Welcome to the Hyunam-dong Bookshop

by Hwang Bo-Reum

As with everything in life, reading is about the right timing.

Lately, I’ve really felt this to be true. I’ve been reading books I never imagined I would, and they came into my life at just the right time.

To read is to see things from someone else’s perspective, and that naturally leads you to stop and look out for other people, rather than chase after success in the rat race. If more people read, I think the world would become a better place.

Books are not meant to remain in your mind, but in your heart. Maybe they exist in your mind too, but as something more than memories.

‘Altitude,’ said Jimi. ‘Coffee beans from trees cultivated at a low altitude have a lower acidity and the flavour is often mild and bland. High-altitude beans tend to be more acidic, resulting in a stronger fruity or floral scent and a more complex flavour.’

I’m not a coffee drinker, but I’ve been reading a lot of books where coffee plays a big role—and this one is actually teaching me about it. The world is so ironic.

My point is that a ten-million hit doesn’t mean that a movie is so amazing that ten million people love it. So, instead of watching something because of the label, as movie lovers, we should pick the ones we enjoy.’

It’s just like when my husband wants me to watch one of those movies that everyone loves—famous, popular, all that—and I’m like, ‘Sounds boring. I’m not everyone.’ 🤣