[Books of the Week] "Seeking Answers to Aging Anxiety in Japan" and More

Seeking Answers to Aging Anxiety in Japan

This book analyzes how Korea, which has entered a super-aged society, is transforming the three anxieties of old age that Japan experienced first-health, money, and loneliness-into policies, industries, and services. The author presents innovative cases in care, finance, housing, and community based on a perspective that views seniors as new customers. Through real-life examples, the book closely examines practical solutions to the realities of aging, such as the challenges of family caregiving, the limitations of pensions, and the experience of a solitary life. It sheds light on how the practical need to maintain 'dignity' and 'choice' has given rise to a massive industry. (Written by Namisun | Maeil Business Newspaper)

Super Change

This book offers an outlook on the coming transformation of the global financial system amid the collapse of the reserve currency order. The author highlights the rise of Ripple (XRP) and blockchain-based international payment networks as replacements for the existing SWIFT system, as well as the invisible financial power wielded by the BIS and central banks. It examines the 'Modern II' era, where AI, climate, and industrial changes converge, and even addresses the possibility of a super depression, presenting survival strategies for individuals and nations as the world order is restructured. (Written by White Dog | BMK)

The People Who Created the K-Defense Industry Legend

This industrial documentary chronicles Korea's 50-year journey from not being able to manufacture a single rifle to becoming a key player in the global defense market with products such as the K2 tank, K9 self-propelled howitzer, and KF-21 fighter jet. Reporters from the Chosun Ilbo's industry desk reconstruct the origins of self-reliant national defense and the process of technological accumulation based on testimonies from field engineers, researchers, and artisans. The book demonstrates that the essence of the K-defense industry's competitiveness lies not in price or delivery times, but in the history built by people and technology. (Written by Jung Hanguk and two others | The Bom)

Fascinating Monsters

This humanities book explores why humanity has imagined and created monsters for thousands of years. Author Natalie Lawrence explains that monsters were created to control human anxieties about survival and chaos, and analyzes how the birth and death of monsters represent attempts to maintain civilization and order. Through monsters in mythology, literature, and modern content, the book sheds light on the origins of human inner worlds, anxieties, and imagination, showing that monsters are mirrors reflecting humanity itself. (Written by Natalie Lawrence | Prunsoop)

Insider Insight

This book is written by an author who managed trillions of won in bonds on Wall Street and unpacks the inner workings of the financial markets based on his direct experiences. Rather than focusing on individual stocks or techniques, it emphasizes the structure of money flows and the essence of risk management, illustrating why understanding is more important than prediction. Drawing on real episodes from 20 Wall Street traders, the book conveys the mindset of professionals who survive long-term amid uncertainty, serving as a hands-on financial nonfiction guide to help investors start off on the right foot. (Written by Yongjun Lee | FN Media)

Reading Science in a Human Way

This is the first essay by science translator Jeon Daeho. It discovers the human side of science in history and explores philosophical reflections on science. The book analyzes interesting events and figures from a scientific perspective, making it accessible to the general public. While science is often seen as a product of cold reason, the book takes a broad look at the humanity hidden within. For example, it recounts the intriguing story of how Marie Curie, the first female physicist, gave up her patent on the radium refining process and shared the secret with the public. (Written by Jeon Daeho | Haenamu)

The Grammar of Memory

This autobiographical essay is written by Park Minhyeok and Guk Hyemin, the couple from KBS's "Human Theater," who succeeded in marrying despite an eight-year age gap between a high school teacher and a student. From their first meeting to marriage and parenting, the book calmly depicts how love transforms a person's life and identity. Through overcoming perfectionism, burnout, and wounds, and learning to love oneself and others, it shares how to reclaim one's own story instead of living someone else's narrative. It is a record of real personal growth that touches the heart with authenticity rather than glamor. (Written by Park Minhyeok | Epike)

Writing Makes You Happier Every Time

This is a healing memoir and practical writing guide by bestselling author Lee Eunkyung, who recovered through writing after a period of depression and isolation. Based on her experience of overcoming feelings of inferiority, anxiety, and wounds after becoming the mother of a child with developmental disabilities, she presents 20 writing principles for facing and letting go of emotions. Emphasizing the power of a single heartfelt line over flashy technique, the book conveys that anyone can become happier through writing. (Written by Lee Eunkyung | Tree's Heart)

Genealogy of the Popular

This conceptual history study traces how the idea of 'the popular' has changed and interacted with politics, society, and mass culture in modern and contemporary Korean society. By reconstructing the meaning of the popular-oscillating between 'common' and 'vulgar'-through over 100 years of newspapers, magazines, and critical materials, the book examines how its fluctuations and tensions have shaped the landscape of Korean cultural history. Living in an era of cultural democratization and K-culture, the book offers clues for understanding the complexity of multilayered masses and culture by rethinking the popular. (Written by Kang Yonghun | Dolbegae)

When Our Lives Become Poetry

This is the first handwriting collection published to commemorate the 50th anniversary of MBC Radio's "Women's Era." Out of hundreds of thousands of letters and essays sent by listeners and writers over the past half-century, 100 of the most touching "life sentences" have been carefully selected. From the writings of literary figures such as Park Wanseo, Na Taejoo, and Yang Gwija to the honest stories of ordinary neighbors, this book allows readers to relive the warmth of life by copying the words delivered through radio in their own handwriting. It is a book where everyday sentences become poetry, connecting hearts. (Written by Women's Era | Kimyoungsa)

Tuesdays with Morrie: The Last Lesson

This life record details how Professor Morrie Schwartz, the real-life subject of "Tuesdays with Morrie," lived his final year after being diagnosed with ALS. Even in the face of death, he chose dignity, humor, and love over despair, deciding to live passionately until the end. The aphorisms and insights he left behind during his battle with illness offer the courage to confront life and death head-on. His message-to never give up on growth, relationships, or love, no matter the hardship-provides deep comfort and strength to all of us living today. (Written by Morrie Schwartz | Bookie)