10 Must-Read Books/Novels Written By Korean Authors

Experience the essence and beauty of Korean literature by reading these books that are written by Korean authors.

Korean culture is one of the most rich and diverse in this world. From ancient epics to modern-day bestsellers, Korean authors have produced some of the most beautiful, thought-provoking works of literature.

In recent years, Korean literature has been enjoying a surge in popularity around the world. This is due in part to the success of Korean cinema and television, which have introduced Korean culture to a wider audience.

books written by korean authors

If you’re a fan of South Korea and love to read books or novels then you need to read these books that are written by Korean authors. Some of these books have also been adapted into movies and dramas. All of these books are available on Amazon.

1. Kim Jiyoung, Born 1982

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Kim Jiyoung, Born 1982 is a novel by Cho Nam Joo that tells the story of a young Korean woman who experiences everyday sexism and misogyny. The novel has been praised for its realistic portrayal of gender inequality and its exploration of the psychological effects of sexism.

2. Pachinko

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Pachinko is a historical fiction novel by Min Jin Lee that tells the story of a Korean family over four generations as they struggle to survive and thrive in Japan. The novel spans from the early 1900s to the late 1980s, and it explores themes of family, identity, culture, and resilience.

3. At Dusk

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At Dusk is a novel by Hwang Sok Yong that tells the story of Park Minwoo, a successful architect who is forced to reconsider his role in the transformation of South Korea when his company is investigated for corruption. The novel explores themes of memory, and loss.

4. The Mermaid from Jeju

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The Mermaid from Jeju is a historical fiction novel by Sumi Hahn about a young woman named Junja who is a deep sea diver on Jeju Island in the aftermath of World War II. The novel explores themes of love, and the power of the human spirit in the face of adversity.

5. Endless Blue Sky

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Endless Blue Sky is a novel by Lee Hyoseok, set in 1940s colonial Korea and Japanese-occupied Manchuria. It tells the love story between Korean writer Ilma and Russian dancer Nadia, against the backdrop of a world on the brink of war. It is a melodrama that explores themes of love, loss, and identity.

6. Violets

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Violets is a novel by Kyung-Sook Shin about a young woman who is searching for connection and meaning in her life. Set in 1970s South Korea, the novel explores themes of isolation, violence, and repression. Violets is a beautiful and moving story about the power of human connection.

7. The Plotters

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The Plotters by Kim Un Su is a dark, violent, and stylish thriller that takes place in an alternate version of Seoul, where assassination guilds fight for market dominance. The story follows an assassin who begins to question his moral code as he becomes entangled in a web of intrigue and violence.

8. The Hole

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The Hole by Hye Young Pyun is about a man who wakes up from a coma after causing a car accident that killed his wife. He is paralyzed and badly disfigured, and his mother-in-law becomes his caretaker. The novel explores the themes of neglect, and the dark truths that we try to bury.

9. Drifting House

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Drifting House is a collection of short stories by Krys Lee that explores the themes of diaspora, identity, and sacrifice. The title story follows two brothers who embark on a brutal journey across North Korea to China in search of their mother.

10. My Brilliant Life

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My Brilliant Life is a heartwarming novel by Ae-Ran Kim about a 16-year-old boy with progeria, a rare disease that causes rapid aging. Areum lives his life to the fullest, despite his condition, and learns the importance of family, friendship, and love.

Wrapping Up

So these were the most popular books that are written by authors belonging to South Korea. These novels are already translated in English and are also available in Kindle format or on Audible platform.

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Hi! I'm Alma Santos from Philippines. I have watched over hundreds of dramas and can speak Korean a little bit. My favorite drama is Crash Landing On You.

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