The ability to interpret and compose specific texts is called 'literacy.' In today's world, literacy has become a topic of concern due to a noticeable decline in students' skills. Educators report that many students lack basic vocabulary and struggle to follow in class. Nine out of ten teachers believe that students' literacy skills have declined compared to the past. "It's frustrating to see students take a test and be unable to answer questions simply because they don't know the words," one teacher explained. "It's hard to cover the curriculum and also provide additional vocabulary teaching," another teacher complained.

 

One major reason why students struggle with understanding texts is the overuse of cell phones. According to Teenagers Media Usage Research (2022) by the Korean Press Foundation, the average teenager's daily internet use has risen to approximately eight hours, almost two hours longer than in 2018. Today's teens are so accustomed to short videos and new content on their phones, whether it's YouTube, KakaoTalk, or texting, that they have fewer opportunities to read or even attempt writing. The more they seek out instant and ultra-accessible stimuli, the more their ability to learn and critically engage with texts will likely deteriorate. For many, reading has become nothing but an extension of their studies.

However, this doesn't seem to apply to young adults, with a growing number seeing reading as a favorable pastime again. From June 26 to 30, the Korean Publishers Association organized the Seoul International Book Fair. Despite being scaled back and lacking government support, it attracted at least 150,000 visitors over five days and ended up regarded as a success.

 

The most notable aspect of the fair was that the majority of visitors were in their 20s and 30s. Among them, reading has become a so-called "cool hobby" enjoyed by a small but increasing number of people again. This tendency is called "Text-Hip," a term combining "text" and "hipster."

 

More and more young adults are sharing pictures of themselves reading or showcasing their bookshelves on social media. By doing so, they're connecting with other readers and forming communities to read and discuss books together. Likewise, a trend among English readers called "BookTok" has formed a reading community in the short-form video app, TikTok.

 

So what made reading preferable again? The first reason is that social media has become too deeply embedded in people's lives. The flood of stimulating short-form content has become exhausting, leading to more people seeking a productive and meaningful hobby. Another reason is people's desire to have an identity that sets them apart from others. Some said they started reading or identifying as a "reader" because it makes them look cooler.

 

But this new passion for reading has attracted some critics. Some say that readers are not interested in reading itself but rather in how reading makes them appear. They dismiss it as a pretentious, superficial fashion statement used to attract attention rather than focusing on a genuine, deep engagement with books.

 

Nevertheless, "Text-Hip" is a positive trend. Reading doesn't have to be a lofty and difficult hobby—it can be easy, enjoyable, and cool for everyone. After all, reading is a cure for ignorance and a solution to literacy problems. So why not pick up a book ourselves and join in?

 

Reporter,

Somin Hong hongsomin@seoultech.ac.kr

Reporter 홍소민

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• e-mail : hongsomin@seoultech.ac.kr