The History of Modern Korean Fiction (1890-1945): The Topography of Literary Systems and Form

The book explores the history of modern Korean literature from a sociocultural perspective, arguing that the development of media, shifting conceptualizations of the author, and a growing mass readership shaped the types of narratives that appeared at the turn of the twentieth century.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 322 pages
Publication date: 15 May 2022
Publisher: Lexington Books

This captivating book delves into the rich tapestry of modern Korean literature, offering a sociocultural lens through which to understand its evolution. Rather than limiting its scope to individual authors and their works, Young Min Kim takes a broader approach, arguing that the advent of modern media, evolving conceptions of the author, and the burgeoning mass readership played pivotal roles in shaping the narratives that emerged at the turn of the twentieth century.

In particular, Kim takes us on a fascinating journey as he explores the rise of sin sosŏl (new fiction), a genre that seamlessly integrated with the new print and media culture, giving birth to innovative and hybrid literary styles. Through meticulous analysis, Kim sheds light on the intricate interplay between literary systems and forms, emphasizing the importance of contextualizing literary texts within their sociohistorical contexts.

The book unfolds in a series of compelling chapters, each dedicated to exploring different aspects of modern Korean literature's sociocultural landscape. Kim begins by tracing the historical roots of Korean literature, examining how it evolved in response to the social, political, and cultural transformations of the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. He then delves into the impact of colonialism and the Japanese occupation on Korean literature, highlighting the ways in which writers sought to resist and reclaim their cultural identity.

As the book progresses, Kim focuses on the emergence of sin sosŏl as a genre that broke free from traditional storytelling conventions. He explores how writers used new media, such as newspapers and magazines, to reach a wider audience and how they experimented with different narrative structures and styles to capture the essence of Korean society in the early twentieth century. Kim also examines the role of women in sin sosŏl, highlighting the ways in which they challenged traditional gender roles and contributed to the development of a more inclusive literary landscape.

Throughout the book, Kim employs a multidisciplinary approach, drawing on a range of literary, cultural, and social theories to provide a comprehensive analysis of modern Korean literature. He seamlessly integrates historical, theoretical, and critical perspectives, offering readers a rich and nuanced understanding of the genre's development and its significance in shaping Korean society.

In conclusion, this book is a must-read for anyone interested in modern Korean literature, culture, and society. Young Min Kim's insightful analysis and compelling storytelling make it an invaluable resource for scholars, students, and enthusiasts alike. Through its exploration of the sociocultural factors that shaped modern Korean literature, the book offers a fresh perspective on the genre's evolution and its role in shaping Korean cultural identity.

Weight: 490g
Dimension: 230 x 154 x 24 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781793631916