Its current director is Gu Aibin (顾爱彬) and the editor-in-chief is Liu Feng (刘峰).

[2][3] Beginning in 1976, Chinese publishers increasingly produced translated Western fiction, including both works deemed classic or artistically serious, as well as fiction for the popular market.

[4]: 32 In 1979, Yilin magazine was founded as a part of Jiangsu People's Publishing House.

[4]: 32  Yilin's editorial guidelines stated that it welcomed foreign popular fiction, which was uncommon at the time.

[4]: 32 In 2001, Yilin produced a translation of The Lord of the Rings in an effort to capitalize on the release of the film.