By Honorary Reporter Andra Michaela Pena from Romania

The Romanian capital of Bucharest in early summer is alive with art, conversation and the scent of fresh books. The city's biggest literary event, Bookfest, is a meeting ground for readers, writers, publishers and dreamers and where stories from around the world come alive. 

The 18th Bookfest ran from May 28 to June 1 and set an attendance record, with over 30,000 visitors reported on May 31 alone. 

Litera Publishing House presents the Asian Literature Lovers' Corner at the fair. (Editura Litera)

Litera Publishing House, marking its 35th anniversary, showcased an Asian Literature Lovers' Corner introducing works from Korea, Japan and China. 

A visitor (left) tries traditional Korean calligraphy and another samples Korean snacks. (Editura Litera and CSRK)

Among the Asian releases, the Korean novel "Welcome to the Hyunam-Dong Bookshop" by Hwang Bo-reum quickly became a bestseller at the Litera stand, ranking fifth in sales. The tale of healing, resilience and the quiet magic of second chances was discussed by guests including Serban Georgescu, director of Asian studies at the Romanian-American University.

The novel "Welcome to the Hyunam-Dong Bookshop" by Hwang Bo-reum was the fifth bestselling book of this year's Bookfair in Bucharest. (Editura Litera and Andra Michaela Pena)

Having read the English-language edition last year, I was thrilled to see it finally reach Romanian shelves. I find that its strength lies in its authentic emotional depth rather than dramatic plot twists. 

One passage that stayed with me is when the protagonist Yeong-ju thinks, "Good things in books shouldn't just stay in ink and on paper. I want things happening around me to be good stories that can be shared with others…I want to try running the bookshop for a longer time. I love this bookshop, the people I've met. I love being here. I want to keep this place alive."

For me, the novel was a reminder to bring what we learn from stories into real life, not just leave them trapped between the covers.

In addition, calligraphy demonstrations and gimbap (seaweed rice rolls) from K-Food Romania spiced up the atmosphere.

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.