Pachinko (2022 )
“Pachinko” is a critically acclaimed television series that premiered on Apple TV+ on March 25, 2022. The show is based on the 2017 novel of the same name by Korean-American author Min Jin Lee. The series, like the book, chronicles the lives of a Korean immigrant family across four generations, following their struggles, triumphs, and resilience in the face of adversity.
The story begins in the early 1900s in Japanese-occupied Korea and spans several decades, showcasing the family’s experiences in Korea, Japan, and the United States. The narrative primarily focuses on Sunja, the family matriarch, who falls in love with a wealthy fish broker, Koh Hansu, but faces heartbreak and challenges that force her to leave her homeland and start anew in Japan.
The ensemble cast features a talented group of actors from South Korea, Japan, and the United States. Minha Kim portrays young Sunja, while Academy Award-winning actress Youn Yuh-jung plays the older Sunja. Other notable cast members include Lee Minho as Koh Hansu, Jin Ha as Solomon Baek (Sunja’s grandson), Soji Arai as Mozasu Baek (Sunja’s son), and Eunchae Jung as Kyunghee.
“Pachinko” has been praised for its powerful storytelling, stunning cinematography, and exceptional performances. The series deftly explores themes of identity, sacrifice, discrimination, and the enduring power of family bonds. It has been hailed as a groundbreaking achievement in Asian representation on television, as it authentically portrays the experiences of the Korean diaspora and sheds light on a history that has often been overlooked in mainstream media.
The show’s success can be attributed to its faithfulness to Min Jin Lee’s novel, which has garnered international acclaim since its publication. The book delves deep into the lives of its characters, painting a rich and emotionally resonant portrait of a family’s journey through the 20th century. The adaptation brings this compelling story to life on screen, introducing it to a wider audience and sparking crucial conversations about the importance of diverse storytelling.
With its gripping narrative, talented cast, and socio-cultural significance, “Pachinko” has solidified its place as a must-watch series that offers a poignant and timely exploration of the immigrant experience, family, and the enduring human spirit.
Available for streaming.
TV series | Season 1 | No. of Episodes: 8
Country of origin: United States
Language: Korean, Japanese, English
Opening Theme: “Let’s Live for Today” by The Grass Roots (English ver.) and Leenalchi