Not Only Kimchi: History, Culture and Everyday Life of Korea

Summary

Andrei Lankov's book "Not Only Kimchi" is an elegant and profound journey through the labyrinths of Korean history, culture, and everyday life. With his characteristic erudition and keen eye for detail, the author unveils Korea's multilayered identity: from ancient dynasties to the turbulent twentieth century, from traditional customs to the rhythms of modern city life. Lankov goes far beyond gastronomic symbols, inviting readers to see Korea through the eyes of its people, to understand their values, fears, and dreams. Through the lens of daily habits, family traditions, educational aspirations, and social change, he paints a vivid, authentic portrait of a country where past and present intertwine in a unique cultural tapestry. This book is not just a story about a distant land, but a heartfelt reflection on how history and culture shape the human soul.