By Lee Minji
The 68th Seoul International Book Fair, a premier event for literature enthusiasts and industry professionals, is currently underway, attracting over 538 publishers and industry organizations from 18 diverse nations. Running through Sunday at Seoul’s renowned COEX exhibition center, this significant cultural gathering offers a rich program.
Anticipation for the five-day book fair was high, with all advance tickets already sold out. A total of 326 acclaimed authors and speakers, both from South Korea and internationally, are participating in various discussions and events.
This year’s Seoul International Book Fair centers around the compelling theme “Homo Duduri.” Organizers explain that the theme aims to explore and define what it truly means to be human in the rapidly evolving age of artificial intelligence (AI).
The term “Duduri” originates from an ancient Korean word for a blacksmith, an archetype closely associated with the “dokkaebi,” or goblin, found in traditional Korean folklore and texts.
Korean novelist Kim Yeon-su, in a profound theme statement co-authored with AI models Claude and Gemini, reflected on the current technological landscape: “Today, the fire of AI blazes before us. No matter the question, AI answers without hesitation. It writes novels, composes songs and directs films in an instant. There is no way to avoid this fire. What kind of wisdom, then, do we need in the face of these fierce flames?”
The statement continued, highlighting a crucial distinction between human and artificial intelligence: “Here lies the fundamental difference between humans and AI. AI closes the door of possibility with the most probable answer. Humans reopen that door with a greater question. … And books are the records of those great questions.”
To delve deeper into these profound questions, the book fair is hosting numerous renowned writers. Notable participating novelists include Baik Sou Linne, Chung Bora, Eun Hee-kyung, and Kim Ae-ran, alongside celebrated poets Ahn Mi-ok and Oh Eun, all contributing to rich literary discussions.
Marking a significant cultural milestone, France has been honored as the guest country for this year’s Seoul International Book Fair. This special invitation commemorates the 140th anniversary of diplomatic ties between South Korea and France.
Esteemed French writers are actively participating, enriching the program with their insights into French literature and culture. Attendees can look forward to appearances by renowned novelist Bernard Werber, popular children’s literature authors Marie-Aude Murail and Anne Laval, and distinguished philosopher Pascal Bruckner.
Beyond literary discussions, the book fair also features crucial seminars addressing contemporary challenges for the global publishing industry, particularly in the wake of the AI boom. Additionally, organizers have scheduled sessions exploring the unique publishing landscapes in various countries, including Bangladesh, Singapore, Taiwan, and Turkey.
