Dive into the dark, electric ‘Holy Boy’ and hear from an expert in K-pop and fandom.

‘Holy Boy’ by Lee Heejoo (Translated by Joheun Lee) is the story of four women who decide to kidnap their favourite K-pop idol, Yosep, which leads to devastating and unexpected results. In this book club, we discuss the book but also go beyond it, talking to its translator Joheun Lee, and delving into themes of obsession and fandom with ANU’s resident K-pop scholar.

The discussion will be led by Aditi Dubey, from the Korean Literature Translation Hub, who will be joined by Dr Roald Maliangkay, a scholar of Korean popular culture and entertainment. Joheun Lee is a writer and literary translator with roots in K-pop fandom and a love of subcultures. She will join the event online for a Q&A with the audience.

The book is available at all major retailers (such as Dymocks and QBD) and at the ACT library. It is also available in e-book and audiobook formats. Interested participants who are having difficulty obtaining the book can get in touch with Aditi.Dubey@anu.edu.au.

This event is a collaboration between the ANU School of Culture, History & Language and the ANU Korea Institute, both within the ANU College of Asia and the Pacific.

Please note: If you require accessibility accommodations or a visitor Personal Emergency Evacuation Plan please contact the event organisers.

This event may be photographed and recorded. The recorded material may be used to promote future ANU events and programs. By attending the event you are giving us informed consent. If you DO NOT wish to be recorded, please let ANU event staff know on the day. We will be mindful and ensure not to photograph any faces of children present.

Contact the host of 2026 Immersia: Kidnapping your K-pop boy | Book club and Translator Q&A