One-person publisher finds connection and meaning despite financial challenges

Kim Hwa-young, founder of the one-person publishing house "Book Namul," embarked on her independent publishing journey in March 2021, after an 11-year career as an editor. Her venture began with the publication of her mother's poetry collection, a deeply personal project aimed at creating literature that connects with readers across different age groups. The publishing house's name, "Book Namul" (meaning 'book vegetable' in Korean), was inspired by her fondness for traditional Korean side dishes and her aspiration to meticulously craft each book, much like preparing a delicate dish.

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Although I work alone, I have a sense of connection.

Kim's daily routine is a testament to the demanding nature of running a small publishing house. While she aims for a balanced workday, often starting around 10:30 AM, her schedule is frequently dictated by part-time jobs she holds to sustain the business. She admits that the publishing venture has operated at a financial loss for the past five years, relying on freelance proofreading and editing work to cover living expenses and operational costs. Her diverse income streams include teaching children's reading and writing, assisting with cooking classes, and taking on day labor jobs.

Despite the financial strain, Kim finds deep satisfaction in her work. She fondly recalls her childhood, where her mother's love for reading instilled in her a similar passion. A particularly moving moment was seeing her mother's book displayed in a local bookstore's "Gumi Authors Corner," a significant achievement for both her mother and the nascent publishing house. This experience underscores her commitment to nurturing literary talent and creating meaningful connections through books.

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I thought, 'Then let's call it Book Namul!' and decided.

Kim's journey highlights the challenges faced by independent publishers, particularly those operating solo. The "Book Namul" project, with its "spring cabbage" (bomdong) persona for its social media, reflects Kim's unique approach to branding and reader engagement. While the path is financially arduous, her dedication to her craft and her belief in the power of literature to connect people remain unwavering. She emphasizes the importance of maintaining a sense of connection, even when working independently, finding community through shared passion and communication with designers, printers, and distributors.

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The profit is negative, and I am making a living through external proofreading and editing work.