Serk-Bae Suh

Serk-Bae Suh, an associate professor at UC Irvine specializing in modern Korean literature, dives deep into the anti-utilitarian themes in South Korean literature from the 70s and 80s. He discusses how literature counters the exploitative narratives of the developmental state and explores Georges Bataille's concept of sacrifice. Suh highlights the significance of Kim Hyun's literary efforts to bridge pure and engaged literature, arguing for literature's autonomy as an imaginative force. He also examines the portrayal of Jesus in poetry, linking it to the profound relevance of seemingly 'useless' literature.