Applications for South Korea’s Wonju Literature Residency Program 2026 are currently being accepted. Writers from the global Cities of Literature network have the opportunity to spend eight weeks in South Korea as part of an international writing residence. For creative authors who like to devote time to their work in a serene, motivating environment, this is a great option. The residence offers full support, including lodging, meals, and travel help, and is housed at the Toji Cultural Center. This is a worthwhile prospect that should be investigated by anyone looking to enroll in an overseas writing program in 2026.
The goal of this international creative writing residency is to promote collaboration and cross-cultural exchange among authors from various Cities of Literature across the globe. It helps participants advance their artistic endeavors while establishing connections with South Korea’s local literary scene. The program fosters cooperation, mutual learning, and intercultural understanding by bringing together Korean and foreign writers in a shared creative setting. Participants also have the chance to attend literary events, meetings, and festivals, enriching their overall experience.
The Wonju residence provides writers with specific time and place to devote themselves entirely to their work. Participants can focus on their creative projects without daily distractions while staying at the Toji Cultural Center. Additionally, the program gives participants the chance to network with writers from a variety of backgrounds, which improves their exposure to the world and their creative abilities. The residency, which is funded by UNESCO initiatives, enables participants to further their writing careers while interacting with Korean literature and culture.
The eight-week residency will begin on September 1 and end on October 31, 2026. During this period, selected writers will live in a peaceful, nature-rich environment that promotes creativity and focus. This residency offers a special blend of professional writing growth and cultural immersion for those searching for international programs in South Korea in 2026.
Host Country: South Korea
Funded By: UNESCO
University: Toji Cultural Center
Opportunity Type: Fellowships, Training
Date: 1 September – 31 October 2026
Eligibility Country: International Students
Financial Coverage: Fully Funded
Eligibility Criteria:
- Candidates must speak Korean or English at an upper-intermediate level.
- They must have written creatively for at least five years.
- Additionally, candidates must have at least one published work translated into either Korean or English.
- To be qualified for the Wonju Literature Residency Program, they must demonstrate a keen interest in Korean literature and culture.
- Additionally, candidates must be open to participating in local festivals, meetings, interviews, and literary activities.
- They must consent to have their profile and picture used in advertising materials, as well as to take part in interviews and photo shoots.
- During their stay, applicants must participate in at least one local literary festival or exchange event in Korea.
- During the sixth week of the residency, they are required to produce a brief creative piece, such as an essay or poem, on Wonju or Korea.
- Throughout the residence period, they are also required to actively use their time for writing and development and to generate literary works.
Benefits:
- Round-Trip Airfare: Selected writers receive a return ticket that covers their overseas travel costs.
- Airport Transfers: To provide a seamless travel experience, transportation is scheduled upon arrival and departure.
- Residency Length: Participants stay at the Toji Cultural Center for eight weeks.
- Comfortable lodging and a separate writing area are provided for writers so they can concentrate on their creative endeavors.
- Meals: To promote a balanced and healthful stay, organic meals are served during the residency.
- Creative Environment: The application provides a calm and motivating environment created especially to boost productivity and creativity.
- Festival Participation: Attendees can take part in literary and cultural events, such as the Wonju Literature Month Festival.
- Global Networking: Writers can engage with writers from Korea and other countries, creating deep relationships.
- Cultural Exchange & cooperation: The residency enhances the experience by encouraging literary cooperation and cross-cultural learning.
- Personal and Professional Development: All things considered, the program offers a worthwhile opportunity to grow personally, professionally, and creatively in a global context.
Required Documents
- Completed Application Form: Applicants must submit a fully filled and accurate application form as part of the process.
- Proof of Writing Experience: Provide evidence of at least 5 years of creative writing experience, demonstrating consistent engagement in literary work.
- Published Work Sample: Submit at least one published piece, either in English or translated into English or Korean.
- Supporting Documents: Include relevant proof of publication, such as PDF copies of the work, ISBN details, or any official documentation confirming publication.
Deadline: May 31, 2026
