Huh Young-man

2.1. Birth and Childhood

Huh Young-man was born Huh Hyeong-man on June 26, 1947, in what is now Yeosu, a coastal city in South Jeolla Province, South Korea. He was the third of eight children born to Heo Jong and Park Ok-jeong. His father, Heo Jong, served as a local policeman both before and after Korea's liberation from Japan in 1945. The family's safety was precarious during the Yeosu-Suncheon Rebellion in 1948, a period of intense political conflict. Ironically, while his father was a policeman, his uncle was a communist, which provided the family with a degree of protection from both sides of the conflict. However, Huh was later told that he and his mother narrowly escaped death during an incident when his father was captured by communists. This early exposure to profound political and social division deeply influenced his later works, such as Oh, Han River and Tazza.

After the Korean War, his father briefly worked as an administrative officer at the Yeosu Office of Education before starting his own business. His mother, Park Ok-jeong, ran a successful kitchenware store in the Yeosu market, selling items like pots, glass, and stainless steel utensils. This business thrived due to Yeosu's role as a trading base for neighboring islands, helping to support the large family of eight children.

2.2. Education and Early Aspirations

Huh Young-man graduated from Yeosu High School. From a young age, he harbored a dream of becoming a painter, specifically wishing to major in Western painting at university. However, his family's financial situation deteriorated when his father's anchovy fishery business failed. Faced with these economic hardships, he was forced to abandon his aspiration of pursuing fine art at a university. This pivotal moment led him to seek a career that could provide a more immediate income.

2.3. Apprenticeship and Debut

Following the decision to forgo a university education in fine arts, Huh Young-man moved to Seoul and began his journey in the manhwa industry as an apprentice. He first trained under the cartoonist Park Mun-yoon and later under Lee Hyang-won. This apprenticeship period provided him with foundational skills and insights into the world of comics. In 1974, he officially debuted in the manhwa industry when his work, In Search for Home (집을 찾아서_{Jibeul chajaseo}^Korean), was selected in a new cartoonist competition hosted by the Sonyeon Hankook Ilbo (Boy's Korean Times). This debut marked the beginning of his extensive and influential career.

3.1. Debut and Early Success

Following his debut with In Search for Home in 1974, Huh Young-man quickly rose to prominence with his subsequent work, the action-adventure comic Gaksital (각시탈_{Bridal Mask}^Korean). This series, which depicted a masked hero fighting against Japanese colonial rule, became a significant success and firmly established his reputation in the South Korean manhwa scene. From this early stage, his works were recognized not only for their popular appeal but also for their literary value and profound narrative quality. His comics frequently appeared in major local dailies, including Sikgaek (식객_Gourmet^Korean) for The Dong-a Ilbo, and Tazza (타짜_{The War Of Flowers}^Korean) and Saranghae (사랑해_{I Love You}^Korean) for Sports Chosun. Over his more than 50-year career, he has produced over 200 distinct works, totaling more than 150,000 pages, showcasing an unparalleled dedication and creative output.

3.2. Major Works and Thematic Exploration

Huh Young-man's most influential works are renowned for their narrative depth, intricate thematic content, and significant social and cultural commentary.

One of his most celebrated works is Tazza (타짜_{The War Of Flowers}^Korean), serialized from 2000. This series delves into the dark and complex world of gambling, exploring the depths of human desire, ambition, and the consequences of obsession. Its unique narrative structure and psychological intensity left a strong impression on readers.

Sikgaek (식객_Gourmet^Korean), which began serialization in 2003 in The Dong-a Ilbo, is a landmark work that profoundly explores Korean culinary culture. For this series, Huh Young-man undertook extensive and meticulous research, traveling across Korea to experience and document various regional and traditional foods. The manhwa not only celebrates the richness of Korean cuisine but also highlights the cultural values and social narratives associated with food, elevating the medium of comics to a tool for cultural preservation and education.

Narara Superboard (날아라 슈퍼보드_{Fly, Superboard}^Korean), initially serialized in 1986, became a highly popular animated television series. This work, based on the classic Chinese novel Journey to the West, showcased his versatility in creating engaging adventure narratives that resonated widely with a younger audience.

Other significant works include Oh, Han River (오! 한강_{Oh! Han River}^Korean), which reflects the political conflicts and historical events of his early life, demonstrating his willingness to tackle serious historical and social themes. Mr. Q (미스터Q_{Mr. Q}^Korean) and Beat (비트_Beat^Korean) are notable for their exploration of corporate life and youth culture, respectively, further showcasing his diverse thematic range. His later works, such as Heo Heo Dongui Bogam (허허 동의보감_{Heo Heo Dongui Bogam}^Korean, 2013), which draws on traditional medical texts, and How About a Cup of Coffee? (커피 한잔 할까요?_{Keopi hanjan halkkayo?}^Korean, 2015), co-written with Lee Ho-joon, demonstrate his continued engagement with practical and contemporary subjects.

3.3. Comprehensive Works List

Huh Young-man's extensive creative output spans decades, covering a wide array of genres and themes. The following table provides a chronological overview of his published works:

In addition to his extensive comic series, Huh Young-man has also authored several other books:

• Republic of Korea Sikgaek Cuisine (2007)
• New Zealand Campervan Travel (2008)
• Huh Young-man and Thirteen Men: Going Out is Hard, But Still Going (2010)
• Appearance in One Book (2011)
• Huh Young-man: I Rested Well and Deliciously (2011)
• Seoul Philharmonic Orchestra Calendar (2017), provided as a benefit for paid members.

4.1. Film Adaptations

Several of Huh Young-man's manhwa have been successfully adapted into films, reaching a wider audience and often achieving significant box office success.

• A Man with Seven Faces (1978)
• Space Black Knight (1979), an animated film.
• Gaksital (1986), an animated film.
• The Chameleon's Poem (1988)
• 48+1 (1995)
• Beat (1997)
• Tazza: The High Rollers (2006), based on Tazza Part 1: Jirisan Jakdu.
• Le Grand Chef (2007), based on Sikgaek.
• Le Grand Chef 2: Kimchi Battle (2010), also based on Sikgaek.
• Mr. Go (2013), based on The 7th Team.
• Tazza: The Hidden Card (2014), based on Tazza Part 2: Hand of God.
• Hammerboy (2004), an animated film based on Mangchi.

4.2. Television Drama Adaptations

His works have also been a popular source for television dramas, bringing his stories to millions of viewers.

• The Last Station (MBC, 1987), based on Retired Front Line.
• Asphalt Man (SBS, 1995), based on Asphalt Man.
• Mr. Q (SBS, 1998), based on Mr. Q.
• Saranghae (SBS, 2008), based on Saranghae.
• Gourmet (SBS, 2008), based on Sikgaek.
• Tazza (SBS, 2008), based on Tazza.
• Bridal Mask (KBS2, 2012), based on Gaksital.
• Would You Like a Cup of Coffee? (KakaoTV, 2020), a web drama based on How About a Cup of Coffee?.

4.3. Animated Adaptations

Beyond live-action, several of Huh Young-man's works have been adapted into successful animated series, particularly popular among younger audiences.

• Mr. Sohn (KBS1, 1989, 1990, 1991, 1997, 2000), a television series based on Mr. Sohn, also known as Narara Superboard.

5.1. Themes and Messages in Works

Recurring themes in Huh Young-man's creations include the complexities of human ambition, the exploration of various societal issues, and a deep appreciation for Korean culinary culture and historical narratives. In Tazza, he meticulously dissects the human psyche driven by desire and the allure of gambling, presenting a critical look at the dark underbelly of society. Gaksital (각시탈_{Bridal Mask}^Korean) stands as a powerful narrative of anti-Japanese resistance during the colonial era, igniting a sense of national pride and historical awareness among readers.

His commitment to realism and depth is exemplified in Sikgaek (식객_Gourmet^Korean). For this series, he engaged in extensive fieldwork, traveling across Korea to personally experience and document the diverse regional and traditional foods. This meticulous approach allowed him to not only showcase the richness of Korean cuisine but also to explore the social and historical contexts of food, highlighting its role in cultural identity and community. This dedication to thorough research transforms his comics into educational and emotionally resonant experiences, transcending mere entertainment to become cultural and social tools.

Furthermore, works like Oh, Han River (오! 한강_{Oh! Han River}^Korean) delve into the socio-political conflicts of modern Korean history, demonstrating his willingness to confront difficult historical truths and their impact on individuals. His later works, such as those exploring contemporary topics like stock investment, show his continuous effort to connect with younger generations and address current societal interests.

5.2. Cultural Contribution and Social Resonance

Huh Young-man's impact on the Korean comics industry is immense; he is often regarded as a living history of the field. His prolific career has significantly contributed to the growth and evolution of manhwa, expanding its thematic scope and public acceptance. His ability to blend popular appeal with profound artistic and social messages has resonated deeply with the public, making his works cultural touchstones.

He has played a crucial role in highlighting and preserving Korean cultural values, particularly through Sikgaek, which brought traditional Korean food and its associated stories to a wider audience, both domestically and internationally. His works have consistently addressed social issues, prompting public discussion and reflection. Even as the industry transitioned to webtoons, he embraced new platforms, acting as a bridge between traditional paper comics and digital formats, ensuring his continued relevance and influence. His works have also served to introduce Korean culture to a global audience, for example, through his role in promoting Japanese tourist destinations in Korea through his travelogues.

6.1. Television Appearances

Huh Young-man has frequently appeared on television programs, sharing his insights and connecting with audiences. He was a guest on KBS's Quiz Expedition Mysterious World on October 14, 1991, July 9, 1992, and July 7, 1995. He also appeared on KBS's Family Entertainment on March 6, 1996.

More recently, he was a guest on JTBC's Non-Summit on May 4, 2015, and SBS's Healing Camp on May 18, 2015. He also participated in JTBC's Let's Go to the Island in 2015.

Since May 14, 2019, he has been the host of TV Chosun's highly popular culinary travel program, Sikgaek Huh Young-man's Baekban Gihaeng (식객 허영만의 백반기행_{Sikgaek Heo Yeongman-ui Baekban Gihaeng}^Korean). In this show, he travels across Korea, exploring local eateries and traditional Korean cuisine, further extending the cultural impact of his Sikgaek manhwa. He also appeared in TV Chosun's Romantic Bivouac Runaway from November 13, 2022, to January 29, 2023, and KBS2's K-Food Show 'Taste of the Nation' from September 10 to November 5, 2023. On November 13, 2023, he was a guest on Channel A's 4-Person Dining Table.

He also made a special appearance in the 2007 film adaptation of his work, Le Grand Chef.

7.1. Major Awards and Honors

• 1974:** Won the New Cartoonist Competition hosted by Hankook Ilbo.
• 2004:** Received the Grand Prize at the 7th Bucheon International Comics Festival (BICOF).
• 2004:** Awarded the Korea Manhwa Grand Prize.
• 2004:** Recognized with the Today's Our Manhwa Award by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism.
• 2006:** Selected as one of the "100 People Who Brightened the World" by the Korea Green Foundation.
• 2007:** Received the 7th Gobau Manhwa Award.
• 2007:** Appointed Honorary Ambassador for the Yeosu Expo 2012.
• 2007:** Appointed KTX (Korea Train Express) Public Relations Ambassador by Korail.
• 2008:** Won the 9th National Assembly Award in the Manhwa category.
• 2009:** Received the SICAF Award in the Manhwa category.
• 2009:** Awarded the Proud Jeonnam Person Award.
• 2009:** Appointed Public Relations Ambassador for the Gyeonggi International Boat Show and Korea Match Cup World Yacht Race.
• 2010:** Received an Honorary Doctorate in Literature from Mokpo National University.
• 2010:** Featured in a special exhibition titled "Huh Young-man's Path" at SICAF 2010.
• 2014:** Appointed Public Relations Ambassador for the Seoul Kimchi Culture Festival.
• 2015:** Held a special invitational exhibition at Napoli Comicon in Italy.
• 2016:** Featured in a special exhibition at the Korean Cultural Center in France.
• 2019:** Received the SICAF Award for Lifetime Achievement in the Manhwa category.
• 2020:** Selected as a "Cartoonist for Historical Justice Practice" by the Gwangbokhoe (Korean Liberation Association).
• 2022:** Awarded the Order of Cultural Merit, 3rd Class (Bogwan Medal), by the South Korean government.
• 2024:** Received the Brand Customer Loyalty Award from the Korea Consumer Forum.
• 2024:** Held a special invitational exhibition at the Jeonnam Provincial Art Museum.

7.2. Critical and Public Reception

Huh Young-man's works have consistently garnered both critical acclaim and widespread popular appreciation throughout his career. His ability to combine engaging narratives with deep social and cultural insights has ensured his enduring popularity. Critics often praise his meticulous research and realistic portrayal of various subjects, from the intricacies of gambling to the nuances of Korean cuisine. The public has embraced his stories, leading to numerous successful adaptations across film, television, and animation, further cementing his status as a cultural icon. His continued relevance in the digital age, through webtoons and television appearances, demonstrates his ability to adapt and connect with new generations of readers and viewers.

8.1. Mentorship and Support for Junior Artists

Huh Young-man is widely respected as a mentor and a nurturing force within the Korean manhwa community. Many aspiring artists began their careers as his apprentices, learning directly from his extensive experience and rigorous work ethic. Notable among his mentees is Yoon Tae-ho, the acclaimed author of Misaeng, who has publicly acknowledged Huh Young-man's significant influence on his own artistic development. By providing guidance and opportunities, Huh Young-man has played a crucial role in fostering new talent and expanding the foundation of Korean manhwa. His dedication to supporting junior artists has helped ensure the continued growth and diversity of the industry.

8.2. Contribution to the Korean Comics Industry

Huh Young-man's overall contribution to the Korean comics industry is immeasurable. He is often referred to as the "living history" of Korean manhwa due to his continuous and prolific creative activity for over five decades. He has consistently pushed the boundaries of the medium, exploring a vast array of genres and themes, from historical epics and social critiques to culinary explorations and contemporary issues. His commitment to thorough research and realistic storytelling has elevated the artistic and literary prestige of manhwa.

Furthermore, he has served as a vital bridge between traditional paper comics and the modern digital webtoon era, embracing new platforms and formats to reach wider audiences. By adapting his style and subject matter to contemporary trends, such as exploring topics like stock investment, he has maintained his relevance and continued to engage with younger generations. His enduring popularity, critical success, and role as a mentor have collectively contributed to the growth, evolution, and international recognition of the Korean comics industry, solidifying his status as one of its most influential and respected figures.