On February 27, 2025, the Korean Cultural Center Washington, D.C. hosted an exciting roundtable that featured experts and readers exploring the works of Korean author and Nobel Prize in Literature winner Han Kang, coordinated in partnership with George Mason University Assistant Professor Hyun Seon Park.

Through expert analysis and reader testimonials, the event introduced the celebrated works of the author, explored Kang’s key themes and inspirations, unpacked the impact of her career culminating in the 2024 Nobel Prize win, and offered a bird’s-eye view of Korean literature on the rise globally.

Session I: Readers Roundtable

Five readers selected for this portion of the program were invited to share their personal experiences reading their favorite works by Han Kang, including reviews, literary analyses, testimonials on the works’ impact, and other reflections.

Session II: Experts Roundtable

Three Korean literature experts led an insightful roundtable discussion on a wide range of topics related to Han Kang’s works and career. Participants also had the opportunity to join an open discussion and share their own thoughts on Han Kang’s literary legacy.

Featured Experts:

Hyun Seon Park, Assistant Professor of Modern and Classical Languages, George Mason University

Immanuel Kim, Associate Professor of Korean Literature and Culture Studies, The George Washington University

Young A Jung, Assistant Professor of Modern and Classical Languages, George Mason University