Cover Many K-pop idols have expressed a deep love for books, using literature as an escape, a source of inspiration, or a way to broaden their perspectives (Photo: EDAM Entertainment)
Many K-pop idols have expressed a deep love for books, using literature as an escape, a source of inspiration, or a way to broaden their perspectives (Photo: EDAM Entertainment)
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Here’s an introduction to some of the books that have captivated your favourite K-pop idols
K-pop idols are known for their captivating performances and hectic schedules. When they’re not jet-setting across the world, dancing, or singing, many also find solace and inspiration in the pages of a good book. These literary choices offer fans a window into the personal interests and intellectual pursuits of their favourite K-pop idols, showcasing a diverse range of genres and themes that resonate with both the artists and their audiences.
Read more: Korean celebrities with surprising hobbies
Be it classic literature or contemporary novels, these artists often share their favourite reads with fans, offering a glimpse into their personal interests and intellectual pursuits. Here are some books that K-pop idols love to read.
1. ‘Demian’ by Hermann Hesse
Above ‘Demian’ by Hermann Hesse (Photo: Fischer Verlag)
‘Demian’ by Hermann Hesse (Photo: Fischer Verlag)
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This novel has significantly influenced several K-pop idols. BTS’ RM has mentioned Demian as an inspiration, particularly during their WINGS era, where the book’s themes were incorporated into the album’s concept. IU has also recommended Demian to her fans, reflecting her appreciation for its profound narrative.
2. ‘The Little Prince’ by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry
Above ‘The Little Prince’ by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry (Photo: Antoine de Saint-Exupéry)
‘The Little Prince’ by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry (Photo: Antoine de Saint-Exupéry)
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A timeless novella, The Little Prince resonates with many K-pop idols. Blackpink’s Jisoo has expressed her fondness for this story, which delves into themes of friendship, love, and loss through the adventures of a young prince exploring various planets. In 2015, director Mark Osborne adapted The Little Prince into an animated fantasy adventure comedy-drama film.
3. ‘Norwegian Wood’ by Haruki Murakami
Above ‘Norwegian Wood’ by Haruki Murakami (Photo: Kodansha)
‘Norwegian Wood’ by Haruki Murakami (Photo: Kodansha)
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Got7’s Jinyoung is known for his love of literature and has recommended Norwegian Wood, a novel that reflects on nostalgia and loss. His appreciation for Haruki Murakami’s storytelling offers fans insight into his contemplative side. Norwegian Wood was later remade into a 2010 Japanese romantic drama film written and directed by Tran Anh Hung.
4. ‘Kim Jiyoung, Born 1982’ by Cho Nam-joo
Above ‘Kim Jiyoung, Born 1982’ by Cho Nam-joo (Photo: Minumsa)
‘Kim Jiyoung, Born 1982’ by Cho Nam-joo (Photo: Minumsa)
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This thought-provoking novel, which centres on the discrimination and social judgement women face, has garnered the attention of several K-pop idols. Red Velvet’s Irene mentioned reading it, sparking discussions about its themes of gender inequality and societal expectations. BTS’ RM has also acknowledged the book, indicating its widespread impact among artists. Kim Jiyoung, Born 1982 was released as a drama film starring Jung Yu-mi and Gong Yoo in 2019.
5. ‘The Devotion of Suspect X’ by Keigo Higashino
Above ‘The Devotion of Suspect X’ by Keigo Higashino (Photo: Macmillan Publishers)
‘The Devotion of Suspect X’ by Keigo Higashino (Photo: Macmillan Publishers)
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EXO’s Kai has praised this Japanese thriller, the first in Keigo Higashino’s Detective Galileo series, describing it as a novel that left a deep impression on him. The intricate plot and suspenseful narrative make it a compelling read for mystery enthusiasts. It was adapted into films in several languages including Japanese, South Korean, Chinese, Tamil, and Hindi, and an English version is currently in the works.
6. ‘Almond’ by Sohn Won-pyung
Above ‘Almond’ by Sohn Won-pyung (Photo: HarperVia)
‘Almond’ by Sohn Won-pyung (Photo: HarperVia)
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7. ‘The Courage to Be Disliked’ by Ichiro Kishimi and Fumitake Koga
Above ‘The Courage to Be Disliked’ by Ichiro Kishimi and Fumitake Koga (Photo: Allen & Unwin)
‘The Courage to Be Disliked’ by Ichiro Kishimi and Fumitake Koga (Photo: Allen & Unwin)
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NCT’s Jaehyun has discussed reading this self-help book, which presents a compelling dialogue on unlocking the power within to achieve happiness and personal freedom. Its philosophical insights offer readers a fresh perspective on life.
8. ‘Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind’ by Yuval Noah Harari
Above ‘Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind’ by Yuval Noah Harari (Photo: Penguin Radom House)
‘Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind’ by Yuval Noah Harari (Photo: Penguin Radom House)
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Super Junior’s Kyuhyun has been seen reading Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind, which takes a deep dive into the history of human civilisation, from the earliest hunter-gatherers to the modern technological era. Yuval Noah Harari explores how biology, culture, and economics have shaped societies over thousands of years, offering a fascinating perspective on humanity’s past and future.
9. ‘The Great Gatsby’ by F. Scott Fitzgerald
Above ‘The Great Gatsby’ by F. Scott Fitzgerald (Photo: Charles Scribner’s Sons)
‘The Great Gatsby’ by F. Scott Fitzgerald (Photo: Charles Scribner’s Sons)
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Blackpink’s Jisoo has mentioned The Great Gatsby as a book she enjoys, and it’s easy to see why this literary classic continues to captivate readers worldwide. The novel explores themes of ambition, love, and the critique of the American Dream through the tragic story of Jay Gatsby and his longing for Daisy Buchanan. In 2013, The Great Gatsby was released as the Baz Luhrmann-directed historical romantic drama film with Leonardo DiCaprio in the title role.
10. ‘Me Before You’ by Jojo Moyes
Above ‘Me Before You’ by Jojo Moyes (Photo: Penguin Books)
‘Me Before You’ by Jojo Moyes (Photo: Penguin Books)
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Got7’s Jinyoung has recommended this emotional romance novel, highlighting his diverse reading interests. The story’s exploration of love and personal choice offers a poignant reading experience. The book’s immense popularity led to a film remake in 2016, starring Emilia Clarke and Sam Claflin.
11. ‘The Brothers Karamazov’ by Fyodor Dostoevsky
Above ‘The Brothers Karamazov’ by Fyodor Dostoevsky (Photo: The Russian Messenger)
‘The Brothers Karamazov’ by Fyodor Dostoevsky (Photo: The Russian Messenger)
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IU has been spotted reading this profound philosophical novel, which has a simple plot about murder and a complex discussion of faith, doubt, and morality, indicating her appreciation for classic literature that delves into complex moral and existential questions.
12. ‘Perfume: The Story of a Murderer’ by Patrick Süskind
Above ‘Perfume: The Story of a Murderer’ by Patrick Süskind (Photo: Penguin Books)
‘Perfume: The Story of a Murderer’ by Patrick Süskind (Photo: Penguin Books)
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ONEWE’s Kanghyun has recommended Perfume: The Story of a Murderer, which tells the story of a man with an extraordinary sense of smell and his dark quest to create the perfect scent. Its unique narrative offers a blend of suspense and sensory exploration. There have been several adaptations of the book, including a 2006 period psychological thriller film directed by Tom Tykwer.
13. ‘The Fault in Our Stars’ by John Green
Above ‘The Fault in Our Stars’ by John Green (Photo: Penguin Books)
‘The Fault in Our Stars’ by John Green (Photo: Penguin Books)
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Got7’s Jinyoung has expressed admiration for The Fault in Our Stars, a contemporary novel which explores themes of love and mortality through the lives of two teenagers with cancer. Its heartfelt narrative touched and impacted readers so much that it was released as a coming-of-age romance film in 2014.
14. ‘The Unbearable Lightness of Being’ by Milan Kundera
Above ‘The Unbearable Lightness of Being’ by Milan Kundera (Photo: Faber & Faber)
‘The Unbearable Lightness of Being’ by Milan Kundera (Photo: Faber & Faber)
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IU has mentioned reading The Unbearable Lightness of Being, a novel that delves into existential themes of love, fate, and personal freedom. Set against the backdrop of 1960s Prague, the story follows the intertwined lives of four characters as they navigate relationships, political turmoil, and the philosophical dilemma of whether life is defined by weighty responsibility or fleeting moments of freedom.
15. ‘The Alchemist’ by Paulo Coelho
Above ‘The Alchemist’ by Paulo Coelho (Photo: HarperOne)
‘The Alchemist’ by Paulo Coelho (Photo: HarperOne)
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Pentagon’s Hongseok has shared that this allegorical novel, which follows a shepherd’s journey to fulfil his personal legend, is among his favourites. Its inspirational message encourages readers to pursue their dreams. In 2023, Legendary Entertainment acquired the film, television, and ancillary rights to Paulo Coelho’s novel, and is planning to make a film adaptation with TriStar Pictures and Palmstar Media.
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