Korea

The entirety of the novel, Whale, is set in Korea across the twentieth century. The author thematically examines the effects of westernization in Korea, after the war, and the impact of western modernity on Korean culture. When the characters begin watching American movies, they attempt to emulate the movie stars’ behavior and looks. Geumbok, who grew up in a small mountain village, attempts to hide her humble roots through capitalistic success. At the close of the narrative, Myeong-kwan utilizes the cinematic dramatization of Chunhui’s life to exemplify the manner in which Korean culture is whitewashed to conform to Hollywood ideals of beauty and success.

Pyeongdae

Pyeongdae is the city where Geumbok moves after the war. When the train comes to the remote town, industry begins to flourish, coffee shops open, and more people move to Pyeongdae. In the narrative past, the old crone sold food out of...