South Korea's Gen Z Embraces Reading in the Short-Video Era

At a time when short-form videos dominate digital consumption, South Korea's Gen Z is showing renewed interest in books. The emerging trend, known as 'texthip', is turning reading into a cultural and lifestyle statement among young people.

According to Bloomberg correspondent Thu-Huong Ha, reading is experiencing an unexpected revival in South Korea. In downtown Seoul, people are increasingly seen reading along public waterways and in outdoor spaces.

The trend comes amid declining reading rates globally. South Korea's adult reading rate has dropped to 38.5%, while younger audiences are moving in the opposite direction. Reading rates among Gen Z reportedly crossed 75% last year.

The growing popularity of reading is also influencing consumer culture. Book-inspired products, including milk cream buns, are becoming part of the trend. Books are increasingly being viewed as fashion accessories and a way for young people to express their interests and identities.

Youth fandom is emerging as a key driver of this renewed interest. Younger readers are helping books gain cultural relevance, while in-person book clubs are attracting audiences looking to connect through reading.

South Korean author Han Kang's 2024 Nobel Prize in Literature also brought significant attention to the country's literary scene. Her books reportedly sold around one million copies in the week after the announcement. However, the growing reading trend among young people appears to extend beyond the popularity of individual authors.

The government is also supporting reading through public initiatives. South Korea has around 300 outdoor libraries, providing access to books in public spaces. Some offer free books and encourage people to enjoy reading outdoors.

While short-form videos and social media continue to influence how younger generations consume content, South Korea's 'texthip' trend highlights a growing cultural interest in reading and offline experiences.