Navigating Time and Identity in Hur Jin-ho‘s “Toward Eternity” – A Novel reflecting Korea’s Ascendance in Sci-Fi
Hur jin-ho’s “toward Eternity” is a interesting, if imperfect, experiment in narrative structure and a compelling entry into the growing wave of Korean science fiction gaining international recognition. Published by HarperVia in 2024, the novel attempts a unique framing device - a “found manuscript” in the form of a notebook passed down through generations, chronicling a future grappling with technological upheaval. while aspiring, the execution presents challenges, but ultimately offers a thought-provoking exploration of humanity’s search for meaning in an increasingly automated world.
The core concept is undeniably strong. Multiple narrators, each a character within the story and a writer of the story, contribute to the notebook over centuries. This allows for a fragmented, evolving perspective on a future shaped by AI and societal shifts.Though, the novel occasionally stumbles. The format struggles to accommodate extended dialog, feeling unnatural within the notebook context. Keeping track of the shifting voices can also prove difficult, and a certain sameness in their tone sometimes diminishes the impact of individual perspectives.
Despite these inconsistencies, “Toward Eternity” isn’t a failure. It’s a novel wrestling with a complex idea, and its ambition is admirable. Hur’s willingness to embrace this challenging structure speaks to a desire to push boundaries,even if the result isn’t flawlessly polished.
The Rise of Korean Sci-Fi: From Peripheral to Prominent
“Toward Eternity” arrives at a pivotal moment.For decades, Korean science fiction remained largely underdeveloped and underappreciated, both domestically and internationally. Though,the mid-2010s saw a surge in interest,and now we’re witnessing a growing trend of translated Korean sci-fi reaching global audiences.
this shift is especially noteworthy when considering the historical context. While 1982’s “Blade Runner” famously envisioned a dystopian future heavily influenced by Japan’s burgeoning megacities, Korea wasn’t yet positioned as a futuristic landscape. David Mitchell’s “Cloud Atlas” (2004) was arguably the first major English-language novel to conceptually link Korea with a sci-fi future.
Today, that perception has dramatically changed. Seoul, with its cutting-edge technology, sleek architecture, and vibrant urban energy, ofen feels like a city ripped from the pages of cyberpunk. This conversion has naturally fueled a growing interest in Korean science fiction, and hur’s novel is a notable part of that movement.
hur himself acknowledges this connection. A prolific literary translator,he openly stated his intention to enter the novel-writing scene after establishing himself in the translation world. “Toward Eternity,” published through harpervia – a champion of international literature – is a direct result of that ambition.
Koreanness as a Defining Feature
What sets “Toward Eternity” apart is its unapologetic infusion of Korean culture. This isn’t a story set in Korea; it’s a story informed by Koreanness, even when that influence feels subtly assertive. This approach is a refreshing departure from narratives that often attempt to universalize themes by stripping away cultural specificity.
The novel taps into a broader conversation about the future. As technology continues to advance at an exponential rate, questions about human meaning and purpose become increasingly urgent. Literature, as the ancient aphorism reminds us – “Life is short, art is long” - offers a vital space for exploring these questions.
In an age dominated by AI, stories like “Toward Eternity” serve as a powerful defense of humanity, reminding us of the enduring value of creativity, connection, and the search for meaning.
You can find “Toward Eternity” at: dbbooks.co.kr
about the Author: Peter Juhl is a researcher specializing in Korean political and security issues.
Worth a look