I think many people have heard that Daejeon is the city of science. However, through an exhibition held at the Daejeon Literature Center, I would like to inform you that Daejeon is also notable for its literature. In fact, Daejeon has one of the largest numbers of Literary Men’s Associations in Korea. Before taking a tour of the 1960s Daejeon Literature Exhibition, let us discover what the Daejeon Literature Center is.

The Daejeon Literature Center was established to exhibit the literary history of Daejeon, so lots of literature and literary materials are preserved here. At the center, literary contents are developed, literacy education programs are run, and literary concerts and exhibitions are held to offer Daejeon citizens the opportunity to enjoy literary life. Now they are holding the 1960s Daejeon Literature Exhibition: Until the Blue Spring Comes, which provides an opportunity to retrace the course of Daejeon literature in the 1960s.

At the exhibition, you can explore the historical and social background of the 1960s and the characteristics of Daejeon’s literature. This special exhibition sheds a light on major literary magazines and works published by the Daejeon Literary Circle in the 1960s. This exhibition consists of four parts: the situation in the 1960s; the April 19 Revolution and Daejeon literature; Daejeon literature, literary magazines, and major writers in the 1960s; the 1960s experience hall. When you enter the first exhibition hall, you can learn about the 1960s along the left wall. Historic events during that decade such as the March 8 Democratic Election, the March 5 Fraudulent Election, and the April 19 Revolution are outlined, making it easy to trace the history. An explanation of the history of Korean literature is also provided. The History of Daejeon Literature is the final item. In short, the exhibition displays the course of Korean history, literature history, and the literary history of Daejeon from 1960 to 1969 in a way that is easy to understand. The displays of related photos, videos, and materials from that time are also impressive, helping visitors understand.

Next, you can discover the significance of the April 19 Revolution in the April 19 Revolution and Daejeon Literature hall. You can understand our history by viewing related exhibits. The next hall focuses on Daejeon literature, literary magazines, and major writers in the 1960s. You can appreciate the writers and poets of Daejeon and Chungcheong province through posters arranged on one side of the hall. Detailed explanations paint a vivid picture as if the authors were talking about their stories right in front of you. Finally, Outdoor Literary Gallery is an outdoor area where you can enjoy an old coin-operated machine—you will receive a wonderful verse from a poem and some sweets!

I think understanding the history of the 1960s and learning about the literary works of Daejeon is valuable. While watching, listening, and enjoying all of the exhibits, I am sure you will realize that Daejeon is a city with a long history of literature. Moreover, it is surprising that many items from that time are well preserved. Why not visit Until the Blue Spring Comes? You can warm up your literary sensibility during these pleasant spring days!

Directions

Location: 116, Songchonnam-ro 11beon-gil, Dong-gu, Daejeon

Opening Hours: 10:00~17:00

Admission Fee: Free

Contact: TEL. 042) 626-5020~5023/Instagram: @daejeonlc

Website: www.dcaf.or.kr

Chungnam National University to Daejeon Literature Center by Bus

• Bus 102 (Cungnam National University-Garam Apartment) ->Bus 605 (Garam Apartment -Daejeon Literature Center entrance) -> 5 minutes’ walk
• Bus 102 (Cungnam National University -Yongjon Elementary School entrance) -> 11 minutes’ walk
• Bus 105 (Cungnam National University -Galma Overpass) -> Bus 605 (Galma Overpass- Daejeon Literature Center entrance) -> 5minutes’ walk