The Swedish Academy has awarded the 2024 Nobel Prize in Literature to South Korean author Han Kang, recognizing her “intense poetic prose that confronts historical traumas and exposes the fragility of human life.”
As the first Korean-born author to receive this honor, her recognition is likely to open doors for other Asian writers on the world stage.
The author’s most internationally recognized work, “The Vegetarian” (2007), previously won the Man Booker International Prize in 2016. This novel, like much of Han’s oeuvre, examines the boundaries between the body and the self, violence and peace.
Han Kang, born in 1970 in Gwangju, South Korea, has gained international acclaim for her powerful and evocative writing. Her work often delves into the complex interplay between personal and collective trauma, drawing from historical events and exploring their lasting impact on individuals and society.
One of Han’s most notable works, “Human Acts” (2014), exemplifies her approach to literature. The novel is rooted in the real-life Gwangju Uprising of 1980, where hundreds of students and unarmed civilians were killed. By weaving together multiple narratives, Han creates a haunting portrayal of violence, resilience, and memory.
The Nobel Committee highlighted Han’s unique ability to blend the physical and mental aspects of human suffering in her writing. This “double exposure of pain” is a recurring theme in her work, often drawing connections to Eastern philosophical traditions.
Han’s short story “Europa” (2012) further showcases her literary prowess. The narrative explores themes of identity, desire, and the impossibility of true fulfilment, demonstrating Han’s skill in crafting complex characters and thought-provoking scenarios.
Han Kang’s Nobel win not only celebrates her individual achievements but also brings greater attention to contemporary Korean literature. The Nobel Prize in Literature, accompanies a monetary award of 11 million Swedish kronor (approximately $1 million). The Nobel Prize in Literature has been awarded 116 times to 120 Nobel Prize laureates between 1901 and 2023.