Heena Baek identifies herself as a storyteller rather than strictly an illustrator or author. Her passion lies in captivating audiences through the collaboration of pictures and text, utilizing various mediums. This passion is rooted in her studies in Educational Technology and Animated Films, which fuel her interest in the world of children.
Heena incorporates filmmaking techniques into her picture books, creating a refuge from the harshness of the real world. The primary motivation behind her creations is personal happiness, both as a picture book maker and reader. Her ultimate goal is to bring joy, particularly to children and those facing challenges, considering it the most honorable aspect of her creative journey.
Cloud Bread, The Red Bean Granny and the Tiger, The boy who looked for the North Wind, The Pink Rope, Moon Pops, Last Night, Peepi's Mom, The Bath Fairy, Magic Candies, I am a dog, The Strange Visitor, The Fly I Tasted in My Dream, The Strange Mom, Yeoni and the Willow Boy, How to make Magic Candies, Happy Birthday, Bird Cake, The Hollow Jam.
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Honors & Awards
- 2026 "The Hollow Jam" - Special Prize (Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism Award), Korea Picture Book Award
- 2025 "Happy Birthday" - Best Book for Children in Korea
- 2023 The 3rd Yongah Memorial Award
- 2020 Astrid Lindgren Memorial Award
- 2013 "The Bath Fairy" - Changwon Children's Literature Award
- 2012 "The Bath Fairy" - Korea Book Awards, Hankook Illbo
- 2005 Bologna Children's Book Fair Award - Participant in the Illustrators Exhibition 'Cloud Bread'
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Exhibitions
- 2023 Special Exhibition of Baek Heena's Picture Books, Seoul Arts Center