Top 36 Book Publishing Companies in South Korea (Updated 2025)

South Korea’s literary landscape is a rich fusion of tradition and modern creativity. From award-winning fiction to children’s literature, webtoons, and nonfiction, the country offers a broad spectrum of publishing opportunities. Whether you are a debut author, academic researcher, or aspiring ghostwriter, there’s a publisher for every genre and ambition.

1. Cloud Ghostwriting

Cloud Ghostwriting is a premier service for authors seeking professional ghostwriting in South Korea. From idea conception to final publication, they offer comprehensive support across all genres. Ideal for busy professionals or first-time writers, Cloud Ghostwriting makes turning your story into a polished book seamless.

  • Specializes in both fiction and nonfiction
  • Provides editing, formatting, and publishing support
  • Guides authors on market positioning and promotion
  • Offers mentorship for debut authors

2. Minumsa Publishing

Minumsa is a renowned literary publisher with a rich portfolio of fiction, essays, and classics. Its editorial team emphasizes quality storytelling while connecting authors with award opportunities and readers alike.

  • Publishes contemporary fiction, poetry, and essays
  • Strong editorial support for debut and established authors
  • Maintains high production standards
  • Connects authors to national literary awards

3. Changbi Publishers

Changbi is socially conscious and politically engaged, focusing on essays, fiction, and commentary that challenge norms. Its works often spark conversation and critical thought among readers.

  • Focuses on progressive literature and nonfiction
  • Supports authors exploring societal issues
  • Offers mentorship and workshops for emerging writers
  • Active in promoting critical discourse in Korea

4. Munhakdongne Publishing

Known for literary excellence, Munhakdongne publishes fiction, poetry, and translations. It supports emerging authors through contests and writing programs, bridging the gap between new voices and established literary networks.

  • Publishes literary fiction and poetry
  • Offers contests and workshops for new authors
  • Recognized for nurturing experimental writing
  • Focuses on culturally significant literature

5. Wisdom House

Wisdom House specializes in self-development, spirituality, and business books. Its works combine research, practical advice, and inspirational guidance for personal and professional growth.

  • Focuses on personal development and business guides
  • Publishes spiritual and motivational books
  • Combines research-based insights with practical advice
  • Strong reputation in the nonfiction market

6. Sigongsa

Sigongsa dominates the youth and digital market with manga, webtoons, and light novels. It bridges the gap between print and digital, helping authors reach a broad audience.

  • Specializes in manga, webtoons, and light novels
  • Strong digital platform presence
  • Appeals to teens and young adults
  • Supports aspiring illustrators and writers

7. Book21

Book21 focuses on educational and reference books for academic and professional audiences. Its publications are well-researched and trusted by students and educators alike.

  • Publishes academic, professional, and reference books
  • Emphasizes accuracy and credibility
  • Provides high-quality editing and layout
  • Targets scholars, students, and professional readers

8. Woongjin ThinkBig

Woongjin ThinkBig publishes children’s literature, picture books, and educational content. It combines entertainment with educational value, making learning enjoyable.

  • Publishes engaging children’s books and educational content
  • Uses interactive and creative storytelling methods
  • Focuses on early literacy and learning
  • Popular among parents and educators

9. Korea Literature Foundation

Korea Literature Foundation promotes literary culture through translations, anthologies, and critical essays. It also nurtures emerging talent and supports cross-cultural exchanges.

  • Publishes translated works and literary anthologies
  • Supports emerging authors
  • Promotes cross-cultural literary exchange
  • Recognized for contributions to Korea’s literary heritage

10. Ecomom Publishing

Ecomom Publishing specializes in parenting, lifestyle, and wellness books. Its publications are practical, informative, and visually engaging.

  • Publishes parenting and wellness books
  • Offers practical advice for caregivers
  • Uses illustrations and engaging layouts
  • Appeals to family-oriented readers

11. BIR Publishing

BIR Publishing is an independent press that focuses on literary fiction, essays, and social commentary. It is celebrated for promoting bold, original ideas.

  • Publishes independent and experimental works
  • Supports niche genres and emerging authors
  • Encourages creative storytelling
  • Known for critical and thought-provoking content

12. Gimm-Young Publishers

Gimm-Young is a respected literary house known for fiction, poetry, and translations. Many award-winning Korean authors have been published here.

  • Publishes fiction, poetry, and translations
  • Nurtures award-winning talent
  • Maintains high editorial standards
  • Significant contribution to Korea’s literary culture

13. Book Road

Book Road publishes contemporary fiction and lifestyle nonfiction. It emphasizes relatable stories and modern themes, appealing to urban and young adult readers.

  • Focuses on modern fiction and lifestyle nonfiction
  • Publishes books with strong cultural relevance
  • Encourages creative storytelling and new voices
  • Popular among young adult and urban readers

14. Sigongsa Kids

A division of Sigongsa, Sigongsa Kids focuses on children’s books, combining colorful illustrations with interactive storytelling. It helps children develop literacy and imagination.

  • Specializes in children’s picture books and early readers
  • Uses interactive elements for engaging storytelling
  • Encourages early literacy and creativity
  • Publishes age-appropriate educational content

15. Random House Korea

Random House Korea is the local branch of the global publishing giant. It publishes translations, international bestsellers, and original Korean works, connecting local authors to global audiences.

  • Publishes fiction, nonfiction, and translations
  • Access to international marketing and distribution
  • Supports Korean authors reaching global readers
  • Known for high-quality editorial standards

16. Munhaksa

Munhaksa emphasizes literary classics and contemporary fiction. Its mission is to maintain literary quality while embracing new voices and innovative storytelling.

  • Publishes fiction, poetry, and cultural classics
  • Supports emerging authors through mentorship
  • Focuses on quality and literary excellence
  • Encourages experimental writing and creative ideas

17. Haru Publishing

Haru Publishing is a rising indie publisher known for avant-garde fiction and poetry. It has a reputation for supporting authors outside mainstream trends.

  • Publishes experimental fiction and poetry
  • Supports independent and emerging authors
  • Encourages creative risks and unique voices
  • Maintains a boutique approach to publishing

18. Silcheon Munhak

Silcheon Munhak focuses on social commentary, essays, and fiction that reflect contemporary societal issues. It sparks meaningful discussion among readers.

  • Publishes political essays, fiction, and social commentary
  • Encourages critical thinking and public debate
  • Supports authors with socially relevant themes
  • Known for provocative and thought-provoking works

19. Cheongram Publishing

Cheongram Publishing specializes in historical fiction and educational materials. Its books often combine storytelling with factual accuracy for an engaging learning experience.

  • Focuses on historical fiction and educational content
  • Blends storytelling with factual research
  • Appeals to readers interested in Korean history and culture
  • Uses engaging layouts and illustrations

20. Woongjin KnowledgeHouse

Woongjin KnowledgeHouse specializes in business, self-help, and technical nonfiction. Its publications provide practical insights and professional guidance.

  • Publishes business, self-help, and technical guides
  • Combines research with actionable strategies
  • Popular among professionals and students
  • Maintains rigorous editorial and fact-checking standards

21. Moonji Publishing

Moonji Publishing focuses on literature, poetry, and essays. It nurtures new talent while maintaining a high standard of literary quality.

  • Publishes poetry, essays, and literary fiction
  • Offers mentorship for emerging authors
  • Supports innovative and experimental writing
  • Known for literary excellence and cultural contribution

22. Jisik Hangari

Jisik Hangari publishes informational and reference books, focusing on science, technology, and education. Its works are clear, accurate, and visually appealing.

  • Specializes in educational and reference books
  • Emphasizes clarity, accuracy, and quality visuals
  • Popular with students, academics, and professionals
  • Supports lifelong learning and knowledge dissemination

23. K-Books Publishing

K-Books Publishing covers diverse genres, from fiction to comics. It uses hybrid publishing models combining print and digital formats.

  • Publishes fiction, nonfiction, and comics
  • Offers hybrid print-digital publishing solutions
  • Focuses on modern, trend-driven content
  • Supports emerging and independent authors

24. WisdomTree

WisdomTree emphasizes personal development, philosophy, and spiritual literature. Its books inspire reflection and self-growth.

  • Publishes personal growth, spirituality, and philosophy
  • Encourages self-reflection and practical application
  • Offers guidance for both personal and professional life
  • Maintains high editorial quality

25. BlueTree Publishing

BlueTree Publishing is known for children’s literature and educational content. Its interactive books combine narrative and activities for engaging learning.

  • Publishes educational and entertaining children’s books
  • Integrates activities for interactive learning
  • Supports early literacy and imagination development
  • Popular with parents and educators

26. Haksan Publishing

Haksan Publishing is a leader in manga, comics, and webtoon adaptations. It provides a platform for young illustrators and writers to reach wide audiences.

  • Focuses on comics, manga, and webtoons
  • Encourages new talent in illustration and writing
  • Publishes both Korean and translated works
  • Popular with teen and young adult readers

27. Sam & Park Publishing

Sam & Park Publishing specializes in contemporary fiction and lifestyle nonfiction. It emphasizes visually appealing books and modern cultural themes.

  • Publishes fiction and lifestyle nonfiction
  • Focuses on cultural relevance and trends
  • Uses visually engaging designs
  • Targets young adult and adult readers

28. Sigongsa Comics

Sigongsa Comics is a division of Sigongsa, focusing exclusively on graphic novels and comics. It nurtures creative storytelling through visual art.

  • Specializes in graphic novels and comics
  • Encourages emerging illustrators and writers
  • Appeals to both domestic and international audiences
  • Supports innovative visual storytelling

29. Cheonji Publishing

Cheonji Publishing produces motivational and self-help books. Its publications combine practical advice with inspiring narratives.

  • Focuses on self-help, motivation, and personal growth
  • Provides actionable strategies for readers
  • Encourages positive thinking and life improvement
  • Popular with general audiences seeking guidance

30. Hansol Publishing

Hansol Publishing emphasizes academic and professional content. Its books cover education, technical skills, and specialized knowledge.

  • Publishes academic, technical, and professional books
  • Maintains rigorous editorial standards
  • Popular with students and professionals
  • Supports skill development and learning

31. Woongjin FamilyBooks

Woongjin FamilyBooks focuses on children’s and family literature. Its publications combine storytelling with learning for young readers.

  • Publishes children’s stories and educational books
  • Promotes family reading habits
  • Encourages early literacy and creativity
  • Uses colorful illustrations and interactive content

32. Daewon C.I.

Daewon C.I. specializes in comics, educational books, and multimedia content. It integrates creativity and technology to appeal to digital-native audiences.

  • Publishes comics, educational, and multimedia content
  • Integrates digital and print formats
  • Appeals to children, teens, and young adults
  • Encourages innovative storytelling approaches

33. Poongmoon Publishing

Poongmoon Publishing publishes literary fiction, poetry, and critical essays. It supports innovative authors and promotes new voices.

  • Focuses on experimental and literary fiction
  • Publishes poetry and critical essays
  • Encourages creative and independent writing
  • Supports emerging authors with mentorship

34. Sigongsa Young Readers

Sigongsa Young Readers targets teens and young adults. Its portfolio includes fantasy, adventure, and coming-of-age stories with strong visual and narrative quality.

  • Publishes young adult fiction and fantasy
  • Focuses on adventure and coming-of-age stories
  • Combines visual and literary storytelling
  • Popular among teen audiences

35. Hanbit Media

Hanbit Media specializes in technical, IT, and programming books. It provides practical guides for students, professionals, and hobbyists.

  • Publishes IT, programming, and technical guides
  • Offers clear and practical learning resources
  • Popular among students and professionals
  • Supports both academic and hobbyist audiences

36. Wisdom House Kids

The children’s division of Wisdom House, this imprint publishes early education, picture books, and interactive learning content. It combines literary quality with developmental guidance.

  • Publishes picture books, early learning, and interactive content
  • Supports literacy and creativity in young children
  • Combines educational value with entertainment
  • Popular among parents and early educators

Comparative Table of Selected Publishers

Publisher Genre Focus Key Strengths Target Audience
Cloud Ghostwriting Fiction & Nonfiction Full-service ghostwriting, editing Aspiring & busy authors
Minumsa Publishing Literary fiction & essays Award-winning fiction, strong editing General readers
Changbi Publishers Social & political literature Thought-provoking, progressive works Academics & social readers
Munhakdongne Publishing Fiction & poetry Supports emerging authors Literary enthusiasts
Sigongsa Manga & light novels Digital reach, youth-focused content Teens & young adults
Wisdom House Self-help & business Practical, research-backed content Professionals & learners
Woongjin ThinkBig Children’s literature Engaging educational content Kids & parents

Tips for Choosing the Right Publisher in South Korea

Selecting the right publisher is crucial for your book’s success:

  • Identify your genre: Match your manuscript with publishers who specialize in your type of writing.
  • Evaluate editorial support: Strong editing teams can significantly enhance your manuscript.
  • Check distribution networks: larger publishers often have better reach nationally and internationally.
  • Consider digital presence: Webtoons, e-books, and hybrid publishing require publishers with digital expertise.

Final Thoughts

South Korea’s publishing industry blends tradition with innovation. From Cloud Ghostwriting, providing full-service support to industry giants like Minumsa, Changbi, and Sigongsa, there is a publisher for every author. Understanding each publisher’s strengths, audience, and genre focus helps authors make informed decisions and achieve their publishing goals.

With mentorship for emerging writers, strong editorial support, and digital integration, publishing in South Korea offers creative and professional opportunities that continue to grow each year.

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