Asian Studies, the Division of Languages and Literature, Experimental Humanities, Korean, Literature, and Written Arts Presents

Do Not Try to Bend the Spoon. There Is No Spoon: Mediating Shamanism and Myth in Contemporary Korean Culture

In this talk, Kim reveals how Korean shamanism, ghost lore, and myth, often invisible to Western audiences, continue to shape contemporary Korean science fiction and popular culture. From “evil ghosts” (ak-kwi) frequently mistaken for demons to K-pop idols reimagined as modern-day shamans, this talk reframes haunting and possession not as horror, but as transformation, embodiment, and ethical connection. Linking ancient myths such as Paridegi with global touchstones like The Matrix and Star Wars, Kim offers students and community members a rare lens for understanding Korean storytelling on its own terms.

Bo-Young Kim is a leading South Korean science fiction writer whose work has profoundly influenced a generation of emerging authors since the early 2000s. Her English-language collection I’m Waiting for You and Other Stories was published by HarperCollins, and her translated collection, On the Origin of Species and Other Stories, published by Kaya Press, was nominated for a National Book Award, among other publications. She also served as a scenario advisor for Bong Joon-ho’s SF film Snowpiercer.

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For more information, call 845-758-6822, or e-mail [email protected].

Time: 5:00 pm EDT/GMT-4

Location: Preston

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