Kim Sunhyang, Chairperson of the University of North Korean Studies, Poetry Collection "So Long" Selected as Book of the Year

"2025 Orpheus Text Book of the Year"
Presented by Mundus Artium Press

On October 28, a ceremony was held in the main conference room of the Institute for Far Eastern Studies at Kyungnam University to commemorate the selection of "So Long," a poetry collection by Kim Sunhyang, Chairperson of the University of North Korean Studies (and former professor of English literature at Kyungnam University), as the "2025 Orpheus Text Book of the Year" by Mundus Artium Press.

Chairman Kim Sunhyang receiving an award from Judge Jack Marinai.

Mundus Artium Press annually selects and awards contemporary literary works that have had a lasting impact on the global literary world. This year, Chairperson Kim Sunhyang's poetry collection was chosen as the "Book of the Year," marking a significant milestone for Korean literature as it continues to interact with the international literary community and achieve new breakthroughs.

Jack Marinai, the head judge, explained the background behind the selection of the "Book of the Year," stating, "The first edition of poet Kim Sunhyang's debut poetry collection, 'So Long,' published by Mundus Artium Press, sold out within a few months, and even after its re-release, it continues to be loved by many readers."

He further emphasized the importance of the work, noting, "Its powerful use of metaphor and simile demonstrates outstanding artistry, positively influencing readers. The structure and expression of the poems are clear, which distinguishes them from other works."

Regarding the translation, he commented, "The effort to bridge two languages and continents has been highly successful, resulting in a translation so natural that English readers would not realize it is a translated work." He went on to praise, "Chairperson Kim Sunhyang is truly an exceptional poet," adding, "Every aspect, from the foundational design to the linguistic artistry, was superb."

In her acceptance speech, poet Kim Sunhyang explained, "'Annyeong' in Korean is a unique word used both when meeting and parting, while 'So Long' is a tender phrase used among close friends when saying goodbye." She also quoted John Keats, saying, "'A thing of beauty is a joy forever: its loveliness increases; it will never pass into nothingness,'" and expressed her gratitude to everyone who contributed to the publication of "So Long."

The event was attended by approximately 70 distinguished guests, including Park Jaekyu, President of Kyungnam University; Song Minsoon, former Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade; Ahn Ho-young, former Ambassador to the United States; Shin Bongkil, President of the Korean Council on Foreign Relations; Hyun Jeong-eun, Chairwoman of Hyundai Group; Heo Myung, President of the Korean National Council of Women; and the Vice President of the Korean Red Cross, who all gathered to celebrate the award.