**Onul Books**, the beloved independent bookstore founded by Nobel laureate Han in September 2018, recently concluded its operations after a cherished presence in Seoul’s serene Seochon neighborhood. The bookstore had become a cultural landmark, relocating to this quiet corner of the city three years prior to its final day of business on Tuesday.
A poignant statement shared on the bookstore’s social media encapsulated its journey: “It was a deeply meaningful time renting and renovating this space… lighting it up, bringing in books and meeting visitors, introducing an ‘author’s bookshelf’ every season, and holding readings and workshops with wonderful people along the way.” This heartfelt message reflects the vibrant community spirit and unique literary experiences Onul Books consistently offered to its patrons.
The statement further added, “The bookstore’s journey has come to an end, for the moment, eight years after preparations (to open it) began in July 2018. When and where this cherished independent bookstore will reopen remains undecided.” This signals a temporary pause, keeping alive the hope for the future return of Onul Books to the literary scene.
Han, the visionary founder, maintained a deep personal connection to Onul Books, diligently curating its diverse collection and orchestrating engaging events in its formative years. While she reportedly stepped down as its operational head in 2021, she continued her involvement as a valued board member, underscoring her enduring dedication to the bookstore’s mission.
The decision to conclude operations followed a temporary suspension of services earlier in 2024. This disruption occurred as an unprecedented influx of visitors flooded the Seochon area, drawn by the heightened public interest and media attention following Han’s prestigious Nobel Prize win, making regular bookstore operations challenging.
