Independent bookstore 'Chaekbang Oneul,' founded by Nobel Prize-winning author Han Kang, has closed its doors after eight years.
On July 7, the bookstore announced via its official social media accounts, "Today is the last day Chaekbang Oneul will open in Seochon." The store noted that it would be closing after three years in its current location in Tongui-dong, having moved from Yangjae-dong.
In its announcement, the bookstore reflected on its journey, stating, "We rented a space of about 30 square meters, renovated it, lit it up, and filled it with books, creating meaningful moments with our customers. We introduced 'Author's Bookshelves' each season and hosted readings and workshops." It added, "We began preparations in July 2018 and officially opened in September, so we are pausing our journey exactly eight years later. The timing and location for a potential reopening have not yet been determined."
The closure was reportedly prompted by the sale of the building housing the bookstore. Following Han Kang's receipt of the Nobel Prize in Literature in 2024, foot traffic to the store had significantly increased, along with rising real estate prices in the area.
Chaekbang Oneul opened in Yangjae-dong, Seoul, in 2018 and relocated to Tongui-dong, Jongno-gu, in July 2023. Han Kang was actively involved in selecting books, writing introductions, and planning various programs and events. Even after stepping down as CEO in August 2021, she continued to participate as a board member.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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