About:
Bucheon is famous for its well-organized library network comprising 128 libraries in total, including 13 city libraries, 21 small public libraries that are operated throughout Bucheon City, 70 small private libraries that were started and are operated autonomously by citizens, 18 miniature libraries (Spore libraries) that were built in places such as markets and offices where many people gather, 2 smart libraries, which are operated automatically in subway stations, and 4 university libraries that are open to the public as well.
Bucheon City of Literature in Korea is calling for applications from writers, poets, translators and graphic novelists from UNESCO’s creative cities for their 2024 literary residency, from November to December 2024, lasting approximately two months.
With the aim of fostering international exchange and artist mobility, the residency offers participants the opportunity to immerse themselves in the cultural environment of Bucheon, a city renowned for its literary and artistic wealth.
During this time, residents will spend 80% of their time working on their personal projects and the remaining 20% participating in local cultural activities, designed in collaboration with the Bucheon office. These activities include literary events, community meetings and public presentations, allowing writers to interact directly with the Korean public.
During the residency, the resident will be expected to produce a four-page essay or comic strip about living in Bucheon, Korea, or Korean culture, and attend at least one local literature event.
Eligibility
The residency is open to all writers, translators and graphic novelists who live in UNESCO Creative Cities, and have at least one published work, which can be in any genre (fiction, poetry, translation, comics etc). Special consideration will be given to those who make work or have lived experience of diaspora, and those who are comic and graphic novel artists.
Applicants must speak either Korean or English and have an interest in Korean literature and culture.
Support
The programme covers travel costs to and from Bucheon and accommodation, as well as personalised support to integrate into the cultural life of the city.
Bucheon City of Literature 2024 residency application guidelines
Deadline: 21 October 2024
