Korean Readers Discover Filipino Children’s Books Through Hansae Yes24 Foundation

Korean readers now have access to Filipino children’s books thanks to the work of the Hansae Yes24 Foundation. This foundation, based in Seoul, translated and published three works of Philippine literature as part of its program promoting Southeast Asian storytelling. With these latest releases, the foundation continues to bring attention to voices from the region, allowing Korean readers to discover literary stories rarely available in their language.

Since its launch in 2018, the Hansae Yes24 Foundation has worked to introduce Southeast Asian literature to Korea. It began with Vietnamese books in 2020, followed by releases from Thailand and Indonesia. The project has now reached its fourth installment with the addition of translated Filipino titles. The latest release includes “What Kids Should Know About Filipino Food,” “The Magic Bahag,” and “The Little Hero.” These works were originally published by Adarna House, a well-known Philippine publisher of books for children.

Foundation Spotlights Filipino Books

The foundation selected these titles for their educational and cultural content. “What Kids Should Know About Filipino Food,” written by Felice Prudente Sta. Maria and illustrated by Mika Bacani, teaches young readers about traditional Philippine cuisine. “The Magic Bahag” by Natasha Vizcarra, with illustrations by Leo Kempis Ang, tells a story about a magical loincloth and its power to connect generations. Meanwhile, “The Little Hero” by Jose Miguel Tejido shares the courage and kindness of a young boy through colorful illustrations and simple narrative.

The foundation partnered with Adarna House to bring these stories into the Korean language. Through this collaboration, the books maintain their Filipino roots while becoming accessible to a new audience. According to the article, these translations mark the first time Philippine children’s books have entered the Korean literary market in this way.

The Hansae Yes24 Foundation doesn’t stop at translation. They ensure the materials are printed and distributed widely through Yes24, Korea’s largest online bookstore. The initiative forms part of the foundation’s goal to bridge cultures by promoting understanding through stories written for children and families. In choosing to translate Filipino children’s books, the foundation believes it can help build familiarity and respect between Korean and Filipino cultures.

Books Serve as Cultural Bridges

The translation of Filipino literature goes beyond entertainment. The foundation views these books as an opportunity to connect Korean readers with the traditions, values, and daily life of the Philippines. By offering stories rooted in family, food, and community, the translated books provide glimpses into how Filipino people live, think, and relate to one another. The initiative responds to the growing need for multicultural content in Korean classrooms and homes.

The Philippines holds a special place in Korea’s multicultural conversation. Many Filipinos live and work in Korea, and growing Filipino-Korean families look for ways to preserve cultural heritage. The Hansae Yes24 Foundation recognizes this and hopes the project will meet the needs of children who want to learn more about Filipino life or reflect on their own experiences. These Filipino children’s books offer more than simple stories; they encourage pride and recognition for young readers from both cultures.

The books join earlier translated collections from Vietnam, Thailand, and Indonesia. In doing so, the foundation builds a fuller picture of Southeast Asia for Korean audiences. Its efforts help combat stereotypes by introducing authentic stories written by authors from the region. With every new batch of translated books, Korean children get the chance to learn directly from their Southeast Asian neighbors.

Foundation’s Work Recognized and Supported

The Hansae Yes24 Foundation launched this literary project with support from the ASEAN-Korea Cooperation Fund. The fund helps finance projects that promote mutual understanding between Korea and Southeast Asian nations. The foundation’s focus on children’s books aligns with that mission, as stories for young readers serve as powerful tools for cultural education.

This year’s translated books were introduced at a media event hosted by the foundation. The event featured speakers from both Korea and the Philippines, including translators, foundation representatives, and cultural experts. They emphasized the significance of the work and expressed hopes that more Korean children would read and enjoy these books.

The Korea Herald article confirmed that the foundation plans to continue the program. Although it started with Southeast Asian children’s books, future releases may include more literary genres and formats. The success of the current series sets a strong foundation for future efforts.

A New Audience for Philippine Children’s Literature

For the first time, books for children from the Philippines now have a place in Korean bookstores, thanks to Hansae Yes24 Foundation’s focused initiative. This step represents more than a publishing achievement—it creates new paths for friendship and learning. Korean parents and educators can now bring Filipino voices into their homes and classrooms. Filipino children living in Korea can see their culture reflected in the stories shared around them.

Through careful selection, translation, and distribution, the foundation presents these works as valuable resources. Each story—whether about food, tradition, or bravery—offers something meaningful to its readers. And by introducing Filipino children’s books to Korea, the Hansae Yes24 Foundation continues to promote respect and connection through storytelling.