The Tale of Cho Ung

Sookja Cho is Assistant Professor of Korean in the School of International Letters and Cultures at Arizona State University.Sookja Cho is assistant professor of Korean and comparative literature at Arizona State University.

Jin-Kyung Lee, University of California, San Diego:
The Tale of Cho Ung translates the heroic world of Cho Ung into readable, effortless English prose. Suppressing the hero’s dependence on supernatural powers and featuring his free will both in his military prowess and romantic pursuit, its premodern “realism” will have a particular appeal to modern readers. A major addition to Korean classics in English.

Michael Pettid, Binghamton University:
This fascinating tale of romance and adventure is a wonderful window into the creative spaces of the late Chosŏn period and the type of entertainment that many in this time sought. Cho’s artful translation of this best seller takes readers on wave after wave of intriguing places, bold exploits, and romantic encounters.

Robert E. Hegel, Washington University, St. Louis:
Despite its brash heroism and thirst for revenge, the dominant motif here is sorrow. Set in medieval China, Cho Ung’s martial adventures provoke copious tears, heartfelt lamentations, and abject apologies for ritual failures that are emotionally powerful for the modern reader as well. This is an unforgettable rendition of an extraordinary Bildungsroman.

John Duncan, University of California, Los Angeles:
The book provides a useful introduction to the publishing and circulation of narrative fiction that highlights the popularity of fiction set in China. Both introduction and translation reflect broad knowledge of Korean and Chinese literature. The translation is done in an engaging style without sacrificing the nuances of the original.

Chan E. Park, The Ohio State University:
This book enriches and expands the study of premodern Korean literature for scholars and general readers alike.