Han Kang Wins 2024 Nobel Prize in Literature

Han Kang has made history as the first Asian female and first Korean laureate of the Nobel Prize in Literature, awarded for her 'intense poetic prose that confronts historical traumas and exposes the fragility of human life.' This recognition is seen as a monumental achievement for Korean literature, with the Writers Association of Korea celebrating it as a pivotal moment that enhances the global standing of Korean authors. Han's previous work, 'The Vegetarian,' garnered acclaim when it won the International Booker Prize in 2016, highlighting the critical role of translation in making Korean literature accessible worldwide, as emphasized by translator Deborah Smith. South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol and members of BTS have publicly expressed their admiration, further showcasing the significance of Han's accomplishment in the cultural landscape. With her Nobel win, Han Kang’s literary contributions are poised to inspire a new generation of readers and writers both in Korea and beyond.