Choi Jin-young's 'Hunger' Explores Cannibalistic Love in Neoliberal Korea

The English translation of Choi Jin-young's novel 'Hunger', done by Soje, presents a twisted love tale marred by poverty and predatory lending, evolving into a cannibalistic horror. The story revolves around Gu and Dam, two lovers whose connection begins in elementary school, facing relentless bullying from their peers, parents, and educators. In a fiercely competitive South Korea, their lack of resources seals their fate. After Gu's parents vanish, leaving him with debt, he is murdered by loan sharks. Dam, having lost her family, opts to consume Gu's remains as a means of vengeance and to achieve extraordinary longevity. First published in Korean in 2015 as 'Proof of Gu' (구의 증명), the English title emphasizes Dam's perspective. The narrative has drawn parallels to Bong Joon-ho's 'Parasite' (2019) and Han Kang's 'The Vegetarian' (translated by Deborah Smith, 2015). Cannibalism is depicted as a desperate response to the brutal realities of predatory lending, where human life is reduced to mere profit. The novel has garnered a cult following in South Korea, highlighting the grim aspects of contemporary capitalism and a yearning for enduring humanity. Yoojin Grace Wuertz, the author of 'Everything Belongs to Us' (2017), provided the review.