On the morning of Tuesday, June 17, the Korean Cultural Center in Brazil (CCCB) hosted the opening day of the 3rd Korean Literature Symposium at USP. The event took place on the first floor of the center and welcomed an enthusiastic audience that filled the venue with over 40 participants in person and hundreds more watching the livestream on YouTube.

The day began at 9:00 a.m. with participant check-in, followed by opening remarks from Mr. Cheul Hong Kim, Director of the CCCB. Next, Professor Dr. Luis Girão introduced South Korean author Kim Ho-Yeon, who gave a special lecture on Korean bestseller literature and his personal journey as a writer.

Author Kim Ho-Yeon, citing Franz Kafka during his lecture, seated next to Professor Yun Jung Im Park, working as an interpreter.

In his talk, Kim shared key moments from his career, highlighting the difficulties and frustrations he encountered along the way. His message of perseverance and dedication moved the audience. “Writing is a form of prayer,” he said, quoting Franz Kafka — a motto he has followed “religiously” throughout his writing journey. A Q&A session followed, with Kim engaging with both the in-person and online audiences.

A coffee break was offered, including a traditional breakfast for the guests. The second part of the program featured academic presentations by researchers Vitória Ferreira Doretto, Gabrielly Fernanda Spizamilio Silva, and Alanessa Nikole Carvalho da Silva, followed by another Q&A session.

The audience gathered with Gabrielly Fernanda Spizamilio Silva, and Alanessa Nikole Carvalho da Silva, to take a photo after the presentation.

Author Kim Ho-Yeon also held a book signing and photo session with fans, creating memorable moments for readers.

Author Kim Ho-Yeon autographing a fan`s copy of his book.

The symposium continues on June 18 at the University of São Paulo (USP), in Room 266 of the Department of Modern Languages, with more lectures and academic discussions on Korean literature.