On October 10, BookCity hosted H.E. Mr. Kim Junpyo, Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to the Islamic Republic of Iran, accompanied by his spouse, Mrs. Shin Eunah, and Cultural Attaché Mr. Ohk Nara. The visit commenced with a guided tour across the various departments of BookCity and continued with fruitful discussions regarding the cultural capacities of both nations and prospects for bilateral cooperation, underscoring the vital role of culture and literature in bringing nations closer together.
At the outset of the meeting, Ali Jafar-abadi, CEO of BookCity, welcomed the distinguished guests and provided an overview of BookCity’s structural framework and multifaceted activities. Emphasizing that BookCity extends far beyond a retail bookstore network, he introduced Hermes Publishers, BookCity Trading Company, BookCity Online, and Hermes Music, highlighting the institution’s capacity for fostering international cultural relations. Underscoring BookCity’s non-governmental, non-profit, and non-political character, Jafar-abadi described cultural dialogue as an essential foundation for deeper human connection that transcends geographic borders.
Ambassador Kim Junpyo expressed his appreciation for the warm hospitality, commending the spacious ambiance, thoughtful interior design, and diverse selection of books and cultural goods at BookCity. Drawing upon his diplomatic experience in Iran, he spoke of cultural affinities between the Iranian and Korean peoples, noting the strong potential for expanding literary exchange and interpersonal ties. The presence of Cultural Attaché Mr. Ohk Nara similarly provided valuable momentum for exploring future partnerships and closer engagement between cultural practitioners of both countries.
In the concluding segment of the visit, a handcrafted music box playing the melody of “Jaan-e Maryam”—a cherished Iranian folk ballad—was presented to Mrs. Shin Eunah, honoring an interest she had expressed during an earlier visit to BookCity. Describing the gift as a deeply meaningful and memorable keepsake for both herself and the Ambassador, Mrs. Shin expressed heartfelt thanks for BookCity’s warm attention and thoughtfulness. Concluding the visit, Ambassador Kim penned a commemorative note in BookCity’s guestbook, reiterating his gratitude and expressing high hopes for flourishing cultural relations between Iran and South Korea.
Photo: Paria Fathi
