The KCCDC invites you to discover Korea through contemporary literature with a new Fall 2026 session of our popular K-Literature Book Club: Stories of Korea! 

Each session celebrates Korean fiction through a series of thoughtful reading and discussion events. This season, we explore three acclaimed Korean novels that reflect on what it means to be human in a rapidly changing world. From imaginative science fiction to heartwarming stories of everyday life, each book offers a unique perspective on empathy, resilience, community, and the connections that shape our lives.

Through guided discussions, participants will have the opportunity to exchange ideas, share personal perspectives, and discover how contemporary Korean literature speaks to universal human experiences while offering meaningful insights into modern Korea.

Participants who apply will receive a complimentary English-language copy of their chosen book (for pickup at the KCCDC). Each title will be discussed in a dedicated in-person book club session, where readers are encouraged to engage in open conversation and thoughtful dialogue. Those who already own a copy of the featured books are also welcome to register for the discussion sessions.

Whether you are new to Korean literature or a longtime reader, we invite you to join us in discovering and sharing Korea through its stories! 

K-Literature Book Club: Stories of Korea (Fall 2026 Session)

Meeting Location: Korean Cultural Center Washington, DC (in-person only)

Meeting Dates: Various dates in September, October, & November

Sign up Period: August 10 - 14

Book Pick-Up Dates: August 24 - 28

Questions? Email us at culturedc@mofa.or.kr for assistance regarding this program. 

Please note: preference may be given to those not signed up for multiple sessions to allow greater overall participation. Selected participants will receive a final confirmation email after the sign-up period. If you would like to be sure to join a certain session, please complete the sign-up form for that book first, and then other sessions. 

Featured Books & Meeting Dates:

If We Cannot Go at the Speed of Light by Cho-yeop Kim

Tuesday, September 22, 6:00 PM

A Thousand Blues by Seon-ran Cheon

Tuesday, October 6, 6:00 PM

The Second Chance Convenience Store by Ho-yeon Kim

Tuesday, November 3, 6:00 PM

For more on each featured book, see below. All club meeting take place at the KCCDC in person (no virtual option) and will be conducted primarily in English in a casual sharing and guided conversation format. Light refreshments will be provided at each meeting. Please be sure that you can attend the in person book club session on the above date before signing up! 

Sign-up Period: August 10 - 14

Please check back soon! 

 Please note that book/session options will be removed from the form as they become full, and the form will close entirely when all sessions are full. 

If We Cannot Go at the Speed of Light 

Cho-yeop Kim

An award-winning collection of science fiction stories that explores love, loss, memory, and human connection through imaginative visions of the future. Kim Cho Yeop combines scientific imagination with emotional depth to ask timeless questions about what makes us human.

A Thousand Blues

Seon-ran Cheon

A moving novel about a racehorse, a humanoid robot, and a family brought together through compassion and care. Blending science fiction with heartfelt storytelling, the novel reflects on empathy, hope, and the true meaning of humanity.

The Second Chance Convenience Store

Ho-yeon Kim

Set in a neighborhood convenience store in Seoul, this bestselling novel follows the unexpected relationships that develop among ordinary people whose lives intersect in meaningful ways. Warm and uplifting, it offers a touching portrait of community, kindness, and second chances.