Korea's largest int'l book fair kicks off in southern Seoul

By Im Yoon-seo Posted : June 26, 2024, 15:47 Updated : June 27, 2024, 11:14
 
Courtesy of the Korean Publishers Association
SEOUL, June 26 (AJU PRESS) - Korea's largest international book fair kicked off its five-day run at COEX in southern Seoul on Wednesday.

The annual Seoul International Book Fair (SIBF), now in its 66th year, brings together publishers, authors, and book lovers from Korea and around the world.

Hosted by the Korean Publishers Association (KPA) under the sponsorship of the Korean Publishing Foundation, this year's fair offers over 450 programs including lectures and exhibitions, featuring about 400 curated books across various genres. Some 122 publishers from 18 countries overseas and about 350 domestic publishers are participating.

Inspired by Jonathan Swift's novel "Gulliver's Travels," the fair explores the meaning of peace under the theme of "Houyhnhnm," a utopian horse-like creature depicted in the satirical four-part travelogue.

Among the fair's highlights are writing and drawing events that allow visitors to share their ideas and thoughts about this year's unique theme.

Saudi Arabia, serving as this year's guest country of honor for the first time in 12 years, invites visitors to experience its exotic Arabian culture through books, seminars, screenings of short films and talk sessions.

Publishers from Norway, Oman, and Taiwan are also offering diverse programs including exhibitions, meetings with authors, and other activities.

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