A Century of Queer Korean Fiction

Queer Korean literature has flourished in recent years, with openly queer or transgender writers gaining national and international attention. This collection of nine stories explores the rich variety of queer Korean writing, placing expressions of queerness in historical and cultural context. It features works by canonical authors and recovered from archives, reflecting the diversity of modern Korean literature.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 316 pages
Publication date: 08 December 2023
Publisher: Modern Language Association of America

South Korea has witnessed a remarkable surge in queer literature, film, and Internet culture in the past few decades, driven by the tireless efforts of activists advocating for LGBTQ+ rights. Among the notable figures in this movement are openly queer or transgender writers like Kim Bi, Sang Young Park, and Yi Seoyoung, who have gained national and international recognition for their works. However, the rich tapestry of queer Korean writing extends far into the past, as evidenced by the nine captivating stories featured in this collection.

Beginning with contemporary fiction by Kim, Park, and Yi, this collection traverses the past century, placing expressions of queerness within historical and cultural contexts. It delves into the sometimes problematic norms prevalent in these stories while also exploring the potential these texts hold for challenging binaries of sex and gender. The collection showcases a diverse range of modern Korean literature, featuring canonical authors such as Yi Kwangsu, Yi Kiyŏng, Choe Chŏnghŭi, and O Chŏnghŭi, as well as works by Yu Sŭngjin and Kim Sunyŏng that have been recovered from archives.

The volume includes a selection of works that reflect the rich diversity of Korean literature during the 20th century. Yundo Is Back (2017) by Kim Bi is a poignant portrayal of a young man's journey of self-discovery and acceptance. My Queer Year of Junior High (2016) by Sang Young Park offers a humorous and relatable exploration of coming out and navigating teenage years. Saltwater Baths (2006) by Yi Seoyoung is a thought-provoking exploration of identity and sexuality in a modern Korean context. Traditional Solo (1970) by Choe Chŏnghŭi is a poignant tale of a man's search for love and belonging in a society that values conformity. Struggling amid This Despair (1965) by Yi Kwangsu is a powerful exploration of the struggles faced by LGBTQ+ individuals in South Korea during the early years of the nation's development. Spring (1950) by Yi Kiyŏng is a poignant portrayal of a young man's journey of self-discovery and love in the aftermath of the Korean War.

In addition to these contemporary works, the collection also features selections from the novel Spring (1940), Dear Sister, I'm Off to the Moon (1933), and Yun Kwangho (1918). These texts provide a glimpse into the historical context of queer Korean writing and offer a deeper understanding of the challenges and struggles faced by LGBTQ+ individuals in different periods of Korean history.

Overall, this collection serves as a testament to the resilience and creativity of queer Korean writers and artists, who have used their work to challenge societal norms, promote inclusivity, and advocate for LGBTQ+ rights. It is a valuable resource for scholars, students, and anyone interested in exploring the rich and diverse history of queer culture in South Korea.

Dimension: 216 x 140 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781603296274
Edition number: Critical Edition