[This Week's Books] 'The Great Transformation' and More

The Great Transition

The author argues that we are living in an era of empires that have disappeared. A small elite holds positions similar to past kings, causing various problems. It points out that this small elite divides society, deepens economic crises, and even destroys ecosystems. After examining the 5,000-year history of empires from the Mesopotamian civilization where humanity began, through Egypt, Greece, Rome, and modern times, it explores what we must do now to overcome the current crisis and protect the global community. (Written by David C. Cotton / Translated by Kim Seungjin)

Yongsan US Military Base and Urban Walk

The author, a PhD in urban engineering, worked as the officer in charge of Yongsan Park at Seoul City Hall for five years starting in 2016. At that time, they led the creation of the ‘Yongsan Park Citizen Communication Space: Yongsan Park Gallery’ and planned and operated tours of Yongsan Park for citizens. The book organizes the significance of the Yongsan base, which is undergoing a park conversion project, in modern Korean history and suggests how facilities within Yongsan Park can be utilized. It also shows the past and present of Yongsan base through photos from the 1950s to 1970s found during a visit to the U.S. National Archives and Records Administration. (Written by Kim Hongryeol / I’m Story)

Nataeju’s Happiness Class

This is an interview essay between flower poet Nataeju and writer Kim Jisoo, author of ‘Lee Oryeong’s Last Class.’ From February to May last year, writer Kim Jisoo visited the Gongju Flower Literature Museum every Monday to share conversations and thoughts with poet Nataeju. The Flower Literature Museum is a space established and operated by poet Nataeju. Poet Nataeju and Kim Jisoo share a friendship that transcends generations and offer words of comfort and encouragement to all adults weary of living in the modern age. (Written by Kim Jisoo / Yeollimwon)