This November 2018 file photo shows an artist in Moranbong in central Pyongyang, North Korea. The Unification Ministry honored nine North Korean-born artists for their contribution, Friday, in its inaugural event to promote inclusion and artistic diversity. Korea Times photo by Jung Min-ho

The Unification Ministry honored nine North Korea-born artists for their contribution, Saturday, in its inaugural event to promote inclusion and artistic diversity.

Sul Song-hwa is among the three award winners in the field of literature. In her recent novel, “The Woman Who Stole the Sun,” she creatively depicted the human rights situation for women in North Korea amid the emergence of a market economy, the ministry said.

The other two writers are Kim Joo-sung, who is known for his collection of essays, “I Go to Bookstore When I Feel Foreign,” and Lee Myung-ae, a poet from Pyongan Province.

In the area of visual arts, Sun Moo, who developed his own style by mixing traditional North Korean painting techniques with socialist realism, won the honor, along with Shim Soo-jin, a painter known for her ability to use diverse materials, and Kang Chun-hyok, who is also known for his rap skills.

Kim Young-nam, a composer and accordion player, received the award in performing arts. Choi Shin-a, who had performed as a dancer for more than 25 years in North Korea before her escape, and Kim Bom-hee, an actress, were also honored.

Unification Minister Kim Yung-ho said their prowess has enriched the Korean arts and expressed hopes that their artworks would give hope to ordinary North Koreans who wish for the peaceful unification of the peninsula. He added he would continue to support and acknowledge their work.