Are you an experienced writer looking for a tranquil space to focus on your next masterpiece while experiencing the rich culture of South Korea? The Wonju City of Literature is offering a fully funded eight-week residency for international writers at the Toji Cultural Centre. This is a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the Korean literary scene, create new work, and build lifelong connections with fellow writers from around the globe.

Important Details

• Host Country: South Korea (Republic of Korea)
• Host Organization: Wonju City of Literature / Toji Cultural Centre
• Residency Duration: 8 weeks (September 1, 2026, to October 31, 2026)
• Application Deadline: May 31, 2026 (10 Khordad 1405)
• Notification of Result: By July 21, 2026
• Target Group: International writers connected to UNESCO Cities of Literature.

Financial Benefits

The Wonju City of Literature Writers’ Residency provides substantial support to ensure a comfortable and productive stay:

• Round-trip air ticket provided for the selected writer.
• Transportation covered on arrival and departure dates in South Korea.
• Eight weeks of free accommodation at the Toji Cultural Centre.
• A private writing room provided at the center.
• Organic meals provided at the Toji Cultural Centre cafeteria (Note: Saturday lunch is provided, but residents prepare their own light breakfasts; no prepared meals are available on public holidays).
• Opportunities to engage in the local cultural scene, including the Wonju literature month festival.

Eligibility Criteria

To be considered for this residency, applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Be proficient in the English or Korean language at an upper-intermediate level or higher.
• Have a minimum of 5 years of creative writing experience.
• Have at least one literary work published in either English or Korean translation.
• Demonstrate a strong interest in Korean culture and literature.
• Be willing to actively participate in local literary events, meetings, interviews, and festivals.
• Consent to an interview, photo shoot, and the uploading of your profile/photo to Wonju City of Literature promotional media.
• Be from a UNESCO City of Literature or provide verifiable evidence of a close connection/prior residence in one.

Residency Obligations

During the eight-week stay, the selected writer is expected to:

• Attend at least one local literary festival or exchange event in South Korea.
• Produce a short creative work (such as a poem or an essay) focused on the theme of Wonju or Korea. This must be submitted to Wonju City by email during the 6th week of the residency.
• Continue producing independent literary work throughout the residency period.
• Abide by the rules of living established at the Toji Cultural Centre alongside other Korean and international artists.

How to Apply

Eligible writers must submit their application and required documents before the deadline.

• A completed application form.
• Supporting documentation verifying a minimum of 5 years of creative writing experience.
• Proof of at least one published work in English or Korean (e.g., PDF scans of book covers, copyright pages, or online bookstore listings showing the ISBN).

1. Download and complete the application form: Application Form Link
2. Submit your application as per the guidelines on the official portal.
3. For more information, please visit the official website: Official Opportunity Link

FAQ

Is there an age limit to apply for the residency? The official call does not specify an age limit. However, you must have a minimum of 5 years of creative writing experience and at least one published work to be eligible.

Can I apply if I do not currently live in a UNESCO City of Literature? Yes, applicants who do not currently reside in a City of Literature may still apply if they can provide verifiable evidence of prior residence or a close connection, which will be confirmed with the relevant city’s coordinator.

Are all daily meals completely covered during the 8 weeks? Organic meals are generally provided at the cafeteria. However, residents are expected to prepare their own light breakfasts (bread and beverages provided). Also, no prepared meals are available on public holidays, and only lunch is provided on Saturdays. Each room has a small fridge for personal use.

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