‘Tower’ by Bae Myung-hoon

Book Title: Tower
Author: Bae Myung-hoon
Publisher: Pan Macmillan
Number of Pages: 256
ISBN: 936113003X
Date Published: Aug. 12, 2026

Book Review

Bae Myung-hoon’s “Tower” presents an imaginative exploration of a colossal building known as Beanstalk, which operates as a sovereign state with over 500,000 inhabitants, a government, and an army. The collection comprises six interconnected stories set within Beanstalk, each delving into its unique societal structure while reflecting broader themes relevant to contemporary society.

The first story, “Three Wise Recruits”, introduces the practicalities of navigating the building’s myriad floors through a narrative intertwined with bureaucratic challenges as researchers seek their employer amidst an exploration of power dynamics. This theme is further examined in “The Elevator Maneuver Exercise”, where the logistical issues associated with emergency troop movement are highlighted, culminating in chaos when an actual emergency arises.

Bureaucracy and insular governance are recurrent elements, illustrated by “Taklamakan Misdelivery”, which reveals political indecision during a navy mission gone awry. The collection critiques Korean society through a satirical lens, presenting Beanstalk as an extension of chaebol conglomerates where corruption flourishes, and public agency is undermined by those eager to please their superiors.

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Despite its critiques, Bae hints at the potential for community solidarity, as showcased in a subplot where residents collaboratively initiate a rescue operation for a lost pilot, revealing glimpses of collective action. The stories employ various narrative forms, enhancing engagement without overwhelming readers.

The overarching story connects through recurring elements, such as the character of a dog and the rival Cosmomafia enterprise, culminating in a thriller-like concluding story that interrogates citizenship and anonymity within this vertical world.

Overall, “Tower” invites readers into a richly constructed universe, suggesting possibilities for future explorations of Beanstalk’s extensive 674 floors. The collection is layered with wit, reflection, and an engaging storytelling style, making it a thought-provoking read.

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