Korean Bookstores Boom as Han Kang Wins Nobel Prize

In a remarkable cultural shift, Korean bookstores are witnessing an overwhelming demand for literature, particularly following author Han Kang winning the Nobel Prize for Literature. When? This sudden rush began shortly after Kang's win was announced. How? South Koreans have flocked to bookstores, with some even facing out of stock situations. Who? Han Kang, the first Korean novelist to receive the Nobel Prize, is credited for drawing this attention. Where? Bookstores across South Korea are reporting significant sales increases. Why? Kang's work confronts the historical traumas of Korea, resonating with many readers and igniting national interest. What? This literary phenomenon, popularly dubbed 'Hang Fever,' has resulted in reports of online book sales crashing and major bookstore chains running out of stock. In particular, novels exploring Korea's complex past have been in high demand, prompting a wave of reader engagement that was previously unseen. A local bookstore manager noted his bewilderment at the renewed interest after ten years in the industry, a clear sign of the changing tide in reading habits. The government is also getting involved; politicians have suggested tax cuts for publishers to boost local literature production. Remarkably, this uptick in interest comes after a tumultuous history concerning Kang's works, some of which faced censorship due to perceived ideological bias. Readers across the nation are now eager to explore Kang's literary contributions, marking a significant moment in South Korean cultural history.