My Thoughts on Hansu and Isak

 I think it will probably be a popular opinion, but I definitely think Isak is a lot more likable than Hansu.

Looking back at our class discussion last week, Sunja's relationship with Hansu started off in a rather manipulative way, and only continued to get worse. Isak, on the other hand, started off treating her with respect and kindness. He follows the more "traditional" path of marriage during that time, where they did not interact much before their marriage. Although today we may find this odd, I wonder if at the time, this adds more to his respectful and kindhearted character.

I think Lee's decision to have Isak and Hansu look quite similar on first glance, with both wearing "Western" style suits, being from Osaka, and having relationships with Sunja, helps emphasize the differences in their characters even more. Even when Sunja compares their touches, she describes Isak's as more "gentle" and explains that Hansu never approached it this way.

I wonder, now with all the characters living in the same place, if we will see more interactions with Hansu. I would be interested to see how he would react to Isak and Sunja's marriage, and how he would treat both of them. Further than the road, if he saw his own child, how would he react? What would this cause? I am interested to see how all of these characters' relationships evolve. 

Comments

  1. Audrey SchroederFebruary 23, 2023 at 11:30 AM

    Hey Cassi! I agree - Isak is definitely better than Hansu in my opinion. It's interesting how you comment on how they dress similarly, I hadn't thought too much about that. I hope we don't get more interactions with Hansu, but I am assuming we will :(

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  2. Hilary LeFebruary 23, 2023 at 6:11 PM

    Hi Cassi! I completely agree. Hansu is not as likeable as Isak. Hansu is manipulative, while Isak cares for Sunja. I didn't think about the clothes they wore. That's a great observation. It really highlights the differences between the two since they look similar.

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  3. Monique Cov.February 24, 2023 at 11:46 AM

    Hey Cassi! At this point in the story and knowing these characters more intimately then the characters know each other, it definitely seems like Isak is more likeable than Hansu. I totally agree with your observations on how similar their clothing style may be accentuating their different characters. In addition, I believe Hansu was described as being bulkier yet Isak was much more lean and frail.

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  4. Catalina DegnanFebruary 26, 2023 at 11:26 AM

    Hey Cassi! I am also in complete agreement that Isak is a better character and overall better fit for Sunja. I like how you note that from first appearance, the two characters appear to be similar. I had never really thought of that. I am very much rooting for Isak so I hope Hansu doesn't try to mess anything up as we progress through the book!

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  5. Noah English 11H BlogFebruary 27, 2023 at 12:12 PM

    I agree, Isak is respectful and kindhearted towards Sunja, especially during a time where traditional gender roles were strictly enforced. Although, their connection seemed more transactional and awkward. In contrast, Hansu and Sunja seemingly connect more naturally but we learn it is driven by Hansu's manipulative and selfish behavior towards Sunja.

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  6. James MaddenFebruary 27, 2023 at 8:50 PM

    Hey Cassi, I agree with your assessment that Isak is a more likable character than Hansu. I also agree that Isak is a better fit for Sunja than Hansu is. I appreciate the questions that you ask towards the end of your post. I am also curious to know how Hansu will react to seeing his son. Personally, I am curious to see how Isak reacts. I would imagine that some jealousy could emerge.

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