Kim Jiyoung, Born 1982 by Cho Nam-Joo, translated by Jamie Chang, is praised for its poignant portrayal of gender inequality in South Korea. Critics applaud its straightforward narrative and emotional depth. Some find its didactic tone and statistical incorporations detract from the storytelling. Overall, it sparks important discussions on feminism and social norms.

Readers interested in Kim Jiyoung, Born 1982 by Cho Nam-Joo and Transl. Jamie Chang typically appreciate contemporary feminist literature highlighting social issues and gender inequality. Similar to fans of The Handmaid's Tale by Margaret Atwood and Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine by Gail Honeyman, they enjoy poignant narratives with strong, relatable female protagonists.

Kim Jiyoung, Born 1982 by Cho Nam-Joo, translated by Jamie Chang, follows Kim Jiyoung, a new mother in Seoul, as she begins to exhibit strange behavior by speaking in the voices of other women. Her life story, narrated by her psychiatrist, highlights her experiences with gender discrimination and sexual harassment from childhood through adulthood, underscoring the systemic challenges women face in Korean society.

Informative / Melancholic / Contemplative / Challenging / Emotional

- Kim Jiyoung, Born 1982 was a bestseller in South Korea, selling over a million copies and prompting widespread discussions about gender inequality in Korean society.
- The book was adapted into a film in 2019, directed by Kim Do-young, and starred Jung Yu-mi in the titular role.
- The novel has been translated into multiple languages, making it a significant work in bringing South Korean feminist literature to a global audience.

**Kim Jiyoung**  
Protagonist of the novel who navigates life from birth to early motherhood, facing gender inequities and societal pressures.

**Mother (Oh Misook)**  
Jiyoung's mother, who balances traditional gender roles and economic independence, aspiring for a better future for her daughters.

**Jung Daehyun**  
Jiyoung's husband, depicted as thoughtful but oblivious to his privileges in a society structured around male dominance.

**Kim Eunsil**  
Jiyoung’s team leader at the marketing company and a rare female manager, highlighting the challenges women face in advancing within male-dominated workplaces.

**The Psychiatrist**  
Narrator of the story who provides an objective account based on his therapy sessions with Jiyoung, revealing insights into societal attitudes towards gender roles.

Cho Nam-Joo

Transl. Jamie Chang

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