Author Kim Jin-myung, a tribute to Yoo Jae-suk and RM

Novelist Kim Jin-myung will dedicate his new full-length novel, 'The Nation of Sejong,' to 15 individuals representing various fields in South Korea. The recipients include Samsung Electronics Chairman Lee Jae-yong, Hyundai Motor Group Chairman Chung Eui-sun, SK Group Chairman Chey Tae-won, Korean Liberation Association Chairman Lee Jong-chan, JoongAng Holdings Chairman Hong Seok-hyun, Korea Gas Corporation President Choi Yeon-hye, King Sejong the Great Memorial Project Society Chairman Choi Hong-sik, Yonsei University Professor Emeritus Kim Hyung-seok, KAIST President Lee Kwang-hyung, Ewha Womans University Distinguished Professor Choi Jae-cheon, National Museum of Korea Director Yoo Hong-joon, Korean language scholar Kim Seul-ong, broadcaster Yoo Jae-suk, BTS leader RM, and singer Lim Young-woong.

Author Kim Jin-myung stated that the inspiration for this dedication came from Jules Verne's novel 'Two Years' Vacation.' Just as the shipwrecked boys in the story overcame their crisis by pooling their wisdom and abilities, he explained that the dedication carries the hope that today's Korean society will also navigate its difficulties through the wisdom and efforts of individuals representing each field.

The selection criteria focused on the values and social influence demonstrated by each individual. Yoo Jae-suk was chosen for his authenticity, Lim Young-woong for his efforts to bring the sentiments of ordinary people to the center of music, and RM for his UN speech's "Speak Yourself" message, which aligns with Sejong's declaration of self-reliance.

Author Kim Jin-myung emerged in the literary world in 1993 with 'The Rose of Sharon Has Bloomed,' which sold 6 million copies. Since then, his works, including 'The Crown Princess Kidnapping Case,' 'THAAD,' and 'Goguryeo,' have consistently raised significant social issues.

Author Kim said, "In times of crisis, we must think of Sejong again," adding, "Sejong was a leader who established the concept of a nation with the belief that a country that does not serve its people is not a nation." He also revealed that the book is dedicated with the belief that "when people with the highest skills in each field do their best in their respective positions, South Korea can also find a new path."