by Muhammad Nadeem
SRINAGAR: Nobel laureate Han Kang, the first Korean to win the prestigious Nobel Prize in literature, has chosen not to hold a press conference following her award, citing the current global conflicts. The novelist expressed her refusal through her father, Han Seung-won, a renowned literary figure himself.
During a press event held at the Han Seung-won Literary School in Jangheung, South Jeolla Province, her father shared, “With the war intensifying and people dying daily, she said, ‘How can we celebrate or hold a press conference in times like this?'”
Initially, Han Kang had agreed to consider a press event, but after reflecting overnight, she firmly decided against it. Her father explained that while he had the perspective of a proud parent, her outlook had grown more global, recognizing the gravity of ongoing conflicts such as the Ukraine-Russia war and the Israel-Palestine conflict.
Han Kang also discouraged holding any celebratory gatherings at her father’s literary school. “She said, ‘The Swedish Academy didn’t give me this award for us to celebrate but for us to remain clear-headed amid tragedy,'” Han Seung-won remarked, expressing his internal conflict over her decision.
The Nobel Committee informed Han Kang of her award on Thursday, which she described as both surprising and an honor. However, she has remained silent on the matter since.
This report is based on an article published by The Korea Times.
“In times of great challenge, wisdom lies not in the celebration of personal triumphs but in the embrace of collective responsibility.”