By Honorary Reporter Ana Paula Camacho Perez from Mexico
Photos by = Ana Paula Camacho Perez

Part of Korea's cultural richness can be found in its centuries of literature. Born in the village of Sile, Chuncheon, Gangwon-do Province, Kim Youjeong is one of the authors who left a large mark on Korean literature. Kim’s hometown, Sile (literally “rice cake steamer” and named due to the village's shape), is where he and his novels have become timeless.

Kim Youjeong Station in Chuncheon is named after the author. 

The village is truly breathtaking. It is colorful and full of nature, and the Hanok (traditional houses) make visitors feel as if they are visiting Kim's village back in the early 1900s. The residents of the town have re-created and now preserve the Sile where he developed his literary talent. There are several statues based on Kim’s novels, such as "Spring, Spring" (1935) and "Camellia Flower" (1936), which are placed throughout the village as if they live there.

The colorful Literary Village of Kim Youjeong. 

I visited The Literary Village of Kim Youjeong on June 23, 2021 and Aug. 2, 2022. During both visits, I went to the "Spring, Spring” workshop, where people can rent Hanbok (traditional attire) inspired by characters from his books. The owner, who has dedicated her life to making Hanbok, enthusiastically explained how she made every piece of clothing and the story behind the novel's character it was based on. Other activities include learning how to make pottery, and visiting Kim’s childhood home, which residents and visiting students have restored.

People can rent Hanbok at the "Spring, Spring" workshop. 

There are museums in the village where some of Kim's handwritten letters, as well as original editions of "Spring, Spring" and "Camellia Flower" are on display. Visitors can learn about Kim's inspiration, his years as a student, and his life and legacy.

The Memorial Hall: Permanent Exhibition is where people can get to know more about Kim’s life in chronological order. They can also watch videos and see other artwork inspired by his writing, and purchase his novels.

Kim Youjeong's novels are on display in The Memorial Hall: Permanent Exhibition.

The village commemorates Kim as one of the most important figures in the history of Korean literature, hosting events throughout the year, including the Kim Youjeong Literary Festival, and plays based on his novels. It is a must-go-to place for lovers of the country’s literature.

msjeon22@korea.kr

*This article is written by a Korea.net Honorary Reporter. Our group of Honorary Reporters are from all around the world, and they share with Korea.net their love and passion for all things Korean.