Picture a Korean-American storyteller who weaves K-pop, dystopian futures, and ancient folklore into unforgettable young adult tales—meet Axie Oh! With her vibrant narratives, Oh has carved a niche in YA literature, blending her dual heritage into stories that resonate with readers worldwide. From sci-fi epics to romantic K-pop adventures, her books are a love letter to Korean culture and the power of diverse voices.
The Making of Axie Oh
Born in New York City and raised in New Jersey, Axie Oh grew up immersed in books and Korean culture, thanks to K-pop and dramas that sparked her imagination. She studied Korean history and creative writing at the University of California San Diego, later earning an MFA in Writing for Young People from Lesley University. Her early love for authors like J.K. Rowling and Philip Pullman, combined with her heritage, shaped her unique storytelling voice. Oh’s journey began in earnest when she won the New Visions Award for her debut novel, a milestone that launched her career.
Axie Oh’s Unforgettable Stories
Oh’s debut, Rebel Seoul (2017), is a gripping sci-fi dystopia set in a futuristic Neo Seoul, blending giant robots, Korean history, and themes of colonialism. Its sequel, Rogue Heart (2019), deepens the saga with telepathic heroes and rebellion. Her breakout novel, The Girl Who Fell Beneath the Sea (2022), a New York Times bestseller, reimagines the Korean folktale 'The Tale of Shim Cheong' with lush fantasy and Miyazaki-esque charm. XOXO (2021) and its companion ASAP (2024) dive into K-pop romance, following a cellist’s forbidden love with a pop idol. Oh’s style is vivid, emotionally rich, and steeped in cultural nuance, making her worlds feel both fantastical and deeply personal.
Her upcoming works, The Floating World and The Demon and the Light (both 2025), promise more Korean-inspired fantasy, drawing on celestial maidens and epic adventures. Oh’s ability to blend genres—sci-fi, fantasy, romance—with Korean cultural elements sets her apart, creating stories that feel fresh and authentic.
Why Axie Oh Matters
Axie Oh’s impact lies in her commitment to diverse representation. Growing up with few Asian protagonists in YA, she crafts Korean leads to empower readers and broaden perspectives. Her advocacy for diverse books, inspired by mentors like Cindy Pon, resonates in her work and public talks, like her appearances at the International Young Readers Festival. By infusing Korean history and pop culture into her narratives, Oh bridges East and West, inviting readers into worlds where marginalized voices shine. Her bestseller status and awards highlight her growing influence in YA literature.
- Born: New York City, first-generation Korean-American
- Key Works: Rebel Seoul, The Girl Who Fell Beneath the Sea, XOXO, ASAP
- Awards: New Visions Award winner, New York Times bestseller
- Fun Fact: Lives in Las Vegas with her dogs, Toro and Leila
Snag The Girl Who Fell Beneath the Sea and dive into Axie Oh’s enchanting blend of fantasy and Korean folklore!