Actor-writer Cha In-pyo revisits his 2nd novel with heartfelt updates

"Their Day" by Cha In-pyo (Sayuwagonggam Publishers)

"Their Day"

By Cha In-pyo

Sayuwagonggam Publishers

Actor-novelist Cha In-pyo has recently released a revised edition of his second novel “Today’s Forecast,” now retitled “Their Day.”

The new edition of this omnibus human drama-comedy follows the tumultuous day of four men, depicting their struggles with humor and heart. Originally published in 2011, the novel has been extensively rewritten, adding a new protagonist and reworking its narrative. In doing so, Cha offers a fresh portrayal of middle age, capturing both the challenges and the moments of unexpected connection.

"Originally, the story contained seven characters, each living his day, their lives intertwining in various ways," Cha said. "However, as I finalized the manuscript, I decided to keep only three protagonists and remove the others." One of the characters who was cut, Cha added, had lingered in his mind. "I wanted to give his day a place in the sun when I opened my laptop again."

Cha shared that he wrote it to empathize with the struggles of those who were unable to find support during difficult times a decade ago. "These days, many people, like back then, seem burdened by the weight of life," he said. "Through this book, I hope to offer them a small consolation."

Last year, Cha was invited as a special guest speaker at the inaugural Korean Literature Festival hosted by Oxford University’s Asian and Middle Eastern studies department.

His 2009 debut novel “Once We Look at the Same Star” was selected as a reading material for Korean studies classes starting in the fall semester. This recognition has secured Cha's place among the best-selling authors in Korea.