Mrs. Kim Hye-kyung Visits Seoul International Book Fair: "A Good Book Can Transform Society"

Touring the Book Fair After the Opening Ceremony Remarks

Mrs. Kim Hye-kyung visited the Seoul International Book Fair on the 24th and stated, "Books have been a source of comfort in difficult times and have served as a guide that helped me regain my direction at critical moments of choice." She added, "I firmly believe that a single good book can change a person's thoughts and, furthermore, transform society."

Mrs. Kim Hye Kyung is purchasing books after viewing them at the Seoul International Book Fair held at COEX in Gangnam-gu, Seoul, on the 24th. Photo by Yonhap News Agency White House Press Photographers Group

During her congratulatory remarks at the opening ceremony of the 2026 Seoul International Book Fair, held at COEX in Gangnam-gu, Seoul, Mrs. Kim said, "Books are records of the questions, reflections, concerns, and hopes that humanity has posed to itself over many years."

Mrs. Kim emphasized, "Regardless of age, it is a timely topic these days to contemplate the idea of 'humans who ask questions,' especially as we increasingly rely on answers provided by artificial intelligence (AI). This is precisely why the enduring power of books remains so special, even as times change and technology advances."

This year's theme for the book fair is "Human Declaration: Homo Duduri." The theme invites reflection on the existence and role of humans living in an era of coexistence with AI. Notably, this year marks the 140th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Korea and France, with France selected as the guest of honor.

Mrs. Kim expressed her hope that "the exchange of publishing cultures between the two countries will become even more active and serve as an opportunity for mutual growth."

After delivering her congratulatory remarks, Mrs. Kim toured the book fair. She visited the "Pyeongsan Bookstore" booth, where she purchased three books, including a work by former President Moon Jae-in, and stopped by the section dedicated to author Yoo Si-min. Additionally, she met French novelist Bernard Werber and received a copy of his new book, "Waltz of Souls."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.