▲ Official poster of the 1st Oxford Korean Literature Festival ⓒ University of Oxford's Faculty of Asian and Middle Eastern Studies

The University of Oxford’s Faculty of Asian and Middle Eastern Studies marked a milestone with its first annual Korean Literature Night, held on Friday. The event featured Cha In-pyo, esteemed actor and novelist, as a distinguished guest.

Taking place at the Ioannou Centre for Classical & Byzantine Studies, the evening commenced with Cha presenting his acclaimed 2009 novel "Once We Look at the Same Star," which delves into the sensitive topic of sex slavery in the Japanese military during World War II. The discussion that followed was moderated by Korean linguistics professor Jieun Kiaer, exploring the novel’s themes, Cha’s literary vision, and his aspirations for future generations.

"We are honored to host such an event at Oxford, renowned for its leadership in the humanities and deep literary heritage," remarked Sun Seung-hye, director of the Korea Cultural Center UK, co-sponsor of the event alongside the National Library of Korea.

Cha’s novel offers a poignant portrayal of Korea’s modern history, emphasizing themes of forgiveness and reconciliation. Inspired by the true story of Hun, a "comfort woman" displaced to Cambodia, Cha’s perspective has evolved from initial anger to advocating empathy as crucial for healing and understanding across generations.

Cha In-pyo, aged 57, has enjoyed a successful career in acting since his debut in 1994 and has actively engaged in philanthropy and writing. Recognized for his advocacy and volunteer efforts, Cha is the author of three published novels.

His debut work, "Once We Look at the Same Star," originally released in 2009 and reissued in 2021, portrays life in the 1930s during Japan’s colonial rule of Korea. The novel follows Suni, a young woman from a rural village forced into sexual slavery, and those who resist Japanese occupation. Currently, the novel is undergoing translations into English, German, and French.

Sayart / Jiyoung Kim, kim@sayart.net