Listening Exercise: Q&A of Min-Jin Lee, who is writer of novel "Pachinko"

 Min Jin Lee, a renowned novelist, essayist, and literary critic, delivered a lecture at the Radcliffe Institute for Advanced Study at Harvard University. She discussed her work on the Korean diaspora, particularly her novels “Free Food for Millionaires” and “Pachinko”. Lee shared her personal experiences as a Korean-American and the inspiration behind her writing. She also highlighted the themes of homeland, identity, and love in her novels.

Are Koreans Human? | Min Jin Lee || Radcliffe Institute

- Min Jin Lee is an acclaimed novelist, essayist, and literary critic.

- She discussed her work on the Korean diaspora and her novels “Free Food for Millionaires” and “Pachinko”.

- Lee shared her personal experiences as a Korean-American and the inspiration behind her writing.

- The themes of homeland, identity, and love are central to her novels.

In this section, Min Jin Lee discusses her childhood in Korea and her experiences in school. She talks about a moment when her teacher hit her hands with a ruler and how it made her feel ashamed. She also shares her perspective on why she writes about Koreans and challenges the notion that Koreans are different or exotic. She emphasizes that Koreans are like any other people, deserving of consideration and reflection.

Introduction and Background :

Korean, Min Jin Lee, her background as a novelist and writer. Mention of her novels, “Free Food for Millionaires” and “Pachinko,” and her upcoming novel, “American Hagwon.” Born in South Korea and raised in New York, Lee's transition into the world of literature is a testament to her profound passion for storytelling and her desire to represent the complexities of Korean and Korean-American experiences. She initially made her mark with "Free Food for Millionaires," a novel that explores the life of a young Korean-American woman navigating the challenges posed by societal and family expectations in New York City. 

Her next major work, "Pachinko," a National Book Award finalist, delves into the lives of four generations of a Korean family in Japan, addressing themes of survival and resilience in the face of severe discrimination. The narrative spans across a significant part of the 20th century, highlighting the historical and personal struggles of Koreans living in Japan. Lee shared that her inspiration for writing stems from her observations and personal experiences, particularly the feeling of being an outsider and the search for identity. This has driven her to write stories that resonate with those who feel marginalized or unseen. Lee also discussed her meticulous research and writing process, emphasizing the extensive study and travel she undertook to authentically depict the historical context and the lives of her characters in "Pachinko."

Description of Childhood Memories and Writing about Koreans :

Min Jin Lee shares intimate details of her childhood in Korea, which deeply influenced her literary voice and thematic choices. Growing up, Min was surrounded by the melodic sounds of her mother teaching piano, an experience that imbued her with a deep appreciation for art and expression. She fondly recalls the comforting scents and delightful tastes of her mother's baking, which not only nurtured her but also symbolized the warmth and security of home. These sensory memories from her early years are vividly etched in her mind, serving as a perpetual source of inspiration for her writing.

Reflecting on her time as a student in Korea, Min discusses the various challenges she faced, which were pivotal in shaping her identity and perspective. The educational environment in Korea, known for its rigor and competitive nature, taught her resilience and determination. However, it also exposed her to the intense pressures that young individuals face, pressures that can shape one’s sense of self and future aspirations. These experiences as a student highlighted the complexities of growing up in a society with high expectations and strict societal norms, themes she explores in her novels.

Min also delves into her deliberate choice to write about Koreans and Korean-American experiences. She emphasizes the importance of representing Korean stories and perspectives in literature, motivated by a profound commitment to give voice to those often marginalized or overlooked in mainstream narratives. For Min, writing about Koreans is not just about recounting experiences; it's about affirming their existence and value in a global context. This commitment stems from her own experiences of feeling invisible and misunderstood in both Korea and America. 

Discussion on Perceptions of Koreans and Representation :

Min Jin Lee addresses the critical issue of how Koreans are perceived in the media and the broader need for more nuanced representation. This stereotype highlights the often simplistic and stereotypical views that can pervade media portrayals, suggesting a homogenized and limited perspective of an entire culture. Min expresses her discomfort with such stereotype, noting that they reflect a broader issue with how non-Western cultures are often superficially represented in mainstream media. She argues that these portrayals can lead to misperceptions and cultural misunderstandings, which are detrimental not just to Koreans but to the fabric of global intercultural relations.

Min passionately advocates for a more diverse and nuanced representation of Koreans in all forms of media. She emphasizes the need for stories that reflect the rich tapestry of individual lives and experiences within the Korean community, rather than relying on clichéd narratives or one-dimensional characters. 

Furthermore, Min stresses the importance of recognizing Koreans as individuals, each with their own unique stories and perspectives. This individuality is often lost in broad strokes of cultural depiction, where singular narratives can unjustly define an entire community. By focusing on personal stories and experiences, media can foster a greater appreciation of the complexities and humanity of Koreans. Min argues that such an approach not only challenges existing stereotypes but also enhances global cultural literacy.