The Apple TV+ drama series “Pachinko” will begin its second season on August 23, telling the continuing story of a Korean family across generations. The show is based on the bestselling novel by Min Jin Lee. Season two will pick up where season one left off, chronicling the struggles and resilience of the family in the face of adversity.
The new season resumes the story of Sunja, a strong-willed woman who fled Korea in the 1930s for Japan due to an unexpected pregnancy. Season one followed her journey and the lives of her descendants, shifting between the 1930s in Korea and 1980s Japan. Season two expands on this timeline to explore the start of World War II and the hardships faced by Sunja’s two sons, Noa and Mozasu, as they take different paths in life under Japanese occupation.
Series creator Soo Hugh said viewers will be “taken on an even deeper emotional journey” this season. Episode one finds the elder Sunja returning to Korea with the ashes of her sister-in-law, mirroring her own departure decades prior. This scene provides bittersweet closure. Meanwhile, Noa focuses on his studies but clashes with his pragmatic brother Mozasu, who finds success in the risky pachinko business.
As the brothers struggle under occupation, mysterious fish broker Koh Hansu, who had a past affair with young Sunja, continues influencing the family from the shadows of the yakuza criminal network. Sunja’s American grandson Solomon and childhood friend Hana also face their own health and identity challenges. According to director Kogonada, the season delves deeper into how the brothers’ diverging choices shape the family’s trajectory as they stay true to their heritage despite immense sacrifices.
Through its breathtaking cinematography, intimate character portrayals, and unflinching treatment of the immigrant experience, “Pachinko” has emerged as one of the most acclaimed shows of recent years. As the epic tale of the Kim family’s struggles and triumphs continues this season, viewers will witness even greater emotional depth and complexity.
