The Korean Cultural Center in Brazil took part in the 5th Mário de Andrade Festival on October 25, joining one of São Paulo's most significant cultural celebrations. The festival honored both the literary legacy of Brazilian writer Mário de Andrade and marked the 100th anniversary of the Mário de Andrade Library, offering visitors a diverse array of free cultural programming throughout the event.
Among the festival's many offerings, a special talk focusing on women's narratives in Korean literature was held in the library's Silent Room. The discussion centered around the powerful representation of women in contemporary Korean writing, with particular emphasis on the works of Han Kang, who made history as the first Asian woman and first South Korean author to receive the Nobel Prize in Literature.
Han Kang has established herself as one of the most influential voices in modern literature through her acclaimed novels including "The Vegetarian," "Human Acts," "The White Book," and "We Do Not Part." Her works are renowned for their profound exploration of complex themes such as the human body, memory, and identity, often examining the experiences and struggles of women in contemporary society.
The panel discussion brought together four distinguished speakers who offered diverse perspectives on Korean literature and women's narratives. Ji Yun Kim, Ph.D., served as one of the featured speakers, bringing her expertise as a Professor of Korean Language and Literature at the University of São Paulo (USP). Paulina Cho, co-founder of AIGO, an independent multicultural bookstore, shared insights from her experience in promoting diverse literary voices.
The conversation also included contributions from Ing Lee, an accomplished illustrator and comic artist who recently earned recognition as the winner of the 2024 Young Talent Award. Denise Nobre, creator of Sarangbang—a podcast and platform specifically dedicated to Korean literature—served as the moderator, guiding the discussion and facilitating audience engagement throughout the event.
This literary discussion represented a significant moment in the cultural exchange between Korea and Brazil, highlighting the growing international recognition of Korean literature and its unique perspectives on women's experiences. The participation in such a prestigious festival demonstrates the expanding global reach and appreciation for Korean literary works and their contribution to contemporary world literature.
