In 'Kim Ji-Young, Born 1982', Cho Nam-Joo delves into the life of an ordinary woman who embodies the struggles of countless South Korean women. Kim Ji-Young's story unfolds against a backdrop of societal expectations, gender inequality, and the burdens of motherhood. As her identity unravels, we witness a poignant critique of a patriarchal society that stifles women's dreams and aspirations. This powerful narrative presents a call for empowerment and change, urging readers to reflect on the systemic issues faced by women today. Prepare to be moved and challenged as you explore the transformative journey of a woman fighting for her voice in a world that seeks to silence it.
By Cho Nam-Joo
Published: 2020
"In a world that often sees women as mere shadows of their potential, Kim Ji-Young's journey unveils the quiet strength and resilience that exists in every woman, reminding us that every life story deserves to be heard."
Kim Ji-young is the most common name for Korean women born in the 1980s. Kim Ji-young is representative of her generation: At home, she is an unfavoured sister to her princeling little brother. In primary school, she is a girl who has to line up behind the boys at lunchtime. In high school, she is a daughter whose father blames her for being harassed late at night. In university, she is a good student who doesn't get put forward for internships by her professor. In the office, she is an exemplary employee who is overlooked for promotion by her manager. At home, she is a wife who has given up her career to take care of her husband and her baby. Kim Ji-young is depressed. Kim Ji-young has started acting out. Kim Ji-young is her own woman. Kim Ji-young is insane. Kim Ji-young is sent by her husband to a psychiatrist. This is his clinical assessment of the everywoman in contemporary Korea.
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“In a world that often sees women as mere shadows of their potential, Kim Ji-Young's journey unveils the quiet strength and resilience that exists in every woman, reminding us that every life story deserves to be heard.”
Kim Ji-Young, Born 1982
By Cho Nam-Joo
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.
Cho Nam-Joo is a South Korean author renowned for her impactful storytelling and her ability to confront societal issues through her writing. She gained international acclaim with her novel "Kim Ji-young, Born 1982," which sparked conversations about gender inequality and the challenges faced by women in contemporary South Korea. The narrative is characterized by its blend of realism and poignant social criticism, often highlighting the struggles of everyday individuals. Cho's prose is both accessible and thought-provoking, making her works resonate with a diverse audience. In addition to her bestselling debut, she has published several other works that continue to explore themes of identity, feminism, and societal norms.
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