The sweeping family saga continues! Pachinko Season 2 returns with even greater emotional depth, expanding the multi-generational story of love, sacrifice, and resilience across Korea and Japan. Based on Min Jin Lee’s best-selling novel, the Apple TV+ series maintains its reputation as one of the most beautifully crafted dramas in global television.
Plot Summary
Season 2 picks up where the first season left off, deepening the journeys of Sunja, Solomon, and their families across different eras.
- 1945, wartime Japan: Sunja (Kim Min-ha) fights to survive during World War II, struggling to protect her children amid fear, hunger, and uncertainty.
- 1989, Tokyo’s bubble economy: Solomon (Jin Ha) seeks success in the high-stakes financial world while confronting the heavy weight of family legacy and cultural identity.
At the heart of the story lies the question of identity and belonging — how generations of Koreans in Japan navigate survival, prejudice, and the longing for home.
Highlights
- Lee Min-ho returns as Koh Hansu, whose complex role as both protector and manipulator casts a long shadow over Sunja’s family.
- Kim Min-ha delivers a powerhouse performance, portraying young Sunja’s resilience during one of the darkest periods of history.
- Youn Yuh-jung brings wisdom and gravitas, embodying older Sunja’s strength and sorrow.
- Visual storytelling at its finest: spanning from war-torn landscapes to neon-lit Tokyo, the cinematography is both poetic and grand.
- The soundtrack features a hauntingly emotional cover of “Viva La Vida” by BLACKPINK’s Rosé in the finale, heightening the season’s emotional weight.
What Could Be Better
- The non-linear timelines may confuse viewers unfamiliar with the novel’s structure.
- The pacing is deliberate, prioritizing character depth over quick resolutions — which may not appeal to those expecting faster drama.
Verdict
Pachinko Season 2 is a moving continuation of a multi-generational epic, balancing personal stories with sweeping historical context. With its masterful performances, stunning visuals, and emotional depth, it cements Pachinko as one of the most significant dramas in recent years.
While heavy at times, it’s a deeply rewarding series that lingers long after the credits roll — and fans now eagerly await the rumored third and final season to complete the saga.