*This article contains mentions of mental health topics and misogyny, which may be sensitive topics for some readers.
For the past few years, the K-wave has dominated our screens, influenced our tastes in food, fashion, and more! But let's not forget how it has also inspired bookworms to explore stories beyond our own culture and Western works.
If you are someone who wants to know more about Korean literature, here are some K-Reads you might want to try reading that can be found at National Book Store!
I Decided to Live As Me by Soo-hyun Kim
This bestselling self-help book became popular after Jungkook of BTS recommended it to his fans. The book’s main purpose is to encourage readers in embracing their true selves and reject societal pressures. Readers will also have a great time reading this with illustrated essays that cover themes of self-love, being unapologetic about one’s identity, and living life on one's own terms. This book basically offers a practical guide for adulting and emphasizes the importance of staying true to oneself amidst external expectations.
I Want to Die but I Still Want to Eat Tteokbokki by Baek Sehee
This part self-help and part memoir is the sequel to the bestseller I Want to Die but I Want to Eat Tteokbokki. Baek Sehee continues her journey of self-discovery with her psychiatrist as she delves deeper into her depression and anxiety, along with her healing process. This book will give readers a glimpse of how one can navigate their own emotional challenges and find solace in the journey.
Get this book on www.nationalbookstore.com, Shopee, Lazada, and TikTok Shop.
Kim Ji-young, Born 1982 by Cho Nam-joo
In this controversial yet impactful novel, this tells the story of a woman who has faced misogyny while growing up. Raised in a family that favored boys, she faced harassment from male teachers and was overlooked in her career, experiences that resonate with many women. As Ji-young succumbs to depression and acts out, the story sheds light on the oppressive systems restricting women's freedom, turning her into a symbol of their ongoing battle for equality.
Love in the Big City by Sang Young Park
In this Korean bestseller turned movie and TV series, the story follows Young, a young gay man who, alongside his roommate Jaehee, frequents bars to escape the challenges they face in love, family, and finances. Things begin to change when Jaehee leaves Seoul while Young is left to take care of his mother. There, he stumbles upon two men: one whose handsomeness is matched by his coldness. and another who might be the great love of his life.
Get this book on www.nationalbookstore.com, Shopee, Lazada, and TikTok Shop.
Welcome to the Hyunam-dong Bookshop by Hwang Bo-reum
Unhappy with her life, Yeongju decides to resign and follow her dream: opening a bookshop. In a quiet neighborhood in Seoul, she meets different customers who all have their own stories and struggles. There, they all refuge and heal. This book tells readers a heartwarming reminder that it's never too late to reinvent your life and embrace new beginnings.
Get this book on Lazada.
The Trunk by Kim Ryeo-ryeong
Almost 30 years old, Noh Inji has never experienced real love. The closest she’s come to a relationship is through a matchmaking service that rents out "husbands" and "wives" to wealthy clients. The plot thickens when an old client, a famous music producer, requests her again, and Inji’s past begins to unravel, exposing the dark secrets behind the service's operations.
Get this book on www.nationalbookstore.com, Shopee, Lazada, and TikTok Shop.
Whether you want romance, slice of life, drama, and action you can find them in these recommended Korean reads! Get them for as low as ₱545 in select National Book Store branches nationwide.
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