Kim Jiyoung, Born 1982: A Novel

I dont think this book covers any feminist talking points that are particularly radical if you're someone who is familiar with second/third wave feminism; however, it is always interesting to see how different cultural, social, political, and economic situations effect on how women live their lives. Looking at South Korea specifically; which since the end of the Korean war has seen such a large shift leaps in its economic growth over the years yet has only just begun to rethink the patriarchal pillars of its society is interesting. I think its also poignantly pointed out how economic down turns specifically effect women in the workplace and at home. This book explores more than just Jiyoung's life but also that of her grandmother and mother and puts their views and life experiences into perspective. Allowing us to understand why women perpetuate their internalized misogyny. Anyway it was an interestingly executed short read that clearly outlines the issues of modern working women and puts specific context on the issues in SK worth the read.

anger is what i'm feeling. that's all

Reading this made me think a lot. We have come so far when it comes to women empowerment, and yet, there is still so much more to be done. Although the men are applauded when they take part in the process of child-rearing, housework, among other things, there are still, in many parts of the world, where the deep-standing culture of having the women give up everything - even themselves - is expected.

This is a story of Kim Jiyoung, a name commonly given to women just like her in Korea during the early 80s (something I read somewhere on the net), facing detrimental mental health problems in light of all the things the people around her threw at her. Her father, her mother-in-law, and... society. It is entirely hurtful, and, for lack of a better word (phrase), utterly disgusting. Which part of being a woman means we are lesser beings, expected to give up our time, our health, our career, and our dreams? Getting through this made me very frustrated. It was eye-opening, and I understand now why this book is so controversial in male-dominated Korea.

What I found most interesting with this book is that the author followed very closely to historical facts, even citing references. There are actual footnotes, in this fiction book, and it blew my mind everytime. It is very obvious, then, that this book wasn't written just for the sake of a good story, but one that aims to induce change. And boy does Korea need it.

I was, however, a little disappointed that the book focused a lot more on the events that led to the poor mental health Jiyoung is experiencing. I would have loved if there was a better build-up and more focus on how her mental illness has affected her and her loved ones. But perhaps, if this was done, it might not have the impact that the author was looking for.

Although this is a work of fiction, it is clearly based on facts and statistics in South Korea. This is a concise novella on the ongoing gender politics in Korea. This book explains why the birth rate in Korea is one of the lowest in the developed world.

The chapter where she talks about how she has to sacrifice her entire life when she has a child while her husband thinks that he will too by only seeing his friends less, still makes me mad.