Pak Jun Do

Pak Jun Do could be considered both the hero and main character of this novel. The story follows Jun Do's life as he is first manipulated by the Korean government then uses a unique opportunity to manipulate the government. Jun Do is raised by his father who takes a position as the master of an orphanage after his wife disappears. It is believed that Jun Do's mother was either been kidnapped by the government or has run away. Jun Do is given much responsibility in the orphanage. He decides where the orphans sleep, leaving some to get sick in cold sleeping quarters. He also decides which ones get the best food and which ones go hungry. Jun Do is also responsible for sending orphans on work details where they can easily be killed.

When the famine becomes severe in Jun Do's hometown of Chongjin, Jun Do's...