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French Author Bernard Werber Highlights Power of Reading and Imagination in Seoul
🇰🇷 South Korea /Culture & Society

French Author Bernard Werber Highlights Power of Reading and Imagination in Seoul

From Dong-A Ilbo · () Korean

Translated from Korean, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

In-depth Named sources Outcome reported
  • French author Bernard Werber spoke at a humanities lecture in Seoul, South Korea, celebrating the 140th anniversary of diplomatic ties between France and South Korea.
  • Werber emphasized the power of imagination and the positive impact of reading, suggesting it could reduce global conflicts and human greed.
  • The event, attended by about 200 people, highlighted the importance of humanities and deep thinking in an era dominated by short-form digital content.

Acclaimed French novelist Bernard Werber shared his insights on the power of imagination and the value of humanities with a South Korean audience during a special lecture in Seoul.

The event, held on May 26th at the National Library of Korea, commemorated the 140th anniversary of diplomatic relations between South Korea and France. Approximately 200 attendees, selected by lottery, gathered to hear Werber, known for his bestselling works like 'Empire of the Ants' and 'Thanatos Trilogy,' discuss his latest novel, 'The Waltz of the Souls.'

Werber passionately advocated for the benefits of reading, proposing that increased engagement with books and deeper contemplation could naturally lead to a reduction in global wars and selfish human desires. He articulated a profound perspective on literature's potential to contribute to human peace, extending beyond mere entertainment.

If people encountered books more often and developed the habit of thinking deeply, the numerous wars and selfish human greed on Earth would naturally decrease.

— Bernard WerberThe French novelist shared his thoughts on the positive impact of reading during a lecture in Seoul.

Moderated by literary editor Kang Yoon-jeong and translated by Ewha Womans University professor Choi Mi-kyung, the lecture aimed to foster cultural exchange and mutual understanding. Choi Yoon-kyung, head of the National Library's International Exchange and Public Relations team, expressed hope that the encounter would inspire attendees to recognize the importance of humanities, challenge their own preconceptions, and gain wisdom and new inspiration.

The author's message resonated particularly in a time when many modern individuals struggle with lengthy texts due to a growing addiction to short-form video content on smartphones. Werber's emphasis on deep thinking and the profound impact of reading offered a significant reflection on why engaging with books remains essential.

It is very rewarding to be able to communicate with a world-renowned master in such a meaningful year marking the 140th anniversary of diplomatic ties between the two countries.

— Choi Yoon-kyungHead of the National Library's International Exchange and Public Relations team, reflecting on the event.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Dong-A Ilbo in Korean. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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