Unveiling the Unspoken: “Kim Jiyoung, Born 1982” and the Relentless Pressure on Women

Nilay Ustun
3 min readJun 17, 2023
Photo by Bùi Thanh Tâm on Unsplash

In a society where gender roles and expectations still dominate, women often find themselves grappling with numerous challenges and pressures. “Kim Jiyoung, Born 1982,” an influential novel by Cho Nam-joo, delves into the lived experiences of its eponymous protagonist, shedding light on the relentless pressure and discrimination faced by women in South Korea. Through the lens of Jiyoung’s story, the book highlights the urgent need for societal change and the pursuit of gender equality.

The Subjugation of Women: “Kim Jiyoung, Born 1982” exposes the deeply ingrained gender biases and inequalities that persist in many societies. Jiyoung’s journey, from childhood to adulthood, mirrors the struggles of countless women who are conditioned to conform to societal expectations. The book challenges the notion that women should unquestioningly accept their prescribed roles as daughters, wives, and mothers, and bravely explores the limitations and barriers imposed upon them.

Navigating the Gender Minefield: From an early age, Jiyoung confronts the rigidity of gender norms, be it the inequality she faces in the classroom or the glass ceiling she encounters in the workplace. The novel dissects the intricate web of systemic discrimination that restricts women’s progress and…

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Nilay Ustun

Chemical Engineer, MSc, MBA Loves reading, walking, writing, looking and then passing… Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSpKHIM7SWlNdsGZUJbo4tQ