Funding

Fully Funded

Program dates

Sep 1, 2026 – Oct 31, 2026

Cultural Exchange•South Korea · Wonju

Wonju UNESCO City of Literature Writers’ Residency 2026

Wonju UNESCO City of Literature / Toji Cultural Centre

Application Deadline

Closed · May 31, 2026

Reopens ~May 2027

Official Page

The Wonju UNESCO City of Literature Writers’ Residency invites one writer from — or with a close connection to — the global UNESCO Cities of Literature network to spend eight weeks at the Toji Cultural Centre in Wonju, South Korea. It is run by Wonju UNESCO City of Literature together with the Toji Cultural Centre, and pairs quiet, dedicated writing time with active engagement in local literary life. The resident develops a personal literary project and produces a short creative work inspired by Wonju or Korea. The 2026 edition runs from 1 September to 31 October.

Benefits & funding

  • Round-trip international airfare
  • Airport transfers on the arrival and departure dates
  • Eight weeks’ accommodation at the Toji Cultural Centre, with a dedicated writing room
  • Organic meals at the centre’s cafeteria
  • Participation in local literary events, festivals and cultural exchange

Eligibility

  • Open to a writer from, or with a close connection to, a UNESCO City of Literature
  • At least five years of creative writing experience, with at least one work published (in English or Korean translation)
  • Upper-intermediate proficiency in English or Korean
  • Willingness to take part in local literary events, interviews and at least one festival, and a genuine interest in Korean culture

Can you apply?

Worth a closer look

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  • Experience required

    ≥ 5 yrs

    Not in your profile yet

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We only check the criteria we have data for. Always confirm full eligibility on the official page before applying.

Application process

  1. 1
    Confirm your connection to a UNESCO City of Literature and that you meet the experience and language criteria.
  2. 2
    Download the call pack and application form from the official listing.
  3. 3
    Complete the form and submit it before the stated deadline — applications are typically routed through your own City of Literature.
  4. 4
    An independent panel appointed by the Toji Cultural Centre selects the resident; the outcome is announced by 21 July.

Program timeline

  1. Application deadline

    May 31, 2026

  2. Selected writer announced (by this date)

    Jul 21, 2026

  3. Residency begins

    Sep 1, 2026

  4. Residency ends

    Oct 31, 2026