Pyongyang, November 1 (KCNA) -- Ho Kyun (1569-1618) was a talented writer and scholar of Ri Dynasty (1392-1910) who contributed to the development of progressive literature in Korea.

Ho, born of a noble family, had studied hard from his childhood and passed a civil service examination in 1594 thanks to his family's academic atmosphere and his teacher Ri Tal's assistance.

His father, brothers and teacher were all famous for their poems and stories at that time.

Before and after 1610, he concentrated efforts on creating prose writings. The works critical of feudal rulers engaging in factional strife for their own power and interests are indicative of his progressive aesthetic view.

Typical of his works is Life of Hong Kil Dong well known among the Korean people.