Bookstore linked to Nobel laureate Han Kang closes after 8 years

Chaekbang Oneul, an independent bookstore closely associated with Nobel Prize-winning author Han Kang, has closed its doors after eight years.

The bookstore announced its closure Tuesday through its official social media accounts, saying it was "the last day Chaekbang Oneul opens in Seochon."

The store had disclosed the news in late June, noting that it was marking exactly three years since it moved from Yangjae-dong to an alley in Tongui-dong, Jongno-gu, and that the final day of business at that location would fall on that date.

"It was a meaningful time — renting and renovating a space of just over 10 pyeong (about 33 square meters), lighting it up, stocking it with books, meeting customers, introducing a 'writer's shelf' each season, and holding readings and workshops with wonderful people," the store said, reflecting on its run.

"We began preparing in earnest in July 2018 and opened our doors for the first time in September of that year, so we are pausing the bookstore's journey at exactly the eight-year mark," it added. The time and place of any reopening have not yet been decided.

The closure came after the building housing the bookstore was sold. Han's Nobel Prize win had drawn significant public attention to the store, with large crowds flocking to it — a surge that sources said also pushed up real estate prices in the surrounding area.

Chaekbang Oneul originally opened in Yangjae-dong, Seocho-gu, Seoul in 2018 before relocating to Tongui-dong, Jongno-gu, in July 2023.

Han took a hands-on role in running the store, personally writing shelf notes, arranging books on display and organizing various events.

When Han won the Nobel Prize in Literature in October 2024, crowds descended on the bookstore in such numbers that it was forced to temporarily suspend operations.

Han stepped down as the store's chief executive in August 2021 and had since served as an inside director, according to sources.

Online users who saw the closure announcement left messages of encouragement, with comments including: "Thanks to the booksellers' warm welcome and recommendations, I always found great books there — thank you for everything," and "It was only a brief connection, but I'm grateful. The late-evening piano playing has stayed with me."

ygmoon@heraldcorp.com