The Korean Language, Literature and Translation initiative is dedicated to supporting research and projects related to the Korean language, literature, and translation by faculty at USC and within the Southern California region. Under this program, KSI organizes and sponsors a diverse array of events, including language pedagogy workshops, literature studies conferences, literary exchange events, and the annual Hangeul Day festival. 

The institute also facilitates the translation and publication of Korean literature through the Magpie Series in Global Korean Literature, published by Kaya Press. The initiative aims at both promoting scholarly inquiry and enhancing the accessibility of Korean literary works to a wider audience.

The institute also facilitates the translation and publication of Korean literature through the Magpie Series in Global Korean Literature, published by Kaya Press. The initiative aims at both promoting scholarly inquiry and enhancing the accessibility of Korean literary works to a wider audience.

Hangul Day

The USC Korean language program annually hosts a Hangul Day celebration, inviting students and community members to learn more about 한글(Hangeul), or the Korean language . 한글날(HangeulNal) is annually observed in South Korea on October 9 to commemorate the invention and proclamation of the Korean Alphabet system. 

 

The Magpie Series in Global Korean Literature

The Magpie Series by Kaya Press opens new horizons in Korean literature in English translation by introducing exciting new literary voices from Korea, past and present. The series includes literary fiction and compelling works from the world of Korean science fiction, fantasy, and horror. Magpie’s catalogue will be a reflexive picture of Korea and the breakneck speed of its changing interactions with the world.

Nak Chung Thun Manuscripts

KSI supports the publication of the manuscripts of early Korean American writer Nak Chung Thun (1917-1937). Thun’s writings are today part of the collections of USC’s Korean Heritage Library. An anthology of Thun’s essays and short stories, Gujejeok Gangdo (Righteous Robber; 2020), has been published in Korea in two versions: the annotated original script and a modern Korean translation. Both volumes are edited by Jaemoon Hwang of the Kyujanggak Institute at Seoul National University. See Thun’s digital archive and YTN Korean news report on the publication event. The Tale of Hong Chungnae, an alternate-history set in Xth century Korea, is forthcoming.

Upcoming Events

Steps into History: An Immersive Walk through USC’s Korean Heritage!

Friday, April 11, 9:30 am – 12:00 pm
USC Libraries Korean Heritage Library (DML 110C)
This event is designed to visit and discuss notable spaces related to Korean heritage at USC campus and surrounding areas. The walking tour will start with the USC Korean Heritage Library which showcases unique collections on Korean American history, media studies and other Korean language sources. Other sites include the University Club, Ahn House, USC Dive Tower, Korean National Association Memorial Foundation, Hung Sa Dahn and Florence Sherman’s Church. Open to all students with priority given to students taking Korean language and other Korean subject courses as well as students majoring or minoring in East Asia. Stay tuned for RSVP details.
Banner Image: National Hangeul Museum by Jeon Han (flickr/Korea.net)