Min Jin Lee has dedicated over 30 years to exploring the depths of the human spirit through her storytelling. Her new novel, *American Hagwon*, follows the earlier works, *Free Food For Millionaires* and *Pachinko*, the latter of which was a finalist for the National Book Award. Lee's writing consistently reflects warmth, curiosity, and thoughtfulness, showcasing the possibilities within life's challenges.
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*American Hagwon*, released today, examines the impacts of Asia's late-1990s economic downturn on families and education. Lee has referred to these three novels as part of her “Diaspora Quartet,” and she is currently working on its fourth volume, *The Marshall Plan*.
In an interview with *Vogue*, Lee explained that a hagwon, often referred to as a “cram school,” serves as a space for learning various subjects, essentially teaching important life skills. She introduced the character Mido in her book, who navigates a chaotic world but learns through keen observation. Lee expressed that the noise of modern life often hinders people's perception, fostering a desire to be seen and heard.
When asked if she envisions *American Hagwon* being adapted into another medium, she affirmed her interest. Lee plans to follow her current project with a memoir, a venture she finds daunting but necessary.
Lee mentioned that rather than starting with small ideas as some writers do, she grapples with larger metaphysical questions, which often resonate today. Despite the success of *Pachinko*, she views *American Hagwon* as its own distinct narrative.
Reflecting on her arrival in the U.S. at age seven, she reminisced about expectations shaped by Grimms' Fairy Tales, which contributed to her initial disappointment upon finding a world lacking in familiar cultural elements.
Before becoming a novelist, Lee pursued law but left the profession due to a stressful environment and health issues, including a chronic hepatitis B condition. Now at 57, she continues to fuel her ambitions and creative outputs.
In terms of her cultural diet, she enjoys reading and listens to select podcasts to enrich her understanding of the world. Lee also expressed admiration for classic literature, naming *Anna Karenina* and *Middlemarch* as books she wishes she had written.
On fashion, she shared a fond memory of her early encounters with designer Thom Browne, recalling her excitement after purchasing one of his initial sweaters, which she still owns. As advice for aspiring writers, she emphasized the importance of nurturing one's creativity and not comparing oneself to others in the field, recalling Grace Paley's advice to maintain a low overhead.
This discussion illuminates Lee’s artistic journey and her insights into life and literature, alongside her thoughts on culture and creativity.