Indian Author Recognized for Expanding Frontiers of Postcolonial and Ecological Narratives

Acclaimed Indian author Amitav Ghosh has been named the recipient of the 14th Pak Kyongni Prize, one of South Korea’s highest literary honors, often referred to as “Korea’s Nobel Prize in Literature.” The award, which recognizes exceptional contributions to the global literary landscape, lauds Ghosh for his pioneering work in postcolonial and ecological writing, as well as his powerful representation of marginalized voices—including the often overlooked perspective of nature itself.

After a rigorous year-long selection process involving 113 international nominees, Ghosh emerged as the unanimous choice for the 2025 laureateship. Established by the Toji Cultural Foundation in 2011 to honor the memory of revered South Korean novelist Pak Kyong-ni, the Pak Kyongni Prize celebrates writers who embody the spirit of literary truth and humanistic depth.

In his response to the honor, Ghosh expressed immense gratitude, emphasizing the significance of being associated with past recipients such as Marilynne Robinson, Ngũgĩ wa Thiong’o, and Ismail Kadare. “I am deeply moved by this recognition, especially given the remarkable legacy of Pak Kyongni, one of South Korea’s most beloved literary figures,” Ghosh said. “This award comes at a time when South Korea stands as a global cultural force—its influence seen in everything from K-pop to cinema—and it is heartening to know that my work, which often highlights forgotten histories and silenced voices, resonates here.”

A prolific writer with a diverse body of work, Ghosh is perhaps best known for his novels The Shadow Lines, The Glass Palace, The Hungry Tide, and the celebrated Ibis Trilogy. His writing explores themes of colonial history, migration, and environmental crisis, often blending fiction with historical narratives. His books have been translated into over thirty languages, and his contributions have earned him numerous prestigious awards, including the Jnanpith Award (2019) and the Erasmus Prize (2024).

The 2025 Pak Kyongni Prize will be formally presented on October 23 at Hotel Inter-Burgo in Wonju, South Korea, marking the city’s continuing role as a UNESCO City of Literature. The award ceremony will further solidify South Korea’s commitment to being a hub for global literary exchange.

Ghosh’s latest novel, Ghost-Eye, is set for release in December 2025, adding to an already monumental legacy of thought-provoking and genre-defining works.