The UNESCO Wonju Literature Residency 2025 is a prestigious fully funded creative writing program in South Korea that offers emerging and established writers an unparalleled opportunity to develop their craft while immersed in Korean culture. Sponsored by UNESCO and the Wonju City Government, this competitive residency provides travel funding, accommodation, and creative stipends to selected literary artists worldwide.
This guide provides complete details about the residency benefits, eligibility criteria, application process, and deadlines to help you secure this transformative literary opportunity.
Residency Overview
📋 Key Details
✅ Host Country: South Korea (Wonju City)
✅ Organizers: UNESCO & Wonju City Government
✅ Program Type: Fully Funded Literary Residency
✅ Duration: 2 months (Sep-Oct 2025)
✅ Application Deadline: 11th July, 2025
✍️ About the Residency
- Established in 2018 as UNESCO Creative City of Literature
- Hosts 15 international writers annually
- Focus on cross-cultural literary exchange
- Includes Korean language and culture immersion
- Historic Wonju location near Seoul
Financial Benefits
The fully funded residency includes:
✔ Round-Trip Airfare (Economy class)
✔ Private Studio Apartment in Wonju’s literary district
✔ Monthly Stipend: ₩2,500,000 (≈$1,900)
✔ Creative Project Grant: Up to ₩1,000,000
✔ Health Insurance Coverage
✔ Cultural Excursions (DMZ, Seoul, traditional villages)
✔ Publication Opportunities in UNESCO anthologies
Eligibility Criteria
🎓 Literary Qualifications
- Published writers (Minimum 1 book or 5 literary publications)
- Emerging writers with strong unpublished portfolios
- All genres eligible:
- Fiction
- Poetry
- Creative Nonfiction
- Playwriting
- Literary Translation
🌐 General Requirements
- All nationalities welcome (Non-Korean residents prioritized)
- English proficiency (Korean not required but encouraged)
- Commitment to cultural exchange
- Availability for full residency period
Program Structure
📅 Weekly Schedule
- Mornings: Dedicated writing time
- Afternoons:
- Korean language classes (optional)
- Literary workshops
- Cultural activities
- Evenings:
- Author readings
- Mentorship sessions
🎤 Special Features
- Masterclasses with Nobel laureates
- Publishing industry networking
- Manuscript consultations
- Literary festival participation
Required Documents
Prepare these PDF files:
📄 Writing Samples (15-20 pages)
📄 Project Proposal (500 words)
📄 Literary CV (Publications, awards, residencies)
📄 2 Recommendation Letters from literary professionals
📄 Passport Copy
📄 Published Works (If applicable)
Application Process
📝 Step-by-Step Guide
- Review Guidelines → UNESCO Wonju Website
- Prepare Materials → Allow 6-8 weeks
- Online Submission → Via UNESCO Creative Cities Network portal
- Initial Review → December 2024-January 2025
- Interview Stage → Virtual interviews for shortlisted candidates
- Final Selection → February 2025
Selection Criteria
Applications evaluated on:
✔ Literary Merit (40%)
✔ Project Originality (25%)
✔ Cultural Exchange Potential (20%)
✔ Professional Achievements (15%)
🎯 Why Apply?
- Focus on your writing in inspiring surroundings
- Connect with global literary community
- Experience Korean culture deeply
- Gain international publication exposure
- Join prestigious alumni network
Click Here to Apply for
UNESCO Wonju Literature Residency 2025
For more fully funded writing residencies, visit GOGEDU!
FAQs
❓ Are collaborative projects accepted?
👥 Yes, but each writer must apply separately
❓ Can family members accompany?
👨👩👧👦 No, housing is single-occupancy only
❓ What’s the acceptance rate?
🏆 Highly competitive (~7% selection rate)
❓ Is translation support available?
🌍 Yes, for public events and readings
❓ Can I extend my stay?
⏳ Possible with separate visa arrangements
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