Picture a Korean-American storyteller who spun ancient myths into modern magic—meet Kat Cho! With her debut novel, Wicked Fox, Cho captivated young adult fantasy readers, blending Korean mythology with the pulse of contemporary Seoul. Her tales of nine-tailed foxes and heartfelt romance have carved a unique space in literature, drawing fans who crave culture-rich stories with a K-drama flair.
Cho’s journey from sneaking books under the bathroom sink to becoming a New York Times bestselling author is as enchanting as her novels. Her passion for storytelling, rooted in her Korean heritage, shines through in every page, making her a beloved voice in YA fantasy.
The Making of Kat Cho
Born and raised in the United States, Kat Cho grew up immersed in Korean folktales, thanks to her parents’ collection of mythology books. As a child, she penned a dinosaur time-travel novel at age nine—sadly unpublished but a spark of her creative fire. Her love for K-dramas, K-pop, and anime fueled her imagination, while her academic path led her to a BA in Biology from Wesleyan University and an MPH from CUNY Hunter. Before writing full-time, Cho worked in cancer research, but her heart belonged to storytelling.
Her big break came when she channeled her cultural roots and K-drama obsession into Wicked Fox. Inspired by the gumiho (nine-tailed fox) myths she adored, Cho crafted a story that felt both personal and universal, paving the way for her literary career.
Kat Cho’s Unforgettable Stories
Kat Cho’s novels are a vibrant tapestry of Korean mythology, modern romance, and coming-of-age struggles. Her debut, Wicked Fox (2019), follows Gu Miyoung, a gumiho who must consume men’s souls to survive but longs for connection. Set in bustling Seoul, the story weaves supernatural intrigue with a slow-burn romance, earning praise as an “utterly original” YA fantasy.
Its sequel, Vicious Spirits (2020), expands the gumiho universe, focusing on new characters and a mischievous dokkaebi (goblin). Cho’s YA rom-com Once Upon a K-Prom (2022) shifts gears, exploring a Korean-American teen’s prom pact with a K-pop star, infused with humor and heart. Her K-pop webcomic Free Hexel showcases her versatility, blending visual storytelling with her signature charm.
Cho’s style is immersive, balancing lush cultural details with relatable teen emotions. Her characters grapple with identity, family, and love, all while navigating mythical stakes. Drawing from K-dramas like Boys Over Flowers and Goblin, she crafts narratives that feel cinematic, earning her a loyal fanbase.
Why Kat Cho Matters
Kat Cho’s impact lies in her ability to bring Korean culture to global readers, especially in YA fantasy, where diverse voices are vital. Her novels offer a window into Korean traditions, from gumiho lore to Seoul’s vibrant streets, while tackling universal themes like belonging and self-acceptance. As a Korean-American author, Cho bridges cultures, inspiring readers to embrace their heritage.
Beyond writing, Cho co-hosts the Write or Die podcast, where she interviews authors about the publishing grind, mentoring aspiring writers. Her advocacy for equity in publishing through Diverse Voices Inc. further cements her legacy as a trailblazer for representation in literature.
About Kat Cho
- Key Works: Wicked Fox, Vicious Spirits, Once Upon a K-Prom, Free Hexel
- Notable Recognition: New York Times and international bestselling author
- Fun Fact: Cho’s love for K-dramas inspires her character-driven stories
Ready to dive into a world of mythical foxes and K-pop romance? Snag Wicked Fox and lose yourself in Kat Cho’s spellbinding YA fantasy!