Japanese Mystery Master Keigo Higashino Dies at 68; His Works Top Korean Library Loans

Japanese mystery novelist Keigo Higashino, renowned for his compelling narratives, passed away from colon cancer at the age of 68. The news, reported on July 27, has reignited interest in his extensive body of work among Korean readers.

Higashino has long held a significant presence in the South Korean publishing market, outselling even celebrated authors like Haruki Murakami. He began his literary career in 1985 as an engineer, publishing his first mystery novel, 'After School.' Over the years, his writing evolved from traditional mysteries to 'socially-minded mysteries' and complex emotional thrillers, exploring profound human questions about crime, punishment, desire, and the unpredictability of life.

Data underscores Higashino's immense popularity in Korea. Between January 2009 and January 2019, his novels sold over 1.27 million copies, placing him at the top of fiction sales compiled by Kyobo Book Center, ahead of Murakami's 1 million. This trend continued with his latest novel, 'The Devotion of Suspect X,' which became a bestseller upon its release last year, marking 40 years since his debut.

His influence extends significantly into public libraries. An analysis of library lending data from 2016 to July 2026 revealed that 'The Miracles of the Namiya General Store' is the most borrowed book nationwide, with over 277,000 checkouts. In total, 15 of Higashino's works are among the top 1000 most borrowed books, excluding children's and educational materials, the highest number for any single author. This deep connection with Korean readers solidifies his legacy as a beloved figure in the country's literary landscape.

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The Miracles of the Namiya General Store has been the most borrowed book in libraries nationwide.