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Well Was Well Is Well Be
Just reading the title feels like a deep breath.
This English edition of the widely quoted Korean essay collection offers quiet strength in a noisy world. From bestselling Korean author Jung Young-wook, Well Was, Well Is, Well Be invites you to explore the simple but powerful
Have I done well? Am I doing well? Will I do well?
In soft, honest language, the author reflects on what it means to keep going—especially when life feels unsteady.
"Some days, we endure bravely. Other days, we feel like we're falling apart inside.
But if our lives can break without reason, maybe they can also heal without reason."
Divided into six parts—Emotions, Relationships, Love, Self-Preservation, Depression, and Encouragement—each chapter offers short, lyrical essays grounded in lived experience. These are not lessons, but gentle observations. Not answers, but empathy.
This book doesn't shout for change. Instead, it
You are allowed to rest. You are allowed to hope. You are allowed to be soft and still strong.
Are you standing at an uncertain point in life?
Do you feel disillusioned by relationships that seem to drift apart?
Are you heartbroken by yet another failed love?
Then this book is for you.
Open it like a door.
Inside, you'll find a quiet garden blooming with the possibility of "well."
To everyone reading this—
Well Was, Well Is, Well Be.
This English edition of the widely quoted Korean essay collection offers quiet strength in a noisy world. From bestselling Korean author Jung Young-wook, Well Was, Well Is, Well Be invites you to explore the simple but powerful
Have I done well? Am I doing well? Will I do well?
In soft, honest language, the author reflects on what it means to keep going—especially when life feels unsteady.
"Some days, we endure bravely. Other days, we feel like we're falling apart inside.
But if our lives can break without reason, maybe they can also heal without reason."
Divided into six parts—Emotions, Relationships, Love, Self-Preservation, Depression, and Encouragement—each chapter offers short, lyrical essays grounded in lived experience. These are not lessons, but gentle observations. Not answers, but empathy.
This book doesn't shout for change. Instead, it
You are allowed to rest. You are allowed to hope. You are allowed to be soft and still strong.
Are you standing at an uncertain point in life?
Do you feel disillusioned by relationships that seem to drift apart?
Are you heartbroken by yet another failed love?
Then this book is for you.
Open it like a door.
Inside, you'll find a quiet garden blooming with the possibility of "well."
To everyone reading this—
Well Was, Well Is, Well Be.
- GenresSelf HelpNonfictionAsia
217 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 28, 2022
39 people are currently reading
1388 people want to read
About the author
Owook
1 book23 followersOwook (Jeong Young Wook) is a bestselling Korean essayist whose warm, intuitive prose captures the emotional intricacies of everyday life. His works explore themes of self-worth, human connection, and emotional healing, resonating deeply with readers across generations.
He is the author of several bestselling collections, including The Words 'I Love You' Are Too Common. His writings, known for their gentle insight and quiet strength, have topped Korean bestseller lists and built a devoted readership of over half a million followers. In 2025, he released his first English-language work, Well Was, Well Is, Well Be, bringing his voice to a global audience.
Jeonng continues to offer a space for reflection, comfort, and hope through his words. His essays invite readers to pause, breathe, and find grace within their own emotional landscapes.
He is the author of several bestselling collections, including The Words 'I Love You' Are Too Common. His writings, known for their gentle insight and quiet strength, have topped Korean bestseller lists and built a devoted readership of over half a million followers. In 2025, he released his first English-language work, Well Was, Well Is, Well Be, bringing his voice to a global audience.
Jeonng continues to offer a space for reflection, comfort, and hope through his words. His essays invite readers to pause, breathe, and find grace within their own emotional landscapes.
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
May 3, 2025
Book Review: Well Was Well Is Well Be by Owook
Well Was Well Is Well Be is a collection of essays by Korean writer Owook, now available in English, offering a reflective and introspective journey through themes of existence, time, and personal growth.
1. Themes and Style
Owook’s work is characterized by its lyrical prose and philosophical depth. The title itself—Well Was Well Is Well Be—hints at a meditation on the fluidity of time and the interconnectedness of past, present, and future. The essays explore:
Memory and Identity: How personal history shapes the self.
Resilience and Acceptance: Navigating life’s uncertainties with grace.
Everyday Epiphanies: Finding meaning in mundane moments.
The writing style is poetic yet accessible, blending personal anecdotes with universal truths.
2. Structure and Tone
The book appears to follow a non-linear structure, mirroring the fragmented nature of memory. Owook’s tone is contemplative, often tinged with quiet optimism. The essays may vary in length and intensity, creating a rhythm that invites readers to pause and reflect.
3. Cultural and Emotional Resonance
As a Korean essayist, Owook’s perspectives may subtly infuse Eastern philosophies (e.g., mindfulness, impermanence) into Western literary forms. The emotional range spans melancholy to hope, resonating with readers who appreciate nuanced explorations of the human condition.
4. Strengths
Authenticity: Owook’s voice feels intimate and unfiltered.
Universality: While rooted in personal experience, the themes transcend cultural boundaries.
Language: The translation (assuming from Korean) retains a poetic fluidity, as highlighted by readers.
5. Potential Critiques
Pacing: Some essays might feel abstract, requiring patience.
Niche Appeal: Those seeking plot-driven narratives may find it less engaging.
Final Verdict
Well Was Well Is Well Be is a gem for lovers of reflective literature. Owook’s ability to weave existential questions into everyday observations makes this collection a poignant read. Ideal for quiet evenings or moments of self-discovery.
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5) — A thought-provoking, beautifully crafted work that lingers in the mind.
Thanks to the author for a free copy of this book.
Well Was Well Is Well Be is a collection of essays by Korean writer Owook, now available in English, offering a reflective and introspective journey through themes of existence, time, and personal growth.
1. Themes and Style
Owook’s work is characterized by its lyrical prose and philosophical depth. The title itself—Well Was Well Is Well Be—hints at a meditation on the fluidity of time and the interconnectedness of past, present, and future. The essays explore:
Memory and Identity: How personal history shapes the self.
Resilience and Acceptance: Navigating life’s uncertainties with grace.
Everyday Epiphanies: Finding meaning in mundane moments.
The writing style is poetic yet accessible, blending personal anecdotes with universal truths.
2. Structure and Tone
The book appears to follow a non-linear structure, mirroring the fragmented nature of memory. Owook’s tone is contemplative, often tinged with quiet optimism. The essays may vary in length and intensity, creating a rhythm that invites readers to pause and reflect.
3. Cultural and Emotional Resonance
As a Korean essayist, Owook’s perspectives may subtly infuse Eastern philosophies (e.g., mindfulness, impermanence) into Western literary forms. The emotional range spans melancholy to hope, resonating with readers who appreciate nuanced explorations of the human condition.
4. Strengths
Authenticity: Owook’s voice feels intimate and unfiltered.
Universality: While rooted in personal experience, the themes transcend cultural boundaries.
Language: The translation (assuming from Korean) retains a poetic fluidity, as highlighted by readers.
5. Potential Critiques
Pacing: Some essays might feel abstract, requiring patience.
Niche Appeal: Those seeking plot-driven narratives may find it less engaging.
Final Verdict
Well Was Well Is Well Be is a gem for lovers of reflective literature. Owook’s ability to weave existential questions into everyday observations makes this collection a poignant read. Ideal for quiet evenings or moments of self-discovery.
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5) — A thought-provoking, beautifully crafted work that lingers in the mind.
Thanks to the author for a free copy of this book.
July 17, 2025
An enjoyable read. This book is not an ocean of profundity, where each sentence is bursting with some mind-blowing wisdom, but it is a beautiful compilation of little insights into life, life with all its complexities and simplicities. Each sentence gently nudges you towards contentment, urging you to value and cherish more deeply the simple beauties of life: joy and sorrow, food and nature, family and friends.
September 26, 2025
This book is a literary hug. It's packed with quotes that will resonate with you and stay with you, and most importantly, that make you feel seen, heard, and understood.
June 5, 2025
I won this book in a goodreads drawing.
A Korean version of the usual live in the moment type stuff. Always good to read a slightly different perspective.
A Korean version of the usual live in the moment type stuff. Always good to read a slightly different perspective.
June 24, 2025
gooood
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 23, 2025
One day I was listening to a playlist that randomly appeared on my Youtube feeds when I saw the title Well Was Well Is Well Be, and out of curiosity, I ended up purchasing the book.
With the same expectations that I had when I read a few other translated essay books, I didn’t think It would be the kind of book that lingers, however I was pleasantly surprised as by the end of the book, It felt like I was being consoled by a friend rather than being preached at. And I often found myself writing notes and reflecting on how much it applies in the present state of my life. The book became the source of my consolation at times, when there’s no other place to turn to for someone to sit with, just like the title of the playlist I have come across : Even in seas of sadness, there are corners to find refuge .
Owook’s writing is kind, warm, retrospective, and very much personal, covering a variety of topics that any age and people of different walks of life could relate to: Life, connection, career, sorrow, and the depths of solitude we all live with.
Even after finishing the book, some words still remain with me like how the writer beautifully described life as a train running along a track - where people get off and people get on. And by the end, you’ll realize that these are words that will simmer at the bottom of your soul, that at this moment right here and now, you are seen.
On a side note, I found some grammatical errors or formatting issues (like duplicate words or sections?). But the book remains good despite all that so this is highly recommended. I think this has a high re-read value as well.
May it find and resonate with readers from across the world.
With the same expectations that I had when I read a few other translated essay books, I didn’t think It would be the kind of book that lingers, however I was pleasantly surprised as by the end of the book, It felt like I was being consoled by a friend rather than being preached at. And I often found myself writing notes and reflecting on how much it applies in the present state of my life. The book became the source of my consolation at times, when there’s no other place to turn to for someone to sit with, just like the title of the playlist I have come across : Even in seas of sadness, there are corners to find refuge .
Owook’s writing is kind, warm, retrospective, and very much personal, covering a variety of topics that any age and people of different walks of life could relate to: Life, connection, career, sorrow, and the depths of solitude we all live with.
Even after finishing the book, some words still remain with me like how the writer beautifully described life as a train running along a track - where people get off and people get on. And by the end, you’ll realize that these are words that will simmer at the bottom of your soul, that at this moment right here and now, you are seen.
On a side note, I found some grammatical errors or formatting issues (like duplicate words or sections?). But the book remains good despite all that so this is highly recommended. I think this has a high re-read value as well.
May it find and resonate with readers from across the world.
April 29, 2025
I won this book through a Goodreads giveaway in exchange for an honest review. Thanks for choosing me.
This book felt like a warm, comforting hug the entire way through. I am certain that I will be reflecting on what I read for a long time to come. I am also certain I will be telling people to read it whenever I can. It is beautifully written, it is heartfelt and left me feeling that I am enough as I am.
My one hope for this book is for it to find readers all over the world that need to read the words for themselves. This is one of those books that can feed our souls and strengthen our hearts. It needs to be read by everyone who has ever looked at themselves in the mirror and thought they were less than for simply existing.
I'll be keeping this one close for sure, I'll know I'll go back to it at some point when I'm in desperate need of kind words to remind me that its okay to be who I am as I am.
This book felt like a warm, comforting hug the entire way through. I am certain that I will be reflecting on what I read for a long time to come. I am also certain I will be telling people to read it whenever I can. It is beautifully written, it is heartfelt and left me feeling that I am enough as I am.
My one hope for this book is for it to find readers all over the world that need to read the words for themselves. This is one of those books that can feed our souls and strengthen our hearts. It needs to be read by everyone who has ever looked at themselves in the mirror and thought they were less than for simply existing.
I'll be keeping this one close for sure, I'll know I'll go back to it at some point when I'm in desperate need of kind words to remind me that its okay to be who I am as I am.
April 15, 2025
* I received this book as an ARC through a Giveaway promotion.
Reading Owook's writing leaves behind one quiet feeling: It's okay not to push myself so hard.
Unlike self-help books that urge us to become better, faster, stronger, his words gently ask us to pause—and to simply look at ourselves as we are. They remind me that not being okay is a part of being human. And somehow, that reminder makes me feel a little more okay.
His writing doesn't shout. It doesn't try to convince or argue. Instead, it sits beside you—softly, patiently—until you realize you've been heard without ever having to speak. I felt this most in the chapter Ms. Kim Lilac. I was surprised that he expressed a son's guilt and love toward his mother in writing that's deeply emotional through an actual flower. It's about women who are mothers and daughters and caretakers all at once—who carry both love and guilt in the same breath. And strangely, those words didn't feel unfamiliar. I didn't need to explain myself. The writing had already seen me.
Owook's essays aren't about fixing who I am. They offer something quieter: the permission to stay as I am. And that's why they linger. Sometimes, the gentlest writing stays with you the longest.
Reading Owook's writing leaves behind one quiet feeling: It's okay not to push myself so hard.
Unlike self-help books that urge us to become better, faster, stronger, his words gently ask us to pause—and to simply look at ourselves as we are. They remind me that not being okay is a part of being human. And somehow, that reminder makes me feel a little more okay.
His writing doesn't shout. It doesn't try to convince or argue. Instead, it sits beside you—softly, patiently—until you realize you've been heard without ever having to speak. I felt this most in the chapter Ms. Kim Lilac. I was surprised that he expressed a son's guilt and love toward his mother in writing that's deeply emotional through an actual flower. It's about women who are mothers and daughters and caretakers all at once—who carry both love and guilt in the same breath. And strangely, those words didn't feel unfamiliar. I didn't need to explain myself. The writing had already seen me.
Owook's essays aren't about fixing who I am. They offer something quieter: the permission to stay as I am. And that's why they linger. Sometimes, the gentlest writing stays with you the longest.
April 24, 2025
Love, love, LOVED this essay collection.
It definitely gave me more perspective on self-love and self-esteem, relationships, and perseverance. I definitely shed some tears while reading through this.
There were some formatting issues, but not enough to detract from the overall message of the collection.
It definitely gave me more perspective on self-love and self-esteem, relationships, and perseverance. I definitely shed some tears while reading through this.
There were some formatting issues, but not enough to detract from the overall message of the collection.
May 8, 2025
*** I received a free copy of this book through a Goodreads Giveaway in exchange for an honest review ***
5 Stars - Excellent work. I very much enjoyed reading Well Was, Well Is, Well Be. Although considered essays, many of the works had the feel of free verse poetry. The book covers a wide range of topics and is very well organized. The middle section gets into some heavier, more somber themes, but the book closes with a very hopeful, optimistic tone.
I often found myself reflecting on how the topics addressed in the book applied to my own life. I particularly liked the messages about being gentle with oneself. I think that’s something most people can relate to and can benefit from being reminded to give yourself some grace.
The pacing is very well done. There was a nice variety of essay lengths and I enjoyed the occasional photo. There were never any points that I felt like I had to force myself to keep reading. It flowed smoothly and I always looked forward to picking the book back up again.
Strongly recommend this book to everyone. I think it has something that everybody will be able to connect with.
Thank you so much for the copy of this book.
5 Stars - Excellent work. I very much enjoyed reading Well Was, Well Is, Well Be. Although considered essays, many of the works had the feel of free verse poetry. The book covers a wide range of topics and is very well organized. The middle section gets into some heavier, more somber themes, but the book closes with a very hopeful, optimistic tone.
I often found myself reflecting on how the topics addressed in the book applied to my own life. I particularly liked the messages about being gentle with oneself. I think that’s something most people can relate to and can benefit from being reminded to give yourself some grace.
The pacing is very well done. There was a nice variety of essay lengths and I enjoyed the occasional photo. There were never any points that I felt like I had to force myself to keep reading. It flowed smoothly and I always looked forward to picking the book back up again.
Strongly recommend this book to everyone. I think it has something that everybody will be able to connect with.
Thank you so much for the copy of this book.
July 30, 2025
Honestly this has been suuuuch a good book. I honestly was able to relate to 95% of this books & genuinely feel inspired & motivated by every piece that I read. 10/10 I would recommend reading.
August 20, 2025
I absolutely loved this book. I found it so comforting the thoughtful. I know I will be going back and reading it many times. It’s full of wisdom and encouragement for a fulfilling life.
I received this book free for an honest review.
I received this book free for an honest review.
September 7, 2025
ARC Review: Well Was Well Is Well Be
Publishing Date: April 21, 2025 (Out in the stores!)
Writer: Owook @owook
Publisher: BOOKRUM
My Rating: 🌟 12/10 🌟
I highly highly recommend everyone to read this book at least once in their lives!
There are many things to be said about this book. I find it hard to summarise the topic, but if I were to, I could say:
A book of self-healing, thinking about what you did and could have done in important times while prioritising your own heart and mind, forgiving your past and current self, planning your actions on emotionally-critical events, and many more...
I loved Well Was Well Is Well Be. Feeling sad because I did not know about Owook before. I will absolutely read the author's next translated books. It is a time I regret not knowing Korean, because his pen is so powerful, and his essays are very well-written.
Lastly, thanks to BookSirens & Owook, BOOKRUM for providing me an advanced reader's copy.
Publishing Date: April 21, 2025 (Out in the stores!)
Writer: Owook @owook
Publisher: BOOKRUM
My Rating: 🌟 12/10 🌟
I highly highly recommend everyone to read this book at least once in their lives!
There are many things to be said about this book. I find it hard to summarise the topic, but if I were to, I could say:
A book of self-healing, thinking about what you did and could have done in important times while prioritising your own heart and mind, forgiving your past and current self, planning your actions on emotionally-critical events, and many more...
I loved Well Was Well Is Well Be. Feeling sad because I did not know about Owook before. I will absolutely read the author's next translated books. It is a time I regret not knowing Korean, because his pen is so powerful, and his essays are very well-written.
Lastly, thanks to BookSirens & Owook, BOOKRUM for providing me an advanced reader's copy.
June 7, 2025
Collection of mini essays that feel reassuring and gentle. owook's voice carries that healing fiction tone of casual relatability and reassurance. Soothing anecdotes too. Not too deep to venture into the memoir territory, only long enough to add to the title of a particular essay.
It's nothing new in the realm of self-help messages, yet Well Was, Well Is, Well Be is a fast and inviting read. Pleasant reminders to please be kind to yourself on those days when you're feeling low and alone. Someone out there cares. Glad to have read this one.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
It's nothing new in the realm of self-help messages, yet Well Was, Well Is, Well Be is a fast and inviting read. Pleasant reminders to please be kind to yourself on those days when you're feeling low and alone. Someone out there cares. Glad to have read this one.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 23, 2025
I received a free copy of this book as part of a giveaway hosted by Goodreads. All opinions are my own.
So beautiful and thought provoking. I was captivated by the author’s perspective on connection and our responsibilities to ourselves and others. The translation is a bit rough at times, but fitting for a work exploring universal experience / emotion. Insightful and unifying, this read was a rare kind of refreshing.
So beautiful and thought provoking. I was captivated by the author’s perspective on connection and our responsibilities to ourselves and others. The translation is a bit rough at times, but fitting for a work exploring universal experience / emotion. Insightful and unifying, this read was a rare kind of refreshing.
May 28, 2025
unusual
I liked about this book that it made me think, offered new perspectives withouth making me feel like being preached at.
I liked about this book that it made me think, offered new perspectives withouth making me feel like being preached at.
November 6, 2025
Consolation for the weary, for the lonely, for the fearful, for the uncertain, for the loveless, and for the peaceful.
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews