The 89-year-old Korean author Rhee Kun-hoo is witnessing a surge in the popularity of his essays, now being translated into various languages in 16 countries. Rhee believes the global appeal of his work stems from readers’ curiosity about Korean culture. “Like travelers wanting to explore different corners of the world, international readers want to meet people from different cultures through books,” he says. His writings provide a glimpse into Korean life and offer reflections on living well in the latter half of one’s life.
Rhee’s debut collection, “I Want to Have Fun Till the Day I Die” (2013), based on his experiences as a psychiatrist, has sold around 500,000 copies in Korea. His book “If You Live to 100, You Might as Well Be Happy” (2019) was translated into English and published in the United Kingdom. The publisher described it as offering guidance for attaining ordinary happiness at any age.
Despite the title, Rhee bluntly states there is no inherent happiness in getting older, viewing it as a fundamentally difficult process. He challenges the notion that ageing is a time of increased strength and wisdom, calling it a painful reality. Rhee encourages acceptance of this truth, advising elderly people to find amusement within their limitations.
Maintaining a positive outlook is crucial, he emphasizes. “It takes a lot of energy for someone with a negative outlook to become a positive person. For a positive person, it is like riding a wave.” He believes that while the body naturally ages, the mind’s attitude can greatly influence one’s quality of life. Clinging to negative experiences can overshadow potential moments of joy and happiness.
Rhee also addresses the generational gap, noting that elderly people are often seen as a nuisance by the younger generation. He suggests that understanding the reasons behind the behaviors of elderly individuals can help bridge this gap. Young people, he says, should acknowledge the reality of ageing and the changes it brings.
Besides his books, Rhee engages with a broader audience through his YouTube channel “MUHA Studio,” which he runs with his grandson. This collaboration allows him to learn new ways of communicating and adapting to modern language, helping him stay connected with younger generations.
Rhee’s insights and reflections on ageing, combined with his efforts to bridge generational divides, make his work a valuable resource for readers worldwide. His books not only offer a window into Korean culture but also provide universal wisdom on living a fulfilling life at any age.
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