A Theory of Happiness

 A Theory of Happiness

Reviewed By  Grasshopper2       February 21, 2026

 

Author  Professor Hyung-Seok Kim

Distributor:      Amazon
ISBN:                 978-1037200434
Publisher:         Bloomsbury Publishing
Release Date:   3 February 2026  

Website:    https://www.amazon.com.au/Theory-Happiness-Philosopher-INTERNATIONAL-BESTSELLER/dp/1037200438 

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Lessons from a 100 year old Korean Philosopher 

Professor Kim Hyung Seok speaks to us of happiness from the perspective of an elderly and sharp mind. He has designed A Theory of Happiness so he can tell stories which outline the point he is making.

He recalls a time when he was at school and the Japanese had invaded Korea; his Headmaster was allowed to give a farewell speech. He was being removed because he hadn’t changed the curriculum. The headmaster stood on the stage, raised his fist and shouted, “ACT.” The boys were stunned but later became aware of the significance of his defiance.

Kim also believes that happiness is in the present. He suggests we don’t look for happiness in the future, or the past, but enjoy the moments we have day to day. He tells the story of a factory worker and his wife. The man loved art and so each weekend he and his wife would go to a park where he could paint, and she could read her books. The children played and moved between the parents. His point is that wealth is not necessary for a happy life.

Love is also a focus of Kim’s work. He says, “Where there is no love, happiness cannot dwell.” Initially Kim felt that Justice was the most important factor for world harmony but later he believed that it was love that was the epicentre of all happiness and peace.

Reading the stories that Kim has written, we see examples of how his explanations can be used to enhance his case. He insists that a cultural awareness is necessary for an understanding of life and we should all take the time to read and explore uplifting activities.

Footnote: Professor Hyung-Seok Kim is a 105-year-old first-generation Korean philosopher. A former Harvard research professor, he has found true happiness in life, having overcome adversity from a young age, and is committed to spreading joy and helping others through his work. He was born in and grew up in the North Korean province of South Pyongan before leaving to study philosophy at Choson University in Japan. From 1954, he served as a professor of philosophy at Yonsei University, South Korea, for 31 years, laying the foundations of contemporary Korean philosophy as we know it today. He was a research professor at Harvard University and the University of Chicago and, to this day, remains engaged with lecturing, broadcast and writing.

Health, New Age & Spiritual, Non Fiction, Personal Development