By Honorary Reporter Jadiene Shani Teng from Philippines
Photos = Jadiene Shani Teng

The Korean Cultural Center (KCC) in the Philippines on Sept. 12 hosted a book talk at the center's library with author Park Sang-young on his LGBTQ novel "Love in the Big City."

The Korean Cultural Center in Taguig, the Philippines, on Sept. 12 hosted a book talk with novelist Park Sang-young on his book "Love in the Big City." 

The event opened with two members of the center's book club sharing their thoughts on the book. 

Natalie Tabayan said she gained insights about love while reading the book, like how love in big cities can be both terrifying and rewarding. Maricar Maza said the novel's ideas that impacted her included the diverse forms of love such as with friends, family and lovers.

"Love in the Big City" is Park's first novel translated into English. He said he wrote the book to tell his story, targeting readers with a similar mindset. 

He said he was surprised to learn that the book resonated across generations and even abroad, clarifying that the majority of the story was fiction and just a small part was about him.

One thing that struck me was Park's description of his writing style. He said he hates books considered difficult to read, wanting his works to be easy to read and understood under the mantra "I hope I find this story fun." 

A touching moment at the talk was Park's realization of the power of novels as friends to alleviate isolation, particularly in big cities. In high school, he said he read a novel that became his comfort during those times, and after reading reviews of his book, he said he was happy that his book was a source of comfort to many.

Author Park Sang-young talks about his inspirations, writing style and plans at the book talk hosted by the KCC in the Philippines.

Released in 2019, "Love in the Big City" was a bestseller in Korea. The movie adaptation is set for release this month and a drama is in the works, with Park writing the screenplay.

The audience also asked Park many questions, many of which centered on the writing and translation of his book, his thoughts on LGBTQ culture, and the movie and TV adaptations of his novel.

Author Park Sang-young signs copies of his book and poses for a photo with Honorary Reporter from the Philippines Jadiene Shani Teng. 

Park also signed copies of his book after the event, writing each person's name and posing for photos. I found his personality, openness and honesty captivating during the talk and look forward to the movie and drama adaptations of his novel and his works to come.

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.