Kim Hye-kyung attends Seoul International Book Fair, says 'good books change society'

First lady Kim Hye-kyung attended the opening ceremony of the 2026 Seoul International Book Fair on Wednesday, saying she "firmly believes that a single good book can change a person's thinking and, in turn, transform society."

Cheong Wa Dae Deputy Spokesperson An Gwi-ryeong said in a written briefing that Kim toured various exhibitions and booths at the morning ceremony at COEX, reflecting on the value of publishing and reading culture and emphasizing the power of books to prompt questions and self-reflection.

An described the Seoul International Book Fair as South Korea's largest publishing and reading culture festival, bringing together publishers, readers and authors. He said it has established itself as a leading book fair in Asia while contributing to the development of Korean publishing culture and the spread of reading culture.

In her congratulatory address, Kim expressed gratitude to the Korean Publishers Association, Seoul International Book Fair organizers, and domestic and international publishers and authors for their efforts in hosting the event.

This year marks the 140th anniversary of diplomatic relations between South Korea and France, which is participating as the fair's guest of honor country. Kim welcomed French Ambassador to South Korea Philippe Bertoux along with French publishers and authors, and praised the significance of cultural exchange between the two countries.

Regarding this year's fair theme — "Declaration of Humanity: Homo Duduri" — Kim said the concept of "questioning humans" is a timely one. "These days, people of all ages are becoming dependent on answers provided by AI," she said. "Books are a record of the questions, reflections, worries and hopes that humanity has posed to itself over the ages."

She added that this is precisely why the power of books remains special even as times change and technology advances.

Kim also spoke of her personal connection to reading. "Books have been a source of comfort during difficult times and a guide that helped me find direction at important moments of choice," she said. "I firmly believe that a single good book can change a person's thinking and, in turn, transform society."

She also noted the strong interest and participation from young people as the next generation, expressing hope that the fair would help visitors "discover the joy of reading in everyday life and find their own meaning in what it means to be a thinking human being."

After the opening ceremony, Kim visited the thematic exhibition hall to view the "Declaration of Humanity: Homo Duduri" display. An said the exhibition explored the nature of questioning humans and the essence of reading, introducing classic works that probe the human condition. Kim then visited the independent publishing hall, where she encouraged representatives from independent publishers and browsed the booths.

After touring the independent publishing hall, Kim stopped by the Pyeongsan Bookstore booth, which participated in the fair for the second consecutive year. She encouraged staff, received a briefing on operations and purchased three books: "The President's Reading" by author Shin Dong-ho, and "Moon Jae-in's Reading Notes" and "Moon Jae-in's Transcription Notes" by former President Moon Jae-in.

Kim then visited the Ministry of Patriots and Veterans Affairs booth, where she greeted citizens taking part in hands-on programs and viewed the exhibition.

The ministry was running a special exhibition to mark the 150th anniversary of the birth of independence activist Kim Gu. Kim said she was impressed that Kim Gu had emphasized the value of culture during a time when national strength was paramount, and added that she feels the growing cultural stature of South Korea every time she travels abroad.

Closing her remarks, Kim expressed hope for the continued growth and spread of publishing and reading culture. "Books are a precious cultural asset that connect people and help them understand one another," she said. "I hope that more and more people will use books to ask questions, think deeply and share the experience of understanding each other's lives."