The Wonju UNESCO City of Literature offers an exciting residency for writers connected to Cities of Literature around the world. This residency allows writers to spend eight weeks at the peaceful Toji Cultural Centre in South Korea.
The residency runs from 1 September to 31 October 2025. It welcomes writers from cities in the global Cities of Literature network, such as Edinburgh, to live, write, and share creative ideas with others.
During the stay, writers have no formal requirements to complete. The residency encourages creative friendships and offers a calm space to focus on writing.
The program provides a round-trip airfare, transport on arrival and departure, accommodation with workspace, and organic meals. Applicants need at least a B2 level of English for communication.
Quick Overview of Wonju UNESCO City of Literature Residency 2025
- Host Country: South Korea
- Residency Duration: 8 weeks (1 September – 31 October 2025)
- Accommodation: Provided with workspace at Toji Cultural Centre
- Financial Support: Round-trip airfare, transportation, organic meals
- Language Requirement: Minimum B2 English proficiency
- Application Deadline: 11 July 2025
- Eligibility: Writers connected to the Cities of Literature network
- Application Email: wonjucityoflit@korea.kr
Perks of Fully Funded Literature Residency in South Korea
- Fully funded 8-week residency in a peaceful, inspiring environment
- Workspace and accommodation at Toji Cultural Centre
- Round-trip flights and local transport included
- Organic meals provided at the residency cafeteria
- Opportunity to meet and collaborate with 16-19 other writers and artists
- No formal project deadlines or requirements
Benefits of UNESCO Writers’ Residency
- Focus deeply on your creative writing without distractions
- Build friendships and networks with international writers and artists
- Gain inspiration from Wonju’s unique cultural atmosphere
- Develop new creative works influenced by your residency experience
- Enhance your literary career and global profile
- Contribute to the Cities of Literature community with fresh ideas and collaborations
The tranquil setting promotes creativity and reflection. In the long run, residents often return home with renewed motivation and new literary connections.
Exclusions of Leadership Development Fellowship
- The fellowship does not cover family or dependent expenses
- No formal project submission or completion required during residency
- Residency is limited to writers connected to the Cities of Literature network
- English proficiency below B2 is not accepted
Eligibility Criteria for Wonju UNESCO City of Literature Residency 2025
- Must be a writer connected to one of the Cities of Literature network cities
- Minimum B2 level proficiency in English for communication
- Open to all writing fields and genres
- Able to stay for the full 8-week residency period from 1 Sept to 31 Oct 2025
- Willing to engage with other artists and writers during residency
- Must submit an application letter (1000–2000 words) detailing personal literary background and residency plans
Important Dates for Wonju UNESCO City of Literature Residency 2025
- Application Deadline: 11 July 2025
- Notification of Result: 30 July 2025
- Residency Period: 1 September – 31 October 2025
How to Apply to the Fully Funded Toji Cultural Center Fellowship
- Write an application letter between 1,000 and 2,000 words addressing these points:
- About yourself and your literary works
- Your achievements and awards
- Your literary world and influences
- Why do you want to come to Wonju
- Your creative plan during the residency
- How Wonju’s experience will influence your new works
- Send your application via email to wonjucityoflit@korea.kr before 11 July 2025.
- Wait for the selection results by 30 July 2025.
Required Documents for UNESCO Writers Residency
- Written application letter (1,000 – 2,000 words in English)
- Proof of connection to a City of Literature
- Evidence of English proficiency (B2 or above)
