Cultural Exchange Through Children’s Literature
Korean and Australian picture book creators are being celebrated at the Sydney Writers Festival, with events running until the 2nd June at the Korean Cultural Centre Australia, located at 255 Elizabeth Street, Sydney.
The exhibition is presented in partnership with Arts Council Korea, Sydney Writers’ Festival, and Creative Australia. It showcases the works of Korean artists and their Australian counterparts, focusing on themes of nature, animals, identity, and the environment.
Hosted by Dr Sunmin Yoon, Director of the Korean Cultural Centre Australia, the event features discussions with acclaimed authors such as Hyunmin Park, Hyewon Kyung, Suyeon Lee, Susanne Gervay OAM, and Antonia Pesenti. These authors explore how children’s literature can foster curiosity and empathy among young readers.
Featured Authors and Their Works
Hyunmin Park, a Seoul-based illustrator, is known for his immersive picture books, including ‘So Much Snow’ and ‘City Flight’. He has received international recognition, such as the Grand Prize at the Korea Picture Book Award.
Suyeon Lee, who studied Illustration in the UK, creates books that delve into deep human emotions. Her works like ‘When It Rains, the Grass Grows’ offer comfort and healing, while ‘Two Friends on My Shoulder’ was selected for the 2023 White Ravens.
Hyewon Kyung is celebrated for her dinosaur-themed picture books like ‘Elevator’ and ‘I’m a Lioness’. Her use of traditional Hanji paper and pigments in her illustrations connects modern storytelling with classic Korean art.
Australian author Susanne Gervay OAM has been awarded the Lifetime Social Justice Literature Award. Her picture books, such as ‘Elephants Have Wings’, inspire young readers to understand their world and promote social justice.
Antonia Pesenti combines her architectural skills with her passion for illustration in works like ‘Hello Cocky’, capturing Australia’s unique wildlife. Her multidisciplinary design practice, Studio Fable, explores various book formats.
The exhibition provides a platform for cross-cultural dialogue through children’s literature, with the Korean Cultural Centre hosting the event until the 2nd June.
Last updated: 29 June 2026, 12:01 pm
