Handwriting Takes Center Stage as South Korea's New Literary Craze

SEOUL – In an exciting cultural shift, the age-old practice of handwriting is making a significant resurgence in South Korea, embraced by a generation eager for a break from digital distractions. This revival can be traced back to the monumental achievement of Han Kang, awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature last year, which has inspired many to delve deeper into the written word.

Park Min-ha, 28, reflects this trend; she has transformed her reading routine by adopting the practice of "pilsa," which involves painstakingly handwriting favorite passages from books. “Just reading didn’t feel fulfilling. Handwriting allows me to absorb the text more deeply,” she notes, finding solace in the calm that comes with slowing down. The meditative effects of pilsa resonate with many, as it offers a refreshing counterpoint to the chaos of modern life.

This new wave of handwritten expression isn’t confined to literature enthusiasts like Park. It has captured the attention of a diverse audience, including notable figures such as 20-year-old Kwak Do-gyu, a left-handed pitcher for the Kia Tigers. During an episode of the popular reality show *I Live Alone*, he was seen engaging in pilsa with his non-dominant hand to ensure his pitching arm stayed rested. Kwak remarked, “Since I started pilsa, I’ve felt a notable sense of tranquility.”

As the movement gains momentum, the publishing industry has responded with a surge of specially designed pilsa books. These new titles cater to a variety of tastes and themes, moving beyond traditional poetry and prose. There's a rising popularity for copying content ranging from philosophical musings, inspirational quotes, to even the lyrics of beloved K-pop artists like IU and Taeyeon. In fact, books such as "Copying The Constitution Of The Republic Of Korea" have become unexpectedly popular amid political discussions.

Statistical insights from Kyobo Book Centre reveal a staggering growth in this niche market, with often twenty-five additional titles published between 2023 and 2024—a leap of 42 percent. Sales skyrocketed by an astonishing 692.8 percent, signaling a strong appetite for this handwriting revival.

Social media plays an instrumental role in propelling this trend forward. The hashtag #pilsa on Instagram saw a meteoric rise from 650,000 tags in September 2023 to 701,000 by March 2025, highlighting a burgeoning community around this handwritten movement.

One standout in the bestseller lists is "One Day One Page," released in March 2024. With over 250,000 copies sold in six months, this book combines handwriting practice with insightful commentary from author Yoo Sun-kyong, illustrating how handwriting can serve as both an intellectual and creative outlet.

Editors and industry insiders are recognizing the cultural significance of this resurgence. “The rise of 'text hip'—the idea that reading is trendy—was a precursor to this handwriting boom,” explained an editor from Muhakdongne Publishing. “Handwriting not only offers a therapeutic escape but also enriches one’s emotional landscape amidst today’s fast-paced environment.”

Cultural critics are equally enthusiastic, with Ha Jae-geun noting that in an era dominated by technology, this analog activity provides a much-needed reprieve, allowing people to connect with themselves and their thoughts on a deeper level. The slow, repetitive nature of handwriting has been touted as a form of "digital detox," helping many to find moments of peace.

The benefits of handwriting extend beyond mere enjoyment. With concerns about declining literacy among younger generations, this predilection for writing by hand is seen as a potential remedy. Engaging with well-crafted sentences can assist in enhancing vocabulary and overall writing skills, as individuals reconnect with the richness of language.

In a world increasingly characterized by fragmentation, the slow art of handwriting symbolizes a revival in focused thought and creative expression. As South Korea embraces this literary renaissance, it seems likely that the handwriting phenomenon is not just a fleeting trend but rather a movement poised to endure.