Book Review
Kim Jiyoung, Born 1982 by Cho Nam-Joo is South Korea’s bestselling novel, inspired by the author’s own experiences. This poignant and relatable story captures the everyday struggles of women worldwide through the life of Kim Jiyoung, who faces systemic misogyny from childhood to adulthood—in school, at work, and within her marriage.
The novel begins with Kim Jiyoung displaying unusual behavior that leads her husband to seek psychiatric help. Through flashbacks, readers witness the pervasive discrimination she endures: from giving up her seat to boys at school, to being overlooked for promotions despite her hard work, to battling postpartum depression after leaving her job to care for her baby.
Cho Nam-Joo’s straightforward and powerful narrative exposes the quiet, oppressive realities many women face. The book’s precise and impactful writing sheds light on gender inequality’s systemic roots, making Jiyoung’s story both uniquely Korean and universally relatable.
Though the ending is abrupt, it leaves a profound impact, urging readers to reflect on societal norms and the ongoing fight for gender equality. Kim Jiyoung, Born 1982 is an essential read for those interested in feminist literature and social justice.
The novel has also been adapted into a feature film, broadening its reach and influence.
What I don’t like about this book?
- Book has elements of feminism and postpartum depression (trigger warning).
- The novel is often characterized as resembling a sociological report more than a work of fiction, due to its extensive incorporation of statistics and factual information. This can come across as preachy to some readers.
About Author
Cho Nam-Joo, born in 1978, is a South Korean writer renowned for her novel “Kim Ji-Young, Born 1982.” Published in 2016, the book has sold over a million copies and is frequently acknowledged for sparking a feminist wave in South Korea.
She grew up in Buchen and moved to Seoul with her family at the age of five. Growing up, Nam-Joo had a passion for reading. However, financial constraints made it difficult for her to buy books, and the public libraries in her impoverished Seoul neighbourhood were hardly operational. She managed to borrow a limited number of books and cherished them by reading the stories over and over.
Nam-Joo attended all-girls’ school for middle school, high school, and college. She graduated from Ewha Womans University with a sociology degree. Nam-Joo currently lives in Seoul with her family.
Other books written by her are Miss Kim knows and other stories (2021) and Saha (2019).
Conclusion
Read Kim Jiyoung, Born 1982 to understand the pervasive impact of gender inequality through a deeply personal and relatable story. It’s a thought-provoking call to recognize and challenge societal biases affecting women everywhere.
Very well written review. The book looks promising.
thank you