Wonju City of Literature Writers Residency 2026 (South Korea): Fully Funded 8-Week Program

The Wonju City of Literature Writers Residency 2026 is a prestigious fully funded opportunity in South Korea for writers worldwide. Hosted at the Toji Cultural Centre, this program offers a peaceful environment for writers to focus on their creative work while engaging with an international literary community.

About the Residency Program

The residency is part of the UNESCO Cities of Literature network, designed to promote global literary exchange and collaboration.

Selected participants will spend 8 weeks in Wonju, South Korea, connecting with writers and artists while developing their creative projects.

Program Details

• 📍 Location: Toji Cultural Centre, South Korea
• 📅 Duration: 8 weeks
• 🗓 Dates: 1 September – 31 October 2026
• 📢 Result Announcement: By 21 July 2026
• ⏰ Deadline: 31 May 2026

Financial Benefits (Fully Funded)

Selected writers will receive:

• Round-trip international airfare
• Local transportation (arrival & departure)
• Free accommodation with private workspace
• Organic meals during the residency
• Access to cultural and literary events

This makes it a fully funded international writers residency.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must:

• Be a writer with at least 5 years of experience
• Have at least one published work
• Be connected to a UNESCO City of Literature (or demonstrate strong connection)
• Have upper-intermediate English or Korean proficiency
• Show interest in Korean culture and literature
• Be willing to participate in literary events and community activities

Program Activities

During the residency, participants will:

• Focus on their writing projects
• Interact with international and Korean writers
• Participate in local literary events and festivals
• Engage with Wonju’s cultural scene

Writers may also be expected to produce a short creative work inspired by Korea or Wonju.

Why Apply for Wonju Residency?

This residency offers:

• A peaceful and inspiring writing environment
• Fully funded international experience
• Opportunity to build global literary networks
• Cultural immersion in South Korea
• Exposure through festivals and literary events

It is ideal for writers seeking creative growth and international recognition.

Who Should Apply?

This opportunity is best for:

• Fiction and non-fiction writers
• Poets and literary creators
• Emerging and mid-career authors
• Writers interested in global cultural exchange

Application Process

Step 1: Prepare Documents

• Application form
• Writing portfolio
• Proof of publications

Step 2: Submit Application

Apply through the official call (via Cities of Literature network)

Step 3: Selection

• Evaluation by an independent panel
• Based on writing quality, experience, and proposal

Conclusion

The Wonju City of Literature Writers Residency 2026 is a highly competitive and prestigious fully funded opportunity for writers worldwide. With financial support, global exposure, and a creative environment, it is an excellent platform to develop your work and connect with the international literary community.