The Forest Called You

Worship the idol. Fall for the real girl. In a future Korea, those who can afford to have retreated from the ravaged world outside, slipping on virtual reality headsets to lose themselves in simulations of the past. But high school student Soop, unable to access VR, is bullied by her classmates for being forced to remain in the real world. Her only solace comes from the K-pop she listens to on repeat. When Yichae – Soop’s favourite idol – comes to film a new music video at her school, Soop hopes this might be her chance at real connection. But Yichae has her own troubles. She is one of few remaining ‘real’ idols, celebrated for her authenticity, yet forced to live up to the unattainable beauty standards of her virtual counterparts. As Soop and Yichae are drawn closer through their shared love of music and unexpected feelings start to grow, both must question how to stay true to themselves and each other in an increasingly artificial world. Translated by Joheun Lee, translator of Holy Boy © Amil 2026 (P) Penguin Audio 2026