K-Literature Book Club: Stories of Korea (Fall 2026 Session!)
K-Literature Book Club: Stories of Korea is an in-person fall reading and discussion series from the Korean Cultural Center Washington, DC. The program explores three contemporary Korean novels that consider empathy, resilience, community, memory, compassion, and the human connections that shape life in a rapidly changing world. Each gathering combines guided conversation with opportunities for participants to exchange ideas and personal perspectives about Korean literature and modern Korea.
The featured works range from imaginative science fiction to warm, character-driven stories of everyday life. Newcomers and longtime readers are welcome, and participants may apply to receive a complimentary English-language copy of their selected book, while supplies last.
When: September 22 through November 3, 2026
Showtimes: If We Cannot Go at the Speed of Light meets Tuesday, September 22, at 6:00 PM. A Thousand Blues meets Tuesday, October 6, at 6:00 PM. The Second Chance Convenience Store meets Tuesday, November 3, at 6:00 PM.
Venue: Korean Cultural Center Washington, DC
Format: In-person only, with no virtual option. Meetings use a casual format centered on guided discussion and open conversation.
Featured books: If We Cannot Go at the Speed of Light by Cho-yeop Kim is an award-winning science-fiction story collection about love, loss, memory, and human connection, combining scientific imagination with emotional questions about humanity. A Thousand Blues by Seon-ran Cheon follows a racehorse, a humanoid robot, and a family connected through compassion and care, exploring empathy, hope, and the meaning of being human. The Second Chance Convenience Store by Ho-yeon Kim is set in a Seoul neighborhood store, where relationships among ordinary customers and workers develop into a warm story about kindness, community, and new beginnings.
Language: Discussions will be conducted primarily in English.
Books: Applicants may receive a complimentary English-language copy of their chosen book for pickup at the Korean Cultural Center Washington. Quantities are limited and copies are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. Book pickup is scheduled for August 24–28, 2026. Participants who already own a featured book may still register for its discussion.
Registration: Sign-up is ongoing. Book and session choices will be removed from the registration form as they fill, and the form will close once all sessions are full. The September 22 discussion of If We Cannot Go at the Speed of Light is currently full.
Participation note: Preference may be given to applicants who are not registered for multiple sessions so that more people can participate. Selected participants will receive a final confirmation email after the sign-up period. Those hoping to attend a particular session are encouraged to submit that book’s sign-up first.
Refreshments: Light refreshments will be provided at each meeting.
Tickets: Price not available
Questions: Email culturedc@mofa.or.kr for assistance with the program.