In a remarkable transformation, Pohang, traditionally known as the "Steel City," is set to redefine its identity as the "Book City" of South Korea in 2024. This significant change symbolizes a new chapter in the city's cultural and intellectual landscape, emphasizing the power of books to inspire, educate, and unite communities.
The Inauguration of a Literary Era
The official declaration will take place at a ceremony on March 28, 2024, at the Change Up Ground in Pohang, marking the beginning of an exciting journey towards promoting reading culture. This event not only celebrates Pohang's new title but also sets the stage for the 2024 Korea Book Festival, the country's largest reading culture festival, scheduled for September 27 to 29.
A Decade of Literary Promotion
The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, in collaboration with the Korea Publishing Culture Industry Promotion Agency, has been at the forefront of this initiative since 2014. By selecting a new city each year to host the Korea Book Festival, they aim to spread a culture of reading across the nation. Pohang's selection as the 2024 Book City is a testament to its rich literary foundation, including eight municipal libraries, 49 community libraries, and a history of hosting diverse book-related festivals and over 540 reading culture programs annually.
Embracing the Theme: Meeting Books by the East Sea
Under the theme "Meeting Books by the East Sea," Pohang plans to offer a range of reading culture programs throughout the year, culminating in the Korea Book Festival in September. The city aims to engage even those traditionally less interested in reading by offering enticing programs and integrating reading with various fields through experiential programs.
The year-long festivities include initiatives like "Reading Marathon" on the Book Festival's website, a local bookstore stamp tour called "Walking into Bookstores," a "Sea Music Concert" combining reading and music, and "Lecture Concert: Book Cafe with Sisters," featuring authors related to the Pohang area.
The Culmination: 2024 Korea Book Festival
The main event of the Korea Book Festival will showcase an extensive collaboration among institutions and organizations related to books, publishing, bookstores, and libraries. It aims to spread reading culture across Pohang, especially around the Yeongildae area, enhancing the city's literary atmosphere and accessibility to books for everyone.
A New Chapter for Pohang
As Pohang embarks on its journey as the 2024 Book City, it's an invitation for all to join in the celebration of reading. The Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism expresses its hope for the success of Pohang's diverse reading promotion programs and looks forward to the city flourishing as a beacon of literature and culture in South Korea.
In transforming from a steel powerhouse to a literary haven, Pohang is set to prove that cities can redefine their identities and contribute to the cultural richness of a nation. Let's all look forward to experiencing the joy of reading together in the Book City of Pohang in 2024.
