Han Kang Wins Nobel Prize in Literature, Highlighting the Fragility of Human Life

South Korean author Han Kang has been awarded the 2024 Nobel Prize in literature. Known for her intense poetic prose, Kang's work delves into historical traumas and human fragility. She is among 18 women to have received the prize since its inception in 1901. The Academy praised her innovative style.

South Korean author Han Kang has been named the recipient of the 2024 Nobel Prize in Literature, as announced by the Nobel Committee at the Swedish Academy. Recognized for her intense poetic prose, Kang's work confronts historical traumas and the fragility of human life, showcasing a unique awareness of the connections between body and soul. With this accolade, 18 women have now been awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature since its inception in 1901.

Han Kang's major international breakthrough came with her novel 'The Vegetarian' in 2015, which explores the violent reactions to its protagonist's refusal to conform to societal norms surrounding food. The Academy lauded Kang for using her poetic and experimental style to become an innovator in contemporary prose. Last year's Nobel Prize for Literature went to Norwegian writer Jon Fosse.

This announcement follows three days of Nobel recognition in Medicine, Physics, and Chemistry. As the Nobel Prize Week continues, the Peace Prize will be announced tomorrow, while the Economics Prize is set for October 14. The prizes are accompanied by a cash award of 11 million Swedish crowns (USD 1.1 million), funded by inventor Alfred Nobel's bequest.

(With inputs from agencies.)