Korea kicks off 10-day literature festival with global writer lineup

From September 14 to 20, South Korea will host the second annual Korea Literature Festival, a 10-day event showcasing the importance of literature in fostering social bonds and emotional well-being. Collaborating partners include the Literature Translation Institute of Korea, Arts Council Korea, Korea Publishing Culture Industry Promotion Agency, National Museum of Korean Literature, and International PEN Korea Center.

The festival will take place primarily in Seoul's Daehangno district, alongside various locations across the country.

This year's festival seeks to establish a literary ecosystem connecting writers, readers, and local communities. Actress Go Ah-sung will serve as the festival's honorary ambassador. One of the highlights of the festival is the Seoul International Writers Festival, set to commence on September 14 at Ara Art Center in Insa-dong. The opening event features a conversation between Korean novelist Kim Ae-ran, renowned for her novel "My Brilliant Life," and Chilean author Benjamin Labatut, a finalist for the prestigious 2021 International Booker Prize.

In total, ten writers from eight countries will participate in the festival, including South African Booker Prize winner.