Following the announcement of French novelist Patrick Modiano as the recipient of this year’s Nobel Prize in Literature, on Oct. 9, domestic sales of his books have boosted.

Modiano’s titles, including his renowned 1978 novel “Missing Person” had been introduced in Korea, but never appeared among the top-selling titles in the past.

According to Kyobo Bookstore, the country’s largest book chain, a total of 1,200 books written by Modiano have been sold since last Thursday ― 300 in stores and 900 online.

“Compared to the past, when Modiano’s books were sold in single digits, this is a breakthrough,” said Jin Young-kyun from Kyobo Bookstore. “We expect to record more sales when we receive more stock from the publishers.” 

The bookstore also dedicated a special section for a number of Modiano’s novels for visitors interested in reading the author’s books.

Online book retailer Interpark said “Missing Person” recorded 300 books in sales over a four-day period since the announcement. “This is a drastic change from 2010 when the book was first published and total of 120 books were sold that year,” said Jeong Ji-yeon from Interpark. Modiano’s other books, including “Dora Bruder” and “Sad Villa,” are also recording an increase in sales.

“Prior to the award announcement, less than 10 copies of his books were sold on average in a month at bookstores,” said a representative of Munhakdonge, publisher of seven books of the author. Munhakdongne printed 13,000 Modiano books upon the Nobel Prize announcement, and plans to print 10,000 more copies as the demand is increasing.

The 69-year old novelist, whose literature career spans four decades, was awarded for his works that explore the traumas of Nazi occupation in France. He has written over 20 books, including children’s books, 10 of them translated into Korean are available in bookstores.

By Ahn Sung-mi (sahn@heraldcorp.com)