Han Kang’s Adaptations “The Vegetarian” and “Scars” to Be Screened in Celebration of Her Nobel Prize Win

SEOUL: Two films based on the novels of Han Kang, who recently won the Nobel Prize in Literature, are set to be showcased in special screening events. CJ CGV, a leading multiplex cinema chain in South Korea, announced that "The Vegetarian" and "Scars" will be featured this Thursday as a tribute to the author's literary accomplishment. According to Yonhap News Agency, CJ CGV, the screenings are intended to honor Han Kang's contribution to literature following her Nobel win. "The Vegetarian," directed by Lim Woo-seong, is an adaptation of Han's novel which received the International Booker Prize in 2016. The story delves into the life-changing decision of a woman who decides to give up eating meat, which leads to unexpected consequences on her personal and familial relationships. The film was previously showcased in the Panorama section of the Busan International Film Festival's Korean Movie Today in 2009 and participated in the World Cinema Dramatic Competition at the Sundance Film Festival in 2000. "Scars," also directed by Lim Woo-seong, is based on Han's 1999 novel "Baby Buddha." The narrative explores themes of personal trauma and redemption. Despite their initial releases, both films did not achieve significant commercial success but have seen a resurgence of interest after Han Kang's Nobel Prize victory. The special screenings are anticipated to reintroduce these cinematic interpretations to a broader audience, providing an opportunity to experience Han Kang's profound narratives through the visual medium.