Domestic reading platform kt Millie Seojae said on the 16th that it selected key keywords that will define this year's reading market based on an artificial intelligence (AI) analysis of books loved by readers last year. It also plans to launch an AI service this year that recommends new books and content by comprehensively analyzing reading preferences, interests, and usage contexts.
The key keywords that Millie's library selected to define the 2026 reading market are ▲ nano-personal finance in the era of hyper-personalization ▲ intentional rest (dopamine detox) ▲ again, the power of story ▲ the humanistic use of AI.
In the economy and business field, it forecast the spread of the trend of "nano-unit personal finance," a practice-centered approach to money management. Unlike last year, when interest ran hot in the bigger goal of "financial freedom," nano personal finance books that can be applied immediately—such as "a side job for office workers to earn 100,000 won more a month"—are expected to gain popularity as practical alternatives.
It also predicted growing demand for reading on the themes of "intentional rest" and "dopamine detox." A company representative said, "In an environment where consumption of stimulating content has become routine, there will be a marked trend to restore weakened concentration and the power of reflection." Books on scientific rest and concentration training are expected to draw attention, including the brain science book "Dopamine Detox," "Digital Minimalism," which reduces the use of digital devices, and "How to Be Intentionally Bored," a guide for deep reading and contemplation.
It also saw momentum building for the "again, the power of story" trend. As reading tendencies to immerse in powerful narratives persist the more real-world anxieties grow, preference is expected to continue for genre fiction and series with solid world-building, as well as major works whose buzz has been validated through screen adaptations.
Millie's library will also unveil this year a personalized discovery service using AI, in step with the AI era. Bang Eun-hye, head of the AI Services Division at Millie's library, said, "We will continue to enhance AI-based services, steadily track changing reading trends, and expand the use of AI to improve user experience throughout the entire reading process."