When you talk of K-lit, can K-pop and K-dramas be far behind? It’s a fact that many Indian readers find their way to Korean literature via K-dramas and K-pop. The allure of K-dramas and the rise of K-pop prompt them to find out more about Korean society and culture. Books satisfy the urge. “K-dramas influenced my love for Korean literature,” says Susan. “It’s a whole new experience to read about a place whose visuals and people-dynamics you have consumed through another medium.” However, not all Indians who read books by Korean writers are K-drama lovers or K-pop fans. You don’t have to fall for one to love the other. For instance, Dahiya’s mother is a devoted fan of K-dramas, but he hasn’t watched any. His bookshelf, however, is home to books by more than one Korean author. Health-tech strategist Shreya Gupta, who shuttles between Delhi and the USA for work, doesn’t have any interest in K-dramas. Her reading list features many Korean writers though. One of the books that reeled her in was Michelle Zauner’s intense memoir Crying in H-Mart, which explores Zauner’s relationship with her Korean mother who passed away, and grapples with themes of identity and belonging. “It made me cry, it made me laugh,” says Gupta. “It’s bound to make you think about the parts of your self that you shed and the ones you cling to, especially if you are an immigrant.” Korean movies appeal to her as well. “Films like Past Lives and Parasite explore grey areas,” she says. “I like the filmmakers’ insights on our complicated world.”