Han Kang’s Nobel Prize in Literature and Celebrity Reactions
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| Image source: Kyobo Book Centre |
On October 10, 2024, a great joy came to the Korean literary world. Novelist Han Kang became the first Korean to win the Nobel Prize in Literature. Han Kang has gained international fame with works such as “The Vegetarian,” “Human Acts,” and “The White Book,” and this award has further elevated the status of Korean literature.
Han Kang’s Acceptance Speech
Upon hearing the news of her award, Han Kang said, “I am very surprised and honored,” and expressed her gratitude to the many writers who inspired her. She stated, “The efforts and strength of all writers have been the source of my inspiration,” showing her deep affection for literature.
Celebrity Congratulatory Messages
Many celebrities sent congratulatory messages upon hearing the news of Han Kang’s Nobel Prize in Literature. Here are a few of them:
BTS (Bangtan Boys)
- V (Kim Taehyung): V shared the news of Han Kang’s award on his SNS, saying, “I read ‘Human Acts’ while in the military. Congratulations.”
- RM (Kim Namjoon): RM also shared the same article, adding a crying face and heart emoji.
Actor Ryu Jun-yeol: Ryu Jun-yeol posted on his SNS, “I am really proud. A great achievement for Korean literature.”
Singer HYNN (Park Hye-won): HYNN revealed that she took her stage name from Han Kang’s “The White Book” and said, “I was so happy to hear the news of the Nobel Prize in Literature. It is even more proud that a Korean work has moved the world.”
Actress Go Hyun-jung: Go Hyun-jung posted on her personal account, “Finally, Han Kang wins the Nobel Prize,” along with a screenshot of the news. She also posted photos of Han Kang’s “Human Acts” and “The White Book,” expressing her congratulations.
Seolhyun (former AOA member): Seolhyun shared an excerpt from “Human Acts” on her SNS, highlighting the phrase “What is humanity? What must we do to not be inhumane?” and added several congratulatory emojis.
This is the best news of the year. Han Kang graduated from Yonsei University’s Department of Korean Language and Literature and debuted as a poet in 1993 before starting her career as a novelist. Her notable works include “The Vegetarian,” “Human Acts,” “The White Book,” and “The Boy is Coming.” She won the Man Booker International Prize in 2016 for “The Vegetarian.”
Han Kang’s Nobel Prize in Literature has brought great joy and emotion not only to the Korean literary world but also to literature lovers worldwide. Her works deeply explore the human psyche, delicately portraying social issues and personal suffering, resonating deeply with readers. Especially, “The Vegetarian” and “Human Acts” are loved by many for their sharp insights into the essence of human existence and social oppression.
Through literature, Han Kang tells stories of human suffering, healing, and hope. Her writing is not just a narrative but prompts readers to reflect on their own lives and deeply contemplate social issues. In this way, Han Kang’s works go beyond mere literary achievements to convey important messages to our society.
The Nobel Prize in Literature is a global recognition of Han Kang’s literary achievements. Her award has elevated the status of Korean literature and paved the way for more Korean writers to be recognized on the international stage. In her acceptance speech, Han Kang expressed her deep affection for literature, saying, “The efforts and strength of all writers have been the source of my inspiration.” This shows that she feels a sense of responsibility as a member of the literary community, beyond personal glory.
Han Kang’s Nobel Prize in Literature gives us all great pride and inspiration. Through her works, we are prompted to reconsider the essence of humanity and social issues, and we are reminded of the power of literature. We look forward to more people reading and loving Han Kang’s works. We sincerely congratulate her on her award and look forward to her future activities with great anticipation.
