earticle

영어

LGBT themes now commonly feature in mass media worldwide, making them more accessible to children and young adults. However, these themes have been scarce in literature targeting young readers of South Korea, until recently. This study argues that translations have paved the way for development and reception of LGBT themes in literature for young readers in South Korea. LGBT-themed publications for children and young adults, both translations and indigenous books, are analyzed diachronically, to show that translations have introduced these themes in South Korea’s literature for children and young adults. Recommended book lists over time are also examined to further illustrate the growing acceptance and integration of LGBT themes in literature for young readers. Given the influential role recommended boook lists play in South Korea’s education sector, inclusion of LGBT themes in the lists can indicate their reception in South Korea’s literature for young readers. The process of development and reception of LGBT books is explained through Even-Zohar's polysystem, highlighting how LGBT themes in South Korea's literature for young readers have evolved and interacted with the socio-cultural context of increased exposure to these themes.