The Swedish Academy has awarded the 2024 Nobel Prize in Literature to South Korean author Han Kang, recognising her “intense poetic prose that confronts historical traumas and exposes the fragility of human life.”
The announcement, made Thursday, October 10 in Stockholm, marks a significant moment for Asian literature on the global stage. Han Kang, born in 1970 in Gwangju, South Korea, has become the first Korean author to receive this prestigious accolade.
Han’s oeuvre, characterised by its poetic and experimental style, has been praised for its unique exploration of the connections between body and soul, the living and the dead. Her work often delves into historical traumas and societal norms, challenging readers to confront uncomfortable truths about human existence.
The author’s international breakthrough came with her novel The Vegetarian (2007), which garnered widespread acclaim upon its English translation in 2015. The book’s haunting narrative of a woman’s decision to stop eating meat and its profound consequences captivated readers worldwide.
Han’s other notable works include Human Acts (2014), a powerful examination of the 1980 Gwangju Uprising and The White Book (2016), a meditative exploration of grief and loss. Her most recent novel, We Do Not Part (2021), further cements her reputation as a master of confronting historical trauma through literature.
The Nobel Committee highlighted Han’s ability to blend physical and mental anguish in her narratives, drawing connections to Eastern philosophical traditions. Her writing often features characters grappling with pain, both inherited and personal, as they navigate complex emotional landscapes.
Critics have lauded Han’s innovative approach to prose, which often blurs the lines between genres. Her work frequently incorporates elements of poetry, visual art, and music, reflecting her multidisciplinary background and interests.
The award to Han Kang is seen as a recognition of the growing influence of Korean literature on the world stage. It follows a surge of global interest in Korean culture, from K-pop to cinema, with literature now taking center stage.
As the recipient of the 2024 Nobel Prize in Literature, Han Kang joins the ranks of literary giants such as Wole Soyinka, Gabriel García Márquez, Toni Morrison and Kazuo Ishiguro. Her selection underscores the Nobel Committee’s commitment to recognizing diverse voices in world literature.
The prize, which includes a gold medal and a substantial monetary award, will be presented to Han Kang at the annual Nobel Prize ceremony in December.
•Featured image: Han Kang. Ill. Niklas Elmehed © Nobel Prize Outreach
