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South Korean writer Hwang Bo-Reum met her readers during a talk and book signing event at the 42nd International Istanbul Book Fair.
Speaking at the event held at the TUYAP Fair and Congress Center, the acclaimed author discussed her internationally translated and bestselling works, including "Hyunam-Dong Bookshop," "A Simple Life" and "The Healing Power of Books." She also shared how her journey as a writer began.
Hwang Bo-Reum explained that before becoming an author, she worked for a mobile phone company but felt unfulfilled and eventually resigned. After leaving her job, she gave herself a 10-year trial period to explore new experiences in order to discover what would make her happiest.
Referring to the reading methods she describes in "The Healing Power of Books," Hwang emphasized the value of brief but regular reading sessions rather than long hours. She explained that even ten-minute reading breaks can be easily integrated into daily life, adding that she reads whenever she finds time even while drying her hair.
Discussing "Hyunam-Dong Bookshop," one of her most widely read novels, Hwang said her main goal was to ensure that readers felt good after finishing the book. She noted that many readers shared feedback saying the novel gave them strength and emotional comfort, something everyone needs at times.
Hwang explained that while writing the novel, she drew inspiration from memoirs written by bookstore managers in Korea rather than from visiting bookstores herself. She combined their experiences with her imagination, carefully shaping the story through detailed notes.
The author revealed that she frequently receives questions from readers about a sequel to "Hyunam-Dong Bookshop." Although she initially had no plans to continue the story, she now feels that not doing so could disappoint readers who have formed strong emotional connections with the characters.
Hwang Bo-Reum also shared that she has been working on a new novel since last summer and hopes to submit it to her publisher soon. She expressed hope that the book would be published next summer and eventually translated into Turkish.
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