Stressed out? Korean Books can Help

Korean healing fiction 

This year has seen a surge of “healing” Korean literature, with an increasing number of titles capturing readers’ affection and many more on the way. 

At the heart of the phenomenon is Shanna Tan, the Singaporean translator who made her debut with a massive bestseller.“Greetings from the Hyunam-dong Bookstore!”by Hwang Bo-reum, swiftly followed by a series of bestsellers, including“Smiley Laundromat in Yeonnam-dong”by Kim Ji-yun and the most recent work, “Marigold Mind Laundry,” by Yun Jung-eun, delivering these soothing tales to readers around the world. 

Slow Down your Pace

 Tan’s translations resonate with readers in her home country, regularly placing her on bestseller lists. She attributes this success to shared cultural elements and universal themes that tackle common challenges like family dynamics, friendships, career difficulties, and issues of self-identity. 

“In Singapore (and across Asia), we are raised in a highly competitive environment that has a clear understanding of what success means,” Tan stated in English. “Therefore, I believe that many Singaporeans, as well as readers from around the world, can connect with the struggles and the inquiries faced by the characters.” 

“I appreciate that Korean healing fiction often has a more subdued pace, and I believe that’s intentional. It focuses on the subtle nuances of life. While some people mention that the plot seems minimal, I think that’s exactly what makes it meaningful. Our lives aren’t always filled with drama.” 

The authors gradually incorporate important values we’ve neglected or basic truths that are frequently missed in the hustle of daily life, serving as gentle reminders of what really counts.