Newly named UNICEF Korea’s goodwill ambassador, best-selling writer ‘grateful’ for her new mission


After the sensational success of her novel “Please Look after Mom” overseas, author Shin Kyung-sook is taking on a new role as an ambassador for children.

“I am grateful for this opportunity to serve for children in need,” the author said after being appointed as the new goodwill ambassador of UNICEF Korea on Wednesday.

Shin is the second writer to serve in the position, after late author Park Wan-suh. Park had worked for UNICEF Korea as its goodwill ambassador for 13 years, from 1993 until her death in 2011. Shin had a close relationship with Park, and often expressed her admiration for Park and her work.

“Park actually never spoke to me about her experience being the UNICEF ambassador,” Shin said.

“But I often had the opportunity to witness what she was doing while serving in this position and it was always inspiring. She passed away in 2011 while I was overseas on my book tour; (her death) touched my life in many ways. And to fill this position which Park used to serve in is especially more meaningful to me.”

As a new UNICEF goodwill ambassador, Shin will write a various number of works for children, attend charity events, visit children in need of support, and appear on UNICEF ads.

When asked about her thoughts on the plight of children in North Korea, Shin said she is willing to do everything she can to improve their living conditions.

“A few years ago I had an opportunity to visit the North at the invitation of a literary forum,” said Shin.

“But now that I think about it, I didn’t run into a single child while I was there. Maybe it is because I was only seeing things that I was allowed to see. Though I’ve never met any North Korean children who are in need of support, it is possible to assume what it is like to be in their shoes based on what’s already been reported on the news. I’m happy to do everything I can to make a difference in their lives.”

UNICEF Korea’s current ambassadors include veteran actor Ahn Sung-ki and cellist Chung Myung-wha. Figure skater Kim Yu-na and conductor Chung Myung-whun are serving as goodwill ambassadors for UNICEF International.

Famous UNICEF ambassadors include legendary actress Audrey Hepburn, popular Chinese pianist Lang Lang, and the British-born soccer star David Beckham.

Shin, who made her literary debut in 1985, rose to international prominence as the English-translated version of her 2008 novel “Please Look after Mom” became a best-seller in the U.S. last year. She won the prestigious Man Asian Literary Prize in March, becoming the first Korean and first woman to receive the honor.

By Claire Lee (dyc@heraldcorp.com)