Canadian literature showcased at Seoul Metropolitan Library

The Canadian Embassy in Seoul is hosting a book exhibition at the Seoul Metropolitan Library in partnership with the city government, introducing renowned Canadian literature to the public.

The exhibition titled “Seoul Meets Canadian Books” is part of cultural promotion events organized by the embassy and the Seoul government, dubbed, “Seoul Meets Canada,” from Aug. 25-Sept. 17.

One-hundred books by authors ― including Nobel Prize in literature winner Alice Munro, author of “Anne of Green Gables” Lucy Maud Montgomery, novelist, poet, academic and feminist critic Margaret Atwood, “Life of Pi” author Yann Martel and science fiction writers Geoffrey Ryman and Robert J. Sawyer ― are displayed until Sept. 6, introducing Canada’s diverse culture, history and identity.

Works by French-Canadian writers Gabrielle Roy, Nicolas Dickner, Marie-Celie Agnant and Jean-Paul Desbiens are showcased along with those of children’s literature authors Deborah Ellis, Gilles Tibo and Michael Kusugak. 

The “Seoul Meets Canadian Books” exhibition at the Seoul Metropolitan Library. Joel Lee/The Korea Herald

Canadian Ambassador Eric Walsh’s favorite book is “Lost in the Barrens” by Farley Mowat, an adventure and coming-of-age story that takes place in northern Manitoba and the southwestern North West Territories in 1935. Walsh said he was moved by the book’s vivid tale of survival and friendship of two boys in their late teenage years, which he read in his teens and still remains etched in his memory.

On Sept. 17 at 7 p.m., a TED Salon event will be held at the Canadian Embassy in Seoul, where four speakers will lecture on different issues, showcase live performances and interact with the audience.

“Seoul Meets Canada” is an annual event launched in 2013 to promote bilateral cultural understanding and exchange through a partnership between the Canadian Embassy and Seoul city government.

Joel Lee (joel@heraldcorp.com)

The “Seoul Meets Canadian Books” exhibition at the Seoul Metropolitan Library. Joel Lee/The Korea Herald