Korean literature continues to catch on wildly, expanding across the globe rapidly and fervently, as people of all countries, nationalities, and cultures uncover just how compelling, captivating, and engaging Korean literature can be.

But it’s not just the Korean dramas and more mature literature that’s catching on. In fact, children’s books written by Korean authors are also quickly becoming a popular choice for children (and their parents) around the world.

Compelling children’s books have the ability to captivate a child’s mind while teaching them, almost seamlessly, about the world around them—ultimately preparing them for the circumstances that life, and the modern world, will throw at them eventually.

Children’s books written by Korean and Korean American authors have quickly gained notoriety and popularity as they accomplish several things at once—yes, they’re compelling and colorful, like most excellent children’s books are, but they also dole out many valuable life lessons alongside teachings in what Korean language, culture, and day-to-day life is like.

Literature for children that’s exclusively written by Korean or Korean American authors unveils a unique perspective for children (especially those who do not live in Korea) while providing a delightful way to learn foreign languages.

The list below includes several children’s books written by Korean authors—some have been translated into other languages and others have been published in Korean. Either way, these delightful children’s books are a must-read for any child (and parent) interested in learning about other cultures, diving into a new language, and reading downright fun children’s books to their little ones.

The Firekeeper’s Son by Linda Sue Park

Written by Korean American author Linda Sue Park (and illustrated by Julie Downing), The Firekeeper’s Son is a child-sized look into the hardships the island nation of Korea has faced for years. Looking through the eyes of young Sang-hee, this book tells a story set in the 1800s about a father’s duty, a son’s dedication, and a brief look into Korea’s history of fire signaling. This book is a fun, but lesson-laden read that’s ideal for ages 4-9.

Cloud Bread by Baek Hee-na

This beautifully illustrated and compelling children’s book by Baek Hee-na is a cute, delightful story that follows the adventures of two kittens who find a piece of cloud during a rainy morning, bake it into bread, and float into the air. This book, though adorable, is not strictly fun colors and silly plots—this book has achieved several accolades, including the Astrid Lindgren Memorial Award in 2020. It was even made into an adorable animated series!

 

The Watermelon Pool by Hello Moon

Predominantly illustrated in green and red, this children’s book is an immersive experience that opens up a child’s imagination seamlessly. While the plot certainly thickens, it ultimately revolves around swimming in a giant, watermelon pool in the heat of summer! This book is ideal for children ages 3-9.

There’s a Sea Horse Living in My Heart by Kim Ryeo-ryeong

This book is thoughtfully written to help both parents and adopted children understand and learn how they see each other. Though this book is meant for children, it’s also a deep reflection and stepping-stone that helps link both parent and child together, so there’s room for plenty of emotion. While young children will enjoy this, it’s also a great read for older children to teens—especially those who are struggling with navigating adoption.

Lady Hahn and her Seven Friends by Yumi Heo

This picture book seamlessly retells a Korean folktale about the seven tools that are needed for successful sewing. This folktale takes a journey down the lesson of how we should treat each other and what happens when we aren’t kind—but it also just provides a silly, exciting read for kids ages 4-8.

A Single Shard by Lina Sue Park

The second Park book on our list, A Single Shard is a lovely look into one of the most beautiful gifts Korean culture has bestowed upon the world—celadon pottery.

The story delves into the life of Tree-ear, a young orphan boy who enjoys watching a master potter work in secret. One day, when Tree-ear accidentally breaks a piece of pottery, an entire journey unfolds before him as he learns the trade and valuable lessons about life from the master potter.

We recommend this read for children ages 10 and up.

The Green Frogs by Yumi Heo

This perfect tale is yet another Korean folktale that all children should read (or have read to them). This book tells the story of two young frogs who love their mother but still have a hard time listening to her instructions. What will these two obstinate frogs do when their mother gives them one final order? Though this book does deal with death (moderately), it’s a great read for children from 3-7.

My Sister by Lee Seo-ji

A cute, fun story of sibling relations—what could be more appropriate for a young child? This story is all about the joy and hardship of a younger brother playing with his older sisters. Not only are there stellar illustrations in the book, but it’s also actually saturated with historical accuracy, showcasing the type of clothes, hairstyles, and games children experienced during the Joseon Dynasty.

Dear Juno by Soyung Pak

This cute, but emotional story is the perfect tale for children ages 5-9. When Juno receives a letter from his grandmother who lives in Korea, he is forced to wait for his parents to read to him because he cannot read Korean. But when he grows impatient and opens the letter, he discovers his grandmother has found a way to communicate with him after all. He sets out on a journey to do the same with his response! This read is a great way to demonstrate to children that, no matter what languages or cultural barriers stand in the way, there’s always some way to connect with others.