Primary Characters in Pachinko
Sunja
The central protagonist whose life journey forms the backbone of the novel. Born in Yeongdo, Busan, Sunja's character represents the resilience and survival of Korean identity through generations of hardship.
NoteSunja's character arc spans from the 1910s to the 1980s, making her development crucial to understanding the novel's themes of identity and survival.
Key character traits:
- Resilient and hardworking
- Morally steadfast
- Deeply connected to her Korean heritage
- Adaptable yet traditional
"Living everyday in the presence of those who refuse to acknowledge your humanity takes great courage."
Hansu
A powerful Korean-Japanese businessman who becomes romantically involved with Sunja. His character embodies the complex relationship between power, morality, and survival.
Character complexities:
- Manipulative yet protective
- Wealthy and influential
- Morally ambiguous
- Represents the assimilated Korean in Japanese society
Pay attention to how Hansu's character challenges simple moral judgments and represents the grey areas of survival in a hostile society.
Isak
A Christian minister who marries Sunja despite her pregnancy by another man. His character represents moral integrity and selfless love.
Key aspects:
- Deeply religious and principled
- Compassionate and forgiving
- Physically weak but spiritually strong
- Symbol of moral righteousness
