The sudden rise in popularity of a book written by a Korean monk

A book written by the Korean monk Haemin Sumin is suddenly number 1 of the best-selling books in the category of Non-Fiction in the Dutch speaking part of Belgium, Flanders, and this without any marketing or publicity.

In this book, that was published in Dutch three years ago, <The Things You Can See Only When You Slow Down: How to Be Calm in a Busy World>, this Zen Buddhist monk, addresses various life issues such as love, friendship, life goals, family, work and spirituality. His insights and advice help to look for places of rest in today's busy life. For example, he explains how to deal mindfully with negative emotions such as anger and jealousy. Subjects that appeal to an international audience because the book is now available in 35 languages.

Paloma Sanchez van Dijck, who published the book in Belgium and the Netherlands, thinks it sudden popularity is because of the comforting content. “It could be because of the forced situation in which we now live. People want to find some peace of mind. When I look at the themes Haemin covers in his book, it seems to live up to that expectation. It brings you new insights, you get tips and teaches yourself how to calm down in everything you do. That can be about your mood, relationship or career. It also contains short wisdoms, but this is not a tile book. It actually has something to say. ”

Source: De Morgen, De Standaard