South Korea launches nationwide 'Late-Night Bookstore' program on Wednesdays

Local bookstores across South Korea are set to transform into vibrant cultural hubs every Wednesday evening as part of the new 'Culture Day Wednesday x Late-Night Bookstore' initiative. The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, in collaboration with the Korean Publishing Culture Industry Promotion Agency and the Korean Bookstore Association, announced the program's launch on August 5.

Seventy bookstores, selected through a public call in June, will extend their operating hours to host a diverse array of reading and cultural programs. These events are designed to highlight each bookstore's unique character and regional identity. The participating bookstores, spread across Seoul, Gyeonggi, Gangwon, Chungcheong, Jeolla, Gyeongsang, and Jeju, will receive operational funding of up to 2.8 million won each.

Program examples include 'The Night When Books Begin After the Movie' in Gangneung, where participants can discuss films and books with local filmmakers. In Mokpo, 'Podo Books' is partnering with the local independent film festival to offer unique cultural experiences. These initiatives aim to foster a deeper connection between communities, their local culture, and the world of literature.