Sejong Cultural Society free zoom book club
The Sejong Book Club is a Zoom-based free series designed for the average adult reader to learn more about Korean literature in translation.
The next meeting will be a discussion of Sky, Wind, Stars, and Poems (by Don-Ju Yun with translation by Jongho Park) on Thursday, May 14, 7 p.m. (Central), moderated by Sarah Petrovic (professor at Emmanuel University, Franklin Springs, Georgia).
Despite the oppressive political climate of his time, Dong-ju Yun fearlessly spoke out against Japanese colonial rule of Korea (which began and 1911 and lasted until the end of World War II in 1945). Yun used his poetry as a powerful tool of resistance. In 1943, he was arrested for his anti-Japanese activities and imprisoned in Fukuoka, Japan. He died at age 27 under mysterious circumstances while in captivity.
Each discussion in the series will include guided reading notes and discussion points. Registration is required to receive the Zoom link and discussion outline. Registration is at this link.
The Sejong Book Club invites readers from around the world to explore Korean literature in English translation. Led by distinguished professors of literature, the online discussions offer a welcoming space to connect through reading, reflection, and cultural exchange.
Each session highlights a major Korean work translated into English, examining its themes, historical background, and artistic vision. Discussions are held several times a year, and all sessions are conducted in English.
The book club is one offering of the Sejong Cultural Society, a Chicago-based non-profit organization that offers annual music and sijo (Korean poetry) competitions for adults and youth, along with other cultural events. Its programs are targeted to a wide audience and designed to teach Korean music, literature and culture through fun and interactive events, workshops and performances.
Future Sejong Book Club meeting dates and titles:
Thursday, July 23 The Potter by Kim Unsu
Thursday, September 24 The Vegetarian by Han Kang
Thursday, November 19 Hello Baby by Kim Eui-Kyung
More information on the Sejong Cultural Society is available at the link.
