Nobel Laureate Han Kang's Seoul bookstore closes amid gentrification

Korean author Han Kang has closed her independent bookstore, Onul Books, after eight years. The bookstore was known for its carefully selected books, reading sessions, book clubs and writing classes that attracted readers from Korea and other countries.

The bookstore first opened in Seoul's Yangjae area in 2018 and later moved to Seochon in 2023. Although Han stepped down as the bookstore's head in 2021, she remained involved as a board member and hosted the final reading event before it closed.

Han explained that the bookstore had to close because the building was sold, and all tenants were asked to leave. Since she has been spending long periods overseas, she said it was difficult to find a new location right away.

Although she felt sad about the closure, Han expressed gratitude for the eight years the bookstore served readers. She hopes to reorganize and possibly open another bookstore in the future.

The closure has also raised concerns about gentrification in Seoul. As neighborhoods like Seochon become more popular, rising property prices and rents make it difficult for small bookstores, artists and independent businesses to stay.

Edited using generative AI tools. 
Source : https://www.koreatimes.co.kr/lifestyle/books/20260708/nobel-laureate-han-kangs-seoul-bookstore-closes-amid-gentrification

Comprehension

Why did Han Kang's bookstore close?
What activities were offered at Onul Books?
Why couldn't Han Kang immediately open a new bookstore?
How did Han Kang feel about the bookstore's closing?
What problem in Seochon does the article highlight?

Discussion

Have you ever visited an independent bookstore?
Why are bookstores important in a community?
Would you rather buy books online or from a bookstore? Why?
What activities would you like a bookstore to offer?
What is gentrification? Is it always a good thing?
How can cities help protect small local businesses?
If you owned a bookstore, what kind of books would you sell?
Do you think physical bookstores will survive in the digital age? Why or why not?

Vocabulary

independent – not owned or controlled by a large company
curated – carefully chosen or organized
literary – related to books or writing
relocate – to move to a new place
tenant – a person or business that rents a building or space
gratitude – the feeling of being thankful
gentrification – the process where an area becomes more expensive, causing small businesses or residents to leave
neighborhood – a local area where people live or work