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We Can Become Different Beings From Our Parents: A Reflection on South Korean Politics and 'Pachinko'

From Hankyoreh · () Korean

Translated from Korean, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

Analysis Sources not specified Context piece
  • The article critiques the recent Democratic Party convention, lamenting that candidates prioritized party loyalty over public opinion.
  • It draws a parallel to the character Noah from the novel "Pachinko," who attempted to escape his origins but was ultimately consumed by them.
  • The author reflects on the challenges faced by young politicians and questions whether they can forge a different path from entrenched political factions.

The recent Democratic Party convention concluded with the election of a new leader, but left a sense of disappointment. Candidates focused on appealing to the party's core supporters rather than addressing broader public concerns. This was evident in their stance on abolishing the prosecution's supplementary investigation rights, a matter with significant implications for criminal justice.

We can become different beings from our parents. If we truly want to live differently.

— AuthorThe author's reflection on agency and the possibility of forging a distinct identity.

Despite public opinion leaning against the abolition following high-profile cases, party factions remained steadfast in their support for the change. This led to shifts in positions, such as candidate Kim Min-seok reversing his earlier stance. The author likens this internal party struggle to a "686 factional fight," where politicians prioritize securing the support of hardline party members over genuine public interest.

The article draws a poignant parallel to Noah from Min Jin Lee's novel "Pachinko." Noah, desperate to escape the influence of his Yakuza father, Koh Hansu, attempts to build a new life. However, his efforts to distance himself from his origins prove futile, culminating in his tragic suicide. Like Noah, many young Koreans feel alienated by the current political landscape, where entrenched interests seem to dictate the future.

The ruling party must lead future agendas, but if the generation that will rule until 986 continues with that mindset, everything will be ruined. The vested interests must step down, and the party must be reorganized around young and future-oriented experts.

— Kim Bo-miA young candidate's critique of the established political order.

Reflecting on this, the author, a politician in his late thirties, expresses a sense of despair. He questions whether the younger generation can truly break free from the patterns of the past and create a different future. The article highlights the sentiment of Kim Bo-mi, a 30-something candidate who criticized the "entrenched old guard" and advocated for a party led by younger, future-oriented experts. Her call for change, however, was not enough to overcome the established dynamics, as she and other young candidates were eliminated from the race.

How can you create something clean from something dirty? You took my life. I am no longer myself.

— NoahNoah's confrontation with his mother after discovering his origins.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Hankyoreh in Korean. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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