Criticism should be an engaging read in itself, not just praise

Literary critic Kwon Sung-woo, author of the recently released collection 'Exile and Intellect,' champions criticism that stands as an engaging read on its own merits. He notes a perceived decline in intellectual depth within contemporary literature, with many works leaning towards emotional appeals and sensitive topics rather than profound societal reflection.

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Criticism should be an engaging read in itself, with its own unique personality.

Kwon, who has been writing criticism for over three decades, has consistently gravitated towards writers who grapple with complex themes and offer unique perspectives. His latest book delves into the works of authors such as Choi In-hoon, Kim Sok-bom, Seo Kyung-sik, and literary critic Kim Yun-sik. He is particularly drawn to diaspora writers, like Seo Kyung-sik, whose experiences navigating multiple cultures and identities provide a distinct and often critical lens on society. Kwon is currently researching the resistance, intellect, and writing of Seo Kyung-sik and his brothers, who were victims of a fabricated espionage case.

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The role of literature in exploding oppressive political realities and uniform cultures through literary intellect is still required, no matter how times change.

His critical approach often diverges from the mainstream literary scene, focusing on his own tastes and in-depth exploration. Kwon has been a vocal critic of what he terms "praise-singing criticism" prevalent in major literary magazines, where reviews often appear to be commissioned pieces praising works from affiliated publishing houses. This stance led him to distance himself from the established literary circles, forging an independent path. He believes this independence allows him to observe contradictions and dynamics within the literary world that might be missed by those embedded within the system.

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There are many works that contain deep reflection on the times, but they are decreasing compared to before. This is a phenomenon of intellectual decline.

Kwon expresses regret that Kim Sok-bom's novel 'Hwasando,' which he considers a masterpiece that comprehensively and profoundly explores the Jeju 4.3 incident, has not received adequate attention from major literary journals, even 11 years after its complete Korean translation. He notes that several Japanese and Zainichi Korean scholars and writers have considered 'Hwasando' a potential Nobel Prize-worthy work, and he himself regards it as the finest Korean literary work of contemporary times. He questions why literary magazines, which should engage with such significant works, have shown indifference, especially when the novel masterfully blends literary quality with historical progress.

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There is a fierceness, depth, and wound that people who have directly gone through pain and sorrow show in their works.