In the early 1950s, war is poised to break out in the divided Korean Peninsula. The dividing line for the two opposing sides is the 38th parallel, a highly critical border. Armed conflict continues and intensifies.

In the North, Dr. Han Yong-Dok, a physician and professor specializing in obstetrics and gynecology, is exempted from the general mobilization due to doubts about his loyalty to the regime and is sent to the People's Hospital in Pyongyang. Remaining in the rear, the conscientious scientist prioritizes urgent cases of ordinary citizens, a stance that leads him to disfavor.

Later, all alone and risking his life, he crosses to the South. He perceives himself as merely a refugee. However, there he is suspected and accused of espionage. In the turbulent and tortured journey of this man, not only is reflected the extent of a collective tragedy, but also the fighting spirit of individual dignity.

The novel "The Chronicle of Mr. Han" (1972) is considered one of the most emblematic and representative works of contemporary Korean literature.

"Hwang Sok-yong is undoubtedly the greatest narrative voice of the Far East." Kenzaburo Oe

"A wonderful writer." Jean-Marie Gustave Le Clézio

"A national writer, a vigorous defender of human rights and democratic ideas. Hwang Sok-yong is the most widely read prose writer in his homeland and the best known in the rest of the world. In his books, politics meets the cultural memory of Korea." Le Monde