Join us for a discussion and close reading of author Cho Nam-joo's influential bestselling novel Kim Ji-young, Born 1982 (82년생 김지영) with Professor Immanuel Kim of the George Washington University, at the KCCDC on Thursday, Oct. 31 (in English) and again on Thursday, Nov. 7 (in Korean)!

The recent Nobel Prize in Literature awarded to Korean author Han Kang has supercharged global interest in novels and creative writing from South Korea. Luckily for readers, modern Korean literature boasts a plethora of acclaimed and international bestsellers, many of which have been translated into film and television.

One of the most noteworthy works in recent years has been Cho Nam-joo’s debut 2016 novel Kim Ji-young, Born 1982. This powerful narrative reflection on the experiences of women in contemporary Korean society has been hailed as both universal and a window on the modern Korea. It explores themes of identity, gender roles, and societal expectations as it tells the story of the title character, a stay-at-home-mother dealing with parenting, depression, and sexism in her daily life. Cho’s novel was extremely influential in Korea and abroad for its depiction of a female generation’s quintessential challenges, and inspired the hit 2019 K-Drama of the same name starring actors Jung Yu-mi and Gong Yoo.

Bibliophiles, Korean culture fans, and Korean language learners alike are invited to dive into a new world of Korean literature with this powerful narrative reflection on the experiences of women in contemporary Korean society. In an intimate setting, participants will have the chance to read selected passages from the novel, led and introduced by literature and culture studies professor Immanuel Kim of the George Washington University. Kim’s expertise will guide the conversations and broaden participants understanding of the underlying issues and Korean society in general. Participants will also be invited to share their insights through thoughtful discussions that highlight the rich tapestry of Korean language and literature.

The Oct. 31 event (1-3 p.m.) will be conducted primarily in English and will utilize the English translation of the novel, while the Nov. 7 event (1-3 p.m.) will be conducted primarily in Korean utilizing the original Korean text, suitable for Korean native speakers and intermediate/Advanced learners of Korean. Readings and discussion on both dates will be led by expert Immanuel Kim, Department Chair of the Department of East Asian Languages and Literatures and The Korea Foundation and Kim-Renaud Associate Professor of Korean Literature and Culture Studies at the George Washington University.

Participants are welcome to attend one or both events for the full experience! Each event includes a raffle for 5 copies of “Precious Things We Meet at the Museum," an exquisite advanced coloring book featuring playful twists on the collections of the National Museum of Korea. RSVP required below. Light refreshments will be served.

Avid readers and those new to Korean literature are welcome! Bring an open mind as we navigate the complexities of modern life through the lens of Kim Ji-young’s story. As the Korean saying going, 가을은 독서의 계절 – fall is the season for literature!

Language, Culture, & Society: A Close Reading of Cho Nam-joo's Novel, "Kim Ji-young, Born 1982” with Professor Immanuel Kim

Thursday, Oct. 31, 1-3 PM (in ENGLISH/영어)

Thursday, Nov. 7, 1-3 PM (in KOREAN/한국어)

Korean Cultural Center Washington, D.C. 

Seating is limited. Advance registration is required. 

RSVP FOR THIS EVENT!

Above, from top: trailer for the drama Kim Ji-young, Born 1982 based on the novel of the same name, and a montage of international covers for the novel (image credit: Korea Herald).