, inviting readers to reflect on the transcendence of the human spirit and the pursuit of enlightenment.

All the above novels have been translated into English. You can also read the Korean version. Book a Korean class today and learn how to read hangul, the Korean alphabet.