On July 5, 2026, South Korea's MBC reported that Korean literature is gaining popularity in Japan and "has moved beyond a boom and established itself as a genre."

An event titled "K-BOOK in TOKYO," themed on Korean literature, is being held from the 3rd to the 23rd of this month at Tsutaya Books Daikanyama in Tokyo, attracting many Japanese visitors. The literature manager at the store stated, "I think it's the same at any bookstore, but Korean literature occupies a considerably large space," and the report conveys that "Korean literature has become established as a genre in Japan, not just a temporary boom."

The major turning point was Cho Nam-joo's bestselling novel "Kim Jiyoung, Born 1982," translated and published in 2018. It sold approximately 300,000 copies in the Japanese publishing industry, where "foreign literature is considered a success if it sells over 100,000 copies," strongly impressing the presence of Korean literature. Subsequently, Korean works received successive awards in the translated novel category of the "Japan Booksellers' Award." Two years ago, Han Kang's Nobel Prize in Literature further elevated the reputation of Korean literature.

Hwang Bo-reum, author of "Welcome to the Hyunam-dong Bookshop," said, "I think the diversification of Korean literature itself is a big factor. Recently, there are works in a wide range of genres, from sci-fi and fantasy to horror and humanism, and they are supported by many readers."

Japanese readers evaluate Korean literature by saying, "Its appeal lies not only in depicting social issues such as gender problems and intergenerational conflict but also in its ability to resonate as 'one's own story.'" Additionally, voices such as, "There are many works with skillful emotional descriptions, allowing readers to naturally empathize as they read," and "One can learn about various aspects of Korean society. Surprisingly, there are parts that are similar to Japanese society," have also been heard.

Recently, Korean books of various genres, including children's books and practical guides, have been translated into Japanese and published. The article concluded by stating, "The empathy born from a single book deepens mutual understanding and serves as a bridge connecting both countries."

In response to this article, Korean netizens commented with remarks such as, "Korean literature is spreading beyond Japan to the world," "Korea's status has risen in all aspects," "Many Japanese authors' novels have been translated and published in Korea for a long time. Have Japanese people finally started paying attention to Korean literature?", "During the Shinzo Abe administration, anti-Korean books were selling. In the end, manufactured hatred cannot overcome truth and sincerity," "Koreans also like the works of Japanese authors like Haruki Murakami and Keigo Higashino. It would be great if both countries' engagement with each other's literary works builds a foundation for broader mutual understanding," and "I hope cultural exchange between both countries becomes even more active in the future." (Translation/Editing: Mae)