Gendry-Kim was awarded a Chevalier des Arts et des Lettres by the French government, which recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to the enrichment of French arts and literature.
She has garnered attention at home and abroad for works including her autobiographical novel "Le chant de mon père" (2012), "Jiseul" (2015), and "Grass" (2017), among many others. In particular, "Grass" won the Best International Book award at the prestigious U.S. Harvey Awards in 2020.
In a congratulatory message to her, French Ambassador to Seoul Philippe Bertoux praised Gendry-Kim for serving as an "important bridge" between South Korea and France by translating about 100 Korean comics into French.
He also said her award is even more meaningful as it comes as the two countries mark the 140th anniversary of diplomatic relations this year.
Born in Goheung, South Jeolla Province, she lived for several years in France before moving to South Korea in 2011 with her husband, Loïc Gendry.
KOMACON President Baek Jong-hoon said, "Her award shows that South Korean comic books and webtoons are now earning recognition beyond popular appeal and commercial success."
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