Han Kang Wins Nobel Prize in Literature for Poetic Prose

South Korean author Han Kang won the 2024 Nobel Prize in Literature for her poetic prose that explores historical trauma. Known for her novel 'The Vegetarian,' Kang's work addresses the fragility of human life. She is celebrated for her unique narrative style that connects body and soul.

South Korean author Han Kang has secured the 2024 Nobel Prize in Literature, lauded for her intense poetic prose that confronts historical trauma and highlights human fragility. This prestigious accolade is conferred by the Swedish Academy, encompassing a prize sum of 11 million Swedish crowns, equivalent to $1.1 million.

Chairman of the Academy's Nobel Committee, Anders Olsson, recognized Kang's pioneering approach in contemporary literature, noting her ability to intricately connect the corporeal and spiritual. Kang, marking history as South Korea's first Nobel laureate in literature, initially emerged in 1993 through her poetry, with her breakout in prose occurring in 1995.

Kang's significant international recognition came with the translation of her novel 'The Vegetarian' in 2016, which earned her the Man Booker International Prize. Ahead of the Nobel announcement, her victory was unexpected amidst speculations favoring other global authors. Nonetheless, Kang's thematic emphasis on historical consciousness and societal critique has established her as a formidable literary force.

(With inputs from agencies.)