Korean writer explores Paris
By John Redmond
Writer Jeong Nack Seuk poses with his book “K Parisian, Koreans in Paris” in Seoul. / Courtesy of John Redmond
Paris-based Korean writer Jeong Nack Seuk has returned to Korea to further his passion for promoting artistic exchanges between Korea and France.
In his recently published book, “K Parisian, Koreans in Paris,” Jeong details the lives of Koreans who have chosen to relocate to France to live and study there.
Tracing the histories of people including pioneer Hong Jong-u, who worked for the Musee Guimet in Paris in 1895, to modern concert pianist Paik Kun-woo, “Parisian” explores the lives of both the old and new generations’ assimilation of Korean Parisians.
Currently, more than 15,000 Koreans live in Paris pursuing a variety of occupations and lifestyles, most working and studying in the arts.
The book also explores the changes in French and Korean cultural identities, the growth of past and present Korean cultural status and a view to future artistic links between the two countries.
In 1998, at age 41, Jeong moved to France and studied at Pantheon-Sorbonne University.
It is there he developed his idea to explore Korean and French cultural similarities.
“In France, I have actively worked to promote Korea by interacting with eminent people. I started to look for the people who were in charge and started to listen,” Jeong said.
“Looking into the lives of Korean expats, each story contains a history of challenges and overcoming them.”
Jeong dug deeper and found a sense of patriotism among Koreans living in Paris and their historical successes and stories.
“We hope to contribute to illuminating our spiritual heritage in Korea, and re-create it in France.”
The Korea Times spoke with Jeong about his move to France and the inspiration of his book.
Q: Why did you move to France?
A: I moved to France to pursue my passion and continue studying French literature. A passion I developed in Korea.
Q: What inspired you to write this book?
A: Koreans based in Paris have been living in constant challenge and change.
I hope this book will contribute to bringing back the forgotten memories and recording the current living history and illuminate our spiritual heritage rebuilt in Korea and France.
Q: Tell me about the Korean community in France.
A: There are people who pursue the arts, students, people who conduct business _ basically 15,000 Korean people live in Paris with their roots in both Korea and France.
As a profession, there are many in the travel and restaurant businesses, and the trade industry is increasing.
The second generation of Korean immigrants is increasingly graduating as lawyers and doctors.
Q: Why did you return to Korea?
A: I want to operate cultural and art exchange projects between Korea and France. Link galleries between Paris and Seoul for example.
Jeong is currently working as a publisher for the weekly national newspaper Paris and publisher of the Korean American Press Association.
He has been working as a French guide for “Guide des Restaurant Authentiques,” and works closely with Korean journalists.
His previous work "Blue Desert" was published in 2008.
“K Parisian, Koreans in Paris” is currently published in Korean and French. An English translation will be available soon.
Caption: Writer Jeong Nack Seuk poses with his book “K Parisian, Koreans in Paris” in Seoul. Photo: John Redmond