remaining in someone’s palm,

even within emptiness,

spring at last pushes forth new sprouts.

Kang Jeong Ae was born in 1969 in Susan-ri, Aewol-eup, Jeju Island, South Korea, and earned a Ph.D. in Business Administration. Demonstrating literary talent from an early age, she won the grand prize in the children’s poetry category at the Jeju Newspaper Writing Contest in 1980 with her poem “Sparrow.” In September 2014, she officially debuted in the literary world after receiving the New Writer Award from Open Literature with works including “The Dichotomy of Agony” and several others. Her published books include I Am a Guardian Angel (2004) and its English edition I’M A GUARDIAN ANGEL (2007). In 2014, she also published the poetry and painting collection Cheering for You. In addition, she has written numerous academic papers and literary works. She has also worked as a lyricist for songs such as “I Want to Go to the Five-Day Market,” “Heavenly Match,” “Proposal,” and “The Shaking Road We Walk.” Through her active contributions to literature and social service, she has received many prestigious awards, including the World Environmental Literature Award (2019), the International Culture and Arts Award (2015), and the Grand Prize for Persons Who Shined Korea in the field of social service (2019). Her honors also include the Marquis Who’s Who Lifetime Achievement Award, the Rotary International President’s Citation, one Ministerial Award, and three Governor’s Commendations, among more than 150 awards overall. Notably, her book became the first by a Korean author to be selected by the Power Center of the American MDRT (Million Dollar Round Table). She is currently active as a member of International PEN Korea Center, the Korea Writers’ Association, the Jeju Writers’ Association, and the Ieodo Literary Society. She has also served as Vice President of the UNESCO Jeju Association of Korea, Auditor of the International Council, and President of a Rotary International Club. As a female CEO, she has devoted more than 25 years to community volunteer service, embodying both literary spirit and social commitment.

Seashell

 I find myself loving clear days more

At the end of a day

that seems to linger as it slips away,

my heart, holding a piece of sunlight,

is so delighted like a child

that even its shadow feels light.

Today again, I unravel my stories.

The night grows deeper,

and coincidences disguised as destiny

climb onto my cart laden with happiness,

lingering awhile

under the name of fate.

Human beings, leaving behind

the warmth of a handshake,

drift away from one another’s lives.

Like a seashell worn smooth by waves

remaining in someone’s palm,

even within emptiness,

spring at last pushes forth new sprouts.

***

조가비

난 맑은 날이 더 좋더라

머문 듯 스쳐 가는 하루 끝에

햇살 한 조각 품은 마음이

아이처럼 들떠

제 그림자마저 가볍다

오늘도 이야기를 풀어놓는다

밤은 깊어 가고

필연을 가장한 우연들이

행복을 실은 나의 수레에 올라

인연의 이름으로 머물다 간다

인간은 악수의 온기를 남긴 채

서로의 생에서 멀어지는 존재

누군가의 손바닥에 남은

파도에 닳은 조가비처럼

비어 있음 속에서도

봄은 끝내 새싹을 밀어 올린다

_______________ 

Read: Reading poetry book

The post Seashell – A Poem from Korea first appeared on Sindh Courier.

I want to slip my hand into the cracked wound no one sees

Ms. Kang Yeongeun’s poetry is known for its vivid sensory imagery and its exploration of the fundamental meanings of life.

Poet Ms. Kang Yeongeun is a South Korean poet, was born in Seogwipo, Jeju Island, in 1956. She earned a Master’s degree in Creative Writing from the Graduate School of Culture and Arts at Dongguk University. Her poetry is known for its vivid sensory imagery and its exploration of the fundamental meanings of life. She has published numerous poetry collections, including The Petals that Cry by Themselves, I Once Stumbled upon a Cloud (2004), The Green Silk Python, The First Shade, Beacon Grass, Beacon of the Sea, Mago’s Jar, A Gentle Poetics, The Bird Beyond, and Longing Gravity. Her selected poems are collected in A Poem for the Creeping Pine (2019). She has also published the essay collection Hydrangea Serrata Correspondence, as well as co-authored travel poetry collections such as The Crescent Moon of Tibet, Mingalaba, Myanmar, and Nazar Bonju. In addition, her work appears in the English-language anthology Faces of the Festival (featuring twelve poets). Her works have been selected for the ARKO Literary Creation Fund, the Sejong Excellent Book Award, the Korea Publishing Industry Promotion Agency’s Outstanding Content program, and the Literature Sharing Program. She has received numerous literary honors, including the Excellence Award of the Siye Art Prize, the Korean Poetry Literature Award, the Korean Writers’ Association Award, the Literature Youth Award, and the Seogwipo Literary Award. She previously served as an instructor of poetry writing at the Lifelong Education Center of Seoul National University of Science and Technology. She is currently a board member of the Korean Poets’ Association and an editorial board member of Literature Youth.

Ivy

When I meet a rock or a wall

I want to slip my hand into the cracked wound no one sees

Leaning against that hardened body

I want to take root—tenaciously—in the crumbling crevices of life

O all sorrows clinging parasitically to the knees of the earth!

As a single astonishing line that crawls up to the edge of a cliff

I want to go beyond myself.

***

담쟁이

바위나 벽을 만나면 아무도 모르게 금이 간 상처에 손 넣고 싶다

단단한 몸에 기대어 허물어진 생의 틈바구니에 질긴 뿌리 내리고 싶다

지상의 무릎 위에 기생하는 모으든 슬픔이여!

벼랑 끝까지 기어오르는 기막힌 한 줄의 문장으로

나는 나를 넘고 싶다

_______________________

Read: Christmas in March – Korean Poetry

The post Ivy – A Poem from Jeju Island first appeared on Sindh Courier.

And the rain lashes harder.

Yet I choose to keep walking this path.

Ms. Yang Geum-Hee is an acclaimed poetess of Korea

Based in Jeju, South Korea, poetess Ms. Yang Geum-Hee has published four poetry collections and has won eight literary awards. She has published poetry collections such as Happiness Account, Ieodo: The Island of Legend and Reality, Nests of Birds (published in Taiwan), and Nests of Birds (English-Korean poetry book). Additionally, she has written the research book Inheritance of Ieodo Culture and the essay collection A Happy Companion on the Journey. In recognition of her extensive international literary contributions, she was awarded an honorary doctorate by the International Forum for Creativity and Humanity (President Dr. Aziz Mountassir) in the Kingdom of Morocco in March 2025. She was the founding President of the Ieodo Literature Association, editor-in-chief of Jejuin News, a researcher at the Jeju Sea Grant Center, a specially appointed professor at Jeju International University, and the 2nd President of the Korean Association of World Literature. Currently, she serves as an editorial writer for Samda Ilbo, Vice President of the Korean Peace Cooperation and former President of Jeju PEN.

On the Road

The destination still lies far ahead,

And the rain lashes harder.

Yet I choose to keep walking this path.

If not now, when else will I go?

Is a sunny day always the best day?

Will the path I walk today appear again tomorrow?

Even being soaked in the rain is part of life,

Just as it was on windy days,

Just as it was on storm-tossed days.

***

길 위에서

목적지는 아직 멀었는데

빗줄기 거세진다

가던 길 그대로 가기로 했다

지금 아니면 언제 갈 것인가?

화창한 날이 꼭 최고의 날일 수 있을까?

오늘 주어진 이 길 내일 다시 올까?

비를 맞는 순간도 삶인 거야

바람이 불던 날이 그랬듯이

폭풍우 치던 날이 그랬던 것처럼

***

In the Forest

In the quiet of the forest,

My inner voice grows clear,

Echoing through the shadows of ancient trees.

Each tree bears its own scars,

Together forming a living sanctuary of green.

Vines coil and spiral,

Struggling to survive,

Trembling precariously in breathless competition.

Yet the trees, in patient grandeur,

Carve deep rings of memory,

Tracing the secret rhythms and patterns of existence,

Shaping a world of verdant life.

And here I stand,

At the heart of this breathing, vibrant forest,

Feeling the pulse of life

Flow through every leaf and scarred bark,

And into the quiet depths of my own being.

***

숲속에서

고요한 숲속에서

내면의 목소리가 또렷해지고,

고목의 그림자를 타고 울려 퍼진다.

각 나무는 저마다의 상처를 지니고,

함께 살아 있는 푸른 성소를 이룬다.

덩굴들은 나선처럼 감기며

살아남기 위해 몸부림치고,

숨 가쁜 경쟁 속에 아슬아슬하게 흔들린다.

그러나 나무들은 인내의 장엄함 속에서

깊은 기억의 나이테를 새기며,

존재의 은밀한 리듬과 패턴을 따라

푸른 생명의 세계를 빚어낸다.

그리고 나는 이곳에 서 있다,

숨 쉬고 살아 있는 이 숲의 심장 한가운데서,

모든 잎과 상처 입은 나무껍질을 통해

흐르는 생명의 맥박을 느끼며,

내 내면 깊은 고요 속으로 스며드는 것을.

_____________________

Read: When I Look at a Flower

The post On the Road – Poetry from Korea first appeared on Sindh Courier.

[Our interviewee is the renowned Korean poet and writer, Yang Geum-Hee, who is based in Jeju Island, and is — editor of New Jeju Ilbo newspaper, special researcher at the Institute of Social Sciences of Jeju National University, Vice President of the Jeju Regional Committee of the Korean PEN Center, Executive Director of the Jeju Korea Unification Institute, and Executive Director of the Korea Ethics Association]

Interviewed by: Jakhongir Nomozov | Uzbekistan

— Do you remember the first poem you wrote in your childhood? What kind of emotions does it evoke in you now?

— The very first poem I wrote in childhood was about birds and flowers. Though it wasn’t particularly well-crafted, I remember the deep sense of satisfaction it gave me. From a young age, I loved writing so much that I would often send countless letters to my friends. I had once heard that keeping a diary could improve one’s writing skills, so I began writing in my journal every day. As I did so, the dream of becoming a poet gradually took shape within me. The emotion and joy I felt when that dream finally came true remain vivid to this day.

Now, as someone who lives the life of a poet—one who captures in verse the phenomena of nature unfolding around me, the details of the world, and the subtle emotions and philosophies that arise from understanding humanity—I find each day filled with a profound sense of gratitude and wonder.

— You were born on Jeju Island — how has the island’s nature and spiritual atmosphere influenced your creativity?

— Jeju Island, located in South Korea, is a truly beautiful place where mountains and the sea exist in perfect harmony. Even among Koreans, visiting Jeju is a source of great pride. As a travel destination, it remains one of the most beloved spots for both domestic and international tourists. Jeju captivates visitors with its breathtaking natural beauty, a gift of nature.

Living in a place where I am surrounded every day by Hallasan’s majestic presence and the ever-changing sea across four seasons, I consider myself truly blessed. I grew up in an environment that naturally nurtured a love for nature. I feel a deep sense of belonging to Jeju’s mountains, seas, flora and fauna, wind, folklore, myths, legends, and culture. Naturally, many of my poems are imbued with the spirit of Jeju—the wind, the mountains, the sea, and the island’s seasonal landscapes. As such, most of my works are grounded in a careful observation of natural phenomena.

Nepalese poet Rupsingh Bhandari wrote in the preface to my poetry collection The Nest of Birds:

“Her poems are like rare scriptures of nature, sacred as an unclimbed Himalayan peak. As one who belongs to the land of the Himalayas, I can feel the beauty of her heart and the natural poetry she writes from her hometown, Jeju. After reading her poems, readers will undoubtedly long to visit Jeju at least once in their lifetime.”

In addition, Nepalese poet Rupsingh Bhandari wrote of The Nest of Birds:

“She discovers the unrecorded laws of nature, its ineffable mysteries, and invisible dimensions. Through her attentive observation, she unravels these enigmatic qualities of the natural world in a tone of humble melody. She calls upon humanity to reassess its priorities and to rediscover the self within nature. Through her poetry, readers are invited on a journey to experience the unseen grandeur of nature. We live within the providence of nature, which we must regard as our guide and spiritual teacher. The mysteries of nature cannot be fully expressed through poetic language alone. In the face of nature’s grandeur, we must yield, living in harmony as part of it.”

— What is the current situation like for women poets in Korea? Are they given enough opportunities and recognition?

In Korea, female poets are given equal opportunities for creative work, just as their male counterparts are, and their literary activities are remarkably active. I believe they are receiving ample opportunities as well as due recognition.

  — In your opinion, what role should poets and writers play in establishing peace in the world?

— Poets and writers must actively participate in the realization of world peace. History has consistently shown us that the story of humankind has been one of war and conflict. Periods without war amount to no more than a few short decades. For this reason, humanity has long yearned for peace—yet, tragically, wars continue to erupt across the globe even today.

The consequences of war are not confined to the nations directly involved; they ripple outward, affecting even those far removed from the battlefield. Soaring prices of raw materials, crude oil, and grains, along with increasing instability in the global environment, have created a climate of uncertainty that endangers both the present and the future. In such a world, no country remains untouched by the impact of war.

South Koreans, in particular, feel this deeply. As a people who have lived through war and continue to live in a divided nation, our longing for peace is perhaps stronger than that of any other. I live on Jeju Island, which has been officially designated by the Korean government as the “Island of World Peace.” Jeju has hosted international summits attended by world leaders and continues to hold the annual “Jeju Forum,” where esteemed global figures gather to engage in ongoing dialogue about peace. I believe this is a most fortunate and meaningful endeavor.

As an editorial writer, I have long contributed opinion columns to a leading newspaper in Jeju. Through these writings, I have consistently emphasized the importance of recognizing and cherishing the value of peace. I firmly believe that even an imperfect peace is better than any war. I am deeply grateful for the peace we are able to enjoy today, and as a poet, I am committed to actively participating in the creation and preservation of a peaceful world.

— How do you think a female writer or poet can reflect and defend the realities of women’s lives in society?

With the advancement of democracy in South Korea, gender equality has made significant strides. Women’s rights are now protected and upheld by law, and Korean women actively take the lead in shaping their own lives and engaging in all areas of society. In fact, statistics have shown that the rate of university entrance among women has surpassed that of men, reflecting both the high value placed on education and the growing drive for social participation among Korean women.

Across various sectors—business, politics, academia, and literature—countless women are making remarkable achievements and becoming leaders in their fields. Korean women are not only striving to claim their rights but are also supported by a society that increasingly recognizes and safeguards those rights. Nevertheless, many women still perceive inequality in certain aspects of social life. These challenges, however, are gradually being addressed as democratization continues to deepen and as women persist in their efforts to assert and expand their rights.

One encouraging sign of progress is the way women poets and writers in Korea are actively portraying the realities of women’s lives through literature. They are raising their voices boldly, both in society and within the home, advocating for change through creative expression. A powerful example is author Han Kang, who received the Nobel Prize in Literature and brought global attention to the inner struggles and autonomy of women through her acclaimed novel The Vegetarian. Her work powerfully illustrates the existential and social challenges faced by women in contemporary Korean society.

In this sense, Korean women today are not only reflecting the lived experiences of women through literature but also becoming strong advocates for justice and equality. Through the written word, they are helping shape a more inclusive and conscious society—one that listens, responds, and evolves.

— As the head of the Jeju PEN organization, what opportunities are you creating for young writers today?

After being elected as President of Jeju PEN, I organized gatherings with senior writers to share their valuable literary experiences. These conversations provided meaningful insights and inspiration. At the same time, I have been actively working to create more opportunities for younger writers to publish and present their work, supporting the growth of new literary voices.

— What kind of works do you think contemporary writers should focus on writing?

In the greater sense, the world is one.

In countries where democracy has advanced, citizens are institutionally guaranteed fundamental rights such as human rights, equality, respect for life, property rights, and the pursuit of happiness. Yet even in these nations, shadows of social inequality persist in many forms. In societies where democracy has not taken root, such inequalities are often even more severe.

Writers must not turn away from the suffering of those who live under such conditions. We have a responsibility to bear witness through our words. In particular, I believe that the pain endured by women—often among the most vulnerable in society—is especially profound. Their rights must be equally protected and fully respected.

From the perspective that the world is ultimately one community, we must recognize ourselves as members of a shared global home. As such, we must strive to ensure that all people—regardless of where they are born—can enjoy the universal blessings of peace, human dignity, equality, mutual respect, and compassion. I believe that it is the calling of our time to kindle the light of human solidarity and let it shine across the world.

— Which Korean or foreign writer has inspired you the most regarding the creative power of women?

The writer who has inspired me greatly is Pearl S. Buck, the first American woman to receive the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1938. Having lived for decades in China alongside her missionary parents, Buck drew deeply from her vivid personal experiences to write The Good Earth, published in 1931. She also had a strong connection to Korea. Pearl Buck visited Korea multiple times to collect materials and wrote The Living Reed, a novel set in Korea.

Read: Literature has the Power to Unify the World and People

Beyond her passionate literary work, she devoted herself to social and human rights activism. She cared deeply about the discrimination faced by Asian Americans and African Americans, as well as women’s rights in the United States. Furthermore, she founded and managed the Pearl S. Buck Foundation both in Korea and worldwide to support children orphaned by war and poverty. I deeply respect her for living a life of service as a humanitarian and social activist, and I have drawn immense inspiration from her example.

— From your perspective, how is the voice of Korean literature resonating in today’s global literary landscape?

This year’s Nobel Prize in Literature awarded to the writer Han Kang has ignited explosive interest in ‘K-Literature’ both among the Korean public and readers around the world. It can be said that a bright beacon for the globalization of Korean literature has been lit.

Alongside this, the development of the internet has greatly facilitated active exchanges of Korean literature with people worldwide. Poetry, as the noble language that poets wish to convey to the world, is no longer confined to Korea; through devoted and high-quality translations, it has been introduced to a global audience and now communicates in real time with the world’s greatest poets who have earned international acclaim.

In this dynamic flow, international exchanges of Korean literature continue to deepen. For Korean literature to elevate its status as a cultural powerhouse and be beloved worldwide, the passion and support of Korean readers must also be sustained. This heightened global interest in Korean literature is expected to have a positive impact on its further globalization.

– As a writer who has witnessed many cultures around the world, how do you harmonize the national identity and universal human essence in literature?

Meeting diverse people from around the world and experiencing their cultures firsthand has been an incredible journey. I consider myself fortunate to have had the opportunity to visit Uzbekistan among many other countries. Through these travels, I believe I have gained a deeper understanding of the world’s peoples and cultures.

Visiting dozens of countries, I have been amazed time and again by how, despite differences in language and customs, kindness and compassion create a powerful connection and open channels of communication. These experiences taught me that literature does not always need to emphasize strong ethnic identities. Works that kindle the light of humanity and universal love have been cherished for generations—and will undoubtedly continue to be so.

As a member of our shared global community, I am committed to writing poetry that seeks harmony and mutual understanding, grounded in universal human values, to foster empathy and connection across cultures.

Read: The Absence of a Tree

______________

Jakhongir NOMOZOV is a young poet and journalist from Uzbekistan.  He is also a Member of the Azerbaijan Journalists’ Union.

The post Artists Have To Foster Global Peace first appeared on Sindh Courier.

Today, right now

Is our golden time for each other!

Ms. Yang Geum-Hee, an acclaimed poetess from Korea, shares her poem

Poetess Ms. Yang Geum-Hee, born in 1967 in Jeju, Korea, has published four poetry collections and received eight literary awards in recognition of her contributions to literature. Her poetry collections include Happiness Account, Ieodo: The Island of Legend and Reality, Nests of Birds (published in Taiwan), and Nests of Birds (a bilingual English-Korean edition). In addition, she has authored a research book titled Inheritance of Ieodo Culture and an essay collection titled A Happy Companion on the Journey. In acknowledgment of her extensive contributions to international literature, she was awarded an honorary doctorate by the International Forum for Creativity and Humanity (President Dr. Aziz Mountassir) in the Kingdom of Morocco in March 2025. Poet Ms. Yang was the founding President of the Ieodo Literature Association, Editor-in-Chief of Jejuin News, a researcher at the Jeju Sea Grant Center, a specially appointed professor at Jeju International University, and the second President of the Korean Association of World Literature. She currently serves as an editorial writer for Samda Ilbo, President of Jeju PEN, and Vice President of the Korean Peace Cooperation. Her poetry has been translated into multiple languages and introduced in countries including the United States, China, Japan, Germany, Russia, Italy, Spain, England, Taiwan, Nepal, Egypt, Greece, Pakistan, Vietnam, Albania, Bangladesh, Kosovo, Tajikistan, Belgium, and beyond.

Golden Time

The time I’ve passed

Has already become a radiant jewel.

So now,

Instead of lingering in the past,

I choose to focus on this moment, today.

What was once unfamiliar

Becomes as if it had always been so.

What creaked and scraped

Grows smooth over time.

I’ve come to see

The gentleness hidden behind sharpness.

Some days, time flies like a bullet,

And other days, a second stretches on like centuries.

Yet time keeps shaping the present,

Never pausing,

Flowing at its own pace.

It fills our gaps,

Polishes even the tiniest cracks,

Turning us into shining gems

An artistry that makes each other gleam.

This very moment

Today, right now

Is our golden time for each other!

***

황금시간

지나온 시간은

충분히 빛나는 보석이 되었기에,

나는 이제

과거보다 오늘,

지금 이 순간에 집중하려 한다.

낯설던 것들이

본래 그러했던 듯 익숙해지고,

삐걱거리던 날들이

어느새 매끄럽게 다듬어진다.

뾰족했던 말끝 너머

감춰져 있던 부드러움을

이제는 알아볼 수 있다.

어떤 시간은

총알처럼 스쳐가고,

또 어떤 시간은

일 초가 수백 년처럼 느껴진다.

그러나 시간은 매 순간을 빚어내고

그 어디에도 머무르지 않은 채

자신만의 리듬으로 흘러간다.

서로의 빈틈을 메우고,

미세한 균열을 닦아낸 시간,

그 모든 순간이

서로를 빛나게 하는 세공의 시간이었다.

오늘, 지금

우리가 함께하는 이 순간이야 말로

서로를 위한 황금시간이다.

_________________ 

Read – Poetry: When I Look at a Flower

The post Golden Time – A Poem from Korea first appeared on Sindh Courier.

The spirit of Korean literature is deeply rooted in history, emotion, and collective experience – Dr. Byeong Cheol Kang

[Mr. Byeong Cheol Kang, based in Jeju Island, is a renowned Korean poet and writer, translator and journalist, laureate of numerous international literary awards, Vice President of the Korea Institute for Peace and Cooperation, and Doctor of Political Science.]

Interviewed by Jakhongir Nomozov | Uzbekistan

—Let’s begin our conversation with Korean literature… In your opinion, what are the unique characteristics of Korean literature?

—The spirit of Korean literature is deeply rooted in history, emotion, and collective experience. Central to it is the concept of “han”—a uniquely Korean sentiment of sorrow and endurance, reflecting the nation’s struggles and hopes. This emotional depth gives Korean literature its powerful resonance.

While shaped by universal literary traditions, Korean literature is especially marked by reflections on historical trauma—such as the Japanese occupation, the Korean War, and national division—often portraying individuals caught in the tide of greater historical forces. A key strength lies in its blend of tradition and innovation. From classical forms to modern experiments like one-line poems, Korean literature embraces change while honoring its roots. It also mirrors the country’s competitive social landscape, pushing boundaries in form and content. Contemporary Korean writers are increasingly addressing issues of gender, class, and identity, giving rise to diverse and personal voices. With the help of the internet, Korean literature now reaches a global audience more rapidly, expanding its influence and cultural exchange.

—Which literary genres do you feel most connected to? What draws you particularly to these genres?

—The literary genres I feel most deeply connected to are poetry and short stories. Poetry captivates me with its condensed emotional power and lyrical beauty. A single line of verse can contain an entire universe of emotion, memory, and meaning. Short stories also strongly draw me in. I particularly enjoy the twists and turns that reveal how an individual’s life can be interpreted in unexpected ways. This sense of discovery and insight continues to move me and draws me ever deeper into the world of literature.

—Do you think it is important for a writer to discover and express their true “self”? How does the search for identity manifest in your own work?

—Yes, I believe it is very important for a writer to discover and express their true self. Writing is not simply about crafting beautiful sentences; it is about honesty, authenticity, and an inner dialogue. When a writer sincerely faces their memories, emotions, values, and sometimes contradictions, their work gains depth, clarity, and a powerful resonance. Readers naturally sense when a voice is genuine. In my own work, the search for identity is a recurring theme. Whether I write poetry or fiction, I am continually drawn to questions such as: What kind of identity does a human possess? How is my individual identity related to the identity of humanity as a whole? How am I connected to language and to others? Sometimes, I explore these questions through personal reflection; other times, through characters who experience struggles with belonging, change, and the confusion of memory. Especially within the context of Korean literature, where collective history and personal experience are deeply intertwined, discovering the self is a journey that moves between tradition and modernity, the private and the political. For me, writing is a process of self-recognition and redefinition, and I believe that this journey itself gives literature its lasting significance.

 —As a writer, what kind of philosophical worldview do you adhere to? How does this worldview influence your literary creations?

—As a poet and writer, I am drawn to a philosophical worldview that embraces human complexity, the Buddhist concept of impermanence, and interconnectedness. I see life not as a series of fixed absolutes but as a constantly changing flow where contradictions coexist—joy and sorrow, certainty and doubt, individuality and community. This perspective encourages me to explore characters and themes with nuance and empathy rather than seeking simple answers. This worldview deeply influences my literary work. I often focus on the fluidity of identity and the ways people navigate history, memory, and relationships. I am particularly interested in how individuals find meaning amid uncertainty and change, and how personal stories intersect with larger social and historical forces. I also pay attention to the fact that people with absolute certainty have perpetrated mass atrocities. When looking at their personalities, there is a tendency to pursue absolute good while believing that many evil people must be punished. My writing aims to reflect this complexity through layered narratives, poetic language, and open-ended questions rather than clear resolutions.

Ultimately, I believe literature’s role is to mirror the richness of human experience—embracing both its beauty and ambiguity—and to invite readers into a profound dialogue about existence.

—How do you maintain a balance between freedom and responsibility as a writer?

—I believe that maintaining a balance between freedom and responsibility as a writer is important. On one hand, writing requires creative freedom—the ability to explore ideas, emotions, and forms without constraint. However, this freedom of expression comes with responsibility: responsibility to the truth, to the subjects represented, and to the readers. Especially when dealing with sensitive topics or real experiences, I am always careful to consider the ethical impact my words may have.

 —What kind of mental or emotional preparation do you undertake before beginning the creative process? What emotional experiences does the act of writing bring you?

—Before beginning the creative process, I take time to calm my mind and prepare my emotions. I usually do this through quiet meditation or introspection, helping me settle mentally and open myself to inspiration. I try to clear away distracting thoughts and focus on the feelings, memories, or questions I want to explore through writing. Sometimes, I reflect on personal experiences or immerse myself in the atmosphere related to the theme of my work. Visiting meaningful places or noting down emotions felt while witnessing beautiful landscapes during travels also greatly helps my creative process.

 —How important is it for a poet to express their inner pain?

—It is very important for a poet to express their inner pain. Poetry is a special tool that can transform intense emotions into art. When inner pain accumulates, it makes a person unhappy. Through honest expression in poetry, a poet can elevate their pain into beauty and create a strong sense of empathy and connection with readers. This allows the poet to heal and give meaning to their personal suffering, while also offering readers an opportunity to ease or heal their own pain. Through poetry, inner pain can reveal universal truths about human vulnerability, resilience, and hope.

—What are the most challenging issues you face as a creative individual?

—As a creative individual, one of the most challenging issues I face is maintaining a balance between inspiration and consistent effort. Creativity often comes unpredictably, so when inspiration is lacking, I focus on reading and practicing writing regularly. Another difficulty is balancing economic livelihood with creative focus. When I have to work to make a living, it becomes hard to write with ease and freedom. Overcoming the anxieties of life and maintaining confidence in my own voice is a difficult challenge. External pressures such as time constraints, financial concerns, and audience expectations also place a heavy burden on the creative process.

 —What is your perspective on the interaction between literature and politics? How do they influence one another?

—Literature and politics interact very closely and influence each other in complex ways. Literature often serves as a mirror of society, capturing political realities, social struggles, and ideological conflicts. Through novels, poetry, and essays, writers can critique power structures, give voice to the marginalized, and imagine alternative futures. In this way, literature becomes a form of political engagement and resistance. Authoritarian regimes often suppress poets and writers who are critical of the government. Politics, in turn, shapes the conditions in which literature is created and received. Political systems, censorship, and social policies determine what can be freely expressed and what is suppressed. Historical events and political climates also affect the themes, styles, and urgency of literary works. For example, during times of oppression or upheaval, powerful literary movements often emerge that challenge authority and call for change. In the case of Korea, while freedom of expression was once restricted in the past, it is now widely protected and openly practiced.

Ultimately, literature and politics are in constant dialogue, and together they contribute to our understanding of identity, justice, freedom, and community. This dynamic interaction enriches both fields and deepens our way of perceiving the world.

—What are your thoughts on the future of Korean literature? In what ways can contemporary writers contribute to that future?

—I believe the future of Korean literature is full of great potential and possibility. As Korean society becomes increasingly globalized and diverse, Korean literature is also evolving—expanding in its range of themes, styles, and voices. The emotional depth and cultural richness that form the tradition of Korean literature still resonate powerfully, and they are now being expressed in more diverse and innovative ways. Korean literature is open and eager to engage with and learn from the world. Most importantly, writers must preserve their individuality and authenticity while actively participating in open dialogue. When the truth of personal experience is shared through literature with global citizens, it becomes a powerful force that fosters empathy, understanding, and cultural exchange. As today’s writers cross both national and artistic boundaries and broaden their perspectives, the future of Korean literature will become more vibrant, inclusive, and globally meaningful.

— How have significant historical and political events in Korea inspired you?  How are these events reflected in your works?

—Significant historical and political events in Korea have given me profound emotional and intellectual inspiration. Events such as the Japanese occupation, the Korean War, the division of the Korean Peninsula, and the democratization movements have not only left deep marks on the collective consciousness of the Korean people but have also strongly shaped my identity and sense of purpose as a writer. I try to find points of empathy by imagining how global citizens may have felt in comparison to what Koreans experienced during these periods. These moments of shared historical emotion often appear in my works—sometimes directly through the stories of characters who lived through those times, and sometimes symbolically, through universal human emotions such as migration, longing, and hope. I am especially drawn to the lives of those quietly swept up by history. Forgotten voices, untold stories, and the moral questions that arise amid oppression and change captivate me. In my poetry and fiction, I aim to show that history is not just a backdrop, but a living force that continues to influence our emotions, relationships, and choices today. Through literature, I strive to keep memory alive, to offer a space for healing and dialogue, and to reflect deeply on how we are beings who live within, yet also transcend, history. For example, I once found myself mesmerized by the beauty of a birch forest in Poland. In that moment of enchantment, I suddenly missed the sunlight of my homeland. This led to the realization that migrants around the world must also feel a deep yearning for their places of origin. The image of people living in beautiful and safe countries still aching for their war-torn or impoverished homelands moved me deeply.

The lives of countless refugees are not only the lives of today’s global citizens, but also mirror the lives of our own ancestors.

—What aspects of Korean cultural heritage do you strive to explore? How has this exploration influenced your creativity?

—The aspects of Korean cultural heritage I seek to explore include traditional values, historical memory, folk tales, language, and especially the deep, uniquely Korean emotion known as “han” I am also deeply interested in the transmission of stories across generations, the tension between Confucian values and modern individualism, rituals and family structures, and the influence of oral traditions on identity formation. However, my greatest focus is on the impact of the Buddhist heritage. The process of exploring Buddhist cultural elements has profoundly influenced my creative work. The Buddhist worldview, which expansively transcends time and space, greatly aids in explaining and understanding the fundamental, existential questions of human nature. This exploration of Buddhist culture has led me to realize that local identity and global empathy are not in conflict. On the contrary, the deeper the exploration, the more common human experiences emerge that connect across religions and borders. This awareness strengthens my writer’s voice and enables me to create stories and poetry that are culturally specific yet emotionally universal.

Read: A Thought from Morocco – Poetry from Korea

___________________

Jakhongir Nomozov is a young poet and journalist from Uzbekistan. He is also a Member of the Azerbaijan Journalists’ Union.

The post Writing – A Journey to the Self first appeared on Sindh Courier.

My heart too begins to bloom

I become a fragrant blossom.

Ms. Yang Geum-Hee, an acclaimed poetess from Korea, shares her poem

Poetess Ms. Yang Geum-Hee, born in 1967 in Jeju, Korea, has published four poetry collections and received eight literary awards in recognition of her contributions to literature. Her poetry collections include Happiness Account, Ieodo: The Island of Legend and Reality, Nests of Birds (published in Taiwan), and Nests of Birds (a bilingual English-Korean edition). In addition, she has authored a research book titled Inheritance of Ieodo Culture and an essay collection titled A Happy Companion on the Journey. In acknowledgment of her extensive contributions to international literature, she was awarded an honorary doctorate by the International Forum for Creativity and Humanity (President Dr. Aziz Mountassir) in the Kingdom of Morocco in March 2025. Poet Ms. Yang was the founding President of the Ieodo Literature Association, Editor-in-Chief of Jejuin News, a researcher at the Jeju Sea Grant Center, a specially appointed professor at Jeju International University, and the second President of the Korean Association of World Literature. She currently serves as an editorial writer for Samda Ilbo, President of Jeju PEN, and Vice President of the Korean Peace Cooperation. Her poetry has been translated into multiple languages and introduced in countries including the United States, China, Japan, Germany, Russia, Italy, Spain, England, Taiwan, Nepal, Egypt, Greece, Pakistan, Vietnam, Albania, Bangladesh, Kosovo, Tajikistan, Belgium, and beyond.

When I Look at a Flower

When a flower is in its most beautiful bloom,

Even memories shine bright.

The paths I’ve walked,

Etched like fine lines on petals,

Are traces of time passing through

Its most radiant moments.

Even a nameless wildflower,

Unseen by the world,

Is noble where its roots have taken hold.

Whether splendid or simple

A flower in solitude is beautiful,

But when blooming together,

They become lanterns that light up the world.

The world you and I live in

Becomes a field,

Becomes the sunshine,

Becomes a rebirth of the beautiful soul.

When I look at a flower,

My heart too begins to bloom

I become a fragrant blossom.

***

꽃을 보고 있으면

꽃이 가장 아름다운 시절,

기억도 눈부시게 피어난다.

살아온 내력의 결이

주름진 잎맥처럼 새겨져 있다.

그 찬란한 순간들은

시간의 손길이 남긴 흔적.

세상의 눈길조차 닿지 않는 풀꽃도

그 뿌리 내린 자리에서는

고결한 존재가 된다.

화려한 꽃이든, 소박한 꽃이든

홀로 피어도 눈부시고,

무리 지어 피면

세상을 밝히는 꽃등불이 된다.

너와 내가 살아가는 이 세상은

들판이 되고,

햇살이 되고,

아름다운 영혼의 환생이 된다.

꽃을 보고 있으면

내 마음도 향기로워진다.

나는 향기로운 한 송이 꽃이 된다.

________________

Read: Peace Is in your mind

The post Poetry: When I Look at a Flower first appeared on Sindh Courier.

Sending up wild sprays of water,

Will, in time, become calm ripples.

Ms. Yang Geum-Hee, an acclaimed poetess from Korea, shares her poem

Hailing from Jeju Island of Republic of Korea, Poetess Ms. Yang Geum-Hee has published four poetry collections and has won eight literary awards. She has published poetry collections such as Happiness Account, Ieodo: The Island of Legend and Reality, Nests of Birds (published in Taiwan), and Nests of Birds (English-Korean poetry book). Additionally, she has written the research book Inheritance of Ieodo Culture and the essay collection A Happy Companion on the Journey. In recognition of her extensive international literary contributions, she was awarded an honorary doctorate by the International Forum for Creativity and Humanity (President Dr. Aziz Mountassir) in the Kingdom of Morocco in March 2025. She was the founding President of the Ieodo Literature Association, editor-in-chief of Jejuin News, a researcher at the Jeju Sea Grant Center, a specially appointed professor at Jeju International University, and the 2nd President of the Korean Association of World Literature. Currently, she serves as an editorial writer for Samda Ilbo, President of Jeju PEN, and Vice President of the Korean Peace Cooperation. Her poetry has been translated and introduced in various countries, including USA, China, Russia, Italy, Germany, Egypt, Greece, Belgium, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Kosovo, Albania, Vietnam, Mexico, South America, Kyrgyzstan, and Kazakhstan.

The Ocean of Emotions

Even the raging waves that crash against the rocks,

Sending up wild sprays of water,

Will, in time, become calm ripples.

The vast and deep ocean

Embraces and nurtures all,

From mighty whales to tiny fish.

In its depths, the rocks become

Homes for fish,

Places of refuge,

Where anemones and corals take root.

But even those rocks

We’re not strong from the start.

Once, they were molten lava,

Hardened only after the violent eruption of a volcano.

When rocks and waves collide and lean on each other,

Enduring the passage of time together,

They create a sanctuary for marine life,

Where, in the depths of the soul,

A lush forest of seaweed flourishes.

Emotions are the same.

Even when turbulent waves surge,

Time will calm them into gentle ripples.

And just as patience and harmony

Shape the ocean’s vast embrace,

So too does the heart grow deeper and wider.

***

감정의 바다

거친 물보라를 일으키며 바위를 때리는

사나운 파도도

시간이 지나면 결국 잔잔한 물결이 된다.

넓고 깊은 바다는

고래부터 작은 물고기까지 품어 기르며,

그 심연 속에서 바위는

물고기의 집이 되고,

안식처가 되며,

말미잘과 산호가 뿌리내린다.

하지만 그 바위조차도

처음부터 강했던 것은 아니다.

한때는 뜨거운 용암이었고,

화산의 격렬한 분출을 거쳐

굳어진 존재다.

바위와 파도가 부딪히고 서로 기대며

함께 세월을 견딜 때,

그곳은 바다 생명체들의 안식처가 되고,

영혼의 깊은 심연 속에서

풍요로운 해초 숲이 자라난다.

감정도 그러하다.

거친 파도가 몰아쳐도,

시간이 지나면 잔잔한 물결이 되듯,

인내와 조화가 바다를 깊고 넓게 하듯이,

우리의 마음도 그렇게 성장해 간다.

________________ 

Read: Aesthetics of wind – A Poem from Jeju Island

The post Poetry: The Ocean of Emotions first appeared on Sindh Courier.

By Lee, Sang-Ki

April 3 marks the 77th anniversary of the Jeju 4.3 Incident, one of the most unfortunate events in Korea’s modern history. Very few foreigners know that such an incident took place on Jeju Island, which is known as an island of peace and prosperity loved by the Korean people as well as people around the world.

“Starting with the police firing incident on March 1, 1947, the armed forces of the Jeju Island Chapter of the Southern Workers’ Socialist Party broke out on April 3, 1948 under the banner of resistance to the repression of the police and the Northwest Youth Brigade and opposition to the disconnection and categorical government, until the opening of the Forbidden Hallamountain area on September 21, 1954, and the number of civilian victims reached 14,442. 78.7% of the deaths were caused by punitive squads and 15.7% by communist armed forces, and 20.9% of the victims were women, 14.5% were children under the age of 15 and the elderly in their 60s or older.

This incident caused the second highest number of victims after the Korean War, and it also resulted in the isolation of Jeju Island, an island region at the southern tip of the Korean Peninsula, for a long time.

I know that in modern history after World War II, Pakistan also had a similar experience to Korea, going through many ups and downs, such as independence from Britain, the division of India and Pakistan, and the division of Pakistan between East and West.

I hope that the Jeju 4.3 incident will serve as a counter-lesson when we find out the truth about the unfortunate incidents that occurred in Pakistan in the future and take appropriate measures against those responsible.

In this regard, I hope that the Jeju 4.3 incident will serve as a counter-lesson when we find out the truth about the unfortunate incidents that occurred in Pakistan in the future and take appropriate measures against those responsible. This is why I am bringing this article to Pakistani readers.

First, the name April 3rd was derived from the large-scale disturbances that occurred on April 3, 1948. In other words, the special conditions of Jeju Island and the conflict between the police and Northwest Youth Brigade and the people of Jeju Island that arose after the firing of the March 1st Memorial Ceremony in 1947, and the resulting tension were combined with Jeju Island Chapter of the Southern Workers’ Socialist Party in 1948 by combining the struggle against the May 10 unilateral election. After Korea’s liberation from Japan, South Korea pursued a liberal democracy and North Korea pursued a communist government. In the process, the North Korean communists tried to disrupt the first general election to establish a South Korean government.

The South Korean government responded with violent suppression of the protests. In other words, the government used all types of massacres that could occur on the planet, such as massacres in the name of suppressing communist rebels, massacres based on ideology and religious beliefs, massacres against residents of specific areas, and retaliatory massacres. In that sense, it can be said that it is an even more tragic incident. It lasted for seven years. The tragedy and dark history of Jeju, which had subsided in 1954 after the armed crackdown, gradually began to see the light of day thanks to the efforts of Jeju residents, journalists, and scholars. In 2004, then-South Korean President Roh Moo-hyun made an official apology from the government and declared its intention to find out the truth. Half a century after a very unfortunate past, the government’s courageous and wise measures were able to elicit a positive response from the people of Jeju Island as well as the people. I will conclude this column by quoting President Roh Moo-hyun’s speech on Jeju 4.3.

“The people of Jeju Island have rebuilt a beautiful island from the ruins and are showing a higher level of self-governance than any other region. The residents themselves have always achieved higher results than expected by the central government. As much as you take the lead, the government will also support you and push you hard. Let’s work together to create a rich and vibrant Jeju. Let us achieve peace in Korea, Northeast Asia, and the world through this island of peace. And as I watched this event from here today, I had the expectation that the immense pain and anger would become a history that we can look back on over time, and that it would become a new culture of Jeju Island in the decades that would become an important symbol of love, faith, and reconciliation for all our people, not anger, mistrust, and hatred. Let’s work together.”

Read: Aesthetics of wind – A Poem from Jeju Island

______________

Mr. Lee, Sang-Ki is the CEO and Publisher of The AsiaN and Founder President of Asia Journalists Association, Seoul, Republic of Korea

The post Remembering the Jeju Island Carnage first appeared on Sindh Courier.

Kim Won-Uk, an eminent poet from Korea, the Land of Morning Calm, shares his poem

Poet Kim Won-Uk was born in Wimi, Seogwipo-si, Jeju-do. He began his poetic career with the literature magazine Yesulsegye in 1993. His works include the poetry collections ‘A Bird to the Land of Longing’, ‘Into the Sunset’, ‘Someone’s someone’, and ‘Blue Feet Are Gone’. He is currently the president of the Jeju branch of the International PEN Korea Center.

Empty room

It’s been a long time since I entered the old room.

The room stares blankly.

The window is fogged up, as if the unfamiliar owner is displeased.

The accumulated dust is shining brightly.

The silence that drifted in the forest of delusion on a dark day settles into my pupils.

Whatever the history, there was a time when affection was exchanged.

In the shade of pure white,

The day Grandma Samshin suddenly grabbed her rough hand,

A narrow room across the Gobi Desert from the transparent snowfields of Lake Baikal,

Buried in the smell of shepherds in the vast grassland,

Leaning against the window where the loose snow is carelessly falling,

What should I empty today? I was anxious.

An empty room with no one watching.

A clear mind is trapped in the sky of obscurity.

Beyond the window of immateriality,

I look inside myself, where my optic nerves are entangled like an Indra net.

There is only great silence,

A pure white moon lying all together.

***

빈방

김원욱

오랜만에 낡은 방에 들어섭니다

방이 멀뚱멀뚱 바라봅니다

낯선 주인이 못마땅한지 창을 뿌옇게 흐려놓습니다

켜켜이 쌓인 먼지가 번들거리고

까마득한 날 미혹의 숲에서 떠돌던 적막이 동공 속으로

턱 내려앉습니다

내력이야 어떻든 정을 주고받던 때가 있었습니다

순백의 그늘에서

삼신할머니가 덥석 거친 손을 잡던 날

투명한 바이칼호 설원을 떠나 고비사막 건너온 좁은 방

광활한 초원 목동 냄새에 묻히다가

성긴 눈발 무심히 흩날리는 창가에 기대어

오늘은 무엇을 비울까, 마음 졸이던

아무도 보는 이 없는 빈방

명징한 정신이 무명의 하늘에 갇혀 있는

색계(色界)의 창 너머

시신경이 인드라망처럼 얽혀 있는 내 안을 들여다봅니다

큰 적막뿐인,

순백의 달덩이 하나 덩그러니 놓여 있습니다

_____________________  

Read: Reading poetry book – A Poem from Jeju Island of Korea

The post Empty room – A Poem from Korea first appeared on Sindh Courier.