The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism and the Korea Publishing Culture Industry Promotion Agency announced on June 24 that they will support the programs and promotional activities of 131 domestic publishers participating in the '2026 Seoul International Book Fair.'
Now in its 68th year, the Seoul International Book Fair will take place from June 24 to 28 at the COEX A Hall and B1 Hall in Seoul. Among the participating publishers, 70 will have individual booths, 44 will be part of joint booths, and 17 will participate in the Book Village. These publishers will receive support for reader engagement programs, including author lectures, book talks, and signing events, as well as for booth equipment rentals and online and offline promotional expenses, making them more accessible to readers.
This year, support for reader engagement programs such as author lectures, book talks, and signing events has been expanded, enhancing on-site programs featuring prominent authors from each publishing house. Notable events include a lecture titled 'A Guide Named Fear' in conjunction with Munhakdongne's 'Exhibition of Light,' a book talk with Monk Jeonggwan from Willbook titled 'Monk Jeonggwan: My Food,' a science fiction book talk with author Kim Bo-young from Ajac titled 'The Origin of Species,' and a lecture by authors Lim Hyung-nam and Noh Eun-joo from Gaji Publishing House on 'The K of Architecture.' Various author events will be supported.
Support will also extend to booth programs linked with the official programs of the Seoul International Book Fair.
Additionally, this year, publishers will be able to rent equipment tailored to their unique promotional plans. This includes sound equipment for booths combining music and books from Dae and Anchor, and experiential events in authors' studios from Seosawon Publishing, enhancing the exhibition space to create distinctive displays that will boost promotional effectiveness at the book fair, serving as a meeting place for publishers and readers.
Minister Choi Hwi-young stated, "Experiential programs like author events are expected to invigorate the book fair," adding, "We will continue to strengthen support for not only the book fair but also various opportunities for authors, publishers, and readers to meet, fostering a vibrant book culture and enhancing the ability to think and question in the age of artificial intelligence (AI)."
Meanwhile, the 2026 Seoul International Book Fair marks its 68th edition, featuring 538 participating companies from 18 countries (361 domestic and 177 international). A total of 416 programs, including exhibitions, side events, lectures, seminars, and on-site events, will be showcased. The event will host 326 authors and speakers (281 domestic and 45 international) participating in various programs.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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