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Writer

Gender

Male

Birthday

Location

Seoul, South Korea

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Joo Won gyu

Biography

Joo Won-gyu (Korean: 주원규; born 1975) is a multifaceted South Korean figure, known for his roles as a pastor, novelist, writer, and cultural thinker. He combines his religious vocation with a strong presence in literature and cultural discourse, creating a unique blend of spirituality and intellectual exploration.

 

Early Life and Career

Born in 1975, Joo Won-gyu pursued his passion for faith and writing early on. As a pastor, he emphasizes community-building and spiritual growth, focusing on small-group Bible readings and discussions. His theological background deeply influences his literary works, which often reflect themes of morality, existential struggle, and human resilience.

 

Literary Contributions

Joo Won-gyu has earned acclaim for his diverse and prolific writing. His novel A Cruel History of an Outsider Race won the 14th Hankyoreh Literary Award, showcasing his ability to tackle profound societal issues. His other notable novels include:

 

  • Bad God
  • Invincible Rogue Baseball Team
  • The Watchtower
  • Anti-Human Declaration
  • A Christmas Carol
  • Door of Memory
  • The Survival of a Helpless Boy

He has also authored youth novels like Hideout and The Detective in the World, alongside thought-provoking essays such as Ecstatic or Bad, It's Okay to Not Cheer Up, and Child Monster Victim. His critical works, including Jesus of the Earth, Jesus of the Sky, Sanctuary and Babel, and Jesus of Progress, Jesus of Conservatism, reflect his deep engagement with theology and socio-political issues.

 

Talmud Research and Translation

Joo is a Talmud researcher, who bridges ancient wisdom with modern perspectives. His translation of The Talmud Closest to the Original Source has been celebrated for its faithfulness to the original texts, making it accessible to contemporary readers.

 

Media and Cultural Contributions

In addition to his books, Joo Won-gyu ventured into screenwriting, penning the 2017 tvN drama Argon, a critical look at the media and its ethical dilemmas. His affiliation with Writer of Finecut (WAF) since 2017 has further solidified his presence in Korea's creative and literary circles.