Han Kang's 'We Do Not Part' Named NBCC Finalist, Continuing Nobel Momentum

Is another major literary prize coming to South Korea? Nobel laureate Han Kang just secured a spot as a finalist for one of America's most prestigious book awards. Her novel 'We Do Not Part' was named a contender for the 2025 National Book Critics Circle (NBCC) Awards in the fiction category on Tuesday, as reported by Yonhap.

Why Han Kang We Do Not Part NBCC Finalist Nod Matters

The NBCC, an American nonprofit association, recognizes excellence in English-language literature across six categories. In the highly competitive fiction bracket, Han Kang's work is one of only five finalists. Translated by E. Yaewon and Paige Aniyah Morris, the English edition has successfully translated the deep cultural nuances of a dark period in Korean history for a global audience.

From the Jeju Uprising to Global Critical Acclaim

Set during the 1948Jeju Island uprising, the novel explores the trauma of a government crackdown that left an estimated 14,000 to 30,000 civilians dead. It's a poignant exploration of memory and friendship amidst historical violence. This recognition follows poet Kim Hye-soon's win in the poetry category in 2024, further solidifying South Korea's growing influence in the Western literary canon.

The winners will be officially announced on March 26, 2026. As readers worldwide flock to Han Kang's bibliography following her Nobel win, this nomination serves as a testament to the enduring power of her storytelling.