“Books, thousand of eyes looking at the future”,

“Books, thousand of eyes looking at the future”, Seoul International Book Fair 2011

 

The history of the Seoul International Book Fair 2011

Over 23 countries, 572 publishing companies and 774 booths, total of thirteen thousand people were all gathered to witness the 2011 Seoul International Book Fair which took place on June 15^th through June 19^th held in COEX A, B hall. The Seoul International Book Fair started in 1947, a book fair with only Korea books. However, starting from 1995, they categorized their title as an international book fair festival which portrayed immense signs of popular growth. Year by year, more countries started to participate, along with increasing numbers of steadfast programs, creating stimulating readers interests.

This year many readers were allowed to communicate with the writers (e.g., Cho Kyung Ran, Koo Byung Mo). Also the E-Square (Electronic Publishing Square) show casted electronical book devices. They also had world pop-up books on display and held an event, specifically where individuals can create their own. In hopes that next year’s fair will provide readers with much more experiences, an interview was conducted with one of the sponsors from the book fair festival, Kim Eun Hee from the Korean Publishers Association.  
 

                                       Kids enjoying the animation booth

1.    If you could describe the 2011 Seoul International Book Fair in a short phrase, how would you describe it and why?

-       This year slogan is “Books, thousand of eyes looking at the future”. In terms of this slogan, I want to tell you that the Seoul International Book Fair is a festival that connects not only Korean readers but also the international readers together. There are domestic halls, international halls along with children halls. Also there are many events held for many visitors of the fair to enjoy among the books.

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2.    How is the Seoul International Book Fair 2011 different from the 2010 fair?

-       “In terms of what has improved compared to last year, first of all the Seoul International Book Fair 2011 opened more space for the readers and writers to meet. Also to reflect the big issues and changes due to the electronic publishing, we expanded the contents for the E-Square (Electronic Publishing Square). Lastly, lots of special exhibits and open spaces for visitors to participate were provided.”

3.    What is the ultimate goal for the fair?

-    “The fair has a purpose of strengthening the traditional book contents. It is true that the popularities of books are decreasing due to diverse cultural contents. Therefore we are opening gates for publishing companies to connect with readers. Also it allows publishers to actively trade copyrights. In addition, we are pursuing many seminars to help current publishers develop.”

4. To what kind of people would you recommend this fair?   

-    “I would like to recommend this fair for not only readers but to everyone because there are events held that does not have age limits for the enjoyment of reading books. This year, the pop-up books were especially loved also I want to recommend to families with children. Especially, our B hall has a children hall, so there are many chances and events for the family to become one.”