Whale

Have you ever wondered what makes some people so resilient they can turn a life of hardship into a legendary tale? Discover the story of one woman's epic journey through modern Korean history, from a remote mountain village to the heart of a sprawling, chaotic world. You'll learn how Geumbok, an unforgettable and larger-than-life heroine, builds a business empire from nothing but sheer will. This sprawling, darkly funny saga reveals how ambition, love, and betrayal shape a destiny, offering a powerful look at the untamable spirit of human nature itself.

Cheon Myeong-Kwan is an acclaimed South Korean novelist and screenwriter whose novel, Whale, was shortlisted for the prestigious International Booker Prize in 2023. Originally a film director, his transition to writing was born from professional setbacks, leading him to channel his cinematic and storytelling prowess into crafting vivid, award-winning literary worlds. His work is brought to English readers by the celebrated translator Chi-Young Kim, known for her translations of numerous prominent Korean authors.