VOL.78/2025.01

#Traditional Culture(Picture Books)

KPIPA introduces K-Books for global publishing markets through K-Book Platform

 

2020.12.07

 

Setting the Table

1. Publication Details

Title | Setting the Table
Author | Joo Youngha
Publisher | BORIM PRESS
Publication Date | 2013-05-15
ISBN | 9788943309107
No. of pages | 60
Dimensions | 285 * 225

 

2. Copyright Contact

Name | Park Sunjoo
Email | sunjoo@borimpress.com
Phone | +82-10-9214-4801

 

3. Book Intro

Korean food is usually called as "hansik." We talk about the uniqueness and excellence of "hansik" by mentioning the efficacy or nutritional balance of some foods, such as kimchi and "jang" (Korean pastes). However, the uniqueness of our food culture should be seen in more broader perspective, for example, how to look for foods in the environment of the Korean Peninsula over many years, how to prepare meals, how to serve, how to eat, etc. That is, the book intends to explore almost everything about foods: production and choosing of food ingredients, cooking and serving, utensils, cutlery, etiquette and so on. Also, we should remember that food culture is shared by neighboring countries and understand universality and uniqueness from the perspective of the history of mankind.
This book examines how our ancestors satiated their instinct of hunger in the natural environment of Korean Peninsula and social system, and looks closely into what food culture and traditions they have built up. In the Paleolithic era, humans as omnivores who did not have an edge in the food chain began cooking with tools and fire. In the Neolithic era, humans understood the difference of plants and animal in respect to growth and reproduction and considered wild crops as future food source. And now we are facing a challenge of looking for foods that benefit environment and humans amid the flood of fast food, processed food, and imported crops. Such process is examined in detail under 22 topics.
Furthermore, the book explores other interesting topics: the table setting of hansik comprising rice, soup and side dishes; the history of traditional Korean food, such as "jang" and kimchi; kitchen utensils, including cutlery, bowls and dishes; seasonal customs related to food; and the acceptance of foreign foods such as red pepper, noodle, and tofu. Other interesting topics are: the comparison of size of one portion from Three Kingdoms era until now; the origin of foods served in the ceremonies or rituals; the influence of Buddhism and Confucianism on the food culture, and dietary in Joseon era.

* http://www.k-book.or.kr/user/books/books_view?idx=2324

 

 

Hangeul as a Container of Korean Language

1. Publication Details

Title | Hangeul as a Container of Korean Language
Author | Park Donghwa
Publisher | Bear Books Inc.
Publication Date | 2008-10-01
ISBN | 9788993242041
No. of pages | 40
Dimensions | 220 * 285

 

2. Copyright Contact

Name | Min Yuree
Email | right@bearbooks.co.kr
Phone | +82-70-4213-2959

 

3. Book Intro

In the days when there were no Korean alphabets, many commoners suffered injustice and discomfort because they could not read and write at all. Only after King Sejong made Hangeul was it possible for all the people to read and write by learning letters. The significance and principles of Hangeul, as the Korea's greatest cultural heritage and the most suitable medium for Korean language, are explained at a child's level.

* http://www.k-book.or.kr/user/books/books_view?idx=2305

 

 

The Great Meal

1. Publication Details

Title | The Great Meal
Author | Park Kwangmyung
Publisher | GORAEBAETSOK
Publication Date | 2015-07-31
ISBN | 9788992505499
No. of pages | 32
Dimensions | 210 * 280

 

2. Copyright Contact

Name | Kim Gugyoung
Email | drumbox1@goraein.com
Phone | +82-10-3141-9901

 

3. Book Intro

A bowl of rice contains the whole universe!
"Meal time!" Mom calls to the child. The kid, glancing at the table, complains, "Is it rice again?" Mom begins to tell the story of the meal to the child, who sits at the table with a sullen expression.
In order for a meal to be served, somebody must make food early in the morning. You have to go shopping at the grocery store before you cook. The food in the mart comes from a big market. To get it there, someone needs to load and carry it in a big truck. But before that, people pack the food in boxes. Some people study ways to make more delicious and healthy varieties of food.
The Great Meal is a picture book that shows the cycle that connects people with nature. Starting from the table and moving through marts, auction houses, wholesale markets, ranches, seas, farms, and in rain and sunshine, this story gives you a chance to think differently about food. As you follow the path of the meal, you realize how many people's dishes come from this laborious process. As we turn the pages, the interest of the children reading the book gradually expands from themselves to others, then far away from people to nature, to the universe. At the same time, their thoughts and perspectives will expand.

Simple story and stylish drawing!
Park Kwangmyung, who wrote and illustrated this book, portrays the philosophical theme of extending out from oneself into one's surroundings, the world, and the universe using simple sentences and easy vocabulary. In addition, he uses a variety of materials and techniques, including acrylic paints, colored pencils, prints, collages, and computer graphics, to create his unique paintings. The vivid expressions and gestures of various objects and figures are elaborately rendered, and the artist's humor is well captured. Readers of this book will be able to create endless new stories and find fun hiding in every corner of the page.

* http://www.k-book.or.kr/user/books/books_view?idx=2203

 

 

Traditional Korean Homes

1. Publication Details

Title | Traditional Korean Homes
Author | Lee Sang Hyun
Publisher | SigongJunior
Publication Date | 2017-02-20
ISBN | 9788952784872
No. of pages | 48
Dimensions | 300 * 250

 

2. Copyright Contact

Name | Irene Lee
Email | irene@sigongsa.com
Phone | +82-2-2046-2849

 

3. Book Intro

In late Joseon era, during a time of great changes inside and outside the country, Jinsa Choi's family gathered and discussed two concerns. First, two daughters' wedding is at the corner but there are not enough rooms to accommodate visitors. Second, their food storage is not secure as thieves are increasing day by day due to social unrest. So Choi family decides to expand food storage to build another building for visitors and erect walls to prevent thieves.
The story begins by introducing each room of Choi's house and telling what is happening there. Readers can see the pictures of the beautiful spaces of hanok (traditional Korean house), such as "anchae" (main building), "sarangchae" (detached building) and courtyard.
First, the family meeting takes place in anchae, the center of the house. It is usually for women, but it is also a place where family gathers to discuss important issues. Mr Choi goes to the shrine and report to ancestors that his daughters would marry soon, and watch the new "haenlangchae" being built inside "sarangchae," a men's space. Finally, the haenlangchae and strong fence are completed. On the wedding day, Choi's relatives gather and women are busy making food in the backyard. Following the story line, reader can naturally understand what each building is used for and what it looks like, etc.
In addition, the book gives explanation on the shape of roof, pillars, doors and window, and the types of gates and fences, along with vivid pictures. The book guide readers to understand peculiar elements of hanok, such as "gudeul" (Korean floor heating system), "daecheong maru" (wooden floor), and eaves, and how scientific hanok is in prevention of coldness and heat.
The books also shows how the unique cultures of Korean people - nomadic, sedentary and transitional - is reflected in hanok. This book will provide an opportunity to learn about hanok and Korean culture itself, not just as simple buildings.

* http://www.k-book.or.kr/user/books/books_view?idx=2314

 

 

Children in The Silver Paper Picture

1. Publication Details

Title | Children in The Silver Paper Picture
Subtitle | Beautiful Artist Lee Jungseop
Author | Gang Wonhee
Publisher | CrayonHouse Co., Ltd.
Publication Date | 2017-11-30
ISBN | 9788955475142
No. of pages | 44
Dimensions | 250 * 240

 

2. Copyright Contact

Name | Lee Minjeong
Email | mjlee@crayonhouse.co.kr
Phone | +82-02-3436-1711

 

3. Book Intro

As one of Korea's most beloved and representative artists, Lee Jungseop is well known for expressing the unique atmosphere of our nation with vibrant and dynamic strokes. He drew paintings with a clear and shining spirit, even in difficult times, such as colonization, war, and division.
He was too poor to afford proper artistic materials, so he drew paintings onto the silver paper that came in the cigarette boxes of the time. Lee's longing became beautiful pictures. If you look at the topics of Lee's works, such as cows, children, and family, you can see the world that Lee dreamed of. I hope that you will feel the pain of the times as you read this book and think about the passion of artist Lee Jungseop and the meaning of art.

* http://www.k-book.or.kr/user/books/books_view?idx=2261

 

 

Have You Ever Seen such a Beautiful Daenggi?

1. Publication Details

Title | Have You Ever Seen such a Beautiful Daenggi?
Subtitle | Korean Tranditional Accessories
Author | Kang Hyomi
Publisher | Mirae N Co., Ltd.
Publication Date | 2018-10-20
ISBN | 9791162338841
No. of pages | 36
Dimensions | 215 * 273

 

2. Copyright Contact

Name | Lee Ahram
Email | ahram.lee@mirae-n.com
Phone | +82-2-3475-3937

 

3. Book Intro

When watching historical Korean dramas, the most interesting and eye catching points after the story line are the beautiful Hanbok (traditional Korean clothing) worn by the characters and the beautiful accessories with unique personalities. That's why the old accessories in the historical dramas are often popular, and some Korean hairpin (binyeo, or Korean ribbon called daenggi) featured in drams are sold out. However, traditional accessories are not mere beautiful things. It is because many historical facts are hidden in the materials and patterns used in jewelry. Have You Ever Seen such a Beautiful Daenggi? is a picture book that presents the Joseon's representative accessories and its beauty. The story is simple. The fictional character, Myeongdamjeong goes seeking a woman wearing norigae and embroidered daenggi at the request of a gentleman. At the same time, through ornaments that symbolize the social atmosphere and life of the Joseon Dynasty, the book offers a better understanding of the life of our ancestors, as seen in historical dramas.

* http://www.k-book.or.kr/user/books/books_view?idx=2216

 

 

A Long, Final Journey with the Kkokdu

1. Publication Details

Title | A Long, Final Journey with the Kkokdu
Author | Lee Yun-min
Publisher | Hollym Corp., Publishers
Publication Date | 2013-07-05
ISBN | 9788970946733
No. of pages | 33
Dimensions | 260 * 210

 

2. Copyright Contact

Name |  Lee Kyumin
Email | flydream@hollym.co.kr
Phone | +82-2-735-7553

 

3. Book Intro

Where do people go when they die? In the old days, people had many ideas about the afterlife. Ancient Egyptians believed that the dead become stars, and ancient Japanese people believed that they become gods and stay with us always. So what about Koreans?
Koreans believed that people enter the next world after their lives end in this world. However, Koreans thought that the journey to the next world would be a long and tough one, which is the reason their ancestors made kokdu, so that their loved ones have their company while they take the journey into the next world. A kokdu is a wooden figure that is usually hung on a bier and is believed to be the guardian spirit that ushers the dead into the next world and serves them there. It has the shape of a person, but when you look closely into it, each has a different appearance. Why is that?
A kokdu is a wooden figure that can accompany a loved one so that they do not feel lonely, frustrated, or frightened. Each has their own roles for the dead: some of them play the role of guidance, some are for protection, some serve, and some entertain. Kokdu shows how the ancestors felt about others and how they acted toward one another.
A Long, Final Journey with the Kokdu is a picture book that features kokdu, a Korean tradition. Readers can learn about the meaning and roles of kokdu through a journey to the next world that is neither scary nor sad with a grandmother and a kokdu. Readers can also gain a better understanding of the thoughts and culture of ancestors behind death.

* http://www.k-book.or.kr/user/books/books_view?idx=1125

 

 

The Seven Friends in a Lady's Chamber

1. Publication Details

Title | The Seven Friends in a Lady's Chamber
Author | Lee Youngkyoung
Publisher | BIR Publishing Co., Ltd.
Publication Date | 1998-04-10
ISBN | 9788949100203
No. of pages | 32
Dimensions | 325 * 235

 

 

2. Copyright Contact

Name | Claire Yang
Email | claire@bir.co.kr
Phone | +82-2-515-2000

 

3. Book Intro

This book is a picture book adaptation of Gyu-joong-chil-woo-jaeng-non-gi. While the red hood mistress is asleep, Mrs. Ruler, Miss Scissors, Madam Red Thread, Granny Thimble, Maiden Soldering Iron, and Mistress Iron all argue about who is the best. However, they are finally reconciled by realizing that each of them has a separate role in the world, where none is unimportant and all are valuable.

* http://www.k-book.or.kr/user/books/books_view?idx=2293

 

 

Ssireum

1. Publication Details

Title | Ssireum
Author | Kim Jangsung
Publisher | SAKYEJUL PUBLISHING LTD.
Publication Date | 2007-03-05
ISBN | 9788958282129
No. of pages | 36
Dimensions | 254 * 264

 

2. Copyright Contact

Name |  Kang Hyunjoo
Email | kanghjoo@sakyejul.com
Phone | +82-31-955-8600

 

3. Book Intro

On Dano day, the fifth day of the fifth month of the Lunar calendar, people gather around on the sand near the river. From infants to village elders, people of all ages and genders gather. The sweets shop and rice cake shop display their goods and even the ox, which doesn't know what's going on, follows its owner to the scene. It's all because a ssireum match is taking place! Combatants are eliminated after each match until only the strongest two men remain for the final round. One of them will be crowned the strongest man in the world.
Ssireum is a picture book written to introduce the excitement and fun of ssireum to the children of today. It depicts the strength and techniques of the ssireum wrestlers, the tense matches, the clanking sound of the sweets seller's scissors, the roars and cheers from the crowd, the surprise of a small man defeating a big man, and the sounds of music when the champion is determined. This wide array of excitement and fun is accompanied by witty prose.
The dynamic and detailed drawings deliver the tension of the moment, from the breath of the wrestlers to the movements, expressions and gestures of the referee and crowd, delivering real-like excitement that feels like an actual ssireum match.

*http://www.k-book.or.kr/user/books/books_view?idx=2331

 

 

Rabbit's Wish

1. Publication Details

Title | Rabbit's Wish
Author | Lee Hobaek
Publisher | Jaimimage Publishing Co.
Publication Date | 2003-10-01
ISBN | 9791185996745
No. of pages | 40
Dimensions | 200 * 287

 

2. Copyright Contact

Name | Lee Hobaek
Email | jaim@jaimimage.com
Phone | +82-31-955-0880

 

3. Book Intro

The book is based on a fable of rabbit and tiger. The two meet by chance and have a conversation. The author uses the fable to introduce Korea's representative animals in folk painting (chicken, tortoise, carp, deer, crane, mandarin duck, dog, monkey, etc.) that have been well known to Koreans since the Joseon Dynasty. This book opens up the new horizon in the proper appreciation of Korean folk paintings through fun story and illustrations.

* http://www.k-book.or.kr/user/books/books_view?idx=2301

 

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