after his basic education, ha began to read modern literature. he was motivated by a bookseller who visited the school and purchased a series of books on modern korean literature. thereafter, readings of korean literature sparked his interest in writing and philosophy. in this process, ha began to question humanity and thing-in-itself. during the high school years, ha's spiritual journey continued. he pursued truth, the meaning of life and humanity in buddhism, hinduism and other major religions. in this spiritual journey, he read many western philosophical classics.