Toward Eternity, by Anton Hur

Hi everyone!
Welcome back to our bookclub in English!

This time, we will dive into «Toward Eternity», by Anton Hur, a science-fiction novel that deals with poetry, intelligence, technology, and what it means to be human.

The Book

In a near-future world, a new technological therapy is quickly eradicating cancer. The body’s cells are entirely replaced with nanites—robot or android cells which not only cure those afflicted but leaves them virtually immortal.

Literary researcher Yonghun teaches an AI how to understand poetry and creates a living, thinking machine he names Panit, meaning Beloved, in honor of his husband. When Yonghun—himself a recipient of nanotherapy—mysteriously vanishes into thin air and then just as suddenly reappears, the event raises disturbing questions. What happened to Yonghun, and though he’s returned, is he really himself anymore?

When Dr. Beeko, the scientist who holds the patent to the nanotherapy technology, learns of Panit, he transfers its consciousness from the machine into an android body, giving it freedom and life. As Yonghun, Panit, and other nano humans thrive—and begin to replicate—their development will lead them to a crossroads and a choice with existential consequences.

Exploring the nature of intelligence and the unexpected consequences of progress, the meaning of personhood and life, and what we really have to fear from technology and the future, Toward Eternity is a gorgeous, thought-provoking novel that challenges the notion of what makes us human—and how love survives even the end of that humanity.

The Author

Anton Hur is a South Korean writer and one of the most prominent translators of Korean literature into English. Born in Stockholm and raised in several countries before settling in Korea, he has translated acclaimed works by authors such as Bora Chung, Park Sang Young, and Kyung-Sook Shin.

Known for his energetic, inventive approach to language, Hur has played a major role in introducing Korean literature to English-speaking readers around the world. He lives in Seoul and continues to work as both a writer and translator.