The Seoul Letter Shop by Baek Seungyeon

The Seoul Letter Shop is a slow-paced, feel-good novel that makes for a perfect cosy winter read. It’s also a celebration of the lost art of letter-writing and the importance of finding connection in an increasingly isolated world.

When Hyo-young’s dreams of becoming a filmmaker fall apart, she leaves her hometown for Seoul and takes a job at a boutique letter shop. Filled with beautiful pens, papers and envelopes, the shop offers more than stationery. Through its anonymous pen-pal service, customers can share the things they cannot say aloud and find comfort in the words of strangers.

The story unfolds gently, following Hyo-young as she settles into the rhythms of the shop and becomes drawn into the lives of its customers. Themes of grief, loneliness, family and reconciliation are handled compassionately, while the handwritten letters bring a sense of intimacy and hope.

This is a comforting read for anyone who loves stationery, snail mail and the idea that a handwritten note can make someone feel less alone. Baek Seungyeon is a Korean writer based in Seoul. She majored in Creative Writing and Literature and is a rising talent first discovered through the Munhaksasan Writing Program in 2017. First published in 2024, The Seoul Letter Shop has been translated into English, Italian, French, Spanish, Dutch and Finnish. 

Reviewer: Andrea Molloy

Fourth Estate