Copenhagen, Sweden (DT) – Han Kang, the internationally renowned author of the novel The Vegetarian, has been awarded the Nobel Prize 2024, in Literature.
The South Korean writer received the prestigious honor for her exceptional contributions to literature, noted for her exploration of trauma, identity, and the human condition with striking emotional depth and poetic clarity.
The Swedish Academy praised Han Kang for her profound ability to explore human suffering, both mental and physical, often linking her themes to Eastern philosophical thought. Her work delves into the complexities of trauma, memory, and the human condition, offering readers a poignant and sometimes unsettling reflection on life’s darker aspects.
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In particular, The Vegetarian, which brought Han Kang global recognition, exemplifies her fearless approach to challenging societal norms and exploring deep emotional and psychological struggles.
The novel, which won the Man Booker International Prize in 2016, tells the story of a woman’s radical decision to stop eating meat, unfolding themes of rebellion, violence, and transformation.
The Academy highlighted that Han Kang’s works frequently engage with historical traumas, using a poetic narrative style to emphasize the vulnerability of human life. Her stories resonate not only for their emotional depth but also for their philosophical reflections on existence and suffering.
This award marks a historic moment for South Korea, with Han Kang becoming the first South Korean author to win the Nobel Prize in Literature. Her recognition elevates Korean literature onto the global stage, solidifying her place as one of the most significant voices in contemporary world literature.
Born in 1970 in Gwangju, Han Kang moved to Seoul with her family at the age of 11. She pursued a degree in Korean literature and began her literary career as a poet. However, it was as a novelist that she gained broader recognition.
In 1994, Han Kang won the Seoul Shinmun Prize for her short story “Red Candle,” marking the beginning of a prolific writing career. Since then, she has published several acclaimed short story collections.
Why is Nobel Prize Day celebrated on December 10?
The Nobel Prize is awarded on December 10 each year to honor the legacy of Alfred Nobel, the inventor and philanthropist who established the prizes. This date marks the anniversary of his death in 1896.
By choosing this day, the Nobel Foundation commemorates Nobel’s contributions to science, literature, and peace, in accordance with his will, which directed that his fortune be used to recognize individuals who have made significant contributions to humanity in these fields.
The Nobel Prize in Literature, like all Nobel Prizes, is awarded as part of this tradition.
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