In 2022, Pachinko made waves with its stunning narration of a woman’s struggle in the then-unified Korean peninsula, the Japanese invasion, the impending war, and doubly marginalized life as a lower-economical class Zainichi Korean. Being one of the few Korean shows to be aired on Apple TV+, Pachinko garnered attention domestically and in the Western spheres too. Adapted from a novel of the same name by author Min Jin Lee, Pachinko gives a stunning narrative of a life lived in hardship. Season 2 of Pachinko arrived on August 23 on Apple TV+, after a much anticipated wait. The makers move beyond the book to continue telling the compelling saga of Sunja and her Zainichi Korean family’s struggles.
Pachinko Season 2 Review: Lee Minho, Kim Minha and Yuh Jung Youn starrer delves into complex lives of Baek family & the unforgiving cycle of history in war-torn era
In episode one of Pachinko Season Two, we again see two parallel narratives in Sunja’s life. In the past, she faces the problem of keeping her family alive and safe amidst the impending World War 2. In the present, she (old Sunja played by Youn Yuh Jung) struggles to keep her grandson close to her. Her grandson is struggling to gain investments for his business and faces a lot of rejection and humiliation.
Ko Han Su (played by Lee Min Ho), who had more or less disappeared from Sunja’s (young Sunja played by Kim Min Ha) life, makes a comeback. He gets young Sunja out of jail and offers rehabilitation for her and her family. Sunja is stern and does not accept it initially. She is unhappy with Han Su’s interference in her life. But with the war on the horizon, she has to make some tough choices and has to make them quick.
We see Sunja develop into a strong and hardworking woman. After her husband is imprisoned, and her brother-in-law away working in a factory, she is left to make tough decisions to keep her family well-fed and safe. The kimchi she used to sell has almost run out. She resorts to making rice wine to sell on the black market but her plans her thwarted after she is arrested.
We see Noa and Mozasu grown up now and they also begin to have a presence that drives the narrative forward. Mozasu is a playful child, whereas Noa is reserved. Noa is bullied in school but does not raise a voice. Mozasu on the other hand is very vocal, despite not fully understanding what is going on around him. It is also revealed that Noa’s teacher, who has a Japanese name, is a Korean.
With this episode, we also see the gap between Sunja’s past and present decreasing. There is almost a forty-year gap between the two timelines now. We also see where the book and the show get its title from. Pachinko is the Japanese variant of the slot machine we find in casinos. Sunja’s family opens a pachinko parlor in the 80s. Episode 1 covers the inaugural day of the parlor. Her relationship with her grandson Solomon is strained. Solomon is a man bred on Western ideals and he struggles to come to terms with his reality.
What makes Pachinko an engaging watch is its narrative technique, authentic replication of the past, compelling character arcs, and stunning visual display. Each character holds a pivotal piece in the story that adds interesting layers to a story that can be simply told otherwise. We also see intricate details in the acting and plot placement that act like a domino chip with the potential to push other chips into action. There is a slight parallel drawn between Sunja’s past and present struggle. It only takes new shape and form, but even in the present, Sunja continues to face the residual dislike against Zainichi Koreans, a world and a family that seems to be progressing but is not truly showing any notable progress.
Pachinko’s second season, while staying true to its source material, takes a bold departure from its predecessor. Expanding upon the characters and historical context, the show delves deeper into the complex lives of the Baek family, showcasing their resilience and the enduring impact of generational trauma. With a focus on the war-torn era of the mid-20th century, the season explores themes of love, loss, and the relentless pursuit of survival in a world shaped by prejudice and adversity. The performances are outstanding, the visuals are stunning, and the themes are universal. Pachinko remains a must-watch series for anyone seeking a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant drama.
Unlike Season 1 of Pachinko, which saw a release of multiple episodes at premiere before descending into a weekly release, season 2 premiered with one episode on August 23, with subsequent episodes released weekly through October 11. Pachinko is produced by Media Res and created by Soo Hugh, who also serves as executive producer.
Also Read: Pachinko Season 2 Trailer: Lee Minho, Yuh Jung Youn, Kim Minha return as generations collide in events of World War II and its aftermath, watch
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