Hwang Boreum, South Korean author of the best-selling novel “Welcome to Hyunam-dong Bookshop,” is in Manila for a series of book talks and signing events.
Called “Stories in the Bookshop,” Hwang is gracing a three-part talk and signing series until September 13.
Hwang kicked off the “Stories in the Bookshop” event with Conversations Part 1, held at the Korean Cultural Center in the Philippines in Taguig City. During the event, she shared her journey in crafting her novel, “Welcome to the Hyunam-dong Bookshop,” and personally met with members of the KCC Book Club, fans, and members of the press for book signing and photos.
Hwang Boreum, South Korean author of the best-selling novel “Welcome to Hyunam-dong Bookshop,” is in Manila for Stories in the Bookshop, a three-part talk and signing series. Catch her at the Manila International Book Fair on Sept. 13. #MIBF2025 | via @rosette_adel pic.twitter.com/PU0o8b3jf8
— Interaksyon (@interaksyon) September 11, 2025
The novel was first released as an e-book after winning a writing contest on the Korean platform “Brunch,” and later became a hit. It was later published in paperback in 2022 and has since been translated into over 20 languages.
It tells the story of a burnt-out woman who leaves her job to open a bookshop, finding healing and purpose in the process. Its relatable themes of self-discovery, burnout, and personal reinvention have resonated with readers worldwide.
Thankful for Pinoys, novel in the works
Meanwhile, at Conversations Part 1, Hwang opened up about her experience of connecting with readers and the unexpected attention her work has received.
The author shared how she was overwhelmed to learn that many people are reading her novel, which she considered to be a “miracle for her.”
“I was very excited coming to the Philippines, but I did not expect this much cameras will be looking at me and filming me today,” she quipped, drawing laughter from the audience.
Hwang also revealed that she has a new novel in the works, set to be published in Korea next year.
“It is in the process of the primary review in a publisher, and after it’s done, it’s going to be reviewed, and I think it will be published in Korea like next year. I cannot actually give a hint about it because I’ve never shared it in Korea as well,” the author said.
She concluded by expressing her heartfelt gratitude to her Filipino readers for their warm support.
“I really appreciate all of you guys who actually came to see me. And I heard that a lot of Filipina readers are reading and giving a good review about Welcome to the Hyunam-dong Bookshop and I’m really thankful for that as well,” she said in her message to Filipino fans.
Where and how to meet Hwang Boreum
Fans can still meet Hwang and get a signed copy of her book in two more upcoming events.
Hwang’s second stop before hitting the Manila International Book Fair (MIBF) 2025 is at the University of the Philippines (UP) today, September 12.
For those who could not make it to UP, Hwang will also be at the MIBF at SMX Convention Center on Saturday, Sept. 13 from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m. for an inspiring book talk at the Main stage.
After the talk, fans can get a copy of the novel signed by Hwang herself at the National Book Store booth Hall 3 from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Only books purchased from National Book Store will be signed. It can be scored at 20% off at the bookstore’s booth.
National Book Store is also offering free entry to MIBF 2025 by downloading and printing free entrance passes on this link.
Apart from her events, Singer, “It’s Showtime” host and podcaster Karylle is set to feature Hwang in her podcast, “K’s Drama.”
“Soon on @ksdramapodcast… we have author @__bo_reum. She wrote best- selling book #welcometothehyunamdongbookshop, Karylle said.
“She has a couple of activities in MNL,” the singer-actress added.