Celebrating its 70th year, the Seoul International Book Fair (SIBF) has evolved from a national exhibition into one of Asia’s most significant cultural and literary events. What began in 1954 as a modest gathering under the theme “Knowledge Is Light”. Reading Is the Key to Knowledge” has now transformed into a comprehensive cultural platform that not only champions literature but also embraces the diverse ecosystem that surrounds the world of books — authors, editors, translators, artists, and readers.
The Seoul International Book Fair, which originated as a national book exhibition held at the National Library of Korea from November 21 to 27, 1954, with the theme "Knowledge Is Light. Reading Is the Key to Knowledge," has evolved into a significant international event. At that time, the event was relatively small, with limited participation from publishers and only a select group of visitors, including intellectuals and writers. On the occasion of the 50th anniversary of Korea’s liberation in 1995, the fair was upgraded from a national exhibition to an international book fair, marking a pivotal moment in its development. Held at the Pacific Ocean Hall in COEX from May 17 to 23, 1995, the fair was centered on the theme "The Path to the World Lies in Books." In 1996, Seoul International Book Fair was officially recognized by the International Publishers Association (IPA).
Over the years, the Seoul International Book Fair has undergone significant transformations, yet it has remained steadfast in its objectives. These goals include the globalization of Korean publishers, the strengthening of domestic competitiveness, and the cultivation of a nationwide reading culture. As the fair continues to evolve, it has expanded its focus to include cultural diplomacy and trade. It now plays a crucial role in promoting Korean literature abroad while simultaneously fostering international exchange by bringing global books to Korea.
Organized by the Korean Publishers Association and sponsored by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, the Seoul International Book Fair has consistently aimed to globalize Korean publishing, strengthen domestic industry competitiveness, and cultivate a widespread reading culture. Over the years, it has expanded its scope into cultural diplomacy and publishing trade, becoming a space where Korean and international literary communities meet, collaborate, and innovate.
The Seoul International Book Fair 2025 edition, scheduled to run from June 18 to 22 at COEX in southern Seoul, is poised to reflect the Fair’s deepening global influence. This year’s theme, “The Last Resort”, captures the human drive to seek meaning and hope through books amid personal, political, and societal upheavals. It will serve as both a mirror and a compass — examining emotional, economic, and political crises, while reaffirming the enduring value of literature as a source of solace and insight.
With participation from 530 domestic and international publishers and related organizations across 17 countries, Seoul International Book Fair 2025 underscores Korea’s growing stature in the global publishing arena. Over 100 exhibitors from 16 countries, including Germany, the UK, France, Thailand, and Saudi Arabia, will host international booths, highlighting the fair’s cross-cultural significance.
This year’s Guest of Honor is Taiwan, which will present a vibrant cultural program through the “Taiwan Sensibility” pavilion. Visitors will have the opportunity to engage with Taiwanese literature centered on themes such as migration, gender identity, LGBTQ+ narratives, and language politics, while also exploring Taiwan’s culinary traditions and bookmaking craftsmanship.
Seoul International Book Fair 2025 places a strong emphasis on interdisciplinary exchange. The program includes lectures, author talks, and seminars that examine the theme from philosophical, creative, and practical standpoints. Esteemed filmmaker Park Chan-wook, known for his literary adaptations such as “The Sympathizer” (HBO, 2024) and “The Little Drummer Girl” (BBC, 2019), will be a keynote guest, embodying the fair’s embrace of narrative forms beyond the printed page.
The literary lineup features an impressive array of voices, from critically acclaimed Korean writers such as Kim Ae-ran, Kim Cho-yeop, Sohn Won-pyung, and Jang Ryu-jin, to internationally celebrated authors like Bora Chung, whose new work “The Children’s House” follows the success of “Cursed Bunny”, and Kim Ju-hye, the Korean American novelist behind “Beasts of a Little Land”, now promoting her latest novel, “City of Night Birds.”
Notably, the fair also opens its doors to creative’s from beyond traditional literature. Actor and publisher Park Jeong-min and star chef Choi Kang-rok will share how storytelling influences their respective fields, reflecting the fair’s inclusive vision of cultural expression.
Today, as Korea experiences continued growth in the realms of culture, art, and academia, the Seoul International Book Fair stands as one of the world’s foremost book fairs and one of the most influential in Asia. Its reputation for excellence has solidified its status as a key event for the global book industry, while continuing to serve as a cornerstone for the cultural and intellectual development of Korea on the international stage.
Ultimately, the Seoul International Book Fair stands as more than a celebration of books — it is a cultural movement. It reaffirms the role of literature as a conduit of understanding, identity, and resilience. As Korea asserts its presence on the global cultural stage, the Seoul International Book Fair continues to be a vital space where stories transcend borders and voices from around the world find common ground.
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