Liu Zhenyun, a renowned writer and professor in the School of Liberal Arts at Renmin University of China, has won the 15th Premio Internazionale Nord-Sud at a ceremony held in Pescara, Italy. This honor makes Liu the first Chinese novelist to receive this distinction. 

The Premio Internazionale Nord-Sud is an influential Italian literary award known for its international perspective and its emphasis on both literary merit and social significance. Liu’s recognition underscores the growing resonance of contemporary Chinese literary voices within the global cultural landscape. The jury particularly highlighted the “philosophical depth and humor” in his works — hallmarks of Liu’s distinctive style, in which everyday narratives probe weighty questions of human nature. 

As one of the leading figures in contemporary Chinese literature, Liu has devoted more than three decades to literary creation. He has previously been awarded the Knight of the Order of Arts and Letters of France. His works have been translated into more than 30 languages, including English, French, German and Italian, winning international readers with their profound humanistic concern and unique narrative voice.

For over 30 years, Liu has remained committed to portraying “the lives of ordinary people,” depicting everyday experiences and conveying shared human emotions through vivid portrayals of real life.

Beyond his creative output, Liu continues to inspire young students at Renmin University of China. As a professor in the School of Liberal Arts, he leads the popular course Close Reading of Modern and Contemporary Chinese Literature. In his teaching, he encourages students to appreciate and engage with the rural culture and vernacular literacy traditions.

He is also a key member of the university’s premier Chinese Language and Literature teaching team, which has been nationally recognized as one of the first Huang Danian-Style Teaching Teams, a distinction awarded to university departments for exceptional dedication and innovation in education.