Kim Jiyoung, Born 1982: an everywoman’s struggle

Kim Jiyoung, Born 1982 is an emotionally intricate and exquisitely crafted contemporary fiction written by Cho Nam Joo. The author chronicles the life of Jiyoung, a 33-year-old woman living a constrained life where women are expected to submit themselves to societal expectations. This compelling and thought-provoking novel delves into the subjects of gender discrimination and the patriarchal Korean society.

Cho Nam Joo masterfully encapsulates the plight of women and the binding rules based on chauvinism. The wonderful blend of fiction and non-fiction in this novel allows readers to explore the world from the perspective of one woman and the experience of millions. As a reader, it is difficult not to comprehend Kim Jiyoung’s indignation which makes the novel so relatable, realistic and gut-wrenching. 

Written in an impassive language until the last paragraph, one will continue to remain exasperated with the microaggressions that Korean women encounter. Kim Jiyoung, Born 1982 is undoubtedly an insightful lens into understanding institutional oppression and broadening the horizon of those who stumble upon it.