How Does Pachinko Book Review Address Identity And Belonging?

In 'Pachinko', identity and belonging are woven into every chapter, especially through the protagonist Sunja’s journey. Born in Korea but forced to live in Japan, she faces constant discrimination and exclusion. The book doesn’t shy away from showing how her Korean identity becomes a burden in a society that sees her as an outsider. Yet, it also highlights her resilience. Sunja’s determination to build a life for her family, despite the prejudice, is inspiring. The novel makes you think about how much of our identity is tied to where we’re from and how hard it is to belong when you’re seen as different. It’s a story of survival, but also of finding strength in who you are, even when the world tries to define you otherwise.

The way 'Pachinko' tackles identity and belonging is both heartbreaking and profound. Sunja’s life is a constant battle between her Korean heritage and her life in Japan, where she’s treated as a second-class citizen. The book doesn’t just focus on her struggles; it also explores how her children and grandchildren navigate their identities. Her son Noa, for example, tries to assimilate into Japanese society, rejecting his Korean roots to fit in. But this only leads to internal conflict and a sense of loss. The novel shows how the pressure to belong can tear people apart, forcing them to choose between their heritage and acceptance in a society that doesn’t fully embrace them.

What’s striking is how the author portrays the generational impact of these struggles. Sunja’s grandson, Solomon, grows up in a more globalized world, but he still grapples with questions of identity. His story highlights how the search for belonging doesn’t end with one generation; it’s passed down, evolving but never disappearing. The book also touches on the idea of home—whether it’s a place, a culture, or the people you love. For Sunja, home is wherever her family is, even if it’s in a country that doesn’t accept her. This makes 'Pachinko' not just a story about identity, but also about the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity.

Identity and belonging are at the heart of 'Pachinko', and the book handles these themes with incredible depth. Sunja’s life is shaped by her dual identity as a Korean in Japan, and the novel explores how this affects every aspect of her existence. From the way she’s treated by society to the choices she makes for her family, her identity is both a source of strength and a constant challenge. The book also delves into the idea of belonging—how it’s not just about fitting in, but about finding a place where you can be yourself without fear.

One of the most powerful aspects of the novel is how it shows the generational impact of these struggles. Sunja’s children and grandchildren each deal with their identity in different ways, reflecting the changing times but also the enduring nature of these issues. Noa’s attempt to assimilate and Solomon’s search for his place in the world highlight how the quest for belonging is universal, yet deeply personal. The novel doesn’t offer easy answers, but it does show that identity is something you carry with you, no matter where you go. It’s a reminder that belonging isn’t just about where you live, but about who you are and the connections you make along the way.