Between Two Worlds: Generational Identity and Acculturation in Min Jin Lee’s “Pachinko”

Abstract

This study examines four acculturation mechanisms, i.e., assimilation, separation, integration, and marginalization, utilized by four generations of Korean immigrants in Min Jin Lee’s Pachinko (2017), using John W. Berry’s acculturation theory as a framework. By incorporating literary analysis with psychological theory, this research contributes to the discourse on diasporic identity and acculturation in literature. The study analyses how characters from different generations negotiate their identity through multiple acculturation strategies and how they deal with acculturative stress, the findings show that acculturation is a complex and nonlinear process as characters exhibit different strategies in their lived experience. Acculturative stress is affected by factors such as economic hardship, racial discrimination, and social exclusion, while age and the individual’s preferred acculturation strategy have a direct impact. The marginalization strategy leads to extreme distress. Although integration is the least stressful and minimizes psychological distress, it is quite unattainable due to systemic and cultural barriers. Ultimately, this research is relevant to understanding contemporary immigrant experiences that will impact future literature studies.