Stockholm, Sweden – The Nobel Banquet, a prestigious event held annually at Stockholm City Hall, witnessed a heartwarming moment when a Swedish host surprised guests with a few words in Korean. Introducing the 2024 Nobel Literature laureate, Han Kang, the host exclaimed, "It's an honor to introduce this year's Nobel Prize in Literature." This unexpected addition to the program was a delightful surprise for the attendees.

Earlier in the evening, at the Stockholm Concert Hall, the Nobel Prize Award Ceremony had taken place. While Han Kang delivered a gracious acceptance speech in English, there was a noticeable absence of Korean in the formal proceedings. The presenter, Ellen Mattson, had initially planned to introduce Han Kang in Korean but faced difficulties with the pronunciation and eventually switched to English.

Following the ceremony, guests moved to the grand Stockholm City Hall for the banquet. The Blue Hall, adorned in blue and gold, was filled with anticipation as guests awaited the arrival of the laureates. Han Kang made a grand entrance around 7:10 PM, dressed in an elegant black gown, accompanied by Prince Christopher O'Neill, the husband of Princess Madeleine of Sweden.

The choice of Prince Christopher as Han Kang's escort was a significant gesture, symbolizing the highest level of respect accorded to the Korean author. The seating arrangement was equally impressive. Han Kang was seated at the central guest table, opposite Prince Carl Philip, the fourth in line to the Swedish throne. She was also joined by Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson, Speaker of the Riksdag Andreas Norlén, and Prince Christopher. King Carl XVI Gustaf and Queen Silvia were seated nearby, further emphasizing the royal family's admiration for Han Kang.

The banquet menu, a closely guarded secret, was a highlight of the evening. Created by renowned chefs, the dishes showcased the best of Swedish seasonal ingredients and celebrated sustainability. The main course featured roasted chicken with barley cream and Swedish autumn truffles, while dessert was a layered apple terrine with caramel, chamomile cream, and ice cream.

The evening culminated in a grand waltz in the Golden Hall, a magnificent room adorned with gold mosaic. As the night drew to a close, guests continued to celebrate the achievements of the Nobel laureates.

[ⓒ Global Economic Times. 무단전재-재배포 금지]