Latest news with #SIBF
Korea Herald
21-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Korea Herald
Filmmaker Park Chan-wook to speak at Seoul International Book Fair
Cannes-winning director joins diverse lineup alongside author Bora Chung, actor Park Jeong-min, star chef Choi Kang-rok Filmmaker Park Chan-wook, renowned for his visually striking and psychologically complex films, will participate in the 2025 Seoul International Book Fair, the annual book fair's organizer announced Wednesday. Park has often drawn inspiration from literature, adapting several novels into screen productions including the HBO series "The Sympathizer" (2024) and the BBC series "The Little Drummer Girl" (2019). During his talk on June 20, titled Park Chan-wook's Literary Anchors, Park will discuss elements of novels that captivate him, the process of translating literature into cinema, and the books that have deeply influenced his creative vision, according to SIBF. The 2025 SIBF, organized by the Korean Publishers Association and held June 18-22 at Coex in Seoul, invites visitors to reflect on the idea of personal refuge in uncertain times under the theme, "The Last Resort." This year's fair will welcome over 530 publishers and literary organizations including 100 overseas publishers from 16 countries. A diverse lineup of Korean authors will be present, including Kim Ae-ran, Kim Cho-yeop, Kim Ho-yeon, Park Seo-lyeon, Sohn Won-pyung, Jang Ryu-jin, Cho Ye-eun, Cheon Seon-ran and Choi Jin-young. International Booker-shortlisted author Bora Chung of "Cursed Bunny," will debut her new release, "The Children's House," while Korean American author Kim Ju-hye of "Beasts of a Little Land" will discuss her latest novel, "City of Night Birds." Actor and publisher Park Jeong-min will also join the lineup, and star chef Choi Kang-rok from "Culinary Class Wars" will unveil his new book. Taiwan has been selected as this year's Guest of Honor. Featured events will include a conversation between Rex How, writer and publisher at Locus Publishing Company, and picture book artist Lee Suzy. Illustrator Bei Lynn and graphic novel artist Keum Suk Gendry-Kim will also have a book talk. Tickets are available at a 50 percent early bird discount (6,000 won) until May 27. From May 28 to June 17, a 30 percent discount (8,000 won) will apply. Standard adult admission is 12,000 won.
Sharjah 24
19-05-2025
- Business
- Sharjah 24
Bodour Al Qasimi announces Greece as Guest of Honour of 44th SIBF
Her remarks came during the signing ceremony announcing Greece as the Guest of Honour for the 44th edition of the Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF). The agreement was formalised by Ahmed bin Rakkad Al Ameri, CEO of SBA; and Yasonas Varthalitis, Deputy Minister of Culture of the Hellenic Republic. The signing took place at the Thessaloniki International Exhibition & Congress Centre in Greece. A place where the world's languages and cultures come together in dialogue Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi said: 'Sharjah's cultural journey continues to be guided by the vision of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah. Today, the emirate carries this vision forward by embracing Greek culture. We believe flourishing civilisations are built on dialogue and exchange across geographical boundaries and Sharjah remains committed to this approach'. She added: 'Greece's participation at the upcoming Sharjah International Book Fair is an exciting opportunity for us all to discover the shared origins of our myths and tales, and other common influences that have shaped human consciousness'. She explained that SBA is working to ensure the 44th edition of SIBF becomes a milestone event, spotlighting a nation that, together with the Arab world, has helped shape the course of civilisation. The Chairperson concluded: 'Sharjah is reinterpreting the past as a tool for self-understanding and engagement with the broader world, and hosting Greece as our Guest of Honour is a call to heed the voices of Athens, just as we have done with those of Marrakech, Cordoba, Seoul, Rome, and other distinguished capitals at SIBF. With this, we continue to reinforce the book fair's role as a global platform where collective memory intersects, and the world's languages and cultures come together in dialogue.' An evolving intellectual dialogue at every edition of SIBF Commenting on the agreement, Ahmed bin Rakkad Al Ameri, CEO of SBA, said: 'In line with His Highness's vision to champion global cultural exchange, hosting Greece as Guest of Honour at SIBF 2025 adds to the fair's distinguished record of international partnerships. It presents a unique opportunity to engage with one of the world's most influential civilisations, whose legacy continues to shape human thought. Each edition of the fair seeks to open new cultural horizons and foster meaningful intellectual exchange rooted in diversity.' Al Ameri added: 'SIBF has grown from a cultural event into a global hub for publishing and literary innovation, attracting publishers and thought leaders worldwide. Guided by Sheikha Bodour Al Qasimi's leadership, it has become a versatile knowledge platform that connects readers with authors, enriches the publishing industry, and reaffirms Sharjah's status among the world's leading international book fairs.' The cultural pathway between Greece and the UAE further enriched Yasonas Varthalitis, Deputy Minister of Culture of Greece, noted during the signing ceremony: 'We meet today in a spirit of friendship and collaboration that has long defined the relationship between Greece and the UAE. Our presence in Sharjah stems from the dedicated efforts of the Minister of Culture, who has worked to forge a strong foundation for cooperation and a vibrant cultural exchange linking Greece and the UAE. This path is enriched through language, literature, poetry, publications, events, exhibitions and a wide range of cultural initiatives.' He added: 'Our cultural cooperation with SIBF deepens the bond between our nations and peoples. We are curating a rich and engaging programme that showcases the depth of Greek literary and publishing talent, in line with Greece's broader vision of openness, development and expanding global engagement. We deeply thank SBA for its productive collaboration and look forward to building on this dynamic and inspiring partnership.' The best of Greek culture, literature, art and gastronomy at SIBF 2025 As Guest of Honour at the 44th SIBF, Greece will present a diverse programme of cultural and literary events highlighting its heritage's depth and richness. The line-up will span classical philosophy, theatre, poetry, contemporary literature, and visual arts. It will also host leading Greek authors, intellectuals, and publishers, as well as music and art performances inspired by Greek traditions. Educational segments will also spotlight major milestones in Greek cultural history and its enduring contributions to human civilisation.
Gulf Today
19-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Gulf Today
Greece is Guest of Honour at 44th edition of Sharjah International Book Fair, says Sheikha Bodour
Sheikha Bodour Bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the Sharjah Book Authority (SBA), emphasised that Greece, with its rich historical legacy and global cultural influence, stands as a vital pillar in the ongoing story of human creativity. She highlighted that the nation, which inspired Homer's epic works, shaped Socratic ideals of virtue, and erected theatres that continue to ignite artistic imagination, embodies a timeless source of knowledge and enlightenment for scholars, thinkers, and writers across centuries. Her remarks came during the signing ceremony announcing Greece as the Guest of Honour for the 44th edition of the Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF). The agreement was formalised by Ahmed Bin Rakkad Al Ameri, CEO of SBA; and Yasonas Varthalitis, Deputy Minister of Culture of the Hellenic Republic. Dignitaries at the event. The signing took place at the Thessaloniki International Exhibition & Congress Centre in Greece. A place where the world's languages and cultures come together in dialogue Sheikha Bodour said: 'Sharjah's cultural journey continues to be guided by the vision of H.H. Sheikh Dr. Sultan Bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah. Today, the emirate carries this vision forward by embracing Greek culture. We believe flourishing civilisations are built on dialogue and exchange across geographical boundaries and Sharjah remains committed to this approach'. She added: 'Greece's participation at the upcoming Sharjah International Book Fair is an exciting opportunity for us all to discover the shared origins of our myths and tales, and other common influences that have shaped human consciousness'. She explained that SBA is working to ensure the 44th edition of SIBF becomes a milestone event, spotlighting a nation that, together with the Arab world, has helped shape the course of civilisation. The Chairperson concluded: 'Sharjah is reinterpreting the past as a tool for self-understanding and engagement with the broader world, and hosting Greece as our Guest of Honour is a call to heed the voices of Athens, just as we have done with those of Marrakech, Cordoba, Seoul, Rome, and other distinguished capitals at SIBF. Crowds at a previous edition of the Sharjah International Book Fair. Hosting Greece as our Guest of Honour is a call to heed the voices of Athens, says Bodour. File With this, we continue to reinforce the book fair's role as a global platform where collective memory intersects, and the world's languages and cultures come together in dialogue.' An evolving intellectual dialogue at every edition of SIBF Commenting on the agreement, Ahmed Bin Rakkad Al Ameri, CEO of SBA, said: 'In line with His Highness's vision to champion global cultural exchange, hosting Greece as Guest of Honour at SIBF 2025 adds to the fair's distinguished record of international partnerships. It presents a unique opportunity to engage with one of the world's most influential civilisations, whose legacy continues to shape human thought. Each edition of the fair seeks to open new cultural horizons and foster meaningful intellectual exchange rooted in diversity.' Al Ameri added: 'SIBF has grown from a cultural event into a global hub for publishing and literary innovation, attracting publishers and thought leaders worldwide. "Guided by Sheikha Bodour Al Qasimi's leadership, it has become a versatile knowledge platform that connects readers with authors, enriches the publishing industry, and reaffirms Sharjah's status among the world's leading international book fairs.' The cultural pathway between Greece and the UAE further enriched Yasonas Varthalitis, Deputy Minister of Culture of Greece, noted during the signing ceremony: 'We meet today in a spirit of friendship and collaboration that has long defined the relationship between Greece and the UAE. Our presence in Sharjah stems from the dedicated efforts of the Minister of Culture, who has worked to forge a strong foundation for cooperation and a vibrant cultural exchange linking Greece and the UAE. This path is enriched through language, literature, poetry, publications, events, exhibitions and a wide range of cultural initiatives.' He added: 'Our cultural cooperation with SIBF deepens the bond between our nations and peoples. We are curating a rich and engaging programme that showcases the depth of Greek literary and publishing talent, in line with Greece's broader vision of openness, development and expanding global engagement. We deeply thank SBA for its productive collaboration and look forward to building on this dynamic and inspiring partnership.' The best of Greek culture, literature, art and gastronomy at SIBF 2025 As Guest of Honour at the 44th SIBF, Greece will present a diverse programme of cultural and literary events highlighting its heritage's depth and richness. The line-up will span classical philosophy, theatre, poetry, contemporary literature, and visual arts. It will also host leading Greek authors, intellectuals, and publishers, as well as music and art performances inspired by Greek traditions. Educational segments will also spotlight major milestones in Greek cultural history and its enduring contributions to human civilisation.
Zawya
19-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Zawya
Bodour Al Qasimi announces Greece as Guest of Honour of the 44th Sharjah International Book Fair
Sheikha Bodour: SBA is working to ensure the 44th SIBF becomes a milestone event, spotlighting a nation that, together with the Arab world, has shaped the course of civilisation Ahmed Al Ameri: Hosting Greece as Guest of Honour adds to the fair's distinguished record of international partnerships Greek Deputy Minister of Culture: Cultural cooperation with SIBF strengthens the ties between our countries and peoples Sharjah: Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the Sharjah Book Authority (SBA), emphasised that Greece, with its rich historical legacy and global cultural influence, stands as a vital pillar in the ongoing story of human creativity. She highlighted that the nation, which inspired Homer's epic works, shaped Socratic ideals of virtue, and erected theatres that continue to ignite artistic imagination, embodies a timeless source of knowledge and enlightenment for scholars, thinkers, and writers across centuries. Her remarks came during the signing ceremony announcing Greece as the Guest of Honour for the 44th edition of the Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF). The agreement was formalised by H.E. Ahmed bin Rakkad Al Ameri, CEO of SBA; and H.E. Yasonas Varthalitis, Deputy Minister of Culture of the Hellenic Republic. The signing took place at the Thessaloniki International Exhibition & Congress Centre in Greece. A place where the world's languages and cultures come together in dialogue Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi said: 'Sharjah's cultural journey continues to be guided by the vision of H.H. Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah. Today, the emirate carries this vision forward by embracing Greek culture. We believe flourishing civilisations are built on dialogue and exchange across geographical boundaries and Sharjah remains committed to this approach'. She added: 'Greece's participation at the upcoming Sharjah International Book Fair is an exciting opportunity for us all to discover the shared origins of our myths and tales, and other common influences that have shaped human consciousness'. She explained that SBA is working to ensure the 44th edition of SIBF becomes a milestone event, spotlighting a nation that, together with the Arab world, has helped shape the course of civilisation. The Chairperson concluded: 'Sharjah is reinterpreting the past as a tool for self-understanding and engagement with the broader world, and hosting Greece as our Guest of Honour is a call to heed the voices of Athens, just as we have done with those of Marrakech, Cordoba, Seoul, Rome, and other distinguished capitals at SIBF. With this, we continue to reinforce the book fair's role as a global platform where collective memory intersects, and the world's languages and cultures come together in dialogue.' An evolving intellectual dialogue at every edition of SIBF Commenting on the agreement, H.E. Ahmed bin Rakkad Al Ameri, CEO of SBA, said: 'In line with His Highness's vision to champion global cultural exchange, hosting Greece as Guest of Honour at SIBF 2025 adds to the fair's distinguished record of international partnerships. It presents a unique opportunity to engage with one of the world's most influential civilisations, whose legacy continues to shape human thought. Each edition of the fair seeks to open new cultural horizons and foster meaningful intellectual exchange rooted in diversity.' Al Ameri added: 'SIBF has grown from a cultural event into a global hub for publishing and literary innovation, attracting publishers and thought leaders worldwide. Guided by Sheikha Bodour Al Qasimi's leadership, it has become a versatile knowledge platform that connects readers with authors, enriches the publishing industry, and reaffirms Sharjah's status among the world's leading international book fairs.' The cultural pathway between Greece and the UAE further enriched H.E. Yasonas Varthalitis, Deputy Minister of Culture of Greece, noted during the signing ceremony: 'We meet today in a spirit of friendship and collaboration that has long defined the relationship between Greece and the UAE. Our presence in Sharjah stems from the dedicated efforts of the Minister of Culture, who has worked to forge a strong foundation for cooperation and a vibrant cultural exchange linking Greece and the UAE. This path is enriched through language, literature, poetry, publications, events, exhibitions and a wide range of cultural initiatives.' He added: 'Our cultural cooperation with SIBF deepens the bond between our nations and peoples. We are curating a rich and engaging programme that showcases the depth of Greek literary and publishing talent, in line with Greece's broader vision of openness, development and expanding global engagement. We deeply thank SBA for its productive collaboration and look forward to building on this dynamic and inspiring partnership.' The best of Greek culture, literature, art and gastronomy at SIBF 2025 As Guest of Honour at the 44th SIBF, Greece will present a diverse programme of cultural and literary events highlighting its heritage's depth and richness. The line-up will span classical philosophy, theatre, poetry, contemporary literature, and visual arts. It will also host leading Greek authors, intellectuals, and publishers, as well as music and art performances inspired by Greek traditions. Educational segments will also spotlight major milestones in Greek cultural history and its enduring contributions to human civilisation.
Korea Herald
06-03-2025
- Entertainment
- Korea Herald
Seoul International Book Fair presses on without state funding
SIBF to kick off in June under 'Last Resort' theme The Korean Publishers Association, which remains at odds with the Culture Ministry over government subsidies for the Seoul International Book Fair, will once again hold the event without direct government funding this year. "Just like last year, this year's book fair will not receive any (direct) support from the Culture Ministry," said KPA President Yoon Chul-ho during a press conference in Seoul on Wednesday. "We will run the book fair with donations from our publisher members, as well as membership and booth fees from the participating members." Last year marked the first time since the book fair's inception in 1954 that the KPA organized the event without direct government funding. The ministry withheld approximately 670 million won ($465,000) that had been allocated to the fair's organizer and instead redirected the funds to individual participating publishers. Yoon said that this year, even that support has been further slashed to around 200 million won ($139,000). The standoff between the KPA and the Culture Ministry is expected to continue until the ongoing police investigation into the book fair's subsidy management reaches a conclusion. The dispute dates back to August 2023, when the ministry requested an investigation into Yoon and KPA, alleging failure to turn over detailed accounting for the Seoul International Book Fair. In response, the KPA filed a complaint against four Culture Ministry officials for defamation. KPA said it had submitted all the necessary information 'required for disclosure' at the ministry's request and received an official confirmation from the Publication Industry Promotion Agency of Korea (KPIPA), a public institution under the ministry that oversees the distribution and use of government subsidies to the fair organizer. Despite these tensions, the 2025 Seoul International Book Fair will take place as scheduled from June 18 to 22 at Coex in Seoul. This year's theme, "The Last Resort," invites visitors to discover their own sources of solace in an increasingly difficult world. Taiwan has been selected as the "guest of honor." Established in 1947, the KPA is the largest publishers' organization in the country, boasting over 4,000 member publishing companies.
